Covalent bonds - NOT electron bonding.
Borax plays the role of a cross-linking agent in making polymer slime. It forms cross-links between the polymer chains, which helps to give the slime its unique stretchy and squishy properties.
Cross-links usually occur when a polymer molecule is at a larger size. A larger sized molecule is held together by stronger covalent bonds, and henceforth the force between the molecules is stronger. As the force between the molecules gets stronger, more energy is needed to separate them, meaning the melting point increases.
The links in a polymer chain are covalent bonded.
covalent bonds between chains of molecules of a polymer or polymers, fastening the chains together. See also cross-linked polymer, under polymer.
A cross-linked polymer is a polymer chain that has been chemically bonded to another polymer chain, creating a network structure. This network structure gives cross-linked polymers unique properties like increased strength, rigidity, and resistance to solvents, compared to linear polymers which have individual chains that are not connected to each other.
Cross-linking a polymer like polyvinyl alcohol or rubber creates covalent bonds between individual polymer chains, which enhances the material's mechanical strength, elasticity, and thermal stability. This process restricts the movement of polymer chains, resulting in a more rigid and durable structure compared to the unlinked form. To illustrate these relationships in a diagram, you could depict a monomer as a single unit, show it joining to form a polymer (a long chain of repeating units), and then represent cross-linking by drawing connections between different polymer chains to highlight the network structure of the cross-linked polymer.
Monomer is the term used to describe the individual molecule that links together to form a polymer chain.
More cross-linking in a polymer generally increases its mechanical strength, thermal stability, and resistance to solvents. This results in a more rigid and durable material, which can withstand higher temperatures and stress. However, excessive cross-linking can also lead to reduced flexibility and increased brittleness, limiting the polymer's applications. The balance of cross-link density is crucial for tailoring the properties of the polymer for specific uses.
Polymerization is the reaction that links monomers to form a chain. This process involves the repetitive bonding of monomer units to form a longer chain molecule known as a polymer.
When sodium borate cross-links with polyvinyl alcohol, it creates a hydrogel. This hydrogel is a network of polymer chains that can absorb and retain large amounts of water. It is often used in biomedical applications, such as wound dressings or contact lenses, due to its biocompatibility and tunable properties.
Crosslinking is the process by which adjacent chains in a polymer are joined together, forming a network of interconnected chains. This crosslinking enhances the strength and durability of the polymer by reducing flexibility and increasing resistance to breakage.
The elasticity of a polymer depends on the cross-linking of its chains.