British scientists have created a plastic that turns into wax over time
Scientists in the UK have learned how to make harmless plastic that turns into wax when decomposed. The essence of the technology is that about a dozen chemicals are added to plastic, including rubbers, oils and desiccants, according to Bloomberg. Experiments have shown that invented thin packaging materials decompose in just 226 days, while a regular plastic bag decomposes for about a thousand years. In addition, such products can be reused.
It is noteworthy that Polymateria products do not leave microplastics in the process of decomposition and do not require any special equipment to create and destroy them. In the natural environment, wax is completely digested by bacteria and fungi.
It is noted that the amount of chemical additives can be adjusted depending on the end goal. For example, you can create thin cling film or harder materials that are suitable for the production of glasses or bags for drinks.
The startup is already gaining popularity in Asia. Thus, a deal was concluded with a supplier in Taiwan, and the technology was also sold to one of the world's largest plastic manufacturers, Formosa Plastics. The purpose of the deals is to tackle one of the most important environmental pollution problems – plastic packaging entering the oceans and accumulating them in landfills.
Earlier it was reported that the UK may ban plastic forks and cups. The government plans to reduce waste and the amount of plastic in the oceans. A similar ban can be introduced in all parts of the country – England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Consultations with businesses will begin in the fall to find more sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable appliances.
