An environmentally friendly alternative to plastic microbeads
1 min read
Summary
Researchers at MIT have found a way to replace tiny plastic beads found in some cleansers and cosmetics that are a source of environmental microplastics, with polymers that break down into harmless sugars and amino acids.
As well as reducing the amount of plastic released into the environment, the new polymers could be used to encapsulate nutrients to fortify food, helping the 2 billion people worldwide suffering from nutrient deficiencies.
The team turned to poly-beta-amino esters, a biocompatible polymer previously developed in the MIT lab of Robert Langer for medical applications.
By adjusting the polymer’s composition, the team optimised its properties, such as its ability to dissolve in acidic environments like the stomach.
They then demonstrated that the polymer nanoparticles can protect heat and light-sensitive vitamins and minerals from degradation.