Japan Develops Seawater-Dissolving Plastic

Prelims: Sustainable development| Science and technology | Current events of national and international importance

Why in news?

Recently, Japanese scientists from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and University of Tokyo have developed a new type of plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours.

• The new type of plastic is as strong as petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt.
• Material composition – It is made from biopolymers like PLA (Polylactic Acid), PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates).
• It can be derived from renewable sources (corn starch, sugarcane) or modified petrochemicals.
• Degradation mechanism – The material is chemically designed to respond to sodium ions and salinity in seawater.
• Salt causes the polymer structure to loosen and break down.
• Hydrolysis reaction – Water molecules in saltwater penetrate the polymer and break the chemical bonds (hydrolysis), turning the plastic into smaller, harmless molecules.
• Biological processing – These smaller molecules are then digested by marine bacteria, preventing microplastic formation and allowing full assimilation into the ecosystem.
• Durability – Despite its biodegradability, it maintains functional strength and usability.
• Potential applications – It can be used like conventional plastic when properly coated.
• It is currently being explored for use in packaging, with growing interest from the industry.

Significance

• It leaves no residual trace after dissolving.
• No microplastics are formed, preventing harm to aquatic life and food chains.
• The material is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide.

The UN Environment Programme predicts plastic pollution will triple by 2040, adding 23–37 million metric tons of waste annually to oceans.

Reference

DD News| Japan Develops Seawater-Dissolving Plastic