Based on previously popularized experiments of making bio plastics from plant starches, we have developed an inquiry-based experiment that introduces engineering standards through tensile-testing.  Students synthesize a variety of plastics made from renewable and readily available starches of the potato, tapioca, and corn plants.  Students investigate how the properties of these bio plastics differ based on the starch or mixture of starches used and effect additives such as sugar, glycerol, and glue have on their properties.   Use of tensile testing to quantify the strength of the bio plastics is then performed and adds an engineering component to the experimental design. This two-day lab introduces students to the concepts of sustainable polymers through straightforward and accessible techniques and materials in the high school classroom. <br/>

Make it and break it: Employing a plant starch bio plastics experiment in the high school classroom for addressing engineering education standards

249th National Meeting (2015)

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