Green Chemistry and Bioplastics Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is a consequence of farmers selling crops to bioplastics producers?

Lower prices for bioplastics in local markets

Improved recycling infrastructure

Increased crop yields for local markets

Food shortages in regions where prices rise (correct)

Why are bioplastics currently expensive?

They are made from abundant natural resources

They are sourced from developing countries

They are produced using emerging technologies (correct)

They require extensive recycling processes

What is a key reason for the concern regarding brominated flame retardants (BFRs)?

They are biodegradable materials

They bioaccumulate in the food chain (correct)

They decompose easily in the environment

They are highly effective at reducing flammability

What improvement do metal hydroxide flame retardants provide in bioplastics?

Improved thermal energy absorption Signup and view all the answers

Which material combination is mentioned as a stronger bioplastic?

PLA and kenaf fiber Signup and view all the answers

Approximately how many pop bottles are required to produce one polar fleece jacket?

25 Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern regarding the use of existing plastic recycling processes?

They may be contaminated by bioplastics Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of PET bottles are recycled according to the information provided?

50% Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of green chemistry?

To develop products and processes with minimal environmental impact Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the aims of green chemistry?

Increased use of toxic materials Signup and view all the answers

Why are bioplastics considered a more sustainable option compared to traditional plastics?

They are derived from renewable plant materials. Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for Greenware products to decompose under specific conditions?

Approximately 50 days Signup and view all the answers

What percentage less fossil fuel does PLA production use compared to traditional plastics?

20% to 50% Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential downside of using corn for bioplastics production?

Diverting food supply resources Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a benefit of bioplastics?

They can break down into harmless substances. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Greenware is true?

It is compostable and breaks down by microorganisms. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Green Chemistry

Green chemistry is a relatively new field that focuses on minimizing environmental harm in the design and production of chemical products and processes.
Key aims of green chemistry include:
- Sustainability
- Safety
- Process efficiency
- Energy efficiency
- End-of-life degradation

Bioplastics

Bioplastics are a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics derived from fossil fuels.
Polylactate (PLA), a bioplastic synthesized from corn, is biodegradable and breaks down in approximately 50 days.
Bioplastics offer advantages such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional plastics.
Concerns regarding bioplastics include potential food shortages due to diverting corn from the food supply chain, contamination of recycling processes, and relatively high costs.

Flame-Resistant Bioplastics

Traditional flame-retardants, such as brominated flame retardants (BFRs), are toxic and persistent in the environment.
Metal hydroxides are being explored as a green alternative to BFRs, absorbing thermal energy to improve fire resistance.
Combining PLA with kenaf fiber creates a biodegradable "super plastic" with enhanced heat resistance and strength, suitable for electronics and other heat-sensitive applications.

Recycled Materials

Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from pop bottles is used to manufacture fleece products, reducing reliance on virgin materials.
Approximately 50% of pop bottles are recycled, while the rest end up in landfills.
An average of 25 recycled pop bottles are needed for each fleece product.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the principles of green chemistry and the innovative solutions provided by bioplastics. Explore their sustainability, safety, and efficiency aspects, as well as the challenges they face in the modern world. Focus on flame-resistant bioplastics and their environmental implications.