Transformar papel em plástico biodegradável infographic
A infografia mostra como funciona o revestimento Choetsu.
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TECNOLOGIA

Revestimento barato transforma papel em plástico amigo do ambiente

By Ninian Carter

May 16, 2022 - Investigadores do Japão desenvolveram um revestimento barato para papel que se comporta como plástico, mas muito menos nocivo para o ambiente.

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to render paper waterproof with biodegradable materials that also destroy bacteria.

The silica-resin coating (made out of titanium dioxide nanoparticles dispersed in a silica-based film) is biodegradable and can make paper rigid, waterproof and bacteria-repellant without creating plastic pollution.

According to a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, the coating, which can be simply brushed or sprayed onto paper, is called “Choetsu”.

Given its unique properties, its inventors believe it could be used to create non-plastic food packaging, disposable cutlery and drinking straws – thus helping reduce our dependence on plastic and cut down on harmful waste.

After use, agricultural mulch for weed control can be made from coated paper, which will degrade in nature without harming the environment.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 16/05/2022; STORY: Graphic News
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