Seawater-degradable Plastics

Project summary

Plastic debris have been identified as pollutants in the oceans due to their long lifetime and low degradability, killing more than 1 million seabirds and 10, 000 mammals every year. This project aims to develop high-value seawater-degradable plastics based on a biodegradable polymer produced by an innovative 3D printing technique. It is expected to reduce the marine plastic pollution and protect the oceans in Queensland. The innovative strategy will open a new market for plastic industry.

This project will develop a cost-effective seawater-degradable plastic material through an innovative synthetic approach based on a 3D printing technology. Successful development of this plastic material will reduce the marine plastic pollution and ultimately benefit marine environment management in Australia.