ENVS 340 - Polymers and Plastics

This course will cover the chemistry and origins of plastics and the relationship to the oil industry. The sources of pollution and the fate of plastics upon exposure to sun and salt, the current state of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, and environmental concerns with persistent plastic pollution will be covered. This will also include synthesis and decomposition products of biodegradable plastics, thermal stability, recycling, and mitigation. In the laboratory portion of the course, we will make and explore the properties of various plastics. We will also test and develop methods for detection of micro and nanoplastics, via collection of soil and sand from our local water sources.

Pre-req: ENVS 230
Co-req: ENVS 340L
4 credits