We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Utilizing Fungal Mycelium in Bio-nanocomposites as a Replacement for Chemically Synthesized Lightweight Polymers
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed the use of fungal mycelium — the root-like network of fungi — as a biodegradable material to replace lightweight synthetic polymers in bio-nanocomposites. Replacing petroleum-based plastics with mycelium-based materials could substantially reduce the production of microplastics that persist in ecosystems and accumulate in human tissue.
In recent years, the growing attention and demand for environmental-friendly products, combined with the need to reduce carbon emissions, microplastic pollution, and plastic contamination in the global ecosystem, has resulted in the development of biodegradable...
More Papers Like This
Cellulose, chitin and silk: the cornerstones of green composites
AI summary Read the abstract
Biopolymer composites made from cellulose, chitin/chitosan, and silk fibroin offer renewable, biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, with applications spanning textiles, medicine, food packaging, and fluid decontamination. As concern grows over microplastic contamination from conventional polymer degradation, these green composites represent a promising class of materials that could reduce future plastic pollution at the source.
Mycelium: The Sustainable Revolution in Eco-friendly Materials
AI summary Read the abstract
This review explores mycelium-based materials as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, which shed harmful microplastics and microfibers into ecosystems. Fungal materials could help reduce plastic production at the source, potentially curbing the growing burden of microplastic pollution on human and environmental health.
Environmentally sustainable toughened nanocomposites based on recycled face masks and nitrile gloves
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a recycling pathway for pandemic-era single-use plastics by extracting polypropylene from discarded face masks and rubber from nitrile gloves, reinforcing them with nanoclay to create high-performance nanocomposites with improved tensile strength, thermal stability, and compatibility with 3D printing.
Influence of carbon nanomaterials on microplastic release from polymer composites
AI summary Read the abstract
Plastics are increasingly blended with carbon-based materials like graphene and carbon nanotubes to make them stronger, but this review of existing research finds that these additives can either reduce or worsen the shedding of microplastics, tiny plastic particles now found in our air, water, and even our bodies, depending on the specific materials and conditions involved. Because results vary so much between studies, scientists don't yet have a clear answer on whether these popular high-tech plastics are safer or riskier for microplastic exposure, highlighting the need for standardized testing before we can know their true impact on human health.
Food Packaging Materials with Special Reference to Biopolymers-Properties and Applications
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines food packaging materials with emphasis on biodegradable polymers such as PHA, PLA, and starch-based plastics, finding they outperform conventional non-biodegradable plastics in environmental impact while maintaining protective functionality. Replacing petroleum-based packaging with biodegradable alternatives directly reduces the source of microplastic contamination entering food systems and the broader environment.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.