Student Discovers Biodegrable Styrofoam on Accident!!

The blog that I have read written by, Megan Treacy, was about the accidental discovery of biodegradable styrofoam made up of milk and clay.  This new material was discovered by a student who freeze-dried clay and ended up with an unusual result in which scientist had to work with.  Eventually they came across a peculiar combination that produced a "fluffy, foam-like material." This combination was made up by milk protein casein and clay.  The final recipe consisted of "clay, water, casein powder and a tiny bit of a glycerol-based material." This recipe differed from styrofoam's original one by having a third of it break down within 45 days. 

In my opinion, this was an huge help to our environment.  Not only did it help our environment but it has led to a new company called, Aeroclay, Inc. I Also think this was a very useful discovery because now the new company will have their first step down in trying to figure out a way that oil based products can become biodegradable aswell. 

This relates to class because a little while ago we had discussions about the long-term/short-term pro's and con's on making a ban on styrofoam.  We don't need to worry about banning the growing problem now that the solution was simply to make it biodegradable. 

 http://www.ecogeek.org/alternative-materials/3334-biodegradable-styrofoam-made-from-milk-and-clay?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EcoGeek+%28EcoGeek%29&utm_content=Twitter

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/images/2007-12/polypeanuts.jpg

http://www.webstaurantstore.com/green-wave-tw-poo-001-6-biodegradable-plate-125-pk/green-wave-tw-poo-001-6-biodegradable-plate-125-pk.jpg