This research is about creating bioplastics using oils and materials that are readily available in the environment. Materials like sand and fibers were added to increase the strength of the resin. This is important because successful research such as this would allow for materials to be created with limited resources, without contributing carbon emissions. In preliminary trials the resins were composed of 50% Tung oil, 30% Butyl Methacrylate, 20% Divinylbenzene, and 5% di-tert butyl peroxide. The materials were thoroughly mixed and placed in the oven at 125 ˚C for 18 hours to harden. Varying amounts and sizes of Southern Pines (fibers) and sand reinforcements were added and tested to determine the durability of the resulting composites. In conclusion, the addition of sand and fiber make the resin stronger. The 425 µm size of fibers and the ways of mixing the solution affect the structure of the resin, once dried.
