PLAS. 5970 Plastic & Environment
This course investigates the waste management solutions for different types of plastics. Both traditional and emerging recycling methods will be highlighted. Accumulation of plastic waste in the natural environment and the toxicology of plastics as well as their additives will be discussed, Further, analysis methods and instrumentation to characterize recycled plastics, and the differences in virgin polymers and recycled polymers will be introduced. Potential degradable, biodegradable or biobased alternatives will be reviewed along with the concepts of life cycle assessment and Green Chemistry for designing the most sustainable plastic materials.
Industrial speakers will also be invited to join as a guest lecturer when appropriate. In the past, we had guest speakers from industry, small business, NGO, and other major Universities to join our class to share their first-hand information dealing with plastic waste, developing policy for treating plastic waste, or researching biobased polymers.
Anyone who is interested in the suitability topic in plastic manufacturing is welcome to join this class!