Bioplastics
Researcher: Sam Storts
Sam’s area of study is similar to that of Xiaoying’s as he works with her in designing experiments to observe the possible optimization techniques available in making bioplastics out of PHBV. The focus of Sam’s work is on the development of bio-based plastic films with the hopes of producing a biodegradable film made of environmentally beneficial materials. The brittleness issue associated with films made from PHBV is being addressed in the same way as Xiaoying’s plastic trays: with the incorporation of natural rubber. Incorporating PLA gave the films a more structurally sound material with more visually appealing characteristics. The production of the films was the first step in the process. Experiments determining the tensile properties as well as safeguarding measures are to be performed to ensure a safe and viable alternative to the currently used petroleum resins.
In addition to the study of the biofilms, Sam has worked on the production of bio-based waterborne adhesive from guayule natural rubber with bio-epoxide as a curing agent for flexible packaging applications. These experiments involved an inter-disciplinary effort through chemical comprehension paired with extensive polymer knowledge. Utilization of guayule is beneficial in eliminating the allergen’s associated with most natural rubber latex.