Researchers in Japan have developed a plastic material that breaks down in seawater without leaving any residual trace. The material is as strong as petroleum-based plastics and can be used like regular plastic when coated.
It breaks down when exposed to salt, and the components can be further processed by naturally occurring bacteria. It is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide. While the team has not yet detailed any plans for commercialization, their research has attracted significant interest.
Sources:
• TLDR. (2025, June 5). TLDR Newsletter. https://a.tldrnewsletter.com/web-version?ep=1&lc=f5cb7e17-003d-11ed-9258-0241b9615763&p=b8450da0-41e4-11f0-bbf9-5b665e8caa98&pt=campaign&t=1749120915&s=0cfdedb047f4ff25d34fb1a8051ef02fac1a1d21a2b4d8847fc18b95470e1e36
• Wang, I. (2025, June 4). Scientists in Japan develop plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours. reuters.com. https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/scientists-japan-develop-plastic-that-dissolves-seawater-within-hours-2025-06-04/