A research team led by Takuzo Aida of the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo has developed a innovative plastic materialdesigned to be resistant during use but capable of degrade completely in sea water in a few hours.
This material, which directly addresses the problem of microplastics, represents a significant step forward in the fight against plastic pollution. The new plastic, made through supramolecular chemistry, is based on polymers with reversible salt bonds.
These bonds, normally stable, they disintegrate quickly when exposed to electrolytes such as those found in seawater. The manufacturing process uses two biodegradable monomers, one of which is a commonly available food additive, while the other is derived from guanidinium. Once dissolved in salt water, plastic breaks down into its main components, which can be largely recovered and recycled.
It acts as a fertilizer once decomposed in the soil
In terms of performance, the material shows properties equivalent to or superior to those of conventional plastics. Its resistance, ductility and adaptability make it suitable for multiple applications, including packaging, medical devices and 3D printing. It is also non-toxic, non-flammable and can be easily molded at high temperaturesmaking it a sustainable and practical alternative to traditional plastics.
Another revolutionary aspect of this plastic is its ability to act as fertilizer once decomposed in the soil, thanks to the release of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen. Tests have shown that the material degrades completely in the soil about ten dayswithout leaving traces of microplastics.
This development comes at a critical time, with growing awareness of the devastating impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems and human health. If adopted on a large scale, this new material could contribute significantly to mitigate marine pollution and reduce global dependence on traditional plastic.
