Why is gum so sticky?

Have you ever accidentally stepped on gum? If so, you will definitely understand how it is. Even if you try to remove the shoe, the piece of gum is only stretched and stuck to your hand and many other places. So why is gum so sticky?

Each type of gum has a different recipe.

According to Wonderopolis, each type of gum has a different recipe. However, there are some ingredients that are available in all kinds, for example sweetness is due to sugar and flavoring.Stretchable chewing gum is caused by polymer materials, a softening agent such as natural beeswax or paraffin wax, and a firm plasticizer. These materials also create adhesion for chewing gum.

Polymers in chewing gum are hydrophobic. When chewing, saliva will break down sugar and aromatherapy but the polymer does not. However, the polymer absorbs oil so when exposed to smooth surfaces such as road surfaces, shoe soles, hands and hair, the two sides will stick together. The chain of chemical adhesives contained in the polymer will make cleaning more difficult because they tend to relax.

Scientists are developing a new polymer that can absorb water, ie when exposed to water, it will decompose in a short time. So in the future can there be non-stick gum? The governments of some cities hope this will work. In London, England, the government spends nearly 4 million dollars a year to pay for chewing gum in public places like on ships and subway stations.