BIODEGRADABLE PLASTICS FROM CARBON DIOXIDE

NSF-funded researchers from Texas A&M University have pioneered a method to accelerate the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas into the biodegradable
thermoplastics used in eyeglass lenses, shatterproof glass, baby bottles, and CDs and DVDs.

Current methods for making thermoplastics generally require petroleum. However, researchers have pioneered a method to produce biodegradable plastic products using atmospheric CO₂--a productive use for the greenhouse gas.

Researchers are now working to develop effective non-toxic metal catalysts for producing another extremely useful plastic, polycarbonate, from CO₂ and other compounds. This plastic can be made into biodegradable rubber-like substances that have potential biomedical applications, such as surgical sutures, drug delivery devices, and body or dental implants.

Researchers have pioneered a method to speed up production of biodegradable plastic products manufactured using atmospheric carbon dioxide, providing a productive use for the greenhouse gas. Credit: morgueFile.

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