The future of plastic-recycling: Breaking it back down into hydrocarbons via enzymes.

[DetlefK]

Originally, it was discovered that wax-worms (moth-larvae) can digest plastic. But that process was too slow.

So scientists investigated the enzymes that break down the plastic, and then they ran evolutionary computer-simulations on the molecules, mutating it, to find how they should modify the molecule to make them more effective. The biggest challenge is making the enzyme work in different chemical environments: Different pH-values, different temperatures...

They can already break down plastic in the lab, turning it into liquid hydrocarbons. The next challenge is to scale this up into an industrial process.

And the hydrocarbons? They can be re-used for all kinds of petrochemical products.

[634-5789]

1. Agreed!

Something has to be done. I've been an IDOT litter and signage removal volunteer for 22 years. I've removed an AVERAGE 14.3 tons of pollutants annually, and almost 85% are plastics that eventually will end up back in the water supply. Any news like your post is good news and much appreciated.

[multigraincracker]

2. Cool. I buy wax worms every spring

and catch big bluegill. Then I’m gonna buy a case of Bud Light to make my beer batter fish dinners.
Win Win.