Innovation That Matters

The new plastic is broken down by sunlight and air | Photo source Robert Garcia on Unsplash

Plastic that degrades from sunlight could make electronics more sustainable

Computing & Tech

Researchers have developed a new plastic that is biodegradable in the simplest way possible, using only sunlight and air

UNLOCK THIS INNOVATION AND MUCH MORE…

Become a member today and get early access to the ideas transforming our world from just £39 per month*

Exclusive member benefits:

  • Access to over 13,000 innovations
  • Monthly horizon scanning reports
  • Exclusive feature articles

Already a member? Sign in here

Spotted: Research co-author Liang Luo, at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, discovered the new plastic while running an experiment as part of his development of a chemical sensor. The film he was working on broke apart after sitting in the sun for several days. Not only is the new plastic biodegradable in the simplest way possible, using only sunlight and air, it also produces no microplastic waste. What is left behind after the degradation process completes is a naturally occurring acid usable in other products. 

In contemplating future uses for the plastic, scientists point to the stable environment of smartphone and other device interiors. Since it biodegrades in sunlight and when exposed to air, being used in a range of products that are rarely, if ever, opened, could be an ideal application of the material. Plus, the components currently in use in many of the world’s most popular electronic devices are notoriously difficult to reuse and upcycle.  

Discovering an environmentally friendly replacement for those parts could transform global waste management processes. As exciting as the finding is, though, Luo believes that commercial availability is likely five to ten years away. 

The race to create bioplastics that are usable on a commercial scale is ongoing, and Springwise has spotted new versions made from lumber waste and one with built-in enzymes for home composting. 

Written by: Keely Khoury

Email: liangluo@hust.edu.cn

Website: english.hust.edu.cn

Download PDF

Springwise Services:
Our expertise in spotting the latest innovations is the best resource to empower your team’s future planning.

Find out More