Scientists in Japan create plastic that dissolves quickly in seawater

This plastic is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide.

Japanese researchers have developed a plastic that dissolves in seawater within a few hours, offering a potential solution to the modern problem of ocean and wildlife pollution, the Japan Times reported.

Although scientists have been experimenting with biodegradable plastics for a long time, researchers at the Riken Center for Emergent Materials Science and the University of Tokyo claim that their new material decomposes much faster and leaves no trace.

In a laboratory in Wako, Saitama Prefecture, the team demonstrated how a small piece of plastic disappeared in a container of salt water after being stirred for about an hour.

Although the team has not yet presented detailed plans for commercialization, project leader Takuzo Aida said their research has attracted considerable interest, including from companies in the packaging sector.

Scientists around the world are racing to develop innovative solutions to the growing plastic waste crisis. These efforts are supported by awareness campaigns such as World Environment Day, which is celebrated on June 5.

Plastic pollution will triple by 2040, according to the United Nations Environment Programme, with 23-37 million metric tons of waste added to the world’s oceans every year.

“Children cannot choose the planet they will live on. 

It is our duty as scientists to ensure that we leave them the best possible environment,” said Aida.

He explained that the new material is as strong as petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt. These components can then be further processed by natural bacteria, thus avoiding the generation of microplastics that can harm aquatic organisms and enter the food chain. Since salt is also present in the soil, a piece measuring about 5 cm disintegrates on land after more than 200 hours, the scientist added.

The material can be used as ordinary plastic when coated, and the team is focusing its current research on the best coating methods, Aida said.

This plastic is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide, he emphasized. | BGNES

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