Articles tagged with Plastics
A UTA chemist has developed a new method to separate and recycle mixed plastics using supercritical fluid chromatography. The technique can differentiate oils created from various plastics, holding promise for improving recycling rates and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Engineers have modelled a new way to recycle polystyrene that could make the material reusable. The technique uses pyrolysis to break down polystyrene into parts that can be reformed into new pieces of the material, reducing energy consumption and increasing yield.
A recent study analyzed 53 peer-reviewed Life Cycle Assessment studies and found that conventional plastics are not always the least environmentally friendly choice. Bioplastics emerge as a viable alternative for climate change and fossil resource depletion, but other environmental impact categories show some disadvantages. The analysi...
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a three-stage process to convert polyethylene (PE) into biodegradable polyester, addressing the issue of plastic waste. The method utilizes enzymes, microorganisms, and chemical processes to break down PE's strong carbon bonds.
A study published in Toxicological Sciences found significant concentrations of microplastics in both human and canine testicular tissue, with polyethylene and PVC being the most prevalent polymers. The research suggests a potential link between microplastic exposure and reduced sperm count, particularly in dogs.
Researchers have developed swarms of miniature robots that can capture both microplastics and bacteria from water, demonstrating a promising approach for ridding water of plastic and bacteria. The microrobotic system works by attracting particles with positively charged polymer strands, allowing the robots to decontaminate and reuse them.
A new study reveals that women make up just 13% of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery membership. The authors highlight the need for education, mentorship, and sponsorship to address these disparities and promote a more inclusive future for female surgeons.
A recent study by University of Technology Sydney has modelled the transfer and deposition of plastic particles in the human respiratory system. The results have identified hotspots where plastic particles can accumulate, particularly in the nasal cavity and lungs, posing a risk to respiratory health.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed a new PCB that performs on par with traditional materials and can be recycled repeatedly. The process uses a solvent to transform a type of vitrimer into a jelly-like substance, allowing solid components to be plucked out for reuse or recycling.
Researchers found that plastic food packaging contains a vast array of toxic chemicals, affecting hormone secretion and metabolism. The study identifies 11 chemical combinations that can activate G-protein-coupled receptors, potentially disrupting bodily functions.
Disposable vape sales quadrupled in the UK between 2022 and 2023, contributing to e-waste accumulation. The technology contains valuable resources like lithium, but recycling is often difficult due to lack of clear instructions. Experts call for urgent reform of disposable electronics practices to protect the environment.
Research found that chemicals present in microplastics can leach into human sweat and be absorbed through the skin, entering the bloodstream. The study used innovative 3D human skin models to demonstrate this process, revealing that up to 8% of the chemical exposed could be taken up by the skin.
A group of 350 scientists from over 60 countries call for a legally binding global treaty to prohibit the production of hazardous plastics chemicals and adopt science-based approaches. They advocate for an independent scientific body with robust conflict of interest policy and regional representation.
Researchers have developed an active learning strategy to accelerate the synthesis of high-performance engineered biochar with enhanced CO2 uptake. The approach nearly doubled CO2 capture performance, showcasing its transformative impact.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a new coating process that increases the functionality of 3D printed plastics by adding color and anti-fungal properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of bespoke objects with improved durability and usability, particularly in moist environments.
Volunteers collected nearly nine tonnes of marine litter from beaches across the Seychelles between 2019 and 2023. The clean-ups, led by the University of Plymouth, demonstrate the potential of citizen science to address marine pollution challenges.
Researchers led by Gavin Sacks found that molecular sulfur dioxide levels are key to preventing the rotten egg smell in canned wine. The team recommends maintaining low levels of SO2 and using epoxy liners to minimize hydrogen sulfide production. This could improve the aroma and lifespan of canned wines.
Researchers developed a framework to measure plastic pollution emissions, estimating Toronto emitted nearly 4,000 tonnes in one year. The approach will help identify major contributors and inform strategies to reduce emissions worldwide.
High levels of plastic pollution can kill the embryos of a wide range of ocean animals, preventing healthy development in all seven tested species. This study highlights the
The new centers aim to better understand the interplay between environmental science, climate change, and human health in oceans and Great Lakes. Researchers will study microplastics, algal blooms, and their impact on seafood safety and human health.
