23: Slime with a Twist

When certain solids are mixed with a liquid, a gel is formed. The solid makes a network which traps the liquid so it cannot flow freely. The result is a semi-solid which can move around, but not as freely as a liquid. You are going to make an eerie gel which glows under UV light - slime with a twist.

What you will need

weighing balance
250cm3 beaker
100cm3 measuring cylinder
disposable pipettes
hot plate
stirring rod
source of ultra violet light (used under teacher’s supervision only)
polyvinyl alcohol, PVA
sodium tetraborate solution
dye solution provided by your teacher
eye protection

What you do

  1. Eye Protection
    Measure 100cm3 of the dye solution into a 250cm3 beaker. Put this on the hot plate and warm it gently.
  2. Add 4g of PVA to the solution slowly, stirring continuously. Do not let the mixture boil.
  3. When the PVA has dissolved remove the solution from the hot plate.
  4. Add 100cm3 of the sodium tetraborate solution a few drops at a time using a disposable pipette, until the desired consistency has been reached. The slime will be runnier when warm.
  5. Warning
    Ask your teacher to shine a UV light on to your sample. It will look more impressive in a darkened room.
  6. You can store your slime for a limited period in a labelled, sealed bag in a fridge.
Eye Protection
eye protection must be worn

Warning
UV light source

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