Overview
- Researchers led by Takuzo Aida report a cellulose‑based supramolecular plastic (CMCSP) that breaks down in seawater without leaving microplastic residue.
- The material’s network relies on reversible ionic salt bridges between carboxymethyl cellulose and a guanidinium‑based crosslinker that disassemble in salt water.
- Flexibility is tuned with the FDA‑approved plasticizer choline chloride, achieving rigid or elastic behavior up to about 130% stretch and films as thin as 0.07 mm.
- A demonstration video released with the study shows samples dissolving in salt water within hours, and a thin protective coating can prevent unintended degradation.
- The team highlights transparency, recyclability, and processability using common ingredients, while noting that scale‑up, environmental testing, and regulatory review remain ahead.