CU Research Pioneers Biodegradable Plastic from Coastal Seaweed
Researchers from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Chattogram University have successfully developed biodegradable plastic using carrageenan, a water-soluble colloid derived from coastal seaweed species found in Bangladesh. This achievement offers a potential solution to plastic pollution, particularly in food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and single-use household plastics.
The announcement came during a seminar on “Sustainable and Alternative Solutions to Plastic Pollution,” held on Tuesday (December 17) at the Chattogram District Social Services Auditorium. The seminar was organized by the Chattogram Disaster Management Society.
Professor Dr. Chowdhury Mohammad Monirul Hasan, from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, presented details of the research. He explained that the study utilized a Pressurized Hot Water Extraction (PHWE) method, combining sorbitol and polyethylene glycol as plasticizers. The presence of functional groups in the biofilm was confirmed through FTIR analysis, which demonstrated 90% biodegradability and 98% water solubility. Additionally, tests conducted on the biofilm’s strength and elasticity produced promising results.
Dr. Hasan noted, “The results indicate that seaweed, particularly the red species abundantly found in Bangladesh’s coastal regions, can be a viable alternative for producing biodegradable plastics. This could serve industries like food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and single-use household products.”
The seminar was attended by Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam as the chief guest, with Professor Dr. Md. Shafiqul Islam from Chattogram University's Institute of Marine Sciences presiding over the event. Other attendees included Dr. Zahirul Alam, faculty members from Chattogram University, and Zahidul Karim Kochi, Member Secretary of Chattogram Press Club.
Speakers at the seminar emphasized the critical role of bioplastics in addressing environmental pollution. They highlighted that bioplastics, derived from natural and sustainable sources, could replace petroleum-based plastics, which are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions and contribute significantly to global warming.
The panel further elaborated on the dangers of traditional plastics, noting that vast amounts of plastic waste accumulate in soil, water bodies, and oceans, causing severe environmental damage. By adopting bioplastics, the carbon footprint could be reduced as these materials decompose naturally, unlike conventional plastics.
This groundbreaking research positions Bangladesh as a significant player in the global effort to mitigate plastic pollution through innovative, eco-friendly solutions.
