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Researchers Develop Eco-Friendly Plastic That Dissolves in Seawater
In Wako, Japan, researchers have created an innovative type of plastic that can dissolve in seawater within hours, presenting a promising solution to the pervasive issue of ocean pollution and its impact on marine life.
While the concept of biodegradable plastics isn’t new, a team from the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo asserts that their new material decomposes significantly faster and leaves no harmful residues.
During a recent demonstration at their lab, a small piece of this new plastic was observed vanishing in saltwater after being stirred for about an hour.
Although commercialization plans haven’t been announced yet, project leader Takuzo Aida noted that their findings have piqued interest, particularly among packaging industry stakeholders.
Globally, scientists are working diligently to address the escalating plastic waste crisis, coinciding with awareness initiatives like World Environment Day on June 5.
According to predictions from the UN Environment Programme, plastic pollution could triple by 2040, adding an estimated 23 to 37 million metric tons of waste annually to the oceans.
Aida remarked, "Children don’t have a choice over the planet they inherit. It is our responsibility as scientists to ensure we leave them with the best possible environment."
He emphasized that this new material possesses the same strength as traditional petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its natural components when exposed to salt. These components can then be safely processed by naturally occurring bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of microplastics that can negatively affect aquatic ecosystems and enter the food chain.
On land, a piece of this plastic measuring about two inches disintegrates after more than 200 hours due to the presence of salt in the soil.
The material can be utilized like conventional plastics when treated with a coating, and the research team is currently exploring the most effective coating methods. Aida also highlighted the plastic’s non-toxic, non-flammable properties, stating that it does not produce carbon dioxide during decomposition.
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