Articles tagged with Plastics
Researchers found that conservation tillage combined with straw mulch improves soil moisture, seedling emergence rates, and marketable yield. Straw mulch proved to be the most effective option for increasing potato tuber yield, leading to a 14.9% increase in yields compared to conventional tillage.
A WSU researcher has modeled microplastic fiber movement through the environment, shedding light on their environmental impact. The study found that fibers' length and water speed determine settlement or continued movement.
Researchers at Utah State University have found that creating cavities in the water's surface can significantly reduce the initial impact force of objects entering a body of water. This phenomenon, known as 'free surface preparation,' has been tested with spheres and resulted in a 40-60% reduction in impact force. The study has potenti...
Researchers create catalysts that can efficiently turn carbon dioxide into carbon building blocks, used to make plastics, fabrics, resins, and pharmaceuticals. The breakthrough could lead to the commercial production of valuable products and raw materials in the chemical industry.
For the first time, researchers have found plastic microfibers in the stool of wild South American fur seals on Guafo Island. The discovery suggests that scat analysis could be an efficient way to monitor environmental levels of microfibers and microplastics.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have developed nonmigratory plasticizers that attach to PVC polymer via a chemical bond, reducing leaching and potential health risks. The 'tadpole' plasticizer is particularly promising due to its ease of production and effectiveness.
Researchers at NIST have developed a novel metal-organic framework (MOF) that can separate ethylene from a mixture of hydrocarbons using far less energy than traditional methods. This breakthrough could reduce the environmental cost of plastic manufacturing and make it more sustainable.
A study identifies marine aggregates as key to removing microplastics from the ocean surface and facilitating their transfer to food webs. Mussels were found to selectively ingest smaller particles with specific shapes, highlighting their picky eating habits.
A global study found microplastics in every single stool sample from eight countries, with up to nine different types identified. The presence of microplastics may affect human health through bioaccumulation and transmission of toxic chemicals.
A review of 320 global studies found a large mismatch in microplastic types measured in the environment and those tested for effects in laboratories. The study highlights the need for better quality monitoring and environmentally realistic effects studies to understand the impact of microplastics on the environment.
A Clemson University team has developed a polymer that can heal itself like skin, bringing the technology closer to industrial-scale production. The discovery could significantly reduce production costs for self-healing materials used in various industries.
Researchers found that some substitutes for di-n-butyl phthalate and triphenyl phosphate may be harmful, raising concerns about 'regrettable substitution'. The study of 40 nail polishes revealed that manufacturers have removed DnBP but still use similar toxic substitutes without disclosure.
A consortium led by the University of Bath aims to develop technology for chemically breaking down mixtures of plastics into their constituent molecules. This project could make a big difference in increasing plastic recycling rates, with the goal of reaching 75% in the UK by 2035.
Researchers have discovered that polymer nanoparticles exhibit distinct characteristics compared to larger particles of the same material, including surface mobility and elastic modulus. The findings could improve the performance of materials used in various applications, such as filter membranes and sound wave propagation.
A new study reveals a significant increase in plastic waste reaching remote South Atlantic islands, with over 90% of beach debris being plastic. The researchers found high concentrations of plastic on beaches and up to 300 items per meter of shoreline, approaching levels seen in industrialized North Atlantic coasts.
Researchers from the University of Exeter discovered microplastics at depths of up to 60cm on beaches used by green turtles and loggerheads in Cyprus. The study found high levels of microplastics, which could alter conditions at hatching sites and impact turtle breeding.
Researchers at UNIST have synthesized a triazine network structure from tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) monomer, demonstrating room-temperature ferromagnetism. The material exhibits stable neutral radicals and unpaired electrons, leading to ferromagnetic ordering.
Researchers have found that BPA replacements in plastics cause reproductive problems in lab mice, including chromosomally abnormal eggs and sperm. The study suggests that exposure to these chemicals could carry over to future generations through their effects on the germline.
Researchers at Washington State University found that new plastics meant to replace BPA are causing genetic abnormalities in mice, including reproductive defects. The study also highlights the risk of contamination in biological research using these plastics.
A new study found evidence of exposure to phthalates in 71% of bottlenose dolphins tested in Sarasota Bay, Florida. The presence of byproducts of the chemicals in the animals' urine indicates they have remained in the body long enough to process them.
Researchers discovered that microplastics form stable aggregates with biogenic particles, such as plankton and faecal material, which can sink into deeper water layers. The presence of biofilms on microplastics also facilitates aggregation, potentially affecting the transport and distribution of microplastics in the oceans.
Researchers create 3D printing filaments from recycled plastic bottles and other waste materials, enabling rapid production of spare parts under combat conditions. The process could significantly reduce dependence on outside supply chains and enhance safety for troops in remote areas.
Scientists have found that contact lenses can break down into smaller plastic particles when exposed to wastewater treatment plants, which can harm aquatic organisms. The study's authors hope that industry will take note and provide proper disposal guidelines for contact lenses.
A new study has evaluated the quality of YouTube videos for facial plastics information, revealing they can present biased information and offer an unbalanced assessment of risks and benefits. The study suggests these videos may not provide clear guidance on the qualifications of featured practitioners.
A novel approach to creating super slippery industrial packaging aims to cut down on food waste by using naturally compatible vegetable oils. This method can be applied to inexpensive plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene, reducing waste and improving consumer safety.
Researchers discovered that common plastics emit greenhouse gases methane and ethylene when exposed to sunlight. Polyethylene, the most produced synthetic polymer globally, was found to be the most prolific emitter of these gases.
Researchers have demonstrated direct evidence of biodegradation of polymers like PBAT in agricultural soil, tracking carbon into CO2 and microbial biomass. The study suggests polyesters as a practical alternative to alleviate detrimental plastic accumulation.
Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum developed a low-cost nickel boride catalyst for plastic production from biorefinery products, offering a sustainable alternative to PET. The catalyst also enables the creation of hydrogen as a potential energy source.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have created a material derived from crab shells and tree fibers that can replace flexible plastic packaging. The new material shows up to a 67% reduction in oxygen permeability compared to traditional PET packaging, making it a promising alternative for food preservation.
Terahertz radiation can be used for various applications, including airport security checks and material analysis. Researchers at TU Wien have developed a technique to shape these beams using a precisely calculated plastic screen produced on a 3D printer, resulting in precise control over the beam's shape and direction.
A recent Texas A&M AgriLife study reveals that dietary exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) can increase mortality and worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found BPA altered gut microbial amino acid metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and reduced compound production related to serotonin breakdown.
The China ban on non-industrial plastic waste has displaced around 111 million metric tons of plastic waste, which was previously exported to the country. This shift will require high-income countries to develop more robust recycling programs domestically and rethink the use and design of plastic products.
Scientists are developing new recycling technologies to break down plastics into reusable materials. Current methods use mechanical processes that partially degrade polymers, reducing product quality. Researchers are exploring alternative approaches, including chemical reactions and biological enzymes to speed up the process.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a method to detect 'butterfly' landmines, which are difficult to locate due to their small size and design. The use of low-cost commercial drones and infrared cameras can rapidly identify these mines and reduce costs and labor required for mine clearing operations.
A special issue of Angewandte Chemie explores the intersection of chemistry, conservation, and archaeology in preserving cultural heritage. Research articles examine methods for analyzing antiques, classifying plastic artifact degradation, and conserving cannonballs from shipwrecks.
Research found that water samples downstream of six UK wastewater treatment plants contained significantly higher concentrations of microplastics. The study suggests that these plants are a key route into UK rivers for microplastic pollution, posing a threat to river ecosystems and marine environments.
Marine organisms easily ingest nanoplastics, which accumulate in their bodies over time, threatening food safety. Nanoplastics can transfer up the food chain, affecting human health, as shown in a recent study using acorn barnacles.
A new study found that contaminated black plastic is entering consumer products due to inefficient recycling practices, posing a risk to human health. The researchers also discovered potential harm to marine environments through the spread of microplastics.
Scientists have successfully enhanced the capacity of PETase, an enzyme that degrades polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of plastic commonly used in bottles. The breakthrough could lead to more efficient biodegradation of PET and reduce ocean plastic waste.
Researchers developed a film coating to prevent bacterial growth on dental retainers and aligners. The coated plastic showed improved durability and reduced bacterial growth by 75%, offering a potential solution for maintaining oral hygiene.
A study published in PLOS ONE found microplastics at all 16 sites studied in Baynes Sound and Lambert Channel, with highest contamination in Henry Bay and Metcalfe Bay. The researchers identified three main types of microplastics: microfibers, microbeads, and microfragments, with microbeads being the most common type.
A new technique doubles the conversion of carbon dioxide to an essential plastic component, ethylene. The approach uses copper coated with polyacrylamide to increase efficiency, offering a promising method for recycling CO2 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists at University of California San Diego School of Medicine developed a method to control human heart cells growing in a dish on command by shining light and varying its intensity. The graphene surface converts light into electricity, providing a more realistic environment than standard laboratory dishes.
A University of Toronto engineering team has designed a most efficient and stable process to convert climate-warming carbon dioxide into ethylene, a key chemical building block for plastics. The breakthrough catalyst uses a thin copper-based material and improves energy efficiency and selectivity.
While solid body wash is seen as a more eco-friendly option than wrapped and bottled soaps, studies on its environmental impact are still lacking. Experts recommend that consumers learn more about ingredients and packaging-reduction initiatives to make informed choices.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a way to improve the lifespan of lithium-sulfur batteries by using microwaved plastic as a carbon scaffold. The process reduces polysulfide shuttling effect, increasing battery capacity retention and paving the way for commercial use.
A new research project in the UK aims to study the impact of tyres and clothing on the marine environment. The project will explore how tiny plastic particles from these sources enter waterways and oceans, affecting marine life.
Researchers developed structured core-shell polymer filaments to improve the strength of 3-D printed plastics. The new filaments have a polycarbonate core and an olefin ionomer shell, which self-reinforce the printed parts and make them more resistant to impacts.
A new study from Florida State University finds that microplastics are present at every loggerhead turtle nesting site in the Northern Gulf of Mexico, with highest concentrations found in dunes where turtles nest. This could alter temperature profiles and jeopardize incubation environments.
Chemists at Colorado State University have discovered a polymer with high molecular weight, thermal stability, and mechanical properties comparable to conventional plastics. The new material can be recycled back to its original state under mild lab conditions, paving the way for a circular materials life cycle.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a method to produce conjugated polymers using a dehydration reaction, resulting in cheap and environmentally friendly plastics. This breakthrough aims to streamline production and bring affordable electronics to market.
Researchers at the Alfred Wegener Institute found higher amounts of microplastic in arctic sea ice, with concentrations up to 12,000 particles per litre. The unique composition and layering of plastic particles suggest sources such as the Pacific Ocean's garbage patch and intensified shipping and fishing activities.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University used an inexpensive 3D printer to produce self-folding plastic objects that can be heated to assume predetermined shapes. The process utilizes a common printing defect, warpage, which is typically considered a problem with these printers.
Researchers have developed biomarkers to detect harmful environmental contaminants in wildlife, enabling faster development of diagnostic tools. Additionally, scientists have created a more sustainable method for producing biodiesel from low-cost cooking oil waste using nanoparticles.
Scientists at the University of Portsmouth and NREL have engineered an enzyme that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, a major contributor to ocean pollution. The discovery could lead to a recycling solution for millions of tons of plastic waste.
Researchers at Duke University have designed a thin material that can control sound waves with almost perfect efficiency, revolutionizing the manipulation of acoustic waves. The device uses a class of materials called metamaterials to redirect and reflect sound waves, offering significant improvements over previous devices.
A study published in Frontiers in Environmental Science detected cadmium, mercury, and lead in high concentrations in plastic debris collected from Lake Geneva's beaches. The presence of toxic elements reflects the age of the plastic litter, which could be decades old.
Scientists have developed a paper-thin, flexible and durable liquid crystal display that can be updated rapidly like a newspaper. The new optically rewritable LCD design enables fast switching of images and text without power consumption.
Researchers have discovered an eco-friendly method for recovering valuable plastics from electronic waste using N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a solvent. This approach recovers up to 89% of polycarbonate from cell phone plastic and can be reused multiple times.
A new study has developed a method to recover high-quality polymers from mixed-plastic electronics waste, providing an environmentally friendly solution for recycling. The process uses a solvent called NMP, which releases vapors only when heated above 180 degrees Celsius, and can be reused multiple times.