New plastic that dissolves in seawater raises hopes for tackling ocean pollution
This new plastic can dissolve within hours – just add seawater
- 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.