Chapter 8B - Sustainability
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Biodegradable
Ability to decompose in nature
Bioplastic
Plastic produced from biomass (organic material made from plants/animals)
Circular Economy
Continuous cycle focussing on optimal use & reuse of resources
Feedstock
Raw material used for producing another product
Sustainable
Meet present needs without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
Use of renewable feedstocks
• renewable feedstocks in chemical production moves processes closer to circular economy • minimises waste • promotes sustainable use of resources
Production of bioplastic
• Polylactic acid (PLA): polymer through condensation of lactic acid monomer • Lactic acid: obtained via fermantation of sugarcane/starch • used in 3d printers/medical industry • biodegradable polymer that can break down via hydrolysis in environment
Catalysis
• improved selectivity to minimise unwanted by-products • lower energy consumption - reactions at lower temp/press • renewable source utilisation - biomass vs fossil fuels • safer reactions
Reduction of acid rain
• crude oil contains sulfur • sulfur dioxide produced when combusted, causes acid rain • catalysts reduce sulfur content of crude oil
Designing safer chemicals 1.
Production of non-toxic, biodegradable polymer * Polybutylene succinate (PBS): polymer formed through condensation of carboxylic acid monomer and alcohol monomer * naturally occurring monomers, obtained via fermentation of wheat/corn * packaging
Designing safer chemicals 2.
Marine source - Biopolymer - Bioplastic - Packaging * lower carbon footprint * can be grown quickly * biodegradable * reduced food waste * edible * deacidification of the ocean