Elmer’s School Glue is a popular adhesive used by students, teachers, and professionals alike. It is known for its strong bonding properties and easy-to-use formula. But have you ever wondered what exactly is in this glue? In this blog post, we will explore the ingredients in Elmer’s School Glue, their functions, and safety concerns.
So, let’s dive in!
Let’s dive into this peculiar topic and uncover the taste, health risks, and even unique uses of glue beyond its intended purpose.
Elmer’s School Glue is a white, water-based adhesive that dries clear. It is non-toxic and safe for children to use. The glue is made up of several ingredients that work together to create a strong bond between two surfaces.
What are the Ingredients In Elmer’s School Glue
Water
The main ingredient in Elmer’s Glue is water. Water acts as a solvent, diluting the other ingredients and making the glue easier to apply. It also evaporates as the glue dries, leaving behind a solid adhesive bond. The water used in Elmer’s School Glue is purified and treated to remove impurities that could affect the quality of the glue.
Without water, the glue would be too thick and difficult to spread. Water also makes the glue easy to clean up with soap and water.
However, one downside of water-based adhesives like Elmer’s School Glue is that they can lose their adhesive properties when exposed to moisture. This means that the glue may not be suitable for projects that will be or humidity.
Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA)
The main adhesive ingredient in Elmer’s School Glue is Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA). PVA is a synthetic polymer that is widely used in adhesives, paints, and coatings. It is a white, odorless powder that is mixed with water to create a thick, milky liquid.
PVA works by forming a strong bond between two surfaces as it dries. The adhesive penetrates the pores of the materials and hardens, creating a strong, permanent bond. PVA is also flexible, which means that it can withstand some degree of movement without breaking the bond.
One of the advantages of PVA is that it is non-toxic and safe for children to use. It is also easy to clean up with soap and water. However, PVA may not be suitable for projects that require a waterproof bond or for materials that are sensitive to moisture.
Borax
Borax is an optional ingredient in Elmer’s School Glue. It is added to the glue to improve its adhesive properties and prevent the glue from breaking down when exposed to moisture.
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used as a laundry booster and household cleaner. In Elmer’s School Glue, it acts as a cross-linking agent, linking the polymer chains of PVA together to create a stronger bond.
However, there are some safety concerns associated with borax. It can be toxic if ingested or inhaled in large quantities, and it can cause skin irritation in some people. For this reason, Elmer’s School Glue recommends that borax not be used in glue slime recipes intended for children.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium Carbonate is another optional ingredient in Elmer’s School Glue. It is added to the glue to improve its consistency and make it thicker. Calcium Carbonate is a white, powdery substance that is commonly found in rocks and shells.
Calcium Carbonate is safe for use in glues and adhesives. It is non-toxic and does not pose any significant health risks. However, it is important to note that adding too much Calcium Carbonate to the glue can make it too thick and difficult to spread.
Methylparaben
Methylparaben is a preservative that is added to Elmer’s School Glue to prevent bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of the glue. It is a white, crystalline powder that is commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products.
Methylparaben is safe for use in glues and adhesives. It is considered to be a low-risk ingredient and is approved by the FDA for use in food and cosmetics. However, some people may be sensitive to Methylparaben and may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol is a humectant that is added to Elmer’s School Glue to keep it from drying out. It is a clear, odorless liquid that is commonly used in cosmetics, food products, and pharmaceuticals.
Propylene Glycol is safe for use in glues and adhesives. It is considered to be a low-risk ingredient and is approved by the FDA for use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. However, some people may be sensitive to Glycol and may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium Hydroxide is a pH adjuster that is added to Elmer’s School Glue to maintain its stability and improve its bonding properties. It is a colorless liquid with a strong ammonia smell.
Ammonium Hydroxide is safe for use in glues and adhesives. It is approved by the FDA for use in food and is commonly used as a cleaning agent and pH adjuster in household products. However, it is important to handle Ammonium Hydroxide with care, as it can cause skin and eye irritation and is poisonous if ingested in large quantities.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the ingredients in Elmer’s School Glue and their functions. As you can see, the glue is made up of several safe and effective ingredients that work together to create a strong bond between two surfaces.
While some of the ingredients may have safety concerns associated with them, they are used in small amounts and to be low-risk. It is important to handle and use Elmer’s School Glue according to the manufacturer’s instructions and to take appropriate safety precautions.
Next time you use Elmer’s School Glue, you can appreciate the science behind its adhesive properties!
