Yes, you can put glow sticks in water. Glow sticks are typically sealed and designed to be submersible, making them suitable for use in water for various purposes.
Understanding Glow Sticks and Water
Glow sticks work through a chemical reaction called chemiluminescence. Inside the plastic tube, there are usually two separate components: a hydrogen peroxide solution and a phenyl oxalate ester solution containing a fluorescent dye. Bending the stick breaks a small glass vial inside, allowing the chemicals to mix and react, producing light.
Since the chemicals are contained within the sealed plastic casing, the stick itself can be placed in water without directly exposing the chemicals to the environment.
Effects of Water Temperature on Glow Sticks
While a glow stick can be placed in water of any temperature, the temperature of the water can affect the chemical reaction inside the stick.
- Warm Water: If you place a glowstick in warm water it'll speed up the chemical reaction increasing the intensity of the glow. According to the reference, whilst doing this, the glowstick will burn much brighter, but the life of the glowstick will be greatly diminished as the chemical reaction ends much quicker. This means you get a more intense but shorter-lived glow.
- Cold Water: Placing a glow stick in cold water (like ice water) will typically slow down the chemical reaction, resulting in a dimmer glow, but the glow will last for a longer period.
Common Uses of Glow Sticks in Water
Due to their submersible nature and vibrant glow, glow sticks are often used in water for:
- Decoration: Adding ambiance to pools, bathtubs, or water features.
- Fishing: Attracting fish or marking fishing lines/nets at night.
- Safety: Marking locations in water during nighttime activities.
- Fun: Creating glowing water effects for parties or events.
Important Safety Considerations
While glow sticks are sealed, it's crucial to handle them with care.
- Avoid Breaking: Do not intentionally break or cut open a glow stick. The liquid inside can cause skin irritation or eye discomfort and should not be ingested.
- Check for Leaks: If a glow stick appears damaged or is leaking, do not place it in water and dispose of it safely according to local guidelines.
- Supervision: Supervise children when they are using glow sticks, especially in water, to ensure they do not try to open them.
In summary, putting glow sticks in water is generally safe and common practice, just be mindful of the water temperature's effect on the glow and always prioritize safety by ensuring the stick is intact.
