Question

I understand that sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na2B4O7⋅10H2O) and water is the primary binder for PVA glue based slimes.

We have learned borax is not good for the ground water, or marine life, so I am trying to determine if there is a safer alternative substance that would produce the same cross-linking effect between the protein molecules of the glue and the borate ions (B(OH)4) of the borax solution. The hope is a non-newtonian fluid.

If not, is there something that could be added to the slime, to neutralize the borax, making it safely compostable?

Answer 1

Exploring alternatives to sodium tetraborate decahydrate for environmentally friendly slime-making includes potential agents like polycarboxylates, citrates, and polyacrylic acid, which may provide similar cross-linking effects. These alternatives need to be tested for efficacy in slime formation and environmental safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

The quest for a safer alternative to sodium tetraborate decahydrate for slime binders is a chemistry challenge that seeks to balance the fun of slime-making with environmental responsibility. Alternatives to consider are those that offer similar cross-linking effects without the use of borates.

Agents like polycarboxylates (e.g. EDTA, NTA), citrates (e.g. trisodium citrate), and polyacrylic acid, which have been introduced as more environmentally benign, could potentially fulfill this role. If none of these alternatives are viable for creating the desired non-newtonian fluid, the neutralization of borax using environmentally friendly agents to render it safely compostable would be the next avenue of exploration.

However, the complexities of these chemistries require careful consideration and experimentation to ensure that the substitute also functions effectively as a slime component and is indeed less harmful to marine life and groundwater.