Bikin plastik singkong yang bisa dimakan!

Summary

In this video, Rakil from Material Rakil explores the process of creating edible plastic from cassava and corn starch. He experiments with different methods, including using glycerol as a plasticizer, and demonstrates the gelatinization process that turns starch into a transparent, flexible plastic. Rakil encounters challenges with temperature control and consistency but finds solutions to improve the material. Ultimately, he presents a simple, eco-friendly way of making bioplastics, showcasing its potential for sustainable alternatives. The video concludes with Rakil presenting the project at SMA 61, emphasizing the importance of science and experimentation in solving environmental issues.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video explores the creation of edible plastic made from cornstarch, addressing the question of why cassava plastic isn’t edible despite being plant-based.
• 😀 The main ingredients for making edible plastic include cornstarch, water, glycerol (for plasticizing), and a hot plate or stove.
• 😀 The process involves mixing cornstarch with water in a specific ratio, then heating the mixture to trigger gelatinization, where the starch turns into a plastic-like substance.
• 😀 A magnetic stirrer is used to mix the ingredients initially, but it proved ineffective for gelatinization, prompting the switch to using a stove for faster results.
• 😀 Glycerol is introduced as a plasticizer to enhance flexibility, but too much glycerol makes the plastic overly flexible, leading to issues with consistency.
• 😀 The experiment demonstrates the importance of controlling the glycerol amount for achieving the right plastic texture—too much glycerol causes the plastic to remain gel-like and break easily.
• 😀 The process of gelatinization happens more quickly when using hot water, compared to the initial method that used room temperature water, which took much longer.
• 😀 The plastic made with only cornstarch and water dries better and becomes more stable and rigid compared to the version with glycerol.
• 😀 After experimentation, the plastic with glycerol is flexible but too fragile, while the one without glycerol is firm and better for use in practical applications.
• 😀 The final outcome highlights the balance needed between ingredients, demonstrating the trial-and-error nature of making biodegradable plastics at home.
• 😀 The video concludes with the presenter showcasing the results and inviting viewers to follow for more updates and experiments related to material science.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to demonstrate how to make an edible plastic from cassava or corn starch, providing a step-by-step guide to the process.

Why is plastic made from cassava or corn starch not commonly eaten?

Plastic made from cassava or corn starch is not commonly eaten because it typically lacks the necessary properties for consumption, such as appropriate texture or safety in its usual form, making it impractical as a food product.

What materials and tools are required for making the plastic in the video?

The materials and tools required include glycerol, water, corn starch, a hot plate, a magnetic stirrer, a heater, and a mold to shape the plastic.

How is the plastic made from corn starch different from the one made from cassava?

In the video, the plastic is made from corn starch (maize starch) and not directly from cassava, focusing on a corn-based version to demonstrate the process. However, the steps for creating the plastic are quite similar for both types of starch.

What is the role of glycerol in the plastic-making process?

Glycerol (also known as glycerin) acts as a plasticizer in the process, improving the flexibility and durability of the final plastic product, making it more usable and less prone to cracking.

What was the problem when using the magnetic stirrer with the corn starch mixture?

The magnetic stirrer wasn't able to generate enough heat to properly gelatinize the corn starch, which delayed the plastic-making process. The mixture remained too liquid and required a higher temperature for successful gelatinization.

What was the result when hot water was used instead of cold water?

Using hot water instead of cold water sped up the gelatinization process, allowing the starch to quickly turn into a plastic-like substance, which was crucial for the success of the plastic-making process.

What does the term 'gelatinization' refer to in the video?

Gelatinization refers to the process where starch molecules absorb water and swell, eventually turning into a gel-like substance. This process is critical for converting corn starch into a plastic-like material.

What was the outcome when glycerol was added to the mixture, and how did it affect the final plastic?

When glycerol was added, it made the resulting plastic more flexible but also too soft. The excess glycerol led to a flexible, gel-like material that didn't dry out properly and could be easily deformed.

What are the key differences between the plastic made with glycerol and the one made without it?

The plastic made with glycerol is more flexible and pliable, whereas the one made without glycerol is more rigid and prone to cracking as it dries. The glycerol-plastic is also more durable, but too much of it can make the plastic too soft to handle.