Caribbean Biodegradable Plastics Laboratory
Create biodegradable plastics from local materials and test environmental impact
Structure & Properties of Matter
Matter & Energy in Ecosystems
Engineering Design
Advanced Level
Laboratory Overview
Students become materials scientists, creating biodegradable plastic alternatives from Caribbean plant materials and testing their environmental impact. This project integrates polymer chemistry, ecology, and sustainable engineering to address plastic pollution in marine environments.
3-4 weeks
2-3 students
Advanced
Learning Objectives
- Understand polymer chemistry and biodegradation processes in natural environments
- Investigate environmental impact of plastics on Caribbean marine ecosystems
- Design sustainable material alternatives using local plant resources
- Test material properties including strength, flexibility, and decomposition rates
- Present sustainable solutions to environmental organizations
Week-by-Week Implementation
Week 1: Plastic Pollution Research
- • Research plastic pollution in Caribbean waters and beaches
- • Study microplastics and their impact on marine life
- • Investigate current recycling and waste management systems
- • Learn about polymer chemistry and plastic types
- • Interview environmental scientists and marine biologists
Week 2: Natural Polymer Extraction
- • Extract natural polymers from Caribbean plants (banana peels, coconut fiber)
- • Test starch from cassava, plantain, and sweet potato
- • Experiment with natural binders like agar and gelatin
- • Document extraction processes and polymer yields
- • Analyze chemical properties of extracted materials
Week 3: Biodegradable Plastic Creation
- • Create biodegradable plastic formulations using extracted polymers
- • Test different ratios and combinations of materials
- • Add natural additives for strength and flexibility
- • Mold plastics into useful shapes (bags, containers, utensils)
- • Document recipes and manufacturing processes
Week 4: Testing and Environmental Impact
- • Test material strength, flexibility, and water resistance
- • Monitor decomposition in different environments (soil, water, compost)
- • Compare biodegradation rates with conventional plastics
- • Analyze environmental impact and lifecycle assessment
- • Present findings to environmental organizations
Assessment Strategies
Material Testing Results (35%)
Quantitative data on material properties, strength tests, and decomposition rates
Environmental Impact Analysis (30%)
Comprehensive assessment of environmental benefits and lifecycle analysis
Prototype Development (20%)
Functional biodegradable plastic products with documented manufacturing process
Solution Presentation (15%)
Clear communication of sustainable solutions to environmental experts
Laboratory Materials
Natural Polymers
- • Banana peels and plantain skins
- • Coconut fiber and husks
- • Cassava, sweet potato starch
- • Agar powder from seaweed
- • Gelatin and natural gums
Laboratory Equipment
- • pH testing kits and indicators
- • Hot plates and heating equipment
- • Measuring cylinders and beakers
- • Molds for plastic shaping
- • Strength testing apparatus
Testing Materials
- • Compost bins for decomposition testing
- • Soil samples from different environments
- • Water containers for aquatic testing
- • Weights for strength testing
- • Cameras for documentation
Extension Opportunities
- Partner with environmental organizations for beach cleanups
- Create business plan for sustainable materials company
- Design waste reduction campaigns for schools
- Connect with materials science university programs
Safety Guidelines
- • Supervise all heating and chemical processes
- • Use proper ventilation when heating materials
- • Wear safety goggles and gloves during experiments
- • Handle hot materials with appropriate tools
- • Properly dispose of all experimental materials