Sebastian Buckup and Beth Bovis
July 10, 2025
Japanese scientists have invented a plastic that dissolves in seawater
This video is part of: Centre for Energy and Materials
It’s as strong as conventional plastic but on contact with saltwater, it breaks down quickly and harmlessly within 2-3 hours. It was developed by scientists at RIKEN, a Japanese national research institute. The Japanese scientists combined two monomers to make the new plastic. Saltwater dissolves the bonds between these molecules breaking the plastic down into its original components.
A team of scientists at Japan’s national research institute RIKEN has developed a groundbreaking plastic that dissolves completely in seawater within just 2 to 3 hours. Despite its rapid breakdown, the plastic is as strong as conventional types, offering a sustainable alternative without sacrificing performance.
No microplastics, no trace, just clean oceans
Unlike typical biodegradable plastics, which can leave behind harmful microplastics, this new material fully breaks down into its original components. Saltwater dissolves the chemical bonds between its two monomers, and bacteria then complete the disintegration process. The plastic also decomposed in soil tests, vanishing entirely within about 8 days.
Every year, 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean, posing a grave threat to marine life and global food chains. The invention is a timely innovation as global efforts intensify to combat plastic pollution.
In August, the final round of UN negotiations for a treaty to end plastic pollution will take place in Geneva. The World Economic Forum’s Global Plastic Action Partnership continues to support this mission, helping turn pledges into concrete progress.
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