Making Bioplastic
Plastic is a very useful material, and we use it every day.
Water bottles, food containers, straws and grocery bags are all made from plastic. However, plastic can be hard to recycle, and is often made with nonrenewable resources like petroleum (oil). Bioplastic is a type of plastic made from something that was once living like a plant. Bioplastics are becoming more common because they are made using renewable resources. In this activity, you'll get to make a bioplastic using oil and starch that comes from a corn plant.
Materials Needed
- Resealable plastic sandwich size bag
- Cornstarch
- Corn Oil
- Water
- Food Coloring
Now you’ve made a bioplastic!
What could you make with your bioplastic? What advantages are there to using renewable resources from corn to make plastic?
Fun fact: Many companies are creating cups, straws, silverware and other products using bioplastic!