Week Six: Final Polymer Synthesis

During week 6, a full set of starch/PLA films for testing was completed. At least two workable samples of 100% PLA and 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 60%, and 70% starch films were made according to the same process of dissolving the substances in chloroform and allowing the solvent to evaporate from the samples. Then, the newly made samples were placed in an oven at 70 degrees Celsius in order to complete the drying process. The completed data table of synthesized films is displayed below.

Another goal during week 6 was to plan for polymer film testing for the upcoming weeks. The desired qualities of films in garbage bags include flexibility, biodegradability, and durability. To test the flexibility of the films, the films would be wrapped around a long cylinder with a small diameter, such as a pencil. The biodegradability of the films would be tested by submerging a piece of the each film in water heated to a specified temperature. Then, the amount of time required for the films to degrade would be recorded. Finally, durability would be tested using two techniques: a tensile and a puncture test. For the tensile test, the polymer film samples would be cut into a long strip. Then, the film would be tested using the tensile testing machinery. If the machinery does not adequately test the films, then another method would be used for the tensile test. First, the film would be taped to a paper clip at the bottom of the strips. Then, small weights would be hung from the tape until the films ripped. As for the puncture test, a small frame would be constructed to hold the films taught. Then, a pointed weight-holder would be placed at the center of the film, and small weights would be added until the film was punctured.

In order to conduct these tests, the polymer films would be used as follows: