Fantastic Bioplastic: new uses and techniques
Bioplastics are plastic made from renewable materials such as corn starch, sugarcane, vegetable fats, and oils, unlike traditional plastics made from petroleum-based materials. Bioplastics can be broken down by natural processes such as composting, making them an attractive alternative to conventional plastics that can take hundreds of years to decompose. Bioplastics come in various forms and can be used in multiple applications, from packaging to medical devices to clothing.
Bioplastic samples created by artist Kat Sours
One of the most significant advantages of bioplastics is their environmental impact. Traditional plastics are a major contributor to the global plastic waste problem, and bioplastics offer a more sustainable alternative. Since bioplastics are made from renewable materials, they have a lower carbon footprint. They can be recycled or composted at the end of their useful life, reducing waste in landfills and the ocean.
Several methods for producing bioplastics include microbial fermentation, chemical synthesis, and bio-based feedstocks. One standard process involves using microorganisms to break down plant-based materials such as corn or sugarcane into simple sugars, which can then be used to produce bioplastics. Another method uses chemical reactions to convert bio-based feedstocks into biodegradable plastics. Bioplastics can be made at home using simple materials such as gelatin, a protein from animal collagen.
Bioplastics are used in various applications, including packaging, agriculture, textiles, and medical devices. Biodegradable packaging made from bioplastics is becoming increasingly popular as companies look for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Bioplastics can also be used in agriculture to produce biodegradable mulch films and plant pots. In the medical field, bioplastics can be used to create implants and other devices that the body can absorb over time.
Bioplastics have also found their way into the fashion industry as a more sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic fabrics. Bioplastic fibers made from plant-based materials such as corn and soybeans can be used to create biodegradable and compostable textiles. These fibers can make various products, including clothing, accessories, and shoes. Bioplastics can also be used to produce sustainable packaging for fashion products, further reducing the industry's environmental impact. By incorporating bioplastics into their production processes, fashion brands can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry.
Sequins, glitter, and other textile embellishments may add sparkle and glamour to our clothes, but they have a high environmental cost. These tiny plastic particles are often made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is non-biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to break down. When clothes with sequins and glitter are washed, these plastic particles are released into the waterways, where they can harm aquatic life and even make their way into our food chain.
Textile embellishments made from bioplastic by artist Kat Sours.
In addition to their environmental impact, producing these embellishments also contributes to the global plastic pollution problem. Manufacturing sequins and glitter require significant energy and resources, and the waste generated often ends up in landfills or oceans. The use of sequins and glitter is also often linked to fast fashion, a phenomenon where clothing is produced quickly and inexpensively, contributing to a throwaway culture. Fast fashion creates significant waste, as clothes are often worn only a few times before being discarded, and plastic embellishments only add to this problem.
Sustainable alternatives to sequins and glitter include biodegradable glitter made from plant-based materials or natural dyes that can add color and texture to textiles. Artist Kat Sours recently led a workshop hosted by Chimaera Gallery at the Open Kitchen Sculpture Garden in Philadelphia. She demonstrated ways to make eco-friendly sequins and fabric embellishments using bioplastic. Kat is experimenting with different formulations and techniques to create different textures and colors. One exciting technique she demonstrated is to use diffraction film (or grating) as a casting surface for the bioplastic, which results in a beautiful, holographic rainbow surface.
Choosing clothes without embellishments or buying clothes from sustainable and ethical fashion brands that prioritize environmentally friendly practices is another way to keep your clothing eco-friendly. By being mindful of the materials and production processes involved in the clothes we wear, we can take small steps toward reducing the environmental impact of our fashion choices.
In conclusion, bioplastics offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, with lower carbon footprints and the ability to be recycled or composted at the end of their useful life. Bioplastics can be produced using various methods and materials, making them versatile and suitable for a range of applications. As concerns over the environmental impact of plastic waste continue to grow, bioplastics will likely play an increasingly important role in creating a more sustainable future.
Making Bioplastic At Home
Here are the steps to make bioplastic using gelatin:
Mix one tablespoon of unflavored gelatin with three tablespoons of hot water in a bowl. Stir the mixture until the gelatin dissolves completely.
Add one tablespoon of glycerin and one tablespoon of cornstarch to the bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-combined.
Add food coloring or natural dyes to the mixture if desired.
Pour the mixture onto a flat surface covered with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Use a rolling pin to flatten the mixture into a thin layer.
Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the bioplastic into desired shapes.
Allow the bioplastic to dry completely for several hours or overnight.
Once dry, the bioplastic can be used for a variety of purposes, such as jewelry, ornaments, or as a material for small projects.
** It is important to note that homemade bioplastics made with gelatin may have a different durability or strength than commercial bioplastics made with other materials. However, making bioplastics at home using gelatin is a fun and educational way to learn about sustainable materials and reduce the use of traditional plastics.