Question about Make String from Algae activity

[AhavaLouw]

I made 4 batches - one with no texture add-in, one with aloe, one with honey, one with syrup.

When dry, they all became brittle and broke. My ratio was 1Tbsp to 1/2 tsp Alginate

Do I need to increase the amount of texture ingredient?





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The activity can be viewed at: Make String from Algae

[amyCC]

How much water did you use? In the recipe shown in the directions, it calls for 1/2 cup water and 1 tsp of sodium alginate. The texture is then 1-3 tbsp.

You mention that you used 1/2 tsp sodium alginate. Was that for the stated 1/2 cup of water?

Amy
Science Buddies

[AhavaLouw]

I halved everything, so I did 1/4 c filter water, 1/2 tsp Alginate, in the 4 batches I varied 1 Tbsp honey (or syrup, or aloe, or nothing)

[amyCC]

Increasing the texture would be something to try, but you might also try additional sodium alginate, increasing to 3/4tsp, for example. You could try just one of the textures you used (keeping the qty the same), increasing the alginate, and see if that results in a stronger, flexible string.

Amy
Science Buddies