A partnership between University of Connecticut (UConn) marine sciences researchers and Novamont, a bioplastics manufacturer, is showing promise in addressing plastic pollution. A recent study found that Mater-Bi, a starch-based polymer, degraded by up to 50% in a marine environment over nine months, significantly more than traditional plastics. The study, led by Ph.D. candidate Hannah Collins, evaluated the product’s biodegradation in a semi-controlled environment. Collins and her team tested Mater-Bi, traditional plastic, and a known biodegradable plastic, and found that Mater-Bi lost 25-47% of its mass or area over nine months. The rate of degradation increased in warmer months, likely due to microbial activity. Collins believes these findings could lead to the use of Mater-Bi in aquaculture, such as in oyster grow-out bags or kelp farming lines, reducing the persistence of plastics in the water. Collins hopes to connect with industry leaders at the World Aquaculture Conference to promote the use of biodegradable plastics like Mater-Bi in addressing plastic pollution.
Researchers from the University of Connecticut Collaborate with a Leading Bioplastics Manufacturer to Study Sustainable, Breakdown-Friendly Packaging Materials.
