Researchers in Japan have developed a type of plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours, offering a promising solution to the persistent issue of ocean pollution and the threat it poses to marine life.
While biodegradable plastics have been explored for some time, scientists from the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo report that their new material breaks down far more rapidly and leaves no trace behind.
In a laboratory in Wako, near Tokyo, the team demonstrated the plastic’s capabilities showing a small piece of the material completely dissolve in a container of saltwater after just an hour of stirring.
Although commercialisation plans have yet to be announced, project lead Professor Takuzo Aida revealed that the research has garnered considerable interest, particularly from those in the packaging industry.
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With plastic pollution expected to triple by 2040 adding an estimated 23 to 37 million metric tonnes of waste to the oceans annually, according to the United Nations Environment Programme scientists across the globe are working urgently to find innovative solutions. The movement is supported by global awareness events such as World Environment Day, observed on 5 June.
“It is not children who choose the planet they will inherit,” said Aida. “As scientists, it is our responsibility to ensure we leave behind the best possible environment for them.”
He explained that the new material matches petroleum-based plastics in strength but decomposes into its original components when exposed to salt. These components are then broken down further by naturally occurring bacteria, thereby avoiding the creation of microplastics small particles that can harm marine life and infiltrate the food chain.
Since salt is also present in soil, a five-centimetre (two-inch) piece of the plastic will degrade on land in just over 200 hours.
Professor Aida added that the material can be used like conventional plastic when given a suitable coating. Current research is focused on identifying the most effective coating methods. The plastic is also non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide.
