Researchers Develop Plastic That Dissolves in Sea Water Within Hours

A groundbreaking solution to ocean pollution is emerging from Japan, where researchers have developed a type of plastic that dissolves within hours when exposed to seawater. While scientists worldwide have been experimenting with biodegradable plastics for years, the team at RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo claims their new material breaks down much faster in marine environments without leaving residue. During an experiment conducted in Wakō City near Tokyo, the research group demonstrated how a small piece of this plastic disappeared in a container of salty water after about one hour of agitation. Although commercialization plans are still under consideration, project leader Takuzo Aida stated that their work has garnered significant interest, including from the packaging industry. Globally, scientists are racing to develop innovative solutions to address the escalating crisis of plastic waste, supported by awareness campaigns such as World Environment Day. According to projections by the United Nations Environment Programme, plastic pollution could triple by 2040, adding 23-37 million metric tons of waste to global oceans annually. ‘Children cannot choose the planet they will live on. It’s our responsibility as scientists to ensure we leave them the best possible environment,’ said Aida. The Japanese scientist highlighted that the new material matches the strength of oil-based plastics but disintegrates into its original components when exposed to salt. These components can then be further processed by natural bacteria, preventing the formation of harmful microplastics that endanger marine life and enter the food chain. Since salt also exists in soil, a piece roughly five millimeters in size decomposes on land after more than 200 hours. The material can be used like regular plastic once coated, and the team is currently focusing on refining coating methods, explained Aida. The plastic is non-toxic, non-reflective, and does not emit carbon dioxide, concluded the study.