SLIME
Shane T. Moore Sept.12, 2013
Experiment 1: SLIME (Starting Labs Is Mighty Exciting)
Abstract
In this experiment we investigate the properties of SLIME. Substitution of polyvinyl alcohol instead of Guar gum makes this experiment quite accessible. The Slime is prepared by mixing a solution of (Na2B4O7*10H2O) sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Borax) and H2O with a solution of polyvinyl alcohol (pva) and H2O. Then stirring for ~10 minutes to obtain the final product, SLIME. The product was examined and noted on the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.
Object
The object of this lab is to become familiar with writing scientific reports. In doing so, SLIME is prepared along with examining the results and investigating the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.
Theory
Working with organic and inorganic materials to successfully turn out a product, observe and note step-by-step, is a fundamental process for writing a scientific report. By mixing the sodium borate solution with the PVA solution, non-Newtonian fluid- like properties start to become apparent. When kneading the SLIME, the strands of pva are held together on a molecular level by joining them with bridges of boron dioxide from a borate molecule. Sodium tetraborate decahydrate is commonly used.1
Procedure
The experimental procedure conducted is explained in detail in the manual2
Data
Table 1: Preparation of sodium borate solution
CHEMICAL COMPOUND
AMOUNT USED
Na2B4O7*10H2O
0.10 g 0.005 g
H2O
2.5 mL 0.05 mL
Table 2: Preparation of polyvinyl alcohol solution
CHEMICAL COMPOUND
AMOUNT USED
Polyvinyal alcohol
0.50 g 0.005 g
H2O
10.0 mL 0.05 mL
Table 3: Hazard Description
REAGENTS
HAZARDS3
Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
White solid, irritant
Polyvinyl alcohol
Not regulated solid
Discussion
The final product of the SLIME turned out as predicted. The sodium borate solution was clear after
Experiment 1: SLIME (Starting Labs Is Mighty Exciting)
Abstract
In this experiment we investigate the properties of SLIME. Substitution of polyvinyl alcohol instead of Guar gum makes this experiment quite accessible. The Slime is prepared by mixing a solution of (Na2B4O7*10H2O) sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Borax) and H2O with a solution of polyvinyl alcohol (pva) and H2O. Then stirring for ~10 minutes to obtain the final product, SLIME. The product was examined and noted on the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.
Object
The object of this lab is to become familiar with writing scientific reports. In doing so, SLIME is prepared along with examining the results and investigating the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.
Theory
Working with organic and inorganic materials to successfully turn out a product, observe and note step-by-step, is a fundamental process for writing a scientific report. By mixing the sodium borate solution with the PVA solution, non-Newtonian fluid- like properties start to become apparent. When kneading the SLIME, the strands of pva are held together on a molecular level by joining them with bridges of boron dioxide from a borate molecule. Sodium tetraborate decahydrate is commonly used.1
Procedure
The experimental procedure conducted is explained in detail in the manual2
Data
Table 1: Preparation of sodium borate solution
CHEMICAL COMPOUND
AMOUNT USED
Na2B4O7*10H2O
0.10 g 0.005 g
H2O
2.5 mL 0.05 mL
Table 2: Preparation of polyvinyl alcohol solution
CHEMICAL COMPOUND
AMOUNT USED
Polyvinyal alcohol
0.50 g 0.005 g
H2O
10.0 mL 0.05 mL
Table 3: Hazard Description
REAGENTS
HAZARDS3
Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
White solid, irritant
Polyvinyl alcohol
Not regulated solid
Discussion
The final product of the SLIME turned out as predicted. The sodium borate solution was clear after
References: 1.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. 1-1 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013 2.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. 1-2 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013 3.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. INTRO-11 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013