Super Bouncy Balls

Here’s a detailed recipe for making super bouncy balls using simple household or craft materials. These DIY polymer balls are fun to make and a great way to explore chemistry concepts like polymers and cross-linking.

🧪 Super Bouncy Balls Recipe (Borax + Glue Method)

🧾 Materials:

1. White school glue (PVA glue) – 1 tablespoon

2. Borax powder (sodium borate) – 1/2 teaspoon

3. Warm water – 4 tablespoons

4. Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon

5. Food coloring (optional) – a few drops

6. Two disposable cups or small containers

7. Craft stick, spoon, or stirrer

8. Measuring spoons

9. Rubber gloves (optional, for sensitive skin)

🧑‍🔬 Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Borax Solution

1. In Cup A, add 1/2 teaspoon borax powder to 4 tablespoons warm water.

2. Stir until the borax is mostly dissolved (some undissolved sediment is okay).

Step 2: Prepare the Ball Mixture

1. In Cup B, combine:

   • 1 tablespoon white glue

   • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

   • A few drops of food coloring (if desired)

2. Stir well to mix evenly.

Step 3: Combine and React

1. Slowly pour 2 tablespoons of the borax solution into Cup B (with glue mixture).

2. Stir immediately and continuously. The mixture will start clumping and becoming thicker – this is the polymerization reaction.

3. Once it becomes too stiff to stir, take it out and knead it with your hands for a minute or two. It may feel sticky at first but will become firmer and less tacky as you work it.

Step 4: Shape the Ball

1. Roll the mixture between your palms into a ball shape.

2. Let it sit for a few minutes to firm up before bouncing.

🎉 Tips for Best Results:

• The more you knead it, the smoother and bouncier it will get.

• Store in an airtight bag or container when not in use to prevent drying out.

• If it flattens over time, you can re-roll it into a ball, but it may lose some bounce after a day or two.

⚠️ Safety Notes:

• Do not eat the bouncy ball or any of the ingredients.

• Wash hands after playing.

• Borax can irritate sensitive skin—use gloves if needed.

• Adult supervision is recommended for children.

Would you like a borax-free version or a natural/eco-friendly alternative as well