‘Bora’ is a biodegradable bioplastic specifically for application in disposable utensils. Comprised entirely of natural ingredients, this material distinguishes itself from conventional plastics by its rapid biodegradability post-usage. Unlike its traditional counterparts, which take decades to decompose, ‘Bora’ dissolves after a single meal, mitigating environmental impact and yielding zero waste. Furthermore, the vibrant color accents contribute to enhancing the dining experience. 

Preface

Studies show that the shape and texture of utensils have a significant influence on individuals’ perception of food flavor.

Due to the biodegradable properties, these utensils are environmentally friendly and can be disposed of after a single use.

‘Bora’ is a great alternative to traditional disposable utensils, as the bold colors and multisensory textures enhance users’ dining experiences.

Material Research

Materials 

Primary Materials Used:

Butterfly Pea tea leaves, blue spirulina, arrowroot starch, corn starch, tapioca starch, calcium carbonate, glycerine, white vinegar

Other Materials Used in Experiment:

Tumeric, beetroot powder, green spirulina, agar agar, gelatin

Prototyping

Colors

*Note that colored ingredients did not obtrude the material’s strength, elasticity, or ductility (except vinegar or calcium carbonate)

Samples

Sketches

Textures:

CAD to Models

Life Cycle Analysis

Final Materials

Raw Inputs

Left: 10g arrowroot, 10g calcium citrate, 10g corn starch, 5g glycerine, 5g vinegar, 30g butterfly pea water extract 

Right: 10g arrowroot, 5g calcium citrate, 10g glycerine, 20g butterfly pea extract 

Material Characteristics

Left: 

  • Material is solid and more durable due to the calcium citrate 

  • The purple color is from the combination of the butterfly pea extract and vinegar 

  • Can last one meal (excluding liquid meals such as soup) 

Right: 

  • Material is more flexible due to a higher glycerine concentration and less calcium citrate. 

  • Starts degrading in water within 30 minutes but the silicone would be used as a handle. 

Material Process

All dry ingredients were mixed and then introduced to the wet ingredients. After thoroughly stirring, the material was heated in the microwave for 30 seconds, hydrated, then heated for another 30 seconds. The material had to be hydrated to prevent cracking on the surface from uneven heat distribution. 

Manufacturing Potential

  • Can laminate 

  • Moldable with silicone molds 

  • Cures best with low heat 

  • Before curing, the material is stretchy due to the arrowroot starch. This allows the bioplastic to drape on objects well. 

Final Models