A Chinese research team develops a biodegradable plastic suitable for use in electronic devices, isolated from sunlight and oxygen.
Many scientists around the world are seeking to change plastic production processes to create materials that decompose safely and quickly in the environment. A research team led by Liang Luo, an expert at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, has developed a type of plastic that can decompose in just one week under certain conditions, as reported by New Atlas on July 11. The new study was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
Sunlight is a factor that helps decompose the type of plastic developed by the Chinese research team. (Photo: Rangizzz/Depositphotos).
The new material emerged during Luo’s research on an advanced chemical sensor. It is a polymer film that can change color based on pH levels. This process occurs due to its unique molecular structure. The chains of monomers impart a deep red color to the polymer film, which disappears when the bonds are broken.
Through numerous experiments, Luo and his colleagues observed that the deep red color of the polymer film quickly faded, and the film broke apart after a few days under sunlight. Breaking such bonds is a common goal in research aimed at recycling plastics. Consequently, Luo inadvertently created a potential environmentally friendly material.
The molecular structure of the new plastic is unsuitable for making soft drink bottles or packaging bags because it only remains stable in dark, oxygen-free environments. When exposed to sunlight and air, it decomposes rapidly. It will completely break down within a week, leaving no microplastic fragments that could harm the environment. A byproduct of this process is succinic acid, which can be recycled for use in pharmaceuticals or food.
The material developed by Luo’s research team could be used in smartphones or other electronic devices, isolated from air and light throughout their usage. Luo believes that the new material will last for many years when used this way. Devices disposed of will also decompose more easily. He plans to continue researching biodegradable plastics, but commercialization will still take several more years.