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Project Development Channels / bio-petrochemistry / DIY PLA recipe based on corn or potato starch
1:01 PM
making this a thread
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\__NoorSeesTheLight__/ 3/20/2024 1:10 PM

Recipe for Making PLA Plastic at Home - ChatGPT :))

To make PLA plastic at home using corn or potato starch, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • Starch Source: Corn or Potato Starch
  • Catalyst: Sulfuric Acid
  • Solvent: Ethanol
  • Plasticizer: Glycerol ### Equipment:
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Stove
  • Double Boiler
  • Molds
  • Stirring Rod
  • Measuring Spoons

    Steps to Make PLA Plastic:

    1. Prepare the Starch:
    • In a mixing bowl, mix the corn or potato starch with a small amount of ethanol to form a slurry.
    2. Add the Catalyst:
    • Slowly add sulfuric acid to the starch mixture while stirring continuously. Be cautious as sulfuric acid is corrosive.
    3. Cook the Mixture:
    • Place the mixing bowl in a double boiler on the stove. Heat the mixture while stirring until it thickens.
    4. Add Plasticizer:
    • Once the mixture thickens, add glycerol as a plasticizer to improve the flexibility and durability of the PLA.
    5. Mold the Plastic:
    • Pour the mixture into molds before it cools and solidifies. Allow it to cool and harden.
    6. Finalize the PLA:
    • Once the plastic has hardened in the mold, carefully remove it and let it dry completely. Your homemade PLA plastic is now ready for use.
    Please note that working with chemicals and heat sources can be dangerous. Always wear appropriate protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area when conducting experiments of this nature.
1:11 PM
Let us know how it goes, and feel free to add this to the wiki
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This recipe calls for water and vinegar as opposed to ethanol and sulfuric acid https://youtu.be/Uaz9Qvadyio
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