A team of researchers in Japan has discovered a type of plastic that can completely dissolve in water within hours. This innovation could help eliminate microplastic fragments that pose a significant threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. It offers a solution to reduce the growing problem of ocean pollution and protect marine life. The plastic discovered is strong, durable, and non flammable. It is made from 2 key building blocks, and is a promising development that could pave the way for a future where plastic waste no longer harms the environment, protects marine life, and promotes a healthier planet. This innovative discovery offers a glimmer of hope for a future where plastic pollution doesn’t linger forever.
Discovery of plastic that could save oceans from plastic pollution
Researchers in Japan have made a discovery of a new type of plastic that completely dissolves in seawater within hours. According to reports, it is created by the Riken Institute and the University of Tokyo, could help eliminate microplastic fragments that pose a significant threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. The plastic is made from two key building blocks: sodium hexametaphosphate, a common food additive, and guanidinium ions. By combining these, the plastic retains strength and durability but can disintegrate in saltwater, offering a potential solution to the global plastic crisis.
The new biodegradable and recyclable plastic
According to elcabildo.org , this plastic is created by the Riken Institute and the University of Tokyo. This innovative plastic is not only strong and durable but also safe, non flammable, and highly customizable. The researchers can tailor the plastic’s hardness and stretch resistance for various applications, by adjusting the composition of the guanidinium sulfate monomer. It can be coated to act like regular plastic until it meets seawater, where it then dissolves, making it a potential solution for reducing ocean plastic waste.The plastic’s ability to dissolve quickly in water is due to its reaction with salt, breaking down without leaving toxic residues. Most of its building blocks can be recovered and reused- over 90% of one part and 80% of the other. Both monomers are biodegradable, allowing bacteria to break them down and further reducing pollution. Also read | Rare blood-red squid captured alive for the first time off Antarctica on camera
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