Researchers led by Takuzo Aida at the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science in Japan have made a significant breakthrough in addressing microplastic pollution. Their recent study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, introduces a new plant-based plastic made from cellulose, the most abundant organic compound on Earth. This innovative plastic is durable, flexible, and capable of rapid decomposition in natural environments, unlike traditional biodegradable plastics.
Microplastics are widespread pollutants found in soil, oceans, and even human tissues. They pose health risks to animals, plants, and humans. While some biodegradable plastics exist, many do not break down quickly in marine environments, leaving microplastics behind for years. Last year, Aida’s team created a plastic that decomposes within hours in salt water, but it was not yet suitable for practical applications.
The new plastic builds on that concept, using cellulose derived from wood pulp, which is FDA-approved and biodegradable. To form the material, the team used a safe crosslinking agent made from polyethylene-imine guanidinium ions. When mixed in water, opposite charges attracted, creating a strong, cross-linked network. This network breaks apart in salt water, enabling rapid decomposition. A protective coating prevents accidental breakdown during use.
Initially, the plastic was brittle and glass-like, so the team added choline chloride, a food-safe additive, to improve flexibility. By adjusting the additive’s amount, they created a range of materials; from hard, transparent films to elastic sheets that stretch 130%.
“Nature produces about one trillion tons of cellulose every year,” says Aida. “From this abundant natural substance, we have created a flexible yet tough plastic material that safely decomposes in the ocean. This technology will help protect the Earth from plastic pollution.”
The post Japanese researchers develop strong, biodegradable plastic from plant cellulose appeared first on World Bio Market Insights.
