Why did my water glassed eggs crack?
Water glassing is a method of preserving eggs by immersing them in a solution of sodium silicate, also known as water glass. This solution creates a protective coating on the eggshell, which helps to seal the egg and prevent bacteria from entering. However, despite the protective properties of water glass, there are a few reasons why your water glassed eggs may have cracked.
One possible reason for the cracking of water glassed eggs is improper storage or handling. If the eggs were not stored in a cool and stable environment, fluctuations in temperature can cause the water glass to expand and contract, which can put stress on the eggshell and lead to cracking. It is important to store water glassed eggs in a cool and consistent temperature to minimize the risk of cracking.
Another factor that can contribute to the cracking of water glassed eggs is the presence of air bubbles or voids in the water glass solution. When the eggs are submerged in the solution, any air pockets trapped between the shell and the water glass can create pressure points. As the egg expands and contracts during storage, these pressure points can cause the shell to crack.
Additionally, the process of boiling water glassed eggs can also increase the risk of cracking. When eggs are boiled, the heat causes the liquid inside the egg to expand, creating pressure. In regular boiled eggs, the porous nature of the shell allows the pressure to escape through tiny pores. However, the water glass solution used to preserve eggs seals the pores, preventing the release of pressure. Without any means to release the pressure, the egg can potentially explode as it boils, resulting in cracking.
To minimize the risk of cracking water glassed eggs during boiling, it is advisable to create a small hole in the shell before boiling. This hole will serve as an outlet for the pressure that builds up inside the egg during boiling. By providing a way for the pressure to escape, you can prevent the eggs from cracking and potentially exploding.
There are several reasons why water glassed eggs may crack. Improper storage or handling, the presence of air bubbles in the water glass solution, and the lack of a means to release pressure during boiling can all contribute to the cracking of water glassed eggs. It is important to store eggs in a cool and stable environment, properly prepare the water glass solution, and create a small hole in the eggshell before boiling to minimize the risk of cracking.
