70: Bio-Prototyping: Methodologies For (un)making

Building material lifecycles are linear, and emerging biomaterials have the potential to exist in circular models. This project investigated entirely biobased and fully biodegradable bioplastics. Iterative prototypes were made for developing base recipes, establishing fabrication methods, and studying plasticity. A sodium alginate recipe and potato starch recipe were developed. Decreasing glycerin decreased elasticity and increasing aggregate decreased plasticity. Bioplastic decomposition was studied in four controlled environments, each influenced decomposition differently. Additionally, a bio-textile was installed outdoors, demonstrating feasibility of scaling-up. This research prompted an elective course that engaged students with bioplastics and fabrication. Students developed their own mixtures and methods and then crafted installations. They observed, studied, and documented their decomposing installations. The course introduced students to biomaterials, fabrication, and material lifecycle concepts. This research reframed bioplastics not as products that reduce harm but mechanisms for innovation as well as reimagining material lifecycles entirely.