The search for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics has led to groundbreaking discoveries in marine-friendly materials. Researchers are developing innovative bioplastics that rapidly degrade in seawater, addressing the persistent issue of plastic pollution.
Scientists at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) found that cellulose diacetate foam (CDA) degrades rapidly in seawater. Over 36 weeks, CDA lost 65-70% of its mass, degrading 15 times faster than solid CDA. This makes CDA a promising replacement for persistent plastics like Styrofoam.
Further advancements include a 100% biodegradable material developed at the University of Copenhagen. This material, made from barley starch and cellulose nanofibers from sugarbeet waste, decomposes within two months. These innovations highlight the potential of bioplastics to revolutionize packaging and reduce environmental impact.