Title: Green Chemistry: The Future of
Sustainable Biodegradable Plastics
AIM – To prepare Bio Plastics from Starch
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution is a pressing global environmental challenge caused by the widespread use and
improper disposal of plastic materials. Plastics, primarily made from fossil fuels, are lightweight,
durable, and versatile, making them essential in various industries such as packaging,
construction, and healthcare. However, their non-biodegradable nature means they persist in the
environment for centuries, leading to significant pollution.
Plastic waste accumulates in landfills, rivers, and oceans, harming ecosystems, wildlife, and
human health. Microplastics—tiny plastic fragments—enter the food chain, posing potential
risks to organisms. Addressing plastic pollution requires reducing plastic use, improving
recycling systems, and promoting sustainable alternatives like biodegradable plastics
Problems associated with conventional plastics, such as:
1. Environmental Pollution
2. Health Hazards
3. Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Theory
(^-^) Why did we choose starch? Starch is made of long chains of glucose molecules joined
together. Strictly speaking, it consists of two polymers: amylose, which is straight-chained, and
amylopectin, which is branched. Glucose (a simple sugar) is essential for life, which is why
many organisms, from bacteria to humans, break starch down into simple sugar (glucose).
(^-^) How does starch degrade into simple sugar? Starch is a chain of simple sugar monomers
called glucose. The bonds that connect them are called glycosidic bonds. An enzyme called
amylase helps break these bonds by fitting between two glucose monomers. A water molecule is
absorbed to break the glycosidic bond between two monomers in a process called hydrolysis.
CHEMICAL EQUATION
The process of making biodegradable plastic from starch involves a reaction where starch is
crosslinked with a plasticizer (such as glycerol) in the presence of an acid (like vinegar, which
provides acetic acid). The basic steps of the reaction can be summarized as follows:
Reaction:
Starch + Glycerol + Vinegar (Acetic Acid) → Biodegradable Plastic
The chemical reactions involved are:
1. Starch (C₆H₁₀O₅) is a polysaccharide that contains repeating units of glucose
(C₆H₁₂O₆). When heated with an acid, the starch molecules break down, and the glucose
units can interact with the plasticizer (glycerol) to form a network.
2. Glycerol (C₃H₈O₃) acts as a plasticizer to make the plastic more flexible. It forms ester
bonds with the hydroxyl groups of the starch molecules.
3. Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) from vinegar helps to break down the starch and promotes the
esterification reaction.
MATERIALS NEEDED:
1. Corn starch or potato starch
2. Glycerol (acts as a plasticizer)
3. Vinegar
4. Distilled water
5. Heat source (hot plate or stove)
6. Beaker and stirring rod
7. Molds (for shaping the plastic)
PROCEDURE:
1. Preparation of Biodegradable Plastic
o Mix 2 tablespoons of starch, 1 tablespoon of glycerol, 1
teaspoon of vinegar, and 1 cup of water in a beaker.
o Heat the mixture while stirring continuously until it thickens.
o Pour the mixture into molds and let it cool and harden.
2. Testing the Plastic
o Test for biodegradability by burying samples in soil and
observing changes over time.
o Test for mechanical strength by applying weight.
Compare the results with traditional plastics
Observation & Result:
Observations
Appearance: The biodegradable plastic should appear similar to
conventional plastic, but it might be slightly more opaque or have a
different texture.
Flexibility: Depending on the ingredients, the plastic may be
flexible, though not as much as conventional plastics. It might
crack under stress.
Strength: The biodegradable plastic might not be as strong as
conventional plastics, breaking under less pressure or weight.
Degradation: The biodegradable plastic should begin to degrade
in soil or compost, while the conventional plastic will remain
intact.
Results
The biodegradable plastic made from corn starch showed some
flexibility but was weaker compared to conventional plastic.
It degraded faster in the soil compared to regular plastic,
supporting its potential as an eco-friendly alternative.
The strength and water resistance of biodegradable plastics were
lower, making them suitable for short-term uses like packaging or
disposable items.
Conclusion –
Bioplastics, made from renewable resources like starch , offer an eco-friendly alternative to
conventional plastics. They degrade more easily in the environment, reducing pollution. However, their
lower strength and durability limit their use to short-term applications. Continued research could
improve their properties for broader use.
