What Is the Effect of Using Bioplastic As a Packaging Alternative to Petroleum Based Packaging?

Overview

Objectives/Goals I wanted to find out if Bioplastic could be used in food preservation as an alternative to petroleum based packaging (polyethylene terephthalate). I tested for the biodegradability, compostability, water resistance, food preservation, and tensile strength. Methods/Materials I tested and observed the Bioplastic against petroleum based packaging (polyethylene terephthalate - PET) in 4 areas: compostability, food preservation, tensile strength, and water resistance. The Bioplastic was produced using vegetable starch, water, glycerin,and vinegar. Three different varieties were produced with corn starch, tapioca starch, and potato starch. Results After analyzing my results, I conclude that the Bioplastic food packaging is both biodegradable and compostable. Although it preserves food products up to 75% of the same time as the PET packaging (the control), it is not water resistant as my control. Bioplastic packaging has the ability to withstand forces when food items were placed and had a strain of 1% to 3% more than the control. Conclusions/Discussion Bioplastic packaging is a reasonable alternative for storing dry food. It contributes to enriching the soil by replenishing the nutrients through composting. Bioplastics reduce the depletion of nonrenewable resources such as fossil fuels, thus preventing toxic emanations from landfills.

Awards (1)

• Honorable Mention

Competition history

• CSEF 2016 Environmental Engineering · Entry J1029

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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