College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Materials Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Materials Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Materials Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Materials Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Materials Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Materials Engineering
Date
6-2025
Primary Advisor
Trevor Harding. College of Engineering, Materials Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
Since the introduction of polymers in the 1960s, there has been an exponential increase in use. Driven by rapidly growing demand, the volume of polymers in the production, application, and end-of-life stages has surged. The widespread use of these materials has led to escalating environmental pollution, which disrupts ecosystems, and contributes to global ecological degradation. While advancements in recycling technologies and infrastructure have shown promise, they have not maintained pace with polymer production and disposal. This imbalance warrants research into sustainable alternatives. Environmentally benign polymers derived from renewable sources and exhibiting minimal ecological impact at the end of their life cycle represent a critical area of research in addressing this global challenge. Dra. Sandra Pascoe Ortiz has developed a promising natural biopolymer derived from the juice of the Opuntia cactus. This biopolymer is non-toxic, fully biodegradable in natural environments, and can be produced with minimal ecological footprint. This study investigates the effects of incorporating a water-soluble synthetic polymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), into Opuntia-based biopolymer. The research focuses on the mechanical properties and degradation behavior of the resulting composite material in a marine environment.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/matesp/280