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DEGRADE-A-PAD

Degrade-a-Pad is a menstrual pad disposal system composed of two parts: a chemical-free menstrual pad, and a compartment inside the toilet tank in which the pads can be disposed. Degrade-a-Pad creates a sustainable and convenient future for menstrual products.

The Technology: Body
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DEGRADE-A-PAD

The degradation chamber of Degrade-a-Pad is situated inside of the toilet tank.

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THE DEGRADATION CHAMBER

The used pad is placed inside of the chamber where the enzymes will flow over it. As the pad degrades, particles of glucose and lactic acid will slide through the grate and into the toilet bowl.

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ENZYME COMPARTMENT

The enzyme compartment inside of the degradation chamber contains serine proteases and cellulases. Serine proteases depolymerize the plastic (PLA) in the pad, while cellulases degrade the cotton and wood cellulose through enzymatic hydrolysis.

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SECOND LEVER

A second lever on the outside of the toilet activates the flow of serine proteases and cellulases in the degradation chamber.

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THE PIPE

The pipe transfers the particles of lactic acid and glucose from the degradation chamber into the toilet bowl.

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THE PAD

The pad is specially created to be degraded by the enzymes. It contains a top layer of cotton cellulose, a middle of wood cellulose, and a bottom of polylactic acid.

The Technology: Team Members
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