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Researchers create super-strong plant-derived plastic, considered a milestone for sustainability.
An innovative breakthrough in materials science could transform the way we produce industrial objects and parts. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have announced the development of a new, ultra-strong, sustainable plastic. Derived from plants, the material combines cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and synthetic plastic, promising superior mechanical properties and reducing dependence on petroleum-based plastics.
The composite, which can be 3D printed or molded, not only offers a more sustainable alternative, but is also described as “stronger than some types of bone and harder than typical aluminum.”
New sustainable plastic created by MIT researchers promises to revolutionize industrial production
Innovation starts with cellulose, the most abundant polymer in the natural world, present in every wood cell.
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Within this structure are CNCs, polymer chains organized in a crystalline form that give strength and rigidity to the wood.
While cellulose is widely used in papermaking and in industries such as food and textiles, the MIT team found a way to maximize its mechanical properties.
According to A. John Hart, professor of mechanical engineering at MIT, the solution was to develop a hybrid material that increases the concentration of CNCs to up to 90%.
This approach overcomes previous limitations, such as the tendency of CNCs to agglomerate and bind weakly to other polymers.
“By creating composites with high-load CNCs, we can give polymer-based materials mechanical properties they’ve never had before,” explains Hart.
The new material is produced by mixing CNCs with an epoxy oligomer and a photoinitiator, forming a malleable gel.
This gel can be fed into 3D printers or poured into molds, allowing the manufacture of complex and highly resistant parts.
Imitation of nature and surprising results
When analyzed under a microscope, the material revealed a microstructure similar to nacre, the inner lining of mollusc shells known for its strength and hardness.
Taking inspiration from nature, the researchers molded the material into durable shapes and began testing it on 3D printers.
During the tests, the material was deposited in 0,5 mm layers and subjected to drying and thermal curing processes.
One interesting thing observed was the shrinkage of the material by 80% due to solvent evaporation, a characteristic that can be controlled to achieve precise and uniform results.
In endurance tests, the prototypes surprised.
Even in coin-sized pieces, the new plastic proved to be firm and difficult to break, cementing its position as a robust and ecological alternative to conventional polymers.
Impacts and the future of production
One of the greatest promises of this new plastic is its contribution to sustainability.
Partially or completely replacing petroleum-based plastics with materials derived from natural cellulose can significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint.
“If we can replace some petroleum-based plastic with naturally derived cellulose, that’s also arguably better for the planet,” Hart says.
Furthermore, the technology also opens doors to innovative applications.
From the production of industrial components to furniture made from lab-grown wood, as proposed by another MIT team, the potential for diversifying the use of cellulose is immense.
The new plastic developed by MIT researchers represents a milestone in the search for sustainable solutions in materials science.
Combining cutting-edge technology and inspiration from nature, the team managed to create a strong, durable and environmentally responsible compound.
This innovation not only demonstrates the potential of cellulose nanocrystals, but also reinforces the importance of continuing to invest in technologies that combine performance and sustainability.
Industry, which has long depended on petroleum-based materials, may finally find in the plant kingdom a viable and revolutionary alternative for the future.
Click here to read the research!
From the reading it seems that it is not degradable or bio degradable and so it will increase the **** that is plastic pollution of all types.
The article shows current journalism, incomplete and superficial, saying whether or not it is biodegradable is very important nowadays.
Did you do EAD? Ask if CELLULOSE is biodegradable? The only thing that is not biodegradable is your “EGUINOGUINORANCE!”