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Want a Stronger Biodegradable Plastic? Add a 'Pinch' of Cream of Tartar

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the demand for biodegradable plastics is on the rise. However, these plastics often lack the strength and durability of traditional plastics. Scientists have been working to find ways to make biodegradable plastics stronger and more durable, and recent research has found that adding a small amount of cream of tartar can do just that.

What is Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a white crystalline powder that is commonly used in baking. It is a byproduct of winemaking and is formed when tartaric acid in grape juice crystallizes. Cream of tartar is often used as a stabilizer in egg whites and whipped cream, as well as in baking powder to help baked goods rise.

The Study

Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that adding just a small amount of cream of tartar to biodegradable plastics can significantly increase their strength and durability. The study was published in the journal ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering.

The researchers tested three different types of biodegradable plastics: polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), and polybutylene succinate (PBS). They added varying amounts of cream of tartar to each type of plastic and tested their strength and durability.

They found that adding just 0.05% cream of tartar to PLA increased its tensile strength by 30%. Adding 0.1% cream of tartar to PHA increased its tensile strength by 50%, and adding 0.2% cream of tartar to PBS increased its tensile strength by 70%.

How Does it Work?

Cream of tartar contains potassium ions, which can form strong bonds with the polymer chains in biodegradable plastics. This creates a stronger and more durable material.

Benefits of Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable plastics are becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of the environmental impact of traditional plastics. Biodegradable plastics break down into natural materials, such as water and carbon dioxide, when exposed to certain conditions, such as sunlight or moisture.

This means that biodegradable plastics do not contribute to the buildup of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. They also do not release harmful chemicals into the environment when they break down.

Conclusion

The addition of cream of tartar to biodegradable plastics is a promising development in the quest for stronger and more durable environmentally friendly materials. By making biodegradable plastics stronger, they can be used in a wider range of applications, including packaging and consumer goods.

As research into biodegradable plastics continues, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions to the problem of plastic waste. By using these materials, we can help protect our planet and create a more sustainable future.

FAQs

1. What is cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is a white crystalline powder that is commonly used in baking. It is a byproduct of winemaking and is formed when tartaric acid in grape juice crystallizes.

2. How does cream of tartar make biodegradable plastics stronger?

Cream of tartar contains potassium ions, which can form strong bonds with the polymer chains in biodegradable plastics. This creates a stronger and more durable material.

3. What are the benefits of biodegradable plastics?

Biodegradable plastics break down into natural materials, such as water and carbon dioxide, when exposed to certain conditions, such as sunlight or moisture. This means that they do not contribute to the buildup of plastic waste in landfills and oceans and do not release harmful chemicals into the environment when they break down.

4. What types of biodegradable plastics were tested in the study?

The researchers tested three different types of biodegradable plastics: polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), and polybutylene succinate (PBS).

5. What was the result of adding cream of tartar to biodegradable plastics?

Adding just a small amount of cream of tartar to biodegradable plastics significantly increased their strength and durability. For example, adding 0.05% cream of tartar to PLA increased its tensile strength by 30%.

This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

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cream (4), plastics (4), tartar (4), biodegradable (3)