BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC!
Plastic made from milk was quite common in the early 1900s. In fact, it was used to make ornaments in the early 20th Century. This plastic, known as casein plastic was used to make buttons, decorative buckles, beads and other jewellery. Galalith ( Gala - milk and lith - stone ) was the commercial name of an important manufacturer of casein plastic ornaments.
It is made by mixing vinegar and milk. The acid in the vinegar makes the casein molecules join together making polymers. Plastic is made up of polymers, in this casecasein polymers.
In this project we used different shaped moulds to make casein plastic figures. We made buttons,
ornaments for necklaces, buttons and dices.
THESE BEAUTIFUL ORNAMENTS ARE MADE OF MILK. YES, MILK!!
HOW TO MAKE CASEIN PLASTIC.
1. Put 250 ml of milk in a beaker or cup.
2. Heat in with a Bunsen burner or microwave oven.
3. Add 4 tablespoons of vinegar and mix it.
4. Pour through the strainer.
5. Scoop the clumps out with a spoon and put them on the paper towels.
6. After about 30 minutes, put the mixture in a bowl and mix until its smooth.
7. Put it in moulds and let it dry for a few days.
8. Once they are completely dry, you can paint the figures.
9. You will be surprised at how hard the plastic becomes when dry.
