The Theory of Making Eco-Friendly
Biodegradable Plastics
A Project Report
Submitted to
Department of Chemistry
Sifal School
Sifal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Submitted by
Kaustap Khanal
Roll No.: 26039
Date: Jan 30, 2025
Acknowledgment
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who helped me finish this project. Firstly, I am
grateful to my project advisor who helped me throughout the project, guiding me while encouraging me
to do this project and giving me valuable feedback, which made my project way better. I would also like
to express my gratitude to my friends and my classmates for their support and encouragement.
Name: Kaustap Khanal
Roll No.: 26039
Date: Jan 30, 2025
Letter of Approval
This is to certify that this project prepared by KAUSTAP KHANAL entitled “The Theory of Making
Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Plastics” has been well studied. In our opinion, it is satisfactory in the
scope and quality as a project for the required academic level.
Evaluation Committee
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................
..
Supervisor External Examiner
Prakash Khanal
Date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ABSTRACT
This project explores the science behind eco-friendly biodegradable plastics, examining their
production, functionality, and environmental impact. By analyzing their composition,
decomposition process, and benefits, this research highlights how these plastics help reduce
pollution. Unlike traditional plastics, biodegradable alternatives break down naturally,
minimizing harm to nature. Understanding their role in sustainability sheds light on their
importance in addressing global plastic waste challenges and promoting a greener future.
Keywords: Biodegradable; Eco-friendly; Decomposition; Sustainability; Pollution
CHAPTER I
1 Introduction
1.1 Theory:
Plastics have become an essential part of our daily lives, found in everything from packaging
and household items to clothing and technology. However, most conventional plastics pose a
significant threat to the environment because they do not break down easily. Once discarded,
they can persist in nature for hundreds of years, accumulating in landfills, polluting oceans and
rivers and harming wildlife. This long-lasting presence of plastic waste contributes to severe
environmental problems, including soil contamination, marine pollution and disruptions in
ecosystems.
To address this growing issue eco-friendly biodegradable plastics have emerged as a
sustainable alternative. Unlike traditional plastics, these biodegradable materials are made from
natural substances that can break down or decompose over time through natural processes.
This means they leave behind little to no harmful residue, reducing their impact on the
environment. By understanding how these plastics are produced and the science behind their
decomposition, we can see why they play a crucial role in reducing plastic pollution and
promoting a cleaner, more sustainable future. This project will explore the process of making
biodegradable plastics, their advantages over conventional plastics, and their significance in
protecting our planet.
1.2 What is Biodegradable Plastic?
Biodegradable plastics are made from materials that can be broken down by bacteria, fungi, and
other microorganisms. Unlike regular plastics that can take hundreds of years to decompose,
biodegradable plastics decompose in just a few months or years. Some common biodegradable
materials include:
• Starch (from potatoes, corn, etc.)
• Polylactic acid (PLA) made from corn
• Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
Chapter II
2 Objectives
● To understand the concept and importance of biodegradable plastics.
● To examine the process of making biodegradable plastics from natural materials.
● To analyze the chemical reactions involved in biodegradable plastic production.
● To evaluate the environmental benefits of biodegradable plastics.
● To identify challenges in biodegradable plastic production and possible solutions.
Chapter III
3 Methodology:
3.1 Theory:
3.1.1 How is Biodegradable Plastics made?
The process of making biodegradable plastics starts with extracting natural materials. Here’s a
simple explanation of how biodegradable plastic is made from starch:
Step-1: Extraction of Starch:
Starch is a polysaccharide, a type of carbohydrate that is composed of glucose molecules. It
serves as an energy storage material in plants. When starch is extracted from plants, it is usually
in the form of granules that can be broken down and used to make biodegradable [Link]
process of extracting starch involves crushing the plant material to release the starch. This starch
is then purified and dried, making it ready for use in creating biodegradable plastics.
Step-2: Turning Starch into Plastic:
The extracted starch is mixed with water and heated. When the mixture cools, it forms a thick
paste. This paste is then treated with certain chemicals that help the starch molecules stick
together. As a result, it becomes a plastic-like material.
Step-3: Molding and Shaping the Plastic:
Once the starch-based plastic is made, it can be molded into different shapes, like bags,
containers, or bottles. The plastic is now ready to use.
3.2 Materials Required:
● 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
● 1/2 cup of water
● 1 teaspoon of vinegar
● 1 tablespoon of glycerin (optional, for flexibility)
● A small pot
● A stirring spoon
● A flat surface to shape the plastic
3.3 Procedure:
1. Mix the ingredients: In a small pot, combine the cornstarch, water, vinegar, and glycerin. Stir
the mixture well until there are no lumps.
2. Heat the mixture: Place the pot on the stove and heat it over low to medium heat. Stir
constantly to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pot.
3. Watch the transformation: After a few minutes, the mixture will start to thicken and turn into a
gel-like substance. Continue stirring until it forms a thick paste.
4. Cool the mixture: Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a
few minutes. It should be thick but still Moldable.
5. Shape the plastic: After the mixture has cooled down a bit, you can pour it onto a flat surface
or mold it into different shapes like plastic sheets, bags, or containers.
6. Dry the plastic: Let the shaped plastic dry for several hours or overnight. Once dry, it will be
flexible and biodegradable.
Starch (C6H10O5)n + Water (H2O) Heat → Gel-like Starch Solution
In this reaction, starch molecules (CHO) combine with water under heat to form a gel-like substance. The
starch molecules break apart, allowing them to bond and create a network that forms a thick plastic-like
material.
The addition of vinegar and glycerin helps in enhancing the flexibility and the structure of the plastic.
Chapter IV
4 Results and discussion
The experiment successfully demonstrated the process of making biodegradable plastic. The
step-by-step procedure resulted in a material that was flexible and had a texture similar to
conventional plastic. Observations revealed that the drying time and flexibility of the final
product were significantly influenced by the amount of glycerin used. Higher glycerin content
led to a softer and more flexible plastic, while lower glycerin content resulted in a more rigid
material. Additionally, the drying period varied depending on the thickness of the molded plastic
and the environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity. This experiment highlights
the potential of biodegradable plastics as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional
petroleum-based plastics. By utilizing natural and renewable resources like cornstarch, this
method contributes to reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability. The study
reaffirms the viability of biodegradable plastics in reducing environmental waste and emphasizes
the need for further research to enhance their durability and production efficiency.
Chapter V
5 Conclusion:
Biodegradable plastics, particularly starch-based ones, provide a sustainable alternative to
petroleum-based plastics. These plastics decompose naturally, reducing environmental pollution
and landfill waste. While challenges such as higher production costs and longer manufacturing
times exist, their environmental benefits, such as reducing reliance on fossil fuels and
minimizing plastic waste, outweigh these limitations. Continued research and technological
advancements can help lower costs and enhance production efficiency, making biodegradable
plastics more accessible and widely used. This progress will contribute to a cleaner and more
sustainable environment.
References
1. Auras, R., Harte, B., Selke, S. (2004). An Overview of Polylactic Acid (PLA) Packaging.
Institute of Food Technologists.
2. Jamshidian, M., Tehrany, E. A., Imran, M., Jacquot, M. (2010). Polylactic acid: Production,
Applications, and Properties. Food Bioprocess Technology.
3. BioPlastic. (n.d.). What are Bioplastics?. Retrieved https:
//[Link]/what-are-bioplastics/
