MIT Replacement for Microplastics in Cosmetics
MIT develops alternative for microplastics in cosmetics.
Source Reference: AdoreBeautyNZ, pixabay.com
Solving the Microplastic Problem with Biodegradable Plastics
Microplastics are a growing environmental concern, especially in industries like cosmetics and cleaning agents where plastic particles are intentionally added to enhance product performance. These petroleum-based microplastics persist for hundreds of years, eventually accumulating in oceans and causing ecological harm. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are addressing this issue with a groundbreaking biodegradable polymer that breaks down into sugars and amino acids.
Genetic Engineering as a Basis
At the core of this innovation is a polymer called poly(beta-aminoester). Historically used in gene transfer applications, this polymer naturally degrades into sugars and amino acids after fulfilling its purpose. However, its rapid disintegration rendered it unsuitable for cosmetic and cleaning products.
Led by research pioneer Robert Langer, along with Ana Jaklenec and doctoral student Linzixuan (Rhoda) Zhang, the MIT team tailored this polymer for extended durability. By modifying its hydrophobicity, mechanical strength, and pH sensitivity, they developed five promising candidates. Among these, one stood out as robust enough to replace traditional plastic microparticles in various applications.
Encapsulation of Vitamin Pills
One fascinating application of this polymer is in the encapsulation of sensitive nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and C, along with essential minerals such as zinc and iron. These nutrients, often vulnerable to heat and light, can now be protected effectively:
- Encapsulated nutrients endured boiling water for two hours without degradation.
- Even after six months in high-temperature and high-humidity conditions, over 50% of the vitamins remained intact.
- The polymer’s protective layer dissolves in stomach acid, ensuring safe nutrient delivery.
This innovation offers significant advantages for health supplements, enabling the production of longer-lasting and more effective vitamin formulations.
A Safer and Organic Outlook on Cosmetics
The potential of this biodegradable polymer extends far beyond nutrient encapsulation. It holds immense promise for transforming industries while safeguarding the environment. Here are some key benefits:
- Replacing harmful microplastics with sustainable alternatives.
- Stabilizing vitamins and minerals under challenging conditions.
- Advancing industries like cosmetics, cleaning, and dietary supplements.
- Creating products that are both functional and environmentally friendly.
This development underscores the importance of combining sustainability with innovation, paving the way for greener and safer consumer products.
Original Publication
Adam Zewe
Article Title: Noninvasive imaging method can penetrate deeper into living tissue
Article Publication Date: 11-Dec-2024
Link to the original article: https://news.mit.edu/2024/noninvasive-imaging-method-can-penetrate-deeper-living-tissue-1211
Media Contact
Wolfgang Kempkens
+43-1-81140-300
All latest news from the category: Ecology, The Environment and Conservation
This complex theme deals primarily with interactions between organisms and the environmental factors that impact them, but to a greater extent between individual inanimate environmental factors.
innovations-report offers informative reports and articles on topics such as climate protection, landscape conservation, ecological systems, wildlife and nature parks and ecosystem efficiency and balance.
Newest articles
Gluing with starch
Bio-based adhesives for industrial applications. Folding boxes are considered sustainable packaging solutions for numerous everyday products – whether breakfast cereals, electronics, medicines, or perfumes. Made from paper and cardboard, folding…
What happens in the ocean when two cyclones collide
In April 2021, two tropical cyclones, Seroja and Odette, collided in the Indian Ocean northwest of Australia. Two researchers from the University of Oldenburg have now studied how this rare…
Miniature hearts for research
Replacing animal experiments: an MHH research team has succeeded in producing a haematopoietic heart organoid for the first time. How do human organs develop and what happens to them when…