Marine Biodegradable Plastic from Starch and Cellulose

Date: 23 March 2020

Country: Japan

Application

• This project provides a sustainable solution for marine biodegradable plastics, which can be used in packaging and other single-use plastic products. It helps reduce plastic pollution in oceans and promotes environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional plastics.

Description

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a marine biodegradable plastic using starch and cellulose, which are cheap and abundant materials. Their unique technology significantly improves the water resistance and strength of the plastic, making it ideal for reducing marine debris. This eco-friendly material also boasts high biodegradability in seawater. The innovation promises to address the global plastic pollution problem while contributing to sustainability goals.

Pathway Description:

In this project, starch and cellulose are combined to create a composite material for marine biodegradable plastic. The researchers use a unique technology to enhance the water resistance of starch, improving its strength and durability. The starch-cellulose mixture is then processed into sheets, which demonstrate excellent biodegradability in seawater. This simple manufacturing process utilizes low-cost, abundant biomass, making it a scalable and sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.