Articles tagged with Plastics
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Sea turtles eat ocean plastics due to their smell, which is caused by a coating of algae and microorganisms on the plastic. This can lead to blockages in their digestive systems and even illness.
Researchers found that sea turtles respond to odors from biofouled plastics in the same way they respond to food odorants. This 'olfactory trap' explains why sea turtles ingest and become entangled in plastic debris. Biofouling, the accumulation of microbes on wet surfaces, is a major factor contributing to this attraction.
Research shows that microplastics are damaging to coral ecosystems, causing significant reductions in population size and cell size. The exposure of endosymbionts to microplastics led to elevated stress levels and reduced detoxification activities, highlighting the importance of minimizing plastic use to preserve the environment.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a new way to control the properties of high-density polyethylene, a type of plastic commonly used in containers. The breakthrough allows for improved processability and strength while reducing the energy required for production and recycling.
An international team of scientists has made a breakthrough discovery using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, revealing one-dimensional defects in two-dimensional zeolite nanosheets that improve filtration properties. The findings suggest enhanced separation and catalysis capabilities for molecules based on size and shape.
Researchers have used X-ray analysis to study lignin, a byproduct of paper production, and its potential as a sustainable raw material for manufacturing bioplastics. The study reveals that different lignin fractions can be engineered to have varying properties, such as hardness or softness, making them suitable for specific applications.
Researchers discovered that the transverse arch (TA) contributes significantly to the stiffness of the human foot, with half of its stiffness attributed to this structure. The study's findings have implications for understanding flatfoot disorder and the design of robotic feet.
Scientists use a cheap technique to mimic neutrinos colliding with ice, detecting radar echoes that carry information about high-energy particles. The method could eventually allow researchers to expand the energy reach of IceCube without breaking the bank.
The review highlights the global scope of microplastic pollution, affecting not just oceans but also land surfaces and the air. Researchers emphasize the need for holistic studies and improved analytical tools to understand microplastics' impacts on ecosystem health and human health.
A study found that bisphenol S, a BPA substitute, causes changes in gene expression and neurotransmitter levels in the mouse placenta, similar to BPA. The findings suggest that BPS may be toxic to humans, despite some differences in human and mouse placentas
Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.
Jia Niu's NSF CAREER-funded project aims to grow polymer chains uniformly, creating degradable and sustainable plastics. His research focuses on addressing pressing needs in biomedicine, materials, and environmental sciences.
Researchers have created a fireproof solid electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries that can function well even when exposed to flames. The new material provides an energy density and performance comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries while being significantly lighter.
High self-control individuals experience food as tastier and more satisfying when touching food directly with their hands, eating more of it. Direct touch triggers an enhanced sensory response, influencing how people evaluate food. This effect persists even when self-control is primed or manipulated.
Researchers find wooden pallets have a slightly lower carbon footprint than plastic pallets on both one-trip and 100,000-trip basis. Heat-treated wooden pallets incur a 20-30% lower carbon footprint than methyl bromide-fumigated ones.
Researchers discovered a substantial concentration of microplastics in the Delaware Bay, accumulating in hotspots driven by tidal, wind, and buoyancy variations. The study used field sampling and modeling to simulate microplastic distribution and found high concentrations near salinity fronts where surface currents converge.
Scientists at the University of Bath have developed a new chemical recycling method that can break down plant-based plastics like PLA into their constituent molecules. This technology has the potential to create a circular economy by reusing carbon indefinitely, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.
A new soft and stretchable battery developed by Stanford researchers can store power more safely than conventional batteries, promising to enable the design of comfortable wearable electronics. The device maintains a constant power output even when stretched or squeezed.
A new composite film made with an antimicrobial layer has shown promise in reducing the growth of harmful bacteria on packaged meat and fish products. The film, which contains a biopolymer called pullulan and an antimicrobial compound called Lauric arginate, was found to be effective in killing pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.,
A team from Nara Institute of Science and Technology has developed a method to embed information in 3D printed objects and retrieve it using a consumer document scanner. The technique uses Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) with modified layer thickness to hide data.
