Plastics from Potatoes, Rubber from Rice by Professor Andrew Abbott

Calendar
When:
November 26, 2018 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
2018-11-26T13:00:00+00:00
2018-11-26T14:00:00+00:00
Where:
Museum of London
150 London Wall
London EC2Y 5HN
UK
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Gresham College
Email
Event website
Academic Biology Chemistry Conservation Education Environmental & Climate Food & Drink Science Society
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With over 80% of organic carbon being present in the form of cellulose, lignin and starch, it is unsurprising many groups have attempted to use these as feedstock chemicals and materials. Extensive hydrogen bonding makes the plasticisation of starch and the dissolution of cellulose difficult.

This talk shows that the incorporation of a simple salt can lead to a flexible plastic with mechanical properties similar to oil derived plastics. Most importantly these plastics are recyclable and ultimately compostable.

No reservations are required for this lecture. It will be run on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
Doors will open 30 minutes before the start of the lecture