The structure of semi-crystalline polymers largely depends on how strongly their molecular chains are entangled. Following numerous experiments, researchers developed a new model to predict the ...

We now generate huge amounts of plastic waste, especially in the packaging industry and agriculture. Oil-based polymers are becoming more and more expensive, due to rising oil prices that are due in ...

Biodegradable polymers are a type of polymer that exists both naturally and can be synthesized in laboratories. This special class of polymer is broken down naturally by microbial processes to produce ...

To combat the alarming rise in plastic pollution worldwide, researchers have developed a synthetic microorganism ecosystem that works collectively to upcycle plastics into desired chemicals. Instead ...

A strong yet biodegradable alternative to nylon: development of polyester-amide material that decomposes in marine environments while retaining high mechanical strength Nylon-based products such as ...

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 14, 2023 — Imagine using insects as a source of chemicals to make plastics that can biodegrade later — with the help of that very same type of bug. That concept is closer to ...

Plastics make up approximately 5–12 % of global waste generation, constituting around 20–30 % of waste by weight. Alarmingly, about 60 % of plastics end up as plastic waste (PW) in the environment. 2 ...