A new project at Aarhus University aims to develop a standardized, documentable 3D printing filament from recycled plastics. The goal is to improve the industry's reliance on new plastics and reduce waste., This innovation has the potential to significantly impact the environment and climate in the long term.
Researchers at ETH Zurich develop a new form of 18-carat gold that weighs about five to ten times less than traditional gold, with a density of just 1.7 g/cm3. The lightweight gold is created by embedding thin discs of gold nanocrystals in a matrix of protein fibres and polymer latex.
A new study finds that low doses of DEHP impair egg production in roundworms by increasing DNA double-strand breaks and hampering repair systems. This can lead to chromosomal defects and embryonic development problems.
A new University of Guelph study finds that BPS can hinder heart function, especially in females, with effects occurring within minutes of exposure. The study's findings raise concerns about the safety of BPS as a replacement for BPA and suggest banning it from consumer products.
A longitudinal study of 209 New York City women and their offspring found a decrease in fine-motor functions among girls following prenatal exposure to specific phthalates. The analysis identified three phthalates most linked to the deficits: mono-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate, and mono-isobutyl phthalate.
Researchers at Universidad Complutense de Madrid developed an AI-powered algorithm that uses deep learning to detect irregularities in rice labelling. The algorithm achieved precision models between 93 and 99%, showing potential for future applications in the food industry.
Scientists have introduced a new electrochemical method to produce ethylene from CO at room temperature and standard pressure, achieving high Faradaic efficiency and C2 selectivity. The technique uses a copper catalyst and optimized electrode structure, allowing for efficient separation of gaseous ethylene.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a method to turn plastic waste into valuable chemicals by harnessing sunlight, converting non-biodegradable polyethylene into formic acid, a chemical used in fuel cells and energy generation.
The Society for Risk Analysis announced the 2019 winners of Best Paper and Best Poster awards. Terje Aven, Sayanti Mukherjee, Christian Blanco, Edward Oughton, and others won top honors for their significant contributions to risk analysis theory and practice.
A new European research project, HOTMIC, aims to investigate the fate of microplastic in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study's lead researcher suggests that microplastic particles may be transported by microorganisms or marine animals, which could have a significant impact on the marine ecosystem.
Scientists have discovered a new function in a plant enzyme that can initiate a crucial chemical reaction, producing diols used in lubricants and plastics. The enzyme's unique dioxygenase chemistry has implications for designing greener industrial catalysts with less waste and toxic chemicals.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan and UVic have discovered a new 'hyper glue' formula that uses cross-linking technology to tightly bond plastics and synthetic fibers, making them stronger and more resistant to impact and corrosion.
A new study found that corals are more likely to eat microplastics when fed other food sources, but not when given microplastics alone. The research suggests that some coral species may adapt to life with microplastics, while others may be negatively impacted by chronic exposure.
The Marine Biological Laboratory team has used innovative microscopy to reveal the structure of microbial communities coating microplastic samples from various ocean sites. These biofilms can influence the microplastics' fate and interact with other organisms, posing a threat to marine survival.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a novel approach to improve perovskite nanocrystal durability by encasing them in a plastic and silica double-layer protection system. The new method enables high-quality, complex architecture perovskites with controlled dimensions and surface chemistry, unlocking potential for v...
A new study has found that babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are exposed to harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and parabens. These endocrine-disrupting compounds can lead to various health problems, including dysfunctions in children and adults.
Researchers used Escher's woodcut to predict crystalline body deformation under external forces, revealing a connection between hyperbolic spaces and plastic deformation. The study proposes a new mathematical description of complex material deformation phenomena.
OSU researchers aim to understand micro- and nanoplastic behavior in freshwater, estuarine, and marine systems. They will develop tools to identify these particles and investigate their effects on aquatic organisms, including oyster larvae and inland silversides.
A new 3D printing technique harnesses the power of visible light to create 'living' 4D materials with controlled polymerisation, enabling objects to transform their shape in response to conditions. The technology has numerous potential applications, including recycling and biomedical uses.
A Rutgers University study found that women exposed to stress and plastic additives during late pregnancy are at increased risk of premature birth. The research suggests that the third trimester is a critical window for this risk, with higher levels of phthalates in urine and reported stress during pregnancy also linked to preterm births.
