Scientists create plastic dissolving in seawater within hours

: A team of Japanese scientists has developed a plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours without leaving harmful residues, a breakthrough in addressing ocean plastic pollution. The plastic matches the strength of traditional plastics but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt, which are then further processed by naturally occurring bacteria, hence leaving no microplastic contamination. This innovative material was demonstrated in a Tokyo lab where the transparent plastic dissolved after roughly an hour in salty water. Despite its readiness for testing, the material requires further development for commercialization, particularly in optimizing the coating method.

Researchers from Japan’s RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo have created a new type of plastic that fully dissolves in seawater within hours. Designed to combat marine pollution, this material breaks down quickly and leaves behind no toxic residues or microplastics, marking a breakthrough in sustainable materials science.

In tests conducted in Wako city, a small sample of the plastic completely disappeared in a saltwater container after about an hour of stirring. The plastic maintains the durability of conventional petroleum-based plastics but decomposes into harmless components when exposed to seawater. These are then further broken down by natural bacteria.

The material is non-toxic, non-flammable, and emits no CO₂ during decomposition. It can be coated to function like traditional plastic, and researchers are exploring optimal coating methods. While commercialization is still in early stages, the packaging industry has already shown interest in the innovation.

Beyond marine use, the plastic also dissolves in salt-contaminated soil. A five-centimeter strip of the material disintegrates on land within 200 hours, offering a potential solution for plastic waste in both ocean and terrestrial environments.

With plastic pollution projected to triple by 2040, the development aligns with global environmental goals. Lead researcher Takuzo Aida emphasized the moral responsibility of scientists, stating that it's their duty to ensure future generations inherit a livable planet.

Sources: Reuters, The Independent, TechSpot