Engineering Polymers from Potatoes
How can we engineer polymers from the simple potato?Copyright 2004 Scott Bauer, Public Domain, U.S. Department of Agriculture, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potato#/media/File:Patates.jpg
Students are introduced to polymer science and take on the role of chemical engineers to create and test a plastic made from starch. After testing their potato-based plastic, students design a product that takes advantage of the polymer’s unique properties. At the end of the engineering design process, students present their product in a development “pitch” that communicates their idea to potential investors.
A fundamental concept materials and chemical engineers must understand is why a change in the chemical structure of polymer molecules affects the properties a plastic. Engineers use concepts based in the scientific understanding of polymers to design a variety of products made with plastics. Along with testing and designing new plastics, engineers are often tasked with communicating their results to potential stakeholders. Engineers must take known methods of a design and reconstruct or redesign them in order to meet the needs of a particular company or investor.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Explain the basics polymer formation and their characteristics.
- Apply the engineering design process in order to address a real-world challenge.
- Conduct research to support and improve upon a design.
- Communicate results and the importance of a particular design.