Scientists create non -toxic plastic that dissolves in water in a few hours and feeds the ocean

Imagine a plastic that, instead of polluting, dissolves in a few hours, is not toxic and can still help feed the ocean: this is a new creation of Japanese scientists.

The material is resistant as traditional plastics, but capable of disappearing without leaving toxic residues, when it comes into contact with seawater, and still serves to feed plants and microorganisms.

“This new plastic is the result of three decades of pioneering work as a specialist in materials called supramolecular polymers,” researchers at the Riken Center for the Science of Emerging Matter and the University of Tokyo.

Japanese scientists have created an innovative non -toxic plastic that dissolves in water within hours and still feeds the oceans. – Photo: Reproduction/Portal Sustainability

Plant

The idea was simple: creating a sturdy plastic, but which made it safely. The team led by Takuzo Aida tested several combinations until reaching the ideal formula.

The result was a mixture of sodium hexametaphosphate and guanidinium ions used in fertilizers and agricultural products.

As a final product, the group got a plastic that, when decomposing, releases nitrogen and phosphorus: two nutrients that can be absorbed by plants and consumed by marine microorganisms.