Combined Science Project: Preparing Biodegradable Plastics to Solve Pollution Caused by
Other Plastics
Stage 1: Problem Identification
1.1. Identify a Problem
Plastic pollution is a major environmental issue, as traditional plastics take hundreds of years to
decompose, harming ecosystems and wildlife.
1.2. Problem Description
Non-biodegradable plastics accumulate in landfills and oceans, releasing toxins and
endangering marine life. Microplastics also enter the food chain, affecting human health.
1.3. How, Where, When
How: Plastics are improperly disposed of, leading to pollution.
Where: Oceans, landfills, and urban areas worldwide.
When: Continuous pollution due to increasing plastic production.
1.4. Statement of Intent
To create biodegradable plastic from natural materials (e.g., starch, gelatin, or algae) as an eco-
friendly alternative to synthetic plastics.
1.5. How to Solve
By developing a biodegradable plastic using starch (from potatoes/corn) combined with a
binding agent (glycerol) to form a flexible, decomposable material.
1.6. Design
Extract starch from potatoes/corn.
Mix with glycerol, vinegar, and water.
Heat and mold into plastic sheets.
Test biodegradability.
1.7. Materials Needed
Cornstarch or potato starch
Glycerol (plasticizer)
Vinegar (to strengthen)
Water
Heat source (stove/microwave)
Molds
Stage 2: Developing Solutions
2.1. Existing Solutions
Recycling: Reduces waste but not all plastics are recyclable.
Bioplastics : Made from corn but require industrial composting.
Banning single-use plastics: Effective but lacks alternatives.
2.2. Three Possible Solutions
Starch-based bioplastic (cheap, home-made).
Algae-based bioplastic (marine-degradable).
Gelatin-based bioplastic (edible, flexible).
2.3. Advantages & Disadvantages
Solution
a) Starch-based
Advantages
Low cost,
easy to make,
decomposes fast
Disadvantages
Weak,
water-soluble,
short shelf life
b)Algae-based
Advantages
Marine-degradable,
renewable
Expensive
Disadvantages
requires processing
costly
hard to make
c)Gelatin-based
Advantages
Flexible, edible,
biodegradable
Melts in heat,
Disadvantages
attracts pests
not strong
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
3.1. Brainstorming
Use waste materials (fruit peels, seaweed).
Improve strength with cellulose fibers.
Test different plasticizers (glycerol vs. vinegar).
3.2. Chosen Solution
Starch-based bioplastic (most accessible and cost-effective).
3.3. Refined Solution
Mix cornstarch, glycerol, vinegar, and water.
Heat to form a gel, then dry into sheets.
3.4. Advantages & Disadvantages
✅ Advantages:
Easy to produce at home.
Decomposes in months (not centuries).
Non-toxic and safe for the environment.
❌ Disadvantages:
Not as durable as synthetic plastic.
Dissolves in water over time.
Limited industrial scalability.
Stage 4: Implementation
4.1. Action Steps
Mix 10g cornstarch + 5mL glycerol + 20mL water + 1mL vinegar.
Heat on low flame until thickened.
Pour into a mold and let dry for 2 days.
4.2. Build & Test
Test flexibility, water resistance, and decomposition in soil.
4.3. Observation
The plastic is flexible but weak compared to synthetic plastic.
Decomposes in soil within 4-6 weeks.
Stage 5: Data Presentation
5.1. Results (Sample Table)
Test Result
Flexibility Moderate (bends but tears)
Waterproof Dissolves after 30 minutes
Decomposition Breaks down in 4-6 weeks
5.2. Is It Functional?
✅ Yes, as a short-term alternative for non-durable items (e.g., packaging, bags).
❌ No, for long-term or waterproof uses.
Stage 6: Evaluation & Recommendation
6.1. Challenges
Weak structure compared to regular plastic.
Dissolves in water too quickly.
Requires refinement for commercial use.
6.2. Achievements
✔ Created a fully biodegradable plastic.
✔ Proved decomposition in weeks, not centuries.
6.3. Recommendations
Improve strength by adding natural fibers (banana peels, cellulose).
Test different plasticizers for better durability.
Explore industrial production methods for scalability.
6.4. Conclusion
This project successfully demonstrates that biodegradable plastics can reduce pollution.
Further research can enhance durability for wider use.
