Researchers develop 'magnet' for ocean plastics

University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment researchers have made strides in tackling ocean plastic pollution by proposing the use of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) to extract microscopic plastics from water. Collaborating across departments, they found that NADES act like a "magnet" or "Velcro," effectively bonding with plastic molecules for removal. Initial experiments show promise in extracting common plastics including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene (PS), offering a sustainable approach to cleaning waters and potentially recycling plastic waste. This innovative technology could revolutionise efforts to combat plastic pollution worldwide. (Packaging World)