Putting an end to plastic separation anxiety
Bio-based plastics such as polylactic acid (PLA) were invented to help solve the plastic waste crisis, but they often end up making waste management more challenging......»»
Reusing plastic waste to kickstart radical chain reactions, improving process safety and efficiency
Single-use plastics are a major environmental concern, but now, rather than being disposed of as garbage, used plastic bags from the grocery store could be utilized to carry out a reaction that can detoxify hazardous chemicals......»»
Examining how fiber content affects mechanical properties in flax and pineapple leaf fiber-reinforced plastic composites
A new study has compared the reinforcing efficiency of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and cultivated flax fiber in poly(butylene succinate) composites. PALF, a less explored but potentially sustainable alternative, outperformed flax at 20 wt.%, showcasi.....»»
4 ways to relax and reduce stress with Apple Watch
Whether it’s something recurring or an unexpected event, we all experience stress and anxiety. You may not have thought about it, but if you have an Apple Watch, there’s a useful tool on your wrist to help deliver some peace and calm. Follow alon.....»»
ESA is stockpiling simulated regolith for the ultimate lunar playground
Testing interplanetary landers means putting them in an environment as close to their destination as possible. Mars landers are often tested in the "Mars Yard" at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in South California, and now ESA is looking to build a.....»»
Microplastic-associated pathogens in aquatic environments: A hidden health risk
Microplastics, which are minute plastic particles under 5mm in size, are becoming ever more ubiquitous in marine and freshwater ecosystems around the globe. These particles, derived from primary and secondary sources, such as industrial raw material.....»»
Researchers surprised at levels of toxicity in standard plastic products
The plastic with which we surround ourselves contains a range of chemical additives that can leach out into water systems in the natural environment. This can happen both before and during the plastic degradation process. Even if it takes a long time.....»»
Canada bids farewell to plastic straws, cutlery and checkout bags
Canadian restaurants and cafes were no longer permitted as of Wednesday to offer plastic straws, food containers, checkout bags or cutlery to customers—despite a court ruling that such restrictions are unconstitutional......»»
Scientists discover how to degrade and reform thermoset polymers without loss of function
A team of UK scientists has got a step closer to making several different types of plastic much easier to recycle using a method that could be applied to a whole range of difficult-to-recycle polymers, including rubbers, gels, and adhesives......»»
Iceland volcano erupts weeks after thousands were evacuated from a town on Reykjanes Peninsula
A volcano erupted Monday night on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, turning the sky orange and putting the country's civil defense on high alert......»»
US begins review that could eventually lead to PVC ban
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Thursday announced a review that could eventually lead to the end of PVC plastic production—impacting everything from records to rubber ducks......»»
Rocket Lab launches a Japanese satellite from the space company"s complex in New Zealand
California-based Rocket Lab, which specializes in putting small satellites into orbit, launched a Japanese satellite on Friday from the space company's complex on New Zealand's Mahia Peninsula......»»
US begins review that could spell trouble for PVC
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Thursday announced a review that could eventually lead to the end of PVC plastic production—impacting everything from records to rubber ducks......»»
Direct ink writing of high-resolution cellulose structures
Three-dimensional (3D) printing has a significant role in membrane production for water purification and bio-separation, with capacity to create new and cleverly designed structures......»»
Q&A: Finding more sustainable ways to use plastics in agriculture
Every year, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, some 12.5 million tonnes of plastic are used in agricultural production worldwide. Plastic is a boon to farmers, but leads to large quantities of macro-, micro- and nanopl.....»»
A new 66 million-year history of carbon dioxide offers little comfort for today
A massive new review of ancient atmospheric carbon-dioxide levels and corresponding temperatures lays out a daunting picture of where the Earth's climate may be headed. The study covers geologic records spanning the past 66 million years, putting pre.....»»
Potentially harmful chemical byproducts left behind when sunlight breaks down ocean plastics
Northeastern researchers found in 2021 that an estimated 4 million to 10 million tons of plastic carbon enter the ocean each year. Much of it ends up floating in subtropical currents......»»
Researcher turns switchgrass into bioplastics
Plastic, made in the traditional petroleum-based method, has served its purpose. The near-perfect packaging material has been instrumental in transforming the world's food supply and can be found in nearly every sector of daily life......»»
Why is religious attendance linked to more anxiety in US South Asians?
A study of older U.S. South Asians examines relationships between religious service attendance (temple, mosque, etc.), anxiety and feelings of emotional neglect by fellow congregation members. The research finds that among U.S. South Asians, those wh.....»»
Bending Spoons lays off entire team behind Filmic Pro
The team behind the popular Filmic Pro camera app for iPhone was reportedly laid off by its parent company, bending Spoons, putting the future of the filmmaking tool into question.Filmic ProFilmic was absorbed by Bending Spoons in September 2022, at.....»»
No further investments in Virgin Galactic, says Richard Branson
Branson's business empire "no longer has the deepest pockets." Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson. (credit: Eric Berger) Sir Richard Branson has ruled out putting more money into his lossmaking space travel company.....»»