Articles tagged with Plastics
A team of chemists and materials scientists at Umeå University has discovered a method to align polymer chains vertically, enabling ultra-fast charge transport. This breakthrough has implications for the production of efficient organic opto-electronic devices, such as solar cells and light-emitting diodes.
The study suggests that humans have entered an 'Age of Plastic,' where plastics are forming fossils and persisting in the Earth's geology. Plastics can travel thousands of miles, get caught up in oceanic garbage patches, and be buried by increasing layers of plastic waste by mid-century.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that phthalates, commonly used in plastics, can lead to weight gain by disrupting hormone balance and metabolism. The researchers discovered that the phthalate DEHP causes an increase in unsaturated fatty acids and disrupts glucose metabolism, paving the way for weight gain.
A new analysis suggests that placing plastic collectors near coasts is more beneficial for removing microplastics and preventing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. The study found that this approach could remove up to 31% of microplastics, compared to just 17% if all collectors were deployed within the Great Pacific garbage patch.
A thin, stretchable film developed by University of Michigan researchers could enable doctors to catch cancer recurrence earlier with more effective treatment. The film produces circularly polarized light, a crucial ingredient in early warning systems, making it potentially simpler and less expensive to produce.
Researchers at the University of Exeter estimate that bio scientific research generates 1.8% of global plastic production, equivalent to 67 cruise ships a year. They propose funding agencies incentivize greener practices with budget for lab recycling facilities and grant application requirements.
Researchers found that wider in-row spacings and row configurations with three- or four-row setups result in higher yields and better marketable cabbage heads. In-row spacings between 30-35 cm are recommended for early plantings, while 25-cm spacing is more productive for later plantings.
Researchers at Washington State University developed a catalyst that easily converts bio-based ethanol to isobutene, a widely used industrial chemical. The breakthrough could help reduce environmental impacts and meet new regulations for sustainability in the chemical industry.
The Rhine River has been found to be among the most polluted rivers worldwide due to high levels of microplastic pollution. The river's surface contained an average of 892,777 particles per square kilometer, with some areas reaching peak concentrations of up to 3.9 million plastic items per square kilometer.
A study by scientists has reported that commercial sea salt samples purchased in China are contaminated with microplastics, with concentrations ranging from 7 to 681 particles per kilogram. This raises potential health concerns for consumers who regularly use these salts as a seasoning.
The new technology uses magnetic fields to shape composite materials into patient-specific products, resulting in stronger and lighter devices. The approach enables the creation of customized catheters for premature newborns, addressing a significant need in neonatal care.
A study by Abigail B. Sussman and Rourke L. O'Brien found that earmarking savings for 'responsible' purposes can lead to preserving those funds even at high interest rates. Participants were more likely to borrow money to meet emergency expenses if maintaining their savings was important to their sense of responsibility.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a technique to produce 3D-printed hair-like strands, fibers, and bristles using a common low-cost printer. The process involves applying molten plastic and then moving the print head sideways to create tapered strands.
Researchers from Alfred Wegener Institute discovered plastic litter on the Arctic sea surface, with 31 pieces found in a 5,600km survey. The litter is likely to pose new challenges for Arctic marine life, which has already seen high levels of plastic pollution in its stomachs.
Researchers at Stanford University have created an artificial skin that can mimic the human sense of touch, detecting pressure and transmitting signals to brain cells. The breakthrough, reported in Science, uses a two-ply plastic construct with sensors that can detect pressure over a range similar to human skin.
All seven species of marine turtles can ingest or become entangled in discarded plastic debris, posing serious threats to their health and survival. The study highlights the urgent need for further research to understand the scale of the problem and develop effective mitigation policies.
The Ocean Conservancy's report outlines specific land-based solutions for reducing ocean plastic waste, including a four-point plan to cut leakage by 45% in 10 years. The report estimates a total cost of $5 billion and significant returns to the global economy.
A new analysis suggests that banning microbeads from products is the best way to protect water quality and wildlife. Researchers estimate that 8 trillion microbeads are being emitted into aquatic habitats daily, with toxic effects on animals and ecosystems.
