University of Queensland unveils seawater-degradable plastic breakthrough

University of Queensland unveils seawater-degradable plastic breakthrough

Sustainability

Researchers at the University of Queensland are pioneering the development of seawater-degradable plastics to combat the mounting issue of marine waste.

Led by Dr. Ruirui Qiao from UQ's Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), the team is advancing novel polymerisation techniques to create an affordable and biodegradable alternative to conventional plastics. Collaborating with AIBN colleague Professor Tom Davis, as well as Professors Xuan Pang and Xuesi Chen from the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, the project aims to produce a range of tailored, high-value seawater-degradable plastics.

Utilising 3D-printing methods pioneered by Dr. Qiao's research group at AIBN and polymeric materials sourced from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, this venture has received substantial support, with $125,000 in funding from the Queensland-Chinese Academy of Sciences Collaborative Science Fund.

One pivotal technique, known as ring-opening polymerisation, enables precise control over the plastics' mechanical properties and shape while introducing a low-toxic polyester "backbone."

Plastic bag in the sea credit Michaelis Scientists
Plastic bag in the sea © Michaelis Scientists

The ultimate objective is to introduce a new line of products to both Australian and Chinese markets within five years, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.

Dr. Qiao said: Effective seawater-degradable polymer plastics will reduce plastic debris in oceans, boosting the health of ecosystems and the quality of life in communities around the world. We are also fostering collaboration between research groups in Queensland and China to further our strengths in polymer science and additive manufacturing.

This initiative taps into a burgeoning biodegradable market projected to surpass $9.5 billion by the target timeframe.

Latest Packaging News

Labels – EPR’s secret weapon
Business

Labels – EPR’s secret weapon

With pEPR upon us, Jude Allan, Interim MD at OPRL, explains why labels are the key to success. In...
Ready for change – reducing costs under pEPR
Business

Ready for change – reducing costs under pEPR

With EPR for Packaging now in place, the requirement for data submission is key. Ruth Beckley,...
Discover the power of Apollo’s multiple infeed & outfeed spiral conveyor
Supplier News

Discover the power of Apollo’s multiple infeed & outfeed spiral conveyor

At Apollo, we take material handling to the next level with our Multiple Infeed & Outfeed...
Purina unveils new cat food in patented pyramid packaging
Business

Purina unveils new cat food in patented pyramid packaging

Product delivered in patented pyramid packaging design – making it easy to serve without cutlery or...
NPP: 5 ways case erectors can benefit your company
Supplier News

NPP: 5 ways case erectors can benefit your company

If you’re thinking about adding a case erector to your production line, here are five benefits it...