What is a bio-based plastic? Can it really solve the plastic surgery problem?

Bioplastics are made of petroleum, natural gas, pearls and shells, and some science and technology, which can really solve the plastic problem, because this kind of bioplastics can be decomposed.

one

More than 300 million tons of plastics are produced in the world every year, and they will eventually be decomposed into nanoparticles that will never disappear, which brings about another microplastics problem. Therefore, at present, a lot of research focuses on creating biodegradable and environmentally friendly materials. In the latest development, researchers in China have developed a bio-based plastic. This simple and effective method is called "directional deformation assembly" and can produce hard and stable structural materials.

two

People are increasingly aware of the impact of petroleum-based plastics on the environment and human health. The problem is mainly related to the molecular structure of plastics. Once this molecular structure is formed, it is difficult to destroy it, and it is difficult to recreate it and use it for other purposes.

three

This means that a lot of plastic cannot be recycled, and these plastic wastes can only be buried underground. However, they will not degrade in a short time. According to scientific research data, it takes at least 500 years for a plastic bottle to be completely degraded.

Although there are many potential materials to replace petroleum-based plastics at present, due to its limited mechanical properties and complex manufacturing process, it is impossible to produce on a large scale, and the price has risen accordingly. However, the material experts of the Chinese University of Science and Technology showed us a bio-based plastic, which is not only environmentally friendly, but also has good processability and can be mass-produced.

The researchers got inspiration from nature and made a breakthrough. Pinctada is a hard nacre, which is composed of nano aragonite and organic substances. Making this structure requires the incorporation of small "filler" particles into the polymer, but it is difficult for these particles to provide the uniform directional arrangement required for strength.

Scientists in China used cellulose nanofibers and mica microchips to assemble this microstructure. This process uses pressure to reduce the thickness of the material and force the particles to align. Therefore, the ductile structure remains stable at high temperature. Finally, the researchers successfully made a sample of the mobile phone case.

Anyway, I think we should use less plastic or bioplastics. Bioplastics are made of some resources and some pearls and shells. Will not pollute the environment.