Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have come up with new material, called “2DPA-1”. Light as plastic and two times as strong as steel, the 2DPA-1 is the same weight as plastic and more durable than steel.

Unlike other plastics, this one can conduct electricity and keep gas out. Scientists think that 2DPA-1 can help us cut down on our environmental impact and maybe even cut down on the use of disposable plastics.

What are monomers?

A monomer is a small molecule that can be joined together to make bigger molecules called polymers in a similar way over and over again.

What is a polymer?

A polymer is one of a group of natural or man-made substances that has a lot of smaller molecules called monomers.

The fundamental issue with Plastics!

Plastics, which are made up of chains of building blocks called monomers, are what we have now. All plastics are made up of monomers. They are put together in the same way over and over again.

It’s hard for the monomer chains to hold together, but the gaps between them are weak and spongy. This is why sometimes food that has been stored in zip-top bags smell foul.

As per experts, every year, 12 million tonnes of plastic are dumped into the ocean. Microplastics have been found in the Arctic ice by scientists recently. Plastics also contribute significantly to ocean pollution.

Advantages of 2DPA-1

• 2DPA-1 is the first two-dimensional polymer that is flat and doesn’t have any bumps in it. Its monomers are locked together, like how the pieces of LEGO connect with each other.
• In addition, 2DPA-1 is cheap to make in large quantities. So, it would cut the cost of making different structures a lot. Thus, it would also be better for the environment because steel production is responsible for about 8% of the world’s carbon dioxide.
• 2DPA-1 can also be used to make things like carbon fibre, which is used in high-performance products like aeroplanes and race cars.

Researchers at MIT didn’t try to see if 2DPA-1 could be reused. However, they think that the stronger, more durable material could one day be used instead of disposable containers. This would help cut down on plastic waste.

Did you think 2DPA-1 will help us cut down on plastic pollution? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section. 

 

Curious Times is a place where we’re passionate about what we do. Consequently, we work hard every day to give our young readers the greatest possible experience and information. We also use Curious Times Weekly, The Curious Magazine, and My Expressions to communicate with our audience.  As a result, our content is exciting and interesting for our readers.

Schoolchildren from all around the world appreciate and enjoy our materials. So, we’re always looking for ways to improve, and are curious to hear from you. This, above all, assists us in providing better service to you.

Thus, what sort of news stories capture your interest? In the comments section below? Please share your thoughts! For the simple reason that we enjoy hearing from our young readers. The following social media platforms allow you to communicate with us: WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, LinkedIn.

  0  (Please login to give a Curious Clap to your friend.)

To post your comment Login/Signup