Scientists from Osaka University create borane molecules that exhibit red-shifted light emission upon binding to fluoride, enabling versatile materials for electronic display and chemical sensing applications. The researchers also achieve fine-tuning of the color of light emission by adjusting the quantity of added fluoride.
Researchers at FAMU-FSU have created a sustainable polymer product from CO2 and lignin, fully degradable without microplastics or toxic substances. The material can be recycled repeatedly without losing properties, enabling a true circular economy.
New study reveals high concentrations of small microplastics in surface water samples from the Southern Weddell Sea off Antarctica, surpassing previous studies. The research suggests ocean currents play a crucial role in pollution and highlights the need for further investigation into their impact.
A new study by CSIRO Australia and University of Toronto estimates that between 3-11 million metric tonnes of plastic pollution are sinking to the ocean floor. The research suggests that the ocean floor has become a reservoir for most plastic pollution, with plastic clusters around continents.
A new study presents a novel surgical technique for treating Moebius syndrome, a rare condition that prevents smiling and affects social engagement. The technique involves utilizing the ipsilateral facial nerve to power gracilis free functional muscle transfer in select patients with residual facial nerve activity.
Researchers found that forests in Japan's Quercus serrata trees trap approximately 420 trillion airborne microplastics per year, acting as a terrestrial sink. The study used alkaline extraction to detect microplastics adhering to leaf surfaces, revealing a higher number than previously estimated.
Researchers have found tiny microplastic particles in archaeological soil samples dating back to the first century, potentially compromising preserved remains. The study suggests that preserving archaeology in situ may no longer be appropriate due to microplastic contamination.
Researchers at EPFL's EMSI lab discovered a positive correlation between crack complexity and material toughness, revealing that more energy is required to advance complex cracks than simple ones. This finding could improve materials testing and development for safe and cost-effective composite materials.
Researchers have created a method to make fully recyclable polymers from plant cellulose, which can replace some plastics and reduce plastic pollution. The new polymers have various structures that offer different applications, including high-performance materials for optical, electronic, and biomedical uses.
A recent study by UFZ and AWI researchers found significant accumulations of plastics in the North Pacific Ocean, extending far beyond the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Microplastics were also discovered in a remote marine protected area northwest of Hawaii, challenging previous assumptions about their distribution.
Researchers developed mesoporous metal oxides on flexible materials using synergetic effect of heat and plasma at lower temperatures. The devices can withstand bending thousands of times without losing energy storage performance.
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology report that global warming and plastic pollution are inextricably linked, with rising temperatures causing plastics to deteriorate more rapidly. This acceleration in plastic waste leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating climate change.
A pioneering approach produces high-performance polyamides from sugar cores derived from agricultural waste, with impressive atom efficiency and recyclability
Research reveals micro- and nanoplastics can persist in the human body for longer than previously thought, being passed on to newly formed cells during cell division. The study also suggests these tiny plastic particles may promote the spread of cancer by increasing tumor migration.
Rice University researchers have developed a new, energy-efficient process to upcycle glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) into silicon carbide, widely used in semiconductors and sandpaper. The method involves heating the mixture of GFRP and carbon to extremely high temperatures, transforming it into conductive silicon carbide.
Researchers found that boiling and filtering calcium-containing tap water can effectively remove nearly 90% of nano- and microplastics. Boiling even in soft water samples removed around 25% of NMPs, suggesting this simple method could be a game-changer for reducing human plastic consumption.
A study found that glitter's metal coating reduces light penetration, impairing photosynthesis of Large-flowered waterweed Egeria densa and affecting aquatic plant growth. The experiment showed a significant decrease in photosynthesis rates with the presence of glitter, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.
A recent study by UNM Health Sciences researchers has found that microplastics are present in all 62 human placenta samples tested. The concentrations ranged from 6.5 to 790 micrograms per gram of tissue, with polyethylene being the most prevalent polymer found. The study suggests that microplastics may be linked to puzzling increases ...
Researchers have discovered microplastics and cellulose-based fibres in the intestine samples of four apex shark species caught off the coast of South East Queensland. The study found that 82% of analysed intestine samples contained microplastics, with a mean abundance of 31 particles/kg of samples.
A new study from Norway shows that only a third of fishing ropes can be recycled in a sustainable way. The researchers analyzed 15 types of rope and ranked them according to ease of recycling, highlighting the need for better waste management practices.
