Recyclable plastic developed from algae
In a groundbreaking development, chemists at Virginia Tech have created a new type of plastic that is not only recyclable but also durable and versatile. This biohybrid plastic, made from whole-cell algae (specifically spirulina) and common chemical components, could revolutionise the plastics industry and help combat the environmental crisis caused by the poor recyclability of traditional plastics.
The innovative process, known as mechanochemical synthesis, uses the 'ball milling' technique to grind materials into finer pieces. This approach shortens the plastic synthesis process from two days to just one and a half hours, making it an efficient way to manufacture more sustainable plastics.
The new plastic, which can be easily remoulded into new shapes or completely decomposed, is a significant improvement over traditional plastics. Its complete recyclability allows for the separate recovery and reuse of both the algae biomass and chemical components, preventing it from becoming waste.
Moreover, the plastic's versatility and adaptability mean it can be easily remoulded into new shapes without degradation, maintaining performance upon recycling. This versatility ensures it doesn't end up as waste, as is often the case with traditional plastics.
The use of low-cost, abundant whole-cell algae and agricultural waste biomass sources reduces reliance on fossil fuels, making the production of this plastic greener. The team at Virginia Tech has also analysed other types of biomass resources, including agricultural processing waste, to further explore the potential of this innovative material.
The project was co-directed by Emily Bird, an undergraduate student, and Meng Jiang, the project's main graduate student. Their synthesis strategy was described in a recent study published in Angewandte Chemie.
Meanwhile, in other news, Texas Democratic congressmen have left the state to prevent Republicans from changing the electoral map. BP, on the other hand, announced its largest discovery in 25 years of oil and gas off the coast of Brazil. Germany, however, has denied Russia's accusations over the Kuriles.
References: [1] Jiang, M., Bird, E., & Team (2022). Mechanochemical Synthesis of Biohybrid Plastics from Whole-Cell Algae and Common Chemical Components. Angewandte Chemie. [2] Virginia Tech News. (2022). Virginia Tech research team develops new biohybrid plastic. Retrieved from https://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2022/05/06/story-research-team-develops-new-biohybrid-plastic.html
The breakthrough created by the chemists at Virginia Tech in the field of plastic manufacturing, utilizing biohybrid materials, holds great potential for the future of environmental-science and technology. This innovative approach, thanks to its versatility, could significantly reduce the environmental impact caused by poor recyclability associated with traditional plastics in the sports and science sectors.