The study found that recognizing opportunities, creating a clear narrative team, and using emotionally impactful photographs are key elements of success. By leveraging cultural entrepreneurship and visuals, environmental movements can gain legitimacy and inspire action among followers.
New study predicts metal combinations for glass-forming ability, enabling mass production of strong and flexible alloys. The development paves the way for applications in electronics, space exploration, and energy storage.
A study by the University of Queensland found that over half the world's sea turtles have eaten debris, including plastics and other human waste. This poses a significant threat to their survival due to blockages or toxic chemical releases.
The International Year of Global Understanding aims to foster smart policies by promoting better understanding of local impacts on the global. Activities include research projects, educational programmes, and information campaigns to translate scientific insight into sustainable lifestyles.
Researchers at Linköping University have discovered that disorder and short-range intermolecular aggregation can enhance the conductivity of conjugated polymers. This finding opens up new avenues for developing faster electronic components.
A new study estimates that almost all seabirds have consumed plastic, with 90% of individual birds ingesting some form of plastic. This widespread impact is a concern, as plastic ingestion can cause gut impaction, weight loss, and death in seabirds.
Researchers predict that 90% of all seabirds alive today have eaten plastic, with the majority having it in their gut. Plastic ingestion causes gut impaction, weight loss and death, affecting marine biodiversity.
Research reveals almost 100,000 tiny microbeads can be released with every application of certain facial scrubs, contaminating oceans. The study estimates up to 80 tonnes of unnecessary microplastic waste could enter the sea each year from UK cosmetic use.
Agrindus and Nanox developed a technology that extends the shelf life of grade A pasteurized whole milk from seven to 15 days by incorporating silver-based microparticles into rigid plastic bottles. This innovation doubles the shelf life, benefiting logistics, storage, quality, and food safety.
A new study has found a significant association between high blood pressure and the presence of phthalates in children and adolescents. The chemicals were used as replacements for DEHP, which was previously linked to detrimental effects on human health.
A study examines the effect of DEHHP on PVC flexibility, revealing molecular-level interaction between hydrogen bonds and improving polymer-solvent interactions. The research shows that temperature and concentration affect the strength of these interactions.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for producing hundreds of female emerald ash borer decoys using biomimetic fabrication. The new approach, which requires only one mold, is 40% more successful than previous methods and can be produced faster and less expensively.
A study by Montreal researchers found that the plasticizer DINCH's metabolite MINCH can act as a metabolic disrupter, affecting adipose tissue differentiation. The study suggests that DINCH exposure may pose a risk to human health and warrants further research.
Researchers at Goethe University found that two out of ten plastic rings in baby teethers release chemicals with hormone-like effects. These additives can inhibit the effects of androgens such as testosterone and act like natural oestrogen in the body. The study highlights the need for manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and scientists...
A study found that 2 out of 10 plastic teethers contained significant endocrine activity, including methylparaben and unidentified compounds. The presence of parabens in one product is unusual, highlighting the need for manufacturers and regulators to address chemical exposure in baby products.
A new material developed at CU-Boulder can separate ethylene from ethane more efficiently, reducing energy consumption. This could save up to 46 million megawatt-hours of electricity per year in the US, equivalent to seven average-sized nuclear power plants.
Washington State University researchers have developed a new method to create polyurethane using plant oils, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional polyurethane. The new method allows for the creation of materials with varying flexibility and stiffness, making it suitable for a range of applications., Resea...
A comprehensive assessment of microplastics in the Great Lakes finds high concentrations of plastic debris, including microbeads, in all five lakes. The study reveals that plastics can persist in the environment for thousands of years and are easily ingested by aquatic organisms.
A new study from Michigan State University finds that several additives claiming to break down plastics do not work in common disposal situations. The team tested five additives and three categories of biodegradation methods but found no difference between plastics with additives and those without.
Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed a system to recover hydrogen from waste plastics in electronic boards. The technology has been patented and shows promise as a clean energy source.
Researchers at PPPL used 3D printers to create customized parts for experiments, including cones, cylinders, and electrodes. The printed parts proved accurate and reliable, meeting laboratory requirements.
Researchers at James Cook University have discovered that Great Barrier Reef corals will consume microplastic pollution. The study found that the corals eat plastic particles at rates only slightly lower than their normal rate of feeding on marine plankton.
