Mechanical Testing of Novel Biopolymers for the Replacement of Petroleum-Based Plastic Hay Bale Net Wrapping

Author

Logan Wolf, South Dakota State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Award Date

2024

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Mechanical Engineering

First Advisor

Stephen Gent

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to test biopolymers synthesized from oilseeds or produced from agricultural wastes for large bale net wrapping as a viable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics (PBP). The goal is to test and assess novel polymers to guide the synthesis of a benign biodegradable polymer. Biobased net wrapping will significantly reduce ingestion of PBPs in animals such as ruminants to improve digestive health and minimize cattle loss due to plastic disease. Biobased plastics will also achieve partial or complete breakdown shortly after service without depositing microplastics in the environment. This will reduce the risk of damage to the food chain and avoid soil pollution.

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Recommended Citation

Wolf, Logan, "Mechanical Testing of Novel Biopolymers for the Replacement of Petroleum-Based Plastic Hay Bale Net Wrapping" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 975.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/975