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New supramolecular plastic withstands daily use and decomposes in seawater, offering an innovative solution to reduce pollution and protect the oceans
Plastic is part of modern life. Present in packaging, products and buildings, it makes everyday life easier, but it has also become a major environmental problem. In the oceans, plastic suffocates animals, destroys habitats and can last for centuries.
When it degrades, it often turns into microplastics, which enter the food chain and threaten marine and human life. Despite recycling campaigns and bans, the problem of microplastics persists.
Now, scientists may have found a solution: a new type of plastic that disappears into salt water. Published in the journal Science, the study presents the so-called “supramolecular plastics”.
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These materials are strong, versatile and, most importantly, dissolve in the ocean without leaving behind microplastics. The discovery could help combat one of today’s biggest environmental challenges.
How the new plastic is made
The secret lies in its simple but effective composition. Plastic is made up of two main ingredients: sodium hexametaphosphate and guanidinium sulfate. The first is found in food and cleaning products. The second is a salt-based compound.
When these two compounds are dissolved in water, they create a dense molecular network, held together by forces called “salt bridges.”
Once the network is formed, it can be dried and molded into films, containers, and even 3D printed objects. This makes it possible to manufacture a variety of plastic products from this structure.
The innovation lies in the reaction to salt water. When it comes into contact with the ocean, the molecular bonds break.
The material disintegrates and returns to simple substances that marine bacteria can digest without any problems. Thin plastic films can dissolve in a few hours. Thicker pieces disappear in a few days.
Differences from conventional plastics
One important advantage is that the new plastic does not need special conditions to decompose. Traditional biodegradable plastics usually require heat or industrial composting to break down their structures.
Supramolecular plastic reacts naturally to the marine environment, where plastic waste tends to accumulate.
Even outside the ocean, it does not become a long-term problem. If buried in the ground, for example, the material decomposes naturally into organic compounds. This prevents the accumulation of solid waste that would take hundreds of years to disappear.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, the new plastic is also safe. It is non-toxic, non-flammable and does not generate CO₂ emissions. At temperatures above 120°C, it can be reshaped, just like conventional thermoplastics.
Proven quality and resistance
Despite being designed to disappear, the material is surprisingly resilient. According to Takuzo Aida of the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science, the plastic's reversible structure doesn't compromise its strength or stability.
Tests have shown that it can withstand heat and pressure as well as many traditional plastics. Plus, its ability to be dissolved and remade makes it easier to recycle.
Key components can be recovered and used to produce new plastics, creating a reuse cycle that further reduces environmental impact.
The potential is vast. From food packaging to grocery bags, many everyday applications could adopt the material. The plastic also holds promise for 3D printing, offering a sustainable alternative for manufacturing complex objects.
Upcoming challenges for adoption
Despite the promising results, the path to large-scale use is still long. Production lines need to be adapted to manufacture the new plastics. Industries accustomed to traditional plastics will have to be convinced of the environmental and commercial advantages.
Production costs, durability in terms extreme conditions and the adaptation of recycling processes are points that require further study. Additional tests must be carried out to prove the effectiveness of the material in different scenarios.
Another important factor will be the support of public policies. Government incentives can accelerate the market acceptance of the new plastic. Specific regulations can also be created to encourage the use of materials that dissolve safely in the environment.
A new concept of plastic
The discovery of supramolecular plastics marks a shift in perspective. Instead of creating materials designed to last forever, scientists are now seeking to develop products that are useful for a limited time and then disappear without causing harm.
This new approach could redefine the way society deals with plastic waste. By focusing on solutions that respect natural cycles, science offers new hope for a future with cleaner oceans and less pollution.
If production and acceptance challenges can be overcome, water-soluble plastic could be a game-changer in the fight against the global plastic crisis.
