Scientists create recyclable, not-from-crude-oil plastic

Researchers have been cracking down on plastic pollution and working on an alternative that can lower contamination. Now, a new type of plastic not made from crude oil may just be the solution.

Scientists at Boise State University in the US have developed plastic that has nothing to do with crude oil or its byproducts. They used ethyl cyanoacrylate as the main ingredient which can be made from formaldehyde. This can be made from carbon dioxide. When this superglue is exposed to moisture, the molecules bond to form polymer chains. However, the reaction happens way too quickly to form longer chains that are stronger. This plastic will only have short chains.

This new type of plastic can replace polystyrene, which is a commonly used plastic to make yoghurt pots, disposable cups, and cutlery. These account for 6% of plastic waste.

Plastic contamination is a big health issue because health professionals have been finding microplastics in the food chain, marine wildlife, plants, and even in the placenta. Tap water, Mount Everest, and the Arctic are no exceptions.