American scientists from Northeastern University in Boston have synthesized a polymer material made from Escherichia coli cells (E. Coli) and protein nanofibers that underlie microbial biofilms. The new type of plastic was called MECHS. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Nature Communications (NatComms).
According to experts, MECHS means artificial living materials for the production of which organic cells are used.
The new bioplastic can stretch like plastic film and its stiffness can be adjusted by adding proteins or peptides.
Scientists say the bacterial polymer can be produced in large quantities from biomass using a process similar to paper production.
The composition can withstand slight wetness, but dissolves without a trace when immersed in water or fertilizer. Therefore, due to the protein base of the material, it can be flushed down the toilet or used as fertilizer for plants.
The authors of the development believe that MECHS is suitable for the production of detergent capsules or primary packaging of new products.
Korean scientists before returned Waste produced by converting the national snack kimchi from sauerkraut into bioplastic.
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Source: Gazeta
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