Hello, ladies and gentlemen. I'm the "Environmental Bank" with all the worldwide environmental issues. About 3 months ago, I uploaded the newsletter that scientists from the University of California-San Diego and Algenesis developed a new type of plastic that biodegrades in under 7 months. But, surprisingly, in advance of that, a few days ago, scientists from the University of Copenhagen developed a new type of plastic that biodegrades in under 2 months at a 100% rate. Letโs delve into the issue.
What is the issue?
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a biodegradable plastic from barley starch blended with fiber from sugarbeet waste.
What are the differences between this and previous biodegradable plastics?
- Biodegradability
Previous biodegradable plastics were not biodegradable for 100% level, but this new plastic is 100% biodegradable. Moreover, many existing bioplastics do not degrade easily in nature and require special industrial composting conditions, yet new biodegradable plastic doesnโt have such problems.
- Strength and Water Resistance
The new bioplastic is more robust and resistant to water than existing types.
- Time to be degraded
This new material can decompose completely in nature within just two months, compared to traditional plastics that can take many years to break down and often continue to pollute as microplastics.
What are the compositions of new bioplastic?
- Main ingredients: Amylose and cellulose, which are common across the plant kingdom
- Barley Variety: Developed a new barley variety that produces pure amylose, less likely to turn into a paste when interacting with water
- Nanocellulose: Made from local sugar industry waste, providing mechanical strength to the material
Expert's insight
We have an enormous problem with our plastic waste that recycling seems incapable of solving. Therefore, we've developed a new type of bioplastic that is stronger and can better withstand water than current bioplastics. At the same time, our material is one hundred per cent biodegradable and can be converted into compost by microorganisms if it ends up somewhere other than a bin,
Professor Andreas Blennow (Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences)
Wrap-up
I was surprised to see that such an advancement in existing technology is possible within just three months. This fast pace of progress highlights the capability for quicker and greater effective solutions to environmental challenges when interdisciplinary research and collaboration are prioritised. As researchers collaborate with enterprise partners to develop prototypes, the wish is that those new bioplastics will play an vital position in reducing the environmental effect of plastics and reducing the negative effect of plastic pollution on us the planet and fitness. Overall, the groundbreaking work of the University of Copenhagen is an inspiring instance of how science and innovation can drive sustainable improvement and create an eco-friendly future.
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