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Full Bioplastic Experiment Manual Allan Einstein

The Bioplastic Experiment Manual outlines a project aimed at creating biodegradable plastic using natural starch and various additives, while analyzing the impact of different variables on its properties. The manual details the materials needed, a step-by-step procedure for mixing and processing the bioplastic, and the variables to be tested, including chemical and physical factors. It emphasizes the importance of data collection and safety precautions throughout the experiment.

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4 views3 pages

Full Bioplastic Experiment Manual Allan Einstein

The Bioplastic Experiment Manual outlines a project aimed at creating biodegradable plastic using natural starch and various additives, while analyzing the impact of different variables on its properties. The manual details the materials needed, a step-by-step procedure for mixing and processing the bioplastic, and the variables to be tested, including chemical and physical factors. It emphasizes the importance of data collection and safety precautions throughout the experiment.

Uploaded by

lifeisgood12929
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Bioplastic Experiment Manual

Project by: Allan Maina & Einstein Kimathi

Young Scientists Kenya (YSK)

1. Objective

To create biodegradable plastic using natural starch and analyze the effect of various chemical and

physical variables on its properties such as flexibility, strength, and biodegradability.

2. Hypothesis

Different types and quantities of additives and environmental conditions will significantly affect the

quality and biodegradability of the resulting plastic.

3. Materials

- Starches: Corn, Cassava, Potato, Rice

- Glycerin

- Vinegar (3%, 5%, 10%)

- Sodium carbonate

- Citric acid

- Calcium carbonate

- Gelatin

- Sorbitol

- Water

- Essential oils (e.g., lemon)

- Cooking pot or hot plate

- Molds or trays

- Oven or drying rack

- Measuring equipment (scale, beakers, spoons)

- Thermometer

- Stopwatch or timer

- Fan (for fast cooling)


- Storage containers (soil, compost, etc.)

4. Procedure

1. Measure and mix starch with water in selected ratio (1:3 to 1:5).

2. Add desired amounts of glycerin, vinegar, and any chosen additives (e.g., sodium carbonate,

citric acid).

3. Stir until the mixture is uniform.

4. Heat at selected temperature (e.g., 70°C, 90°C, or 100°C) for the desired time (5, 10, or 15

minutes).

5. Pour the thickened mixture into a mold of selected thickness or shape.

6. Choose and apply a drying method (air, sun, or oven dry) for set duration (12, 24, or 48 hours).

7. Optionally, cool rapidly with a fan or slowly at room temperature.

8. Record all variables and results.

9. Store or expose samples to test biodegradability.

5. Variables

A. Chemical Variables

- Type of starch: Corn, cassava, potato, rice

- Glycerin amount: 1 ml, 2 ml, 3 ml

- Vinegar concentration: 3%, 5%, 10%

- Sodium carbonate: 0.5-2 g

- Citric acid: 0.5-2 g

- Calcium carbonate: 1-3 g

- Gelatin: 2-5 g

- Sorbitol: 1-3 ml

- Starch-to-liquid ratio: 1:5, 1:4, 1:3

- Essential oils: 1-2 drops

B. Physical Variables

- Heating temperature: 70°C, 90°C, 100°C


- Cooking time: 5, 10, 15 minutes

- Drying time: 12, 24, 48 hours

- Drying method: Air, oven, sun

- Molding shape/thickness: Thin film, thick sheet, mold shapes

- Cooling rate: Fast (fan), slow (room temp)

- Storage condition: Dry, humid, buried in soil

- Environmental exposure: Compost, soil, water, sunlight

6. Data Collection

Use tables to track:

- Recipe (type and amount of all ingredients)

- Heating and drying settings

- Observations: texture, flexibility, cracks, thickness

- Biodegradability tests: weight loss, decomposition signs over time

7. Safety Precautions

- Use gloves when handling acids or bases.

- Heat carefully and monitor temperatures.

- Label and store all chemicals and samples properly.

- Work in a ventilated area.

8. Conclusion

Analyze which combinations produced the best bioplastic and were most environmentally friendly.

Compare results and draw conclusions about the ideal formula.

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