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CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have created a sustainable hydrogel that can remove microplastics from water, addressing the global issue of plastic pollution. Microplastics, which are particles smaller than 5 mm in size, are ubiquitous in seas, soil, and even the air we breathe, posing a hazard to human health. The hydrogel, which is composed of a unique polymer network, may bind to and destroy microplastics when exposed to ultraviolet light. Previous approaches, such as filtering membranes, have been ineffective due to clogging, rendering them unsustainable.
What Was The Process Behind Its Development?
The IISc hydrogel, which is made up of three polymer layers and nanoclusters of a substance called copper replacement polyoxometalate, has demonstrated excellent efficacy in eliminating polyvinyl chloride and polypropylene microplastics from water.
According to IISc, the hydrogel is made up of three separate polymer layers: chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyaniline, all of which are interlaced to form an Interpenetrating Polymer Network (IPN) architecture. The scientists filled this matrix with nanoclusters of a substance known as copper replacement polyoxometalate (Cu-POM). These nanoclusters act as catalysts, degrading microplastics with UV radiation. The combination of polymers and nanoclusters resulted in a robust hydrogel capable of adsorbing and degrading significant amounts of microplastics.
The team intends to scale up its technology and install devices for removing microplastics from various water sources. Furthermore, the hydrogel can be converted into carbon nanoparticles capable of eliminating heavy metals from polluted water, giving it a versatile solution to environmental contamination.
About IISc
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is located in Bangalore and was founded in 1909 with the goal of advancing scientific research in India. It is one of the country's leading research institutions, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs in a variety of scientific areas. The campus spans 400 acres and is home to various research facilities and laboratories. IISc is well-known for its contributions to advanced research and innovation in science, engineering, and technology.
About Microplastics
Microplastics are small bits of plastic that damage the environment. These particles originate from a range of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, and manufacturing processes. They are detrimental to marine life because they can be consumed by animals and become part of the food chain. Microplastics have also been identified in drinking water, posing a concern to human health. Certain goods are being banned as part of efforts to prevent microplastic pollution. Waste management systems are also being improved.
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