Engineers design a new biodegradable material to take the place of certain microplastics

Microplastics are an environmental hazard found nearly everywhere on Earth, released by the breakdown of tyres, clothing, and plastic packaging. Another significant source of microplastics is tiny beads that are added to some cleansers, cosmetics, and other beauty products.

In an effort to cut off some of these microplastics at their source, researchers have developed a class of biodegradable materials that could replace the plastic beads now used in beauty products. These polymers break down into harmless sugars and amino acids. 

To combat global micronutrient deficiency crises, researchers developed novel materials that protect fragile nutrients under harsh cooking and storage conditions. The microparticles seen here are made of biodegradable polymers that dissolve in the stomach to release encapsulated…