1. Biodegradability study
Samples preparationAbstract
The aim of this project was the
production and
characterization of a
biodegradable biopolymer,
using starch as raw material.
Different weight percentages of
glycerine were used, and the
influence of this variable on the
properties of the polymer
produced was studied.
The biopolymer produced was
characterized in terms of
degradation rate and
composting potential.
Density, porosity and
mechanical strength were also
determined.
The thermal weldability was
also subject of study, as well as
its potential of application as
fruit coating or as matrix for
ceramic capacitors.
BioActions, BioWorld
Production and characterization of
a biodegradable biopolymer
João Pedro Carvalho1, Susana Devesa2
1 Class A - 11th grade, Teacher2
Colégio da Imaculada Conceição, 3044-519, Cernache
STARCH DISTILLED
WATER
GLYCERINE
HEATING
PROCESS
COOLING
AND
CONSOLIDATION
(a) (b)
Figure 1 – Water degradation tests (a);
Sample C in water after 4months (b).
Figure 2 – Soil degradation tests (a); Evolution
of the samples’ mass in time (b).
Biopolymer characterization
(Mechanical stress)
Figure 3 – Mechanical stress tests.
Figure 4 – Stress (a) and deformation (b) as
function of glycerine mass percentage.
Complementary applications
Matrix for ceramic capacitors
Fruit coating
(a) (b)
Figure 5 – Network analyzer (a) sample-holder with sample (b).
0
p
A
d
C'


0pAR
d
''


Figure 6 - ε' e ε'' as function of frequency.
Figure 7 – Evolution of the bananas’ ripening process in time.
Conclusion
Polymer C presented higher soil degradation rate.
The strength decreases with the glycerine increasing, with polymer A being the most resistant.
All of the polymers can be thermally welded successfully.
Polymer A showed promising results regarding the applicability as matrix for ceramic capacitors
and as fruit coating.
Acknowledgments
Physics Department of the University of Aveiro
Mechanical Engineering Department of ISEC.
“Prémio Ciência na Escola” of Ilídio Pinho
Foundation.
HEATING
PROCESS
(a)
(b)