Last Updated on January 11, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
Do air-filled balloons pop in heat? Numerous people, including yourself, have probably wondered about this. It’s especially true if you wish to use balloons for an outdoor party during the warmer summer months.
But don’t worry; we will answer whether air-filled balloons pop in heat and what factors can cause them to burst.
Keep reading to find out the answer to this perplexing question.
Does Heat Cause Air-Filled Balloons To Burst?
Yes, heat causes air-filled balloons to burst because the air inside the balloon expands as the temperature rises.
As the air expands, it pushes against the walls of the balloon and increases the pressure.
This pressure can be so great that the latex or rubber balloon can no longer contain it, resulting in the balloon bursting.
When a balloon is filled with a gas such as helium, it is much more resistant to bursting when exposed to heat.
It is because helium is much less affected by changes in temperature than air, meaning the expansion of the gas is not as great, and the pressure remains low.
However, even when filled with helium, a balloon can still burst due to heat if it is exposed to high temperatures for long periods.
So, what are ways to make an air-filled balloon last longer?
Do Balloons Deflate At 100 Degrees?
Yes, since the molecules in the rubber [1] that make up a balloon become more active as temperature increases, resulting in the loss of elasticity and air pressure.
When the temperature reaches 100 degrees, the molecules become even more active, resulting in a rapid deflating of the balloon.
Not only that, the molecules in the rubber become so active that they start to break down, causing the balloon to burst.
That’s why keeping balloons away from extreme temperatures is crucial, as they can easily be damaged.
At What Temperature Must These Balloons Be Maintained?
Usually, the optimal temperature for air-filled balloons is between 65°F and 85°F.
It ensures that the balloons will remain inflated and retain their shape without becoming too brittle and losing their elasticity.
“The famous are balloons far up in the sky, to be envied for their quiet freedom or shot down as enemies.”
Arthur Miller, American Playwright
And when the temperature is too high, the air can expand too rapidly and cause the balloon to burst.
The temperature must also be monitored during the storage and transportation of the balloons, as extreme temperatures can cause the balloons to become brittle and weak.
How Long Can Air-Filled Balloons Withstand Heat?
Generally, air-filled balloons can withstand heat [2] for 24 hours, depending on a few factors.
For example, helium-filled balloons can last longer than air-filled balloons, but both will eventually be affected by heat.
Additionally, the type of material used to make the balloons can affect their durability in the heat.
For example, metallic and mylar balloons are more heat-resistant than latex balloons and can last even longer.
Their lifespan will be shorter if the balloons are exposed to direct sunlight or are kept in a hot environment.
That said, the temperature is one of the biggest factors determining the longevity of air-filled balloons.
How To Prevent Air-Filled Balloons From Bursting In Extreme Heat?
One way to prevent air-filled balloons from bursting in extreme heat is to fill them with helium instead of air.
Helium is much lighter than air, so it is less likely to expand in a hot environment.
Also, helium is less reactive than air and will not cause the balloon to expand as quickly when exposed to extreme heat.
Another way to prevent air-filled balloons from bursting in extreme heat is to purchase balloons made of a thicker material.
Thicker balloons are less likely to expand and burst due to the heat, as the material will not stretch as much as thinner balloons.
Plus, if the balloons are kept in a cool area or shade, it will also help keep them from bursting in extreme heat.
Which Balloons Work Best For Outdoor Use?
Generally, helium-filled latex balloons are the most popular choice for outdoor use because of their affordability and availability.
Latex balloons are durable and can withstand outdoor elements like wind and rain.
The downside of latex balloons is that they may deflate quickly, so it is important to fill them up just before the event.
Foil balloons are another great choice for outdoor use because they are more resistant to the elements.
They are also more durable and can last for days as long as they are properly filled. However, foil balloons are more expensive than latex balloons and are not as easy to find.
Read:
- How Long Do Foil Balloons Typically Last?
- How Long Do Balloons That Are Blown Up With Your Mouth Last?
FAQs
Do balloons with air inside burst if left in a hot car?
Yes, the heat inside a car can reach extreme temperatures, causing the air inside the balloon to expand and eventually rupture the balloon.
At what temperature are helium balloons too hot?
Helium balloons may burst if exposed to temperatures higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
At this temperature, the helium inside the balloon expands and puts too much pressure on the material of the balloon.
Check out some ways to make the Party City’s foil helium balloons last longer here.
Bottom Line
Air-filled balloons do burst when exposed to a hot temperature.
Factors like its material, ambient temperature, and humidity can all play a role in the likelihood of a balloon popping in the heat.
Therefore, it is important to take precautions if you plan to bring air-filled balloons to an outdoor event in hot weather.
References:
- https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20210308-rubber-the-wonder-material-we-are-running-out-of
- https://www.bu.edu/articles/2021/how-does-heat-exposure-affect-the-body-and-mind/
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