Grapevine cellulose makes stronger plastic alternative, biodegrades in 17 days
5 hours ago
- #biodegradable-packaging
- #sustainability
- #plastic-waste
- Grapevine canes can be converted into a plastic-like material stronger than traditional plastic and decomposes in 17 days.
- Current plastic packaging is mostly single-use, derived from nonrenewable sources, and only 9% is recycled, leading to environmental pollution.
- Micro- and nano-plastics are found everywhere, including in human bodies, with unknown long-term health effects.
- Srinivas Janaswamy's research focuses on creating biodegradable packaging from agricultural byproducts like grapevine canes.
- Grapevine canes are rich in cellulose, an abundant biopolymer, making them ideal for sustainable packaging solutions.
- Janaswamy's grapevine cane films are transparent, strong, and leave no harmful residue after biodegrading.
- The research aims to contribute to a circular bioeconomy by utilizing agricultural waste for eco-friendly packaging.