A team of researchers led by Prof. Yong Sik Ok proposes an innovative eight-phase methodology for analyzing microplastics in soils, addressing the lack of standardized procedures. The methodology emphasizes careful planning, processing, and analysis to ensure accuracy and precision.
New Jersey Institute of Technology chemists have developed a lab-based method to detect traces of PFAS from food packaging material, water, and soil samples in just three minutes or less. The approach, involving paper spray mass spectrometry, is 10-100 times more sensitive than current standard techniques for PFAS testing.
Researchers have identified nanoplastics in ocean water off the coasts of China, South Korea, and the US, with surprising diversity in shape and chemical composition. The tiny plastic particles, originating from consumer products, were found to be more toxic than larger plastic particles due to their small size.
The study proposes technical, legal, and economic interventions to transition the global plastics system to net zero emissions by 2050. The authors emphasize the need for concerted action across four target areas: smart materials design, waste management, recycling, and reducing future demand.
Researchers found rapid microplastic accumulation and contamination across prey organisms, with Galápagos penguins showing the highest level. The study highlights the urgent need to reduce plastic waste and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Researchers found that microplastic particles are picked up by wind more easily than soil minerals, leading to underestimation of emissions. The study highlights an underappreciated way microplastics become airborne, affecting the environment and human health.
Chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease significantly worsen prognosis for severely burned patients. The study analyzed data from 1,193 patients and found that nearly half did not survive their burns with impaired kidney function. Researchers highlight the need to integrate these findings into burn treatment scores.
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to manipulate the shape of materials through microscale melting and cooling, enabling autonomous shapeshifting in 3D. This technology has far-reaching implications for industries such as aerospace and architecture.
A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society estimates that chemicals in plastics contribute to various diseases and disabilities in the US, resulting in significant healthcare costs. The study found that $67 billion is attributed to phthalate exposure, while PFAS exposure leads to $22 billion in health costs.
A dry-packaged hydrating facial mask made of biobased and sustainable materials provides a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional sheet masks. The mask's ingredients, including plant-based polylactic acid and green tea extract, deliver moisture and nutrients while promoting antioxidant properties.
Researchers at Shinshu University propose a new chemical process to depolymerize cyclic α-substituted styrene-based vinyl polymers, resulting in the recovery of monomer precursors. This efficient recycling system can facilitate effective resource circulation and development of new plastic recycling technologies.
A new study reveals that microplastic fibers settle substantially slower than spherical particles in the atmosphere, allowing them to reach remote regions such as Arctic glaciers. The research suggests that these fibers could even reach the stratosphere, with potential implications for cloud processes and ozone depletion.
A new approach to designing plastic products with low environmental persistence could significantly reduce the environmental costs of single-use plastics. By analyzing the environmental degradation rate of different materials, researchers have identified alternative materials like cellulose diacetate and polyhydroxyalkanoates as potent...
A recent study published in Applied Spectroscopy reveals that Lake Tahoe's lakebed is contaminated with high amounts of plastic and other litter. The researchers collected 673 pieces of plastic from just a small fraction of the lake, including food containers, bottles, and toys. This data can help scientists better understand the sourc...
A team at Hokkaido University has developed a method to reuse plastic waste while improving process safety and efficiency. The approach uses common plastic materials to initiate radical chain reactions, detoxifying hazardous chemicals and reducing toxicity.
A team of experts has developed a way to convert polyethylene waste into ethylene and propionic acid through atomically dispersed metal catalysts. This method uses renewable solar energy to produce valuable chemicals with high selectivity, alleviating the need for complex separation processes.
A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that men prefer a moderately enhanced, well-proportioned appearance for their buttocks. The findings suggest that ratings from men and women were similar in terms of preferred proportions, with a focus on symmetry and avoiding a flat or protruding shape.
Researchers developed a robot prototype inspired by a snail's ability to collect food particles at the water-air interface. The device uses an undulating motion to suck in microplastics from the surface of oceans and seas.
Research on marine amphipod Echinogammarus marinus found that exposure to toxic plastic additives compromises their ability to reproduce successfully. The study, published in Environmental Pollution, tested four widely used chemicals and found that all of them reduced the overall percentage of animals that formed pairs.
A new study discovered microplastics in the placentas of Hawaiʻi mothers between 2006 and 2021, with increasing presence found each year. The researchers believe microplastics may be ingested through food or inhaling dust particles, raising concerns about their impact on fetal health.