Japanese researchers have developed an innovative supramolecular plastic that retains its strength during use but dissolves rapidly in saltwater, offering a potential breakthrough in the fight against marine plastic pollution.
The research, conducted at the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science (CEMS) under Takuzo Aida, aims to address the environmental damage caused by traditional plastics, which persist in nature for decades and contribute to microplastic contamination.
This new plastic is made from two ionic monomers that form cross-linked salt bridges, giving it both durability and biodegradability. One of the monomers, sodium hexametaphosphate, is a common food additive, while the other is based on guanidinium ions. These materials can be metabolized by bacteria, ensuring that once the plastic dissolves, it breaks down into harmless compounds.
The key innovation lies in selectively irreversible cross-links that maintain stability until exposed to electrolytes in seawater, causing the plastic to degrade within hours. The researchers found that a desalting step during production was critical without it, the plastic would become brittle and unusable.
This breakthrough material could help reduce marine pollution, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. Future research will focus on scaling production and exploring real-world applications to make this biodegradable plastic widely available.