 |
|
Microbes convert 'Styrofoam‚—¢' into biodegradable plastic
February 24, 2006Bacteria could help transform a key component of disposable cups, plates and utensils into a useful eco-friendly plastic, significantly reducing the environmental impact of this ubiquitous, but difficult-to-recycle waste stream, according to a study scheduled to appear in the April 1 issue of the American Chemical Society journal, Environmental Science & Technology.
The microbes, a special strain of the soil bacterium Pseudomonas putida, converted polystyrene foam - commonly known as Styrofoamâ„¢ - into a biodegradable plastic, according to Kevin O'Connor, Ph.D., of University College Dublin, the study's corresponding author. The study is among the first to investigate the possibility of converting a petroleum-based plastic waste into a reusable biodegradable form.
O'Connor and his colleagues from Ireland and Germany, utilized pyrolysis, a process that transforms materials by heating them in the absence of oxygen, to convert polystyrene - the key component of many disposable products - into styrene oil. The researchers then supplied this oil to P. putida, a bacterium that can feed on styrene, which converted the oil into a biodegradable plastic known as PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates). The process might also be used to convert other types of discarded plastics into PHA, according to O'Connor.
PHA has numerous uses in medicine and can be used to make plastic kitchenware, packaging film and other disposable items. The biodegradable plastic is resistant to hot liquids, greases and oils, and can have a long shelf life. But unlike polystyrene, it readily breaks down in soil, water, septic systems and backyard composts.
Worldwide, more than 14 million metric tons of polystyrene are produced annually, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most of this ends up in landfills. Although polystyrene represents less than 1 percent of solid waste generated in the United States, at least 2.3 million tons of it is dumped in U.S. landfills each year. Only 1 percent of polystyrene waste is currently recycled, the authors note.
American Chemical Society
PHA has numerous uses in medicine and can be used to make plastic kitchenware, packaging film and other disposable items. The biodegradable plastic is resistant to hot liquids, greases and oils, and can have a long shelf life. But unlike polystyrene, it readily breaks down in soil, water, septic systems and backyard composts.
Worldwide, more than 14 million metric tons of polystyrene are produced annually, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most of this ends up in landfills. Although polystyrene represents less than 1 percent of solid waste generated in the United States, at least 2.3 million tons of it is dumped in U.S. landfills each year. Only 1 percent of polystyrene waste is currently recycled, the authors note.
American Chemical Society
Biodegradable Plastic Current Events and Biodegradable Plastic News RSSEnvironmental effects of cold-climate strawberry farming
Strawberries are America's fifth-favorite fruit, according to consumption rates. California and Florida grow more than 95% of the nation's strawberries; an additional 12,000 acres are planted in other states.
'Green' Plastics Could Help Reduce Carbon Footprint
More than 20 million tons of plastic are placed in U.S. landfills each year. Results from a new University of Missouri study suggest that some of the largely petroleum-based plastic may soon be replaced by a nonpolluting, renewable plastic made from plants.
Secret ingredient: nanoparticles aid bone growth
In the first study of its kind, bioengineers and bioscientists at Rice University and Radboud University in Nijmegen, Netherlands, have shown they can grow denser bone tissue by sprinkling stick-like nanoparticles throughout the porous material used to pattern the bone.
Using green chemistry to deliver cutting-edge drugs
Green chemistry is being employed to develop revolutionary drug delivery methods that are more effective and less toxic - and could benefit millions of patients.
Researcher examines polymers created with poultry feathers
Biodegradable polymers created from poultry feathers may add value to the poultry industry and help solve the growing environmental problem of plastic waste.
Win-win with biodegradable plastics from toxic waste
A biodegradable plastic made from toxic waste could solve pollution problems, scientists from Dublin announced today (Wednesday, 08 September 2004) at the Society for General Microbiology's 155th Meeting at Trinity College Dublin.
Pack your own sink on holiday!
