Engineer Creates Game Changing Edible Plastic That Degrades in One Month

Mexican researcher Sandra Pascoe Ortiz has developed a biodegradable plastic alternative made using juice extracted from the prickly pear, or nopal, cactus. It can be safely eaten without any issues.

The material breaks down in soil within about one month and dissolves in water within a few days, unlike petroleum-based plastics that can remain in the environment for hundreds of years.

Plastic Pollution

If produced commercially, the cactus-based material could provide an alternative to some disposable petroleum-based plastic products.

Research has estimated that as much as 2.4 million metric tons of plastic may enter the world’s oceans through rivers each year.

Large-scale production of biodegradable alternatives could help reduce some of the plastic waste reaching waterways and marine environments.

Cactus-Based Material

Pascoe Ortiz developed the material at the Universidad del Valle de Atemajac in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The plastic uses juice extracted from the nopal cactus and has been described as non-toxic and safe for humans and animals to consume.

Its ability to decompose quickly could prevent it from remaining in the environment as persistent plastic or microplastic waste.

Classroom Project

The research began in 2013 as a classroom chemistry project involving industrial engineering students.

Although the original students stopped working on the project after one semester, Pascoe Ortiz continued developing the material with other students.

The project later expanded through academic collaboration involving the University of Guadalajara and other partners.

Production Plans

The material has been tested in the laboratory for products including plastic films, small containers, and disposable cutlery.

Pascoe Ortiz and her team have also explored its possible use in packaging, bags, coatings, and toys.

The researchers have worked with industry partners to develop the technology further and prepare it for larger-scale production.

However, the project requires additional technical and financial support to move from laboratory testing to pilot and industrial manufacturing.