A pre-clinical study suggests that bisphenol-s (BPS) and bisphenol-f (BPF), structural analogues of bisphenol-a (BPA), have less impact on heart electrical function, making them potentially safer for vulnerable populations. This finding could lead to the development of alternative medical products.
Researchers developed a new alloy with improved wear and corrosion resistance by adding copper to high-speed steel. The innovative approach significantly enhances the performance of super engineering plastics in industrial and automotive applications.
A new PSU study found 11 microplastic pieces per oyster and nine per clam along the Oregon coast. Microplastics were found in both Pacific oysters and razor clams collected from all 15 sample sites.
Research finds that prey-size plastics are abundant in fish nurseries and outnumber larvae by 7 to 1. The discovery could impact marine ecosystems as these plastics may be ingested by larger fish.
Larval fish from various ocean habitats consume plastic, affecting development and survival. Surface slicks act as nursery habitats, concentrating planktonic prey and plastics.
New research reveals that surface slicks in coastal waters of Hawai'i contain a high concentration of larval fish, as well as prey-size plastics. Larval fish ingesting these plastics may face development and survivorship impacts due to toxicity and malnutrition.
Associate Professor Kohsaka and his team created a new polyester using DMDO, which reacts with chemicals and decomposes. The study demonstrated the feasibility of this plastic as a possible solution to the plastic waste problem.
Researchers found that larval fish in ocean surface slicks ingest prey-size plastics, which could impact their development and survival. The study highlights the importance of understanding complex gradients in plankton and larval fish abundance to protect these vulnerable life-history stages.
A recent study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found that simulated sunlight can degrade microplastics on the ocean surface. The research revealed that engineered polymer solutions degraded most rapidly under UV radiation, followed by polypropylene and polyethylene.
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have successfully created plastic collimators using 3D printing technology, which can replace metal counterparts in radiation therapy. The team used a numerical model and layer-by-layer deposition to manufacture the first products, finding optimal thickness for the plastic product.
Researchers have embedded high-performance electrical circuits inside 3D-printed plastics, increasing conductivity by 10-fold. This innovation could lead to smaller, more efficient drones and biomedical implants, as well as better-performing small satellites.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a new material that can be used to produce cheaper infrared plastic lenses. The lenses, made from a sulfur-based polymer, are stronger and more temperature-resistant than previous versions and can be produced at lower temperatures, making them more affordable.
Researchers at KRICT developed a bio-polycarbonate that surpasses petroleum-based polycarbonate in terms of strength, transparency, and UV-resistance. The material exhibits exceptional performance due to the synergistic interplay between isosorbide and nanocellulose.
Researchers have developed a catalyst to upcycle polyethylene plastic waste into high-quality liquid products like motor oils and waxes. The new catalyst produces intermediate-sized hydrocarbons, increasing the value of the resulting materials.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new catalytic method to upcycle single-use plastics into high-quality liquid products, such as motor oils, lubricants, and cosmetics. This breakthrough improves current recycling methods, producing fewer greenhouse gases and toxic byproducts, while contributing to a circular economy.
Filters are ineffective and contribute to global plastic pollution, with the largest part being non-biodegradable cellulose acetate. Experts recommend banning filtered cigarettes to reduce waste and strengthen ties between environment and health communities.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and top universities have developed a catalytic method to selectively convert discarded plastics into higher quality products like lubricant oils or waxes. The catalyst converts polyethylene molecules into value-added commercial products with high yield.
The KAUST team developed porous membranes from recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), reducing the energy used in chemical separation processes. The membranes can withstand high temperatures and separate molecules of different sizes.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a process to break down plastic waste into molecular-level gases, which can be transformed back into new plastics. This method could enable the creation of circular use of plastic and reduce reliance on oil and fossil gas.
University of Exeter scientists are working on a scheme to collect Sargassum seaweed, which can be converted into high-quality, low-cost fertiliser and biofuel through hydrothermal liquefaction. This process could help clear beaches in Mexico and the Caribbean, while also addressing marine plastic pollution.