16. Making a Bioplastic from Cornstarch
Goal
To make a bioplastic from starch.
Method
250 ml cornstarch, 250 ml distilled water, and 1 tsp (approx. 5 ml) vegetable oil were placed in a 1 liter resealable plastic food bag.
The bag was sealed. The bag was then massaged until everything was well mixed.
The bag was opened by a small amount, put on a microwaveable plate, and microwaved on high for 30 seconds.
The plate was left for 10 seconds, and then microwaved on high for a further 30 seconds. The bag was then left to cool for 5 minutes.
The bioplastic was removed from the bag, put on a plate, and molded as required.
Diagram
Results
A creamy-white bioplastic was made in the bag.
When it was warm, it was molded as shown in the photograph. As it cooled, it held its shape but could easily be broken.
Conclusion
Cornstarch can be used to make a bioplastic.
A bioplastic made in this way can be molded when it is warm, but is brittle and easily damaged when it is cool.
