This new plastic can dissolve within hours
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new type of plastic that dissolves quickly in saltwater or moist soil, potentially reducing ocean pollution.
The new material can disintegrate within hours in saltwater or soil without leaving harmful microplastics, according to a study published in the journal Science.
The plastic maintains the strength of traditional petroleum-based plastic but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt, which are then digested by naturally occurring bacteria.
Researchers are developing coatings to allow the dissoluble plastic to be used in packaging and other everyday applications, with interest already expressed by the packaging industry.
The plastic alternative is non-toxic, non-flammable, and emits no carbon dioxide as it breaks down, but challenges remain in scaling it for wider commercial use.
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