- Scientists in Japan have developed a new type of plastic that fully degrades in seawater within one hour, leaving no toxic residue or microplastic traces.
- The plastic breaks down into natural compounds like nitrogen and phosphorus, which can be absorbed by marine microbes and plants.
- The material retains the strength and functionality of conventional plastics but degrades upon contact with saltwater.
- Key components include sodium hexametaphosphate (a food additive) and a monomer based on guanidinium ions (found in fertilizers).
- Lab tests showed the plastic dissolves in seawater in 60 minutes and degrades in salt-containing soil in about 200 hours.
- The plastic is flame-resistant, non-toxic, and does not emit CO2 during decomposition.
- Challenges remain, such as developing a coating to ensure the plastic functions normally until discarded.
- Major packaging companies have shown interest, given the UN's warning that ocean plastic pollution could triple by 2040.
- Microplastics, now found globally, pose severe environmental and health risks, making this innovation crucial.
- The project leader emphasizes the moral responsibility to leave future generations a cleaner planet.