More recently, researchers from the University of Washington talked about their latest development, spirulina bioplastics. And despite the fact that similar studies were conducted before and did not reach the final production, the new one looks very promising.

To begin with, the new bioplastic is compostable. Those it decomposes in a home compost pit in three to four weeks like a regular banana peel. This is already very different from existing bioplastics, which for the most part must be sent to a special composting plant for further decomposition. At the same time, the new bioplastic is also suitable for recycling. What's more, the researchers say recycling is even better for this material, and its home compostability is more of a nice bonus to make life easier for customers, making the material more environmentally friendly.

According to the developers, the new bioplastic from spirulina differs from the previous ones in significantly greater strength and rigidity, which makes it possible to use it, for example, for disposable packaging, dishes, bottles. In addition, spirulina has refractory properties - when exposed to fire, it instantly self-extinguishes. This algae is already bred on special farms in large quantities for use in various areas. And its ability to absorb carbon dioxide as it grows makes it carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative.

Well, one of the great achievements of this study was the possibility of its production scaling using already existing lines for the production of plastics. The fact is that the developers used a powder from spirulina, acting on which various forms were obtained by pressure and temperature in a process similar to the production of conventional plastics.

However, the research team warns that bioplastics are not yet ready for industrial use. Despite its strength, the material remains brittle and sensitive to water. Therefore, work on its improvement continues. The main goal of the researchers is the creation of a range of bioplastics adapted for various applications and as similar as possible to existing petroleum-based plastics.

The materials of the websites packagingeurope.com, packaginginsights.com were used.