Submission + - Kiwi Alchemy (nzherald.co.nz)
Master Moose writes: New Zealand researchers have cracked what seems like modern-day alchemy, transforming one kiwifruit into 100 plastic spoons and the city's sewage into electricity.
Researcher Martin Markotsis said the secret was a chemical process that made kiwifruit melt like plastic in standard factory equipment.
Small batches of prototypes have been made, mixing different amounts of kiwifruit, corn and other secret, but organic, additives.
The project is now picking the best mixture — with the right strength and flexibility — and ramping up production to a commercial scale. One piece of fruit, about 90g, can make more than 100 of utensils.
The global market for bioplastics is expected to grow 20-fold in a decade, with overseas rivals building mobile phones from cashew nut shells and corn.
Researcher Martin Markotsis said the secret was a chemical process that made kiwifruit melt like plastic in standard factory equipment.
Small batches of prototypes have been made, mixing different amounts of kiwifruit, corn and other secret, but organic, additives.
The project is now picking the best mixture — with the right strength and flexibility — and ramping up production to a commercial scale. One piece of fruit, about 90g, can make more than 100 of utensils.
The global market for bioplastics is expected to grow 20-fold in a decade, with overseas rivals building mobile phones from cashew nut shells and corn.