A comprehensive study found nearly 700 species of marine animals have encountered man-made debris, with plastic accounting for 92% of cases. The study highlights the widespread harm caused by debris on threatened or near-threatened species.
Researchers estimate that around 8 million tons of plastic waste entered the world's oceans in 2010, with coastal countries generating close to 275 million tons. To prevent this number from increasing by a full order of magnitude over the next decade, nations need to improve their waste management practices and adopt better strategies.
A new study by the NCEAS Marine Debris Working Group estimates that over 4.8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the world's oceans from land annually, with a possible maximum of 12.7 million metric tons.
A recent study published in Science estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, mainly from coastal regions. The researchers used a grand model to estimate the amount of plastic waste entering the ocean and found that it is significantly higher than previously estimated.
A new study estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the world's oceans every year, with a midpoint estimate of 8 million metric tons. The research, published in Science, used a complex model to analyze data from 192 coastal countries and highlights the need for improved waste management systems worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a bone-shaped plastic tab that changes color under stretching, serving as an inexpensive and mechanical sensor. The sensor was created using custom molecules and 3D printing technology, offering potential applications in recording force or strain on structures.
The book explores the potential of 3D printing with biomaterials to minimize our carbon footprint and create sustainable products. A remarkable example is the printing of an entire town house from bio-based plastics, which reduces the material's carbon footprint by more than 60%.
Researchers developed a microscale solar concentration technology that enables ultra-high efficiency solar cells to be used on rooftops. The system consists of miniaturized photovoltaic cells, 3D-printed lens arrays and a moveable focusing mechanism, reducing size, weight and cost while increasing power generation.
A new study found that women with high levels of endocrine-disrupting chemicals experience menopause two to four years earlier than those with lower levels. The research analyzed data from 31,575 people and identified 15 chemicals significantly associated with earlier ages of menopause.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have discovered that adding carbon nanoballs to insulation plastic can increase the voltage by up to 26%, resulting in a 26% efficiency gain in electric power transmission. This could lead to more efficient power grids and sustainable energy systems.
Researchers have developed chitosan-based coatings to reduce the microbial load of carrots, providing a biodegradable and sustainable solution for food packaging. The use of this material has shown promising results in laboratory tests, but further research is needed to explore its industrial potential.
A new study reveals that warm vinyl crib mattress covers release higher levels of phthalates, which can increase infant exposure four-fold. The preliminary findings suggest the need for further investigation into the potential risks posed by alternative phthalates.
Research reveals four billion microscopic plastic fibres littering each square kilometre of deep sea sediment worldwide. Microplastics have sunk to the ocean floor, with levels up to four times greater in deep seas than in shallow and coastal waters.
A team of Penn State researchers has developed a thermoplastic material from squid protein, which can be used in 3D printing and has tunable properties for medical or cosmetic applications. The semi-crystalline thermoplastic exhibits high tensile strength and is a wet adhesive.
A study published in PLOS ONE estimates that nearly 269,000 tons of plastic pollution are floating in the world's oceans, with an additional 5 trillion microplastic particles present. This research was conducted over six years across five sub-tropical gyres and coastal regions.
Scientists at KU Leuven successfully converted cellulose in sawdust into hydrocarbon chains, which can be used as an additive in gasoline or component in plastics. The conversion process is a new type of bio-refining and has potential economic benefits, offering an alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
A team of University of Michigan researchers has created a novel plastic blend that conducts heat exceptionally well, up to 10 times better than traditional plastics. This breakthrough could lead to the development of light, versatile materials for electronics and vehicles.
Researchers identify genes and networks that enable tiny Atlantic killifish to alter their body form in response to environmental changes, providing insight into phenotypic plasticity. The study's findings have substantial implications for understanding molecular evolution and its applications in climate change, medicine, and regenerat...
Researchers have found that premature infants are exposed to unsafe levels of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a chemical used in many plastic devices. The study suggests that this exposure may contribute to illness and long-term health problems.
Researchers found that bald and golden eagles in North America have dangerously high levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in their livers, with concentrations highest near urban areas. The study suggests a range of exposure to these toxic chemicals, with more research needed to understand trends and accumulation patterns.