Chinese scientists have developed strong plastic from bamboo, which decomposes in 50 days
Researchers from the Northeast Forestry University of China have created a strong biodegradable plastic from bamboo that has increased heat resistance and is able to decompose in the soil within 50 days. This development opens up new perspectives for creating ecological alternatives to traditional plastics, reports Interesting Engineering.
Scientists have used a non-toxic method based on an alcohol solvent that dissolves bamboo cellulose down to the molecular level and then directs the molecules to reassemble into a form of strong plastic. In the process of dissolution, cellulose is chemically modified, which contributes to the formation of a stable molecular structure during regeneration.
Bamboo plastic, according to a press release, has been tested and compared to common types of commercial plastics, including polylactic acid and impact-resistant polystyrene. Researchers note that the use of bamboo composite materials is currently limited due to low mechanical characteristics, which prevent their use, for example, in construction.
The study demonstrates a molecular engineering strategy to produce high-strength bamboo plastics through a molding process. As a result, a group of scientists managed to create a bioplastic with exceptional strength and thermal stability.
“This plastic outperforms most commercial plastics and bioplastics in terms of mechanical and thermomechanical parameters, while maintaining full biodegradability in soil within 50 days and suitability for recycling in a closed cycle with 90% strength retention”, – noted the researchers.
Developers emphasize that the material is ecological and suitable for industrial production. The method of creating biodegradable plastic opens up the possibility of transforming bamboo pulp into highly productive eco-materials.
