Japan’s New Plastic Melts in the Ocean.
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Plastic is used all over the world for many things, but it is causing a big pollution problem, especially in the ocean. Most plastics take many years to break down and leave behind small pieces called microplastics, which hurt animals and the environment.
Scientists in Japan have created a new kind of plastic that disappears in seawater in just a few hours. It was made by a team from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo. This plastic is strong like regular plastic but is much better for nature. When it touches salty water, it breaks down into safe parts that are eaten by natural bacteria. This means no tiny plastic pieces are left behind in the ocean.
In their lab, the scientists showed that the clear plastic melted away in salty water in about an hour. Since salt is also found in soil, the plastic can also break down underground, but it takes a little longer—about 200 hours for a two-inch piece. The material is also safe for humans, fire-resistant, and does not release carbon dioxide when it breaks down. It can be coated to work just like regular plastic.
Right now, this special plastic is still being tested and improved, so it is not ready to be sold. The scientists are working on the best way to coat it. Many big companies, especially in packaging, are interested in using this plastic once it is ready. The lead scientist, Takuzo Aida, hopes that this discovery will help create a cleaner world without harmful plastic pollution.
