New tests performed on biodegradable glass: Researchers

Researchers have discovered a new way to make glass that will break down on its own and not harm the planet.

In a new study published in Science Advances on March 17, a group of researchers developed a “family” of eco-friendly glass from amino acids or peptides.

According to the study, the new biodegradable or biorecyclable glass has “a minimal environmental footprint”.

Traditional glass is made from non-biodegradable materials like methyl methacrylate.

Using a “heat-quench” technique, the researchers were able to chemically modify the amino acids to form a similar glass product. Other tests were carried out on the kinetic and thermodynamic capacities of the glass.

Although research has demonstrated the ability to create biodegradable glass, researchers say mass production isn’t happening anytime soon.Schematic diagram of the construction of biomolecular glass and its unique properties. (XING Ruirui)

“The concept of biomolecular glass, beyond commercially used glasses or plastics, can underpin green living technology for a sustainable future,” said YAN Xuehai, a professor at the Institute of Process Engineering of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. press release accompanying the study. “However, biomolecular glass is currently in the laboratory stage, and far from being commercialized on a large scale.”

Further testing is needed to ensure that eco-glass does not break down at high temperatures.