The design of a soap container that folds out into a washing bowl has earned a Northumbria University student a top prize in a national competition. Emma McHardy, 23, who is in her final year of study on the Design for Industry course, earned a £1,000 travel award for her design in the RSA awards scheme. Made from an environment-friendly, biodegradable plastic, the bowl stays open and rigid when filled with water and collapses when empty for easy storage. The soap is also made from biodegradable ingredients so as not to pollute any water sources it may be used with. The soluble cellulose wrapper is impregnated with either peppermint to soothe aching feet or with moisturisers for skin
New Bioplastic Reinforced With Natural Fibres
Finland Leads Europe In The Development Of Biodegradable Plastics VTT, Technical Research Centre of Finland, has made degradable bioplastic more durable due to reinforcement with natural fibres. This biocomposite, which is totally biodegradable, supports sustainable development. The waste costs for products made from this will be small, and in the future consumers will have an enhanced appreciation of biodegradability of materials. VTT achieved this biocomposite using flax fibres to reinforce bioplastic. VTT also developed a method by which the properties of the completely biodegradable biocomposite can be tailored according to the projected use of the product. It is a further advantage that
Snow made from potatoes
Films set in snow-laden winter landscapes cannot always be produced in the dead of winter. Until now, expensive artificial snow had to be imported from Hollywood to obtain the desired effects. In addition, it is always a laborious task to remove the splendid white chips made from polyethylene film after the shooting is over - almost unavoidable that some of the non-biodegradable plastic snow would remain. "With these types of artificial snow, some always ended up being blown around the set," remarks Frithjof Bauman from the department of Materials Research and Development at the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT near Karlsruhe. The scientists offer an elegant and biod
More Biodegradable Plastic Current Events and Biodegradable Plastic News Articles
 |
Green Plastics: An Introduction to the New Science of Biodegradable Plastics. by E. S. Stevens (Author) Plastics are everywhere. Bags, bank cards, bottles, and even boats can all be made of this celebrated but much-maligned material. Yet most of us know next to nothing about plastics. We do know that they are practical and cheap--but they also represent a huge environmental problem, for they literally take ages to decompose. In this engaging book, E.S. Stevens tells us everything we have always wondered about plastics and of the efforts, in America, Europe, and Asia, to develop a new breed of environmentally friendly plastics. He points to a possible future where plastics will no longer be made of petroleum, but of plants. The first two chapters assess the increased use of plastics as a relatively new alternative to other materials. The third chapter introduces us to their impact on the... |
 |
RSVP International BIO6 Biodegradable Plastic Bags 50-ct. by R.S.V.P. These 100% biodegradable and compostable bags are the perfect companion for all of our compost pails. Made from a certified biodegradable and compostable material, Mater-Bi, they are GMO free and will biodegrade as naturally as the fruit and vegetable scraps inside. BioBag products meet the specifications found in ASTM D6400 and carry the BPI compostable logo. They are approved by the San Francisco Dept. of Environment for their food waste collection program. |
 |
Jaya Biodegradable Fork, 1000-Count Case by Jaya Stalkmarket earth friendly paper tableware are made from sugar cane fiber that is a waste product of the sugar refining process. |
 |
EcoSafe GKL032195-1 2-1/2-Gallon Compostable EcoBio Plastic Bags, 25-Count by EcoSafe - For mini kitchen organics - 25 included - EcoFriendly |
|
12 oz Clear Biodegradable Plastic PLA Cups (98mm) by Boba Tea Direct Our Eco-Friendly clear plastic cups are 100% made of corn. Karat Earth biodegradable cups are ideal for cold beverages (temp below 110º F). Please be sure to store this item below 110º F away from heat, hot surfaces and direct sunlight to prevent deformation. Boba Tea Direct will not be responsible for any damages during the transit due to temperature control. Rim size is 98mm, fits KE-KC626 and KE-KDL626 lids. Units Sold By: Per Case (1,000 cups) | |
 |
Stalkmarket 4-Ounce Sample Cups, 1500-Count Case by Stalkmarket Stalkmarket earth friendly paper tableware are made from sugar cane fiber that is a waste product of the sugar refining process. |
 |
Corn-based Water Bottle with Built-in Filter by New Wave Enviro As Seen on major tv show. Corn-resin bottle with filter provides pure, clean drinking water and can be reused up to 90 Made in USA times, and the bottle biodegrades in just 80 days. From New Wave Enviro Corn based water bottle. Is re-usable for 90 uses then it begins to bio-degrade. The best water bottle for the whole family. It's easy to fill up and any water source and safe. With a charcoal based filter, it will take out almost all the impurities-making any water safe for your family to drink. New wave Enviro Products was featured on major TV talk shows. |
 |
Gro Baby Bio Soaker Pads 50-Count, White, Size 1 by Gro Baby Gro Baby Bio Soaker Pads are a perfect solution for cloth diapering on the go. Use when on vacation, at day care, or running errands. |
 |
Showshine Detailer Protectant Spray Cd Jewelry Auto Tv Cleaner by Racetek Showshine One 8 oz. spray bottle The ultimate protection and detailer maxium shine and UV Protection A unique product that bonds deep into rubber,vinyl, fiberglass, tires, plastic, and leather to renew, beautify and preserve without harmful silicone oils petrolem, distillates,alcohol or plasticizers Screens out destructive UV light with the most powerful UV screening formula developed A one step product that cleans, protects, and shines Treated surfaces will not attract dust, are extremely anti-static and repellent, stay cleaner longer and clean up easier Tires, fiberglass,painted surfaces, racecars, motorcycles, hot rods,glass, sealed wood (Polyurethane or varnish), appliances, lamps, furniture, shower doors, auto,wheels,windows (works like Rain X only better and no alcohol to... |
 |
Biodegradable Polymer Blends and Composites from Renewable Resources by Long Yu (Author) Biodegradable Polymer Blends and Composites from Renewable Resources provides a comprehensive, current overview of biopolymeric blends and composites and their applications in various industries. The book is organized according to the type of blend or composite. For each topic, the relationship between the structure of the blends/composites and their respective properties is explored, with particular focus on interface, compatibility, mechanical, and thermal properties. Real-life applications and potential markets are discussed. This is a premier reference for graduate students and researchers in polymer science, chemical and bio engineering, and materials science. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |