Clear slime can be more challenging to tackle compared to other slime recipes. In my experience, using clear glue as a base tends to be harder and more prone to breaking into chunks compared to a white glue based. On top of that, many of the classic ingredients can create a cloudy haze, resulting in a slime that is more opaque. This slime recipe tackles both of those challenges, plus it uses an activator that is more safe than what many other recipes use. The activator of choice in this recipe is saline solution. Saline solution should be paired with baking soda to get a firmer, less sticky slime. In order to use the baking soda without creating a haze, it's important to dissolve it first in warm water. The secret to the lasting stretch? Dish soap! While it's not completely crucial to the recipe, I have found that adding a small amount of dish soap yields a clear slime that is more stretchy and less prone to breaking into pieces. While mixing these ingredients together, you introduce a fair amount of air so initially the slime will look very cloudy and opaque. If you want crystal clear slime, you have to plan a few days in advance and allow the slime to sit in an air-tight container to work the bubbles out.
The Science of Slime
Did you know that slime is created by a fascinating chemical reaction? Understanding the science behind slime-making can add an extra layer of excitement to kids' slime-making activities. Let's take a closer look at how this transformation unfolds.
The primary ingredient responsible for slime's texture is a polymer called polyvinyl acetate (PVA), found in common school glue. When you mix the glue with a slime activator, usually a liquid containing borate ions like borax, saline solution, or liquid starch, a unique chemical reaction occurs.
During the mixing process, the borate ions in the activator solution crosslink the polymer chains in the glue, creating a network of long, interconnected strands. This process is known as crosslinking polymerization. As a result, the once runny and liquid glue transforms into a stretchy, semi-solid substance we know as slime.
The crosslinks between the polymer chains give slime its unique properties. When pressure is applied to slime, these crosslinks allow the material to stretch and deform. However, when the pressure is released, the crosslinks pull the material back together, giving slime its ability to return to its original shape.
But what makes slime feel slimy? It's all about the water. Slime is a non-Newtonian fluid, which means its viscosity and flow properties change depending on the applied force. The glue in slime contains water, and as you mix in the activator, it helps trap the water molecules between the polymer chains. This water contributes to the slippery and slimy sensation when you touch or play with slime.
As your kids make slime, encourage them to observe the changes that occur during the mixing process. Discuss the transformation of the glue from a liquid state to a slimy substance, and the role the activator plays in facilitating the chemical reaction. By understanding the science behind slime, your children can gain a deeper appreciation for the chemistry.
Remember, safety is key when conducting any science experiment. Always ensure adult supervision. Some slime recipes use potentially hazardous ingredients like borax, so always opt for safer alternatives such as saline solution or liquid starch.
So, as you dive into slime-making, explore the chemical reactions at play, and nurture the curiosity and scientific inquiry of your little ones. Let the exploration begin, and may your slime adventures be as educational as they are enjoyable!
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I will earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no cost to you.
You will need:
1/2 cup clear Elmer's glue
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Optional: 1/2 T clear dish soap*
1 T saline solution (not contact solution)
Step 1: Let’s Get Started
Pour 1/2 cup of clear Elmer's glue into a mixing bowl. Wash off excess glue from measuring tools before it has a chance to dry.
Step 2: Prepare the water
Add 1/2 cup of warm water to a measuring cup. Measure out 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and mix in the warm water until fully dissolved. If you are using dish soap, slowly mix in 1/2 Tablespoon of dish soap until the mixture is uniform. Don't whisk too quickly here or you'll introduce foam.
Step 3: Combine ingredients
Slowly pour the warm water with dissolved baking soda into the bowl with the clear glue. Mix together until uniform. You will see it start to get cloudy at this step - remember if you want to achieve crystal clear slime you will have to seal it in a container and wait a couple of days.
Step 4: Add the activator
Measure out 1 Tablespoon of saline solution. It's important to use saline solution rather than contact solution, because it has a higher concentration of boric acid and sodium borate. Contact solution would likely require a larger volume. Slowly pour the saline solution into your glue mixture while briskly stirring. The mixture will start to gel immediately as the saline solution reacts with the glue to form the polymer.
Step 5: Mix and knead
After the saline solution has been added, continue mixing. The slime will be very sticky at this point. Once it starts lifting from the sides of the bowl, you can start kneading it thoroughly with your hands. It will still be very sticky! Stretch and mix together for 5-10 min until the slime gets firmer and less sticky. If after 10 minutes the slime is still not to your desired consistency, then add a little more saline solution. But remember, adding too much will make your slime too hard. I recommend only adding an additional teaspoon at a time followed by 5 minutes of mixing before deciding to add more.
Step 5: Store in airtight container
You have made slime! At this point the slime will be milky white from all the air that was introduced while mixing. Feel free to play with the slime as is, or if you want to get crystal clear slime then store in an airtight container for several days. I have found that the bubbles escape the slime faster if you increase the surface area and lay it in a larger container.
*Note about the dish soap
The dish soap is not a necessary ingredient, but I have found it adds extra stretch which I like. However it will introduce more air and make the slime cloudier initially. It will also take more time to clear out the bubbles when adding soap.
Enjoy your crystal clear slime!
Slime is a fantastic activity to do with your kids. This clear slime can be played with as is, or you can extra ingredients for even more sensory fun. Try using this clear slime as a base to add a generous amount of glitter, sequins, or beads. Adding in dye to clear slime gives vibrant, jewel-toned colors. I've had a lot of luck using dye made specifically for slime, I've found that it washes off hands more easily than regular food coloring. Plus it comes in a wide range of beautiful colors. If you want colorful slime with a shimmering effect, you can achieve this with a small amount of mica powder. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy your slimy creations!
Commentaires