Microplastics – News and Features

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a sugar-like polymer that traps heavy metals like cadmium and lead in water, forming clumps for easy removal. The polymer maintains its effectiveness through multiple cycles.

University of Waterloo researchers have used 3D imaging technology to understand the fine details of microplastics, paving the way for more effective methods of plastic waste recycling.

A new study reveals that nanoplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than one micrometer in size, may cross the blood-brain barrier

Researchers have created a catalytic process that efficiently breaks down polyethylene and polypropylene plastics into their monomer building blocks. This advancement could enable a circular economy for plastics.

Researchers from UBC developed a portable, low-cost device that accurately measures micro- and nanoplastics in everyday items like disposable cups. The device detects plastic particles as small as 50 nanometers in minutes.

Researchers at Berkeley have developed stabilized αLA polymer adhesives, creating versatile, high-performance, and recyclable solutions for medical, industrial, and consumer applications.

Researchers demonstrated a way to speed up–and potentially scale up–the process for separating particles in fluids, which can be used for studying microplastics in drinking water or even analyzing cancer cells from blood.

Most bodies of water contain minute plastic particles that get trapped at the surface when ice forms. According to research, the thawed particles might be larger and sink or float faster, depending on the polymer type.

University of Missouri scientists are battling against an emerging enemy of human health: nanoplastics. Much smaller in size than the diameter of an average human hair, nanoplastics are invisible to the naked eye.

James Cook University researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough that allows them to convert microplastics to a highly valuable material.