Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello, my science fair project is about bioplastics, specifically starched-based bioplastics. I will investigate how does the type of starch (e.g. cornstarch, potato starch) affects the quality (mechanical properties: tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance) of bioplastic. I will be making samples of bioplastic from different starches and testing their mechanical properties. But I am not sure if the type of starch actually has an effect to the mechanical properties of bioplastic. I have a very limited knowledge of bioplastics and polymers. What concepts should I learn to have enough knowledge about bioplastics? Is my science fair project OK? Please help me! Thank you!

Your science fair project sounds great! Here are some links that can teach you more about what you want to know:

http://www.sustainableplastics.org/about
http://worldcentric.org/biocompostables/bioplastics
http://www.explainthatstuff.com/bioplastics.html

Thanks!