Articles tagged with Plastics
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A recent study published in Nature reveals that over 16,000 chemicals are present in plastics, with at least 4,200 posing health and environmental hazards. The research outlines three key strategies for making plastics safer: removing hazardous chemicals, increasing transparency, and designing simpler chemically assessed plastics.
Researchers detected nanoplastic particles smaller than 1 µm in all depths analysed across the 12 measurement sites, with PET, PS, and PVC being the most common types. The study estimates around 27 million tonnes of nanoplastic are stored in the uppermost water layer of the North Atlantic.
A new study published in Nature provides a comprehensive overview of all chemicals that can be present in plastics, their properties, uses, and hazards. The study identified 4,200 plastic chemicals as of concern due to health and environmental hazards.
Researchers found that sewage spills from land to sea coincided with winds of at least 6.5m/s on 178 days within a two-year period, potentially sending microplastics into the air. The study suggests that coastal towns and cities may be exposed to billions of airborne microplastic particles.
Researchers estimate 27 million tons of nanoplastics in North Atlantic Ocean, shedding light on the 'paradox of missing plastic'. The discovery highlights the significant amount of plastic debris that has been underestimated and raises concerns about its impact on marine ecosystems.
Health experts urge the UN to strengthen the treaty's focus on ending plastic production and reducing toxic chemicals. The World Health Organization estimates that one-quarter of global deaths are linked to environmental harm, including chemicals, pollution, and waste.
A new research article analyzes 103 scientific studies on microplastics and nanoplastics from food packaging, revealing that normal use of FCAs is a source of MNPs in food. The study highlights the need for harmonized testing and reporting framework to inform policy decisions.
A new study found that recycled polyethylene plastic can leach chemicals into water, causing impacts on zebrafish larvae's hormone systems and lipid metabolism. The researchers highlight the need to address toxic chemicals in plastics across their life cycle.
A recent study led by WVU student Isabella Tuzzio found microplastics in every fish sampled from seven central Appalachian streams. The researchers discovered significant environmental risks and potential human health hazards due to the accumulation of microplastics in the food chain.
Researchers explore strategies for converting plastics into valuable chemicals through photocatalysis, highlighting indirect conversions of PET, PLA, and PE, as well as direct conversions of PE, PLA, and PVC. The review also discusses challenges and future outlooks for this clean energy source.
The use of plastics in agriculture and food production has grown significantly, with 20% of all plastics used in France in 2023. Plastics are used to package, transport, and preserve food products, but their composition is often complex and diverse.
A new animal study suggests that microscopic plastic particles found in food and beverages may affect glucose metabolism and harm organs such as the liver. Researchers observed dose-correlated changes in mice consuming polystyrene nanoparticles, including systemic glucose intolerance and elevated alanine aminotransferase.
Research highlights potential link between microplastics in ultra-processed foods and brain health, with possible connections to depression and dementia. The studies propose a novel hypothesis connecting ultra-processed food consumption, microplastic exposure, and mental health outcomes.
Researchers found that nanoplastics with positively charged surfaces caused physiological stress in E. coli O157:H7, leading to increased Shiga-like toxin production. The bacteria's ability to colonize and multiply was also impaired.
Researchers have developed a novel metal-free catalytic approach for upcycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste into valuable products like dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and ethylene carbonate (EC). The method achieves impressive yields under mild conditions, showcasing its potential for large-scale industrial implementation.
Researchers found microplastics in Texas bay sediments, but most have been swept out to sea, not settling at the bottom. The study suggests microplastics can absorb chemicals and build up in marine life, eventually affecting humans.
Researchers have developed plant-based extracts from okra and fenugreek that can attract and remove up to 90% of microplastics from ocean and freshwater waters. These natural polymers offer a nontoxic alternative to synthetic polymers like polyacrylamide.
A new analysis of population surveys estimates that exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) contributed to 356,238 global heart disease deaths in 2018, accounting for 13% of all global mortality. The study also found higher death risks in the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and Pacific regions.
Researchers discovered that stream discharge, benthic algae presence, and substrate characteristics increase microplastic retention. High levels of algae and larger stream substrates trap microplastics, while rapid discharge events resuspend them.
A recent study reveals that only 9.5% of plastic materials produced globally in 2022 were made from recycled materials, with the majority coming from fossil fuels. The study also highlights a significant increase in plastic waste disposal by incineration and regional differences in plastic consumption.
Researchers at KAIST have successfully developed an eco-friendly, bio-based plastic that combines the advantages of PET and nylon. The new material was produced through microbial fermentation and exhibited characteristics similar to high-density polyethylene, making it strong and durable enough for industrial use.
Researchers found that chewing gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastics per piece into saliva, potentially leading to ingestion. Synthetic and natural gums had similar amounts of microplastics released, with the most abundant polymers being polyolefins.
Countries are urged to update their National Determined Contribution plans to address plastic waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The team suggests specific goals, such as cutting plastic production and incentivizing sustainable manufacturing.
A study of over 97 citizen scientists found that coastal areas have significantly more litter than inland locations, with urban areas consistently exhibiting more litter than rural areas. The research highlights the need for tailored waste management strategies to address regional differences in litter patterns.
Researchers have discovered alarming levels of microplastics in human brain tissue, with concentrations 3-5 times higher in individuals with dementia diagnoses. The study highlights the need for large-scale human studies to determine dose-response relationships between microplastic exposure and chronic health outcomes.
Researchers are calling for a reduction in toxic chemicals used in plastics manufacturing and a complete ban of hazardous chemicals. The study highlights the need for improved reporting, transparency, and regulation of chemicals throughout the plastics life cycle.
Research by University of Missouri researchers uncovers microplastic pollution generated by polymer-coated fertilizers, threatening human and animal health. The study suggests biodegradable alternatives and effective stormwater management to mitigate the risks associated with PC-CRFs.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are developing a lightweight, flexible robotic arm that enables wheelchair users to safely grasp and carry objects out of reach. The project builds on origami-inspired designs and novel fabrication methods for modules made of lightweight plastics, 3D printed components, and sensors.
Researchers discovered that many marine fungi isolated from Hawai'i's nearshore environment have the ability to degrade plastic. The team then conditioned these fungi to consume polyurethane and other types of plastics more efficiently. By studying their adaptability, scientists hope to develop new solutions for cleaning up oceans.
Researchers detect nanoplastic particles on glaciers in France, Italy, and Switzerland, suggesting sea pollution as the source. The concentrations of nanoplastics varied between locations, with wind direction affecting their accumulation.
A £1 million grant-funded project aims to advance production of next-generation, paper-based packaging for liquids. Researchers will develop novel coating processes, mechanistic modelling, computer vision, and AI to create 'dry' spray coatings that are food-safe, degradable, and environmentally friendly.
Researchers have developed a novel solid catalyst to efficiently reclaim materials from epoxy products, including carbon fibers and glass fibers. The process uses lower temperatures than traditional methods, reducing energy requirements and making the recovery of materials more environmentally friendly.
Researchers developed a recyclable alternative to thermosets, making materials like car tires and hip joints more environmentally friendly. The new material, made from dihydrofuran, can be easily recycled and degrades naturally over time.
A new process converts polycotton textile waste into glucose, a key bio-based feedstock, and separates polyester fibers for reprocessing. The technique is scalable and cost-effective, offering a viable solution to textile waste recycling.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a low-carbon system that transforms materials like plastics and agricultural waste into syngas, producing high-quality chemicals and fuels. The technology achieves a purity of around 90% in a process that takes only a few minutes.
A report by the Consortium for Children's Environmental Health calls for new laws to test chemicals for safety and toxicity before they enter markets. The authors propose a more precautionary approach to prioritize health protection over unconstrained production of synthetic chemicals and plastics.
Researchers estimate that human-made products store around 400 million tons of fossil carbon annually, equivalent to 9% of extracted fossil carbon. Recycling and increasing product lifetime can help reduce waste streams, while enacting policies to minimize landfill discharge is crucial.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have assessed the technical feasibility of automatically separating marine plastic waste from urban recycling. They found that PET plastic bottles of marine and urban origin can be separated with high effectiveness using an optical separation system.
Researchers observed microfiber plastics tumbling, rolling, and getting stuck in soil particles, revealing slow movement and potential trapping. The study improves understanding of exposure risks and possible health impacts of widespread plastic pollutants.
A new study found that mealworms can ingest and absorb microplastics when fed a realistic diet, gaining weight in the process. The insects' digestive mechanisms hold potential for breaking down microplastics, offering a novel approach to addressing plastic pollution.
A new study suggests that addressing plastic pollution could play a critical role in lowering breast cancer rates. Researchers identified nearly half of the chemicals linked to breast cancer risk as being used in plastics, including 175 potential carcinogens that should be prioritized for regulatory action.
Researchers have developed a method to convert black polystyrene waste into reusable starting materials using sunlight or white LEDs. The technique involves adding carbon black and exposing the mixture to high-intensity light, resulting in efficient breakdown of polymer bonds.
Researchers developed a new durable plastic that breaks down in seawater, reducing microplastic pollution. The material is strong, non-toxic, and customizable for various applications.
Research highlights knowledge gaps in plastics' effects on climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution. Scientists found only a few studies addressing impacts on climate change and biodiversity, while the majority focus on environmental pollution.
University of Delaware researchers develop a method to remove toxic particles from tires by upgrading a molecule that provides UV protection into safe chemicals. The leftover crumb rubber can be recycled using classic plastic recycling methods or converted into aromatics and carbon black.
Greg Liu has developed a revolutionary way to convert certain plastics into soaps, detergents, lubricants, and other products through thermolysis. The process breaks down polypropylene and polyethylene molecules into chemical compounds, leaving minimal residual solids and usable oil.
Researchers found high levels of contamination on Perequê Beach in Guarujá, Brazil, with plastic and cigarette butts predominating. The study, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, highlights the need for public policies to mitigate litter and protect marine ecosystems.
Research reveals UK households are 'wishcycling' instead of recycling due to confusing product labels and differing recycling facilities. The study recommends standardization of bin collection services and uniform labelling to make recycling more effective for consumers.
New research found that bio-based fibres have a range of adverse effects on earthworms, animals critical to environmental health. The study highlights the importance of testing new materials before they are released on the market.
Researchers developed a new process to create high-performance polymer blends with improved mechanical properties. The process forms stable nanocrystalline layers at the interfaces between different polymer phases, enhancing the transfer of mechanical stresses and increasing tensile properties.
Researchers have designed a paper-aluminum laminate that could replace plastic layers in protective packaging, providing a more sustainable option. The material's mechanical properties were compared to conventional polyethylene-aluminum laminates and found to be nearly identical.
Researchers from Osaka University have developed tough biodegradable plastics with movable cyclodextrin crosslinks, which improve both durability and degradation capabilities. The new polymers can be broken down by enzymes into useful precursor molecules, reducing waste generation.
A new study by UC Davis engineers and economists finds that producing materials like steel, plastics, and cement inflicts $79 billion a year on the global climate. The team calculated climate costs using the Environmental Protection Agency's Social Cost of Carbon standard.
Researchers at WVU have developed microwave technology to recover propylene from polypropylene waste, which can be reused in new plastics or products. The process uses precise control and lower temperatures than traditional methods, offering energy efficiency and reduced emissions.
Researchers at National University of Singapore develop a straightforward method to convert common chemicals into valuable alkenes using light. The new method simplifies the production of alkenes from abundant feedstock chemicals, enabling the creation of complex bioactive molecules.
A Rutgers Health study reveals that micro- and nanoplastic particles remain in rat offspring's organs long after birth, raising concerns for human health. The findings could lead to greater regulation of plastics with reduced toxicity.
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a way to make tough, chemically recyclable polymers without compromising on heat and chemical resistance. This breakthrough could hugely expand the uses of chemically recyclable polymers.
Researchers at Rice University have developed adhesive bacteria and proteins that can help efficiently decompose PET, a notoriously resistant type of plastic. The engineered microbes demonstrate a 400-fold increase in adhesion to PET surfaces, making them a potential solution for tackling plastic pollution.
Research suggests that plants can be used as an eco-friendly tool to collect and degrade plastic particles in natural ecosystems. Various plants have been found to absorb or adsorb micro- and nanoparticles through their roots or leaves, making them suitable for use as filters in wetlands or along highways.
A new study reveals high levels of airborne plasticizers in Southern California, including phthalates known to cause reproductive harm and cancer. The study uses silicone wristbands to track exposure to these chemicals, finding that daily levels are both high and persistent.