One way researchers are offering a new option for plastic waste is the development of a biocatalyst that can degrade certain types of plastics.
Read MoreProteins play a critical role in many processes within cells and organisms. These important biomolecules are made up of building blocks called amino acids, which are linked together by a chemical bond called the peptide bond. Understanding the role of peptide bonds in protein synthesis is crucial to understanding the fundamental processes of life. What…
Read MoreAmino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are crucial for maintaining optimal health. Out of the 20 different types of amino acids, there are 9 that cannot be produced in the body and these are referred to as “essential amino acids.” These essential amino acids play important roles in many bodily processes necessary…
Read MorePlastic pollution is the accumulation of synthetic plastics — think plastic bottles, plastic pack rings, plastic packaging, bottle caps, straws, and hundreds of other plastic items. It’s a widespread problem, and we need to do something about it. But why is it a problem? Plastic pollution causes harm to wildlife — animals ingest and choke on plastic.…
Read MoreLithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used to power all kinds of devices from smartwatches, to power banks, and even electric vehicles. But there’s one big problem with Li-ion batteries — they are prone to catching fire when they get too hot. You likely know someone who has had a power bank, a vape, or another Li-ion-powered…
Read MoreHome furnishings could be replaced with a new wood-based degradable plastic that can be broken down without any harmful effects on the environment. Researchers in Sweden say this new material would replace traditional home furnishings such as cabinets, countertops, doors, and even wallboards. Unlike current home products — this new degradable wood-based plastic can be created…
Read MoreOver time, if left unattended, plastic bottles, carrier bags, and other plastic packaging will naturally break down. There are numerous ways this can happen — it could be a result of heat and sunlight, friction, oxidation, or even animals ingesting plastic. But either way, the plastic breakdown process begins here, but goes on forever. It’s…
Read MoreForever chemicals, also known as “PFAS,” may have serious health risks, with complications and side effects including cancer and birth defects. But what actually are they, and where are they found? Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are used to make endless household objects, from non-stick cookware, water repellents, pizza boxes, rubbers and plastics, food packaging, electronics, and…
Read MoreIf you own any plastic item, whether something as simple as a roll of packing tape or a storage box, you may have noticed something strange: these plastics turn yellow over time, leaving a tint that wasn’t previously there. Weird, right?! So, why does this happen? Why does your once white clock face, storage box,…
Read MoreThe topic of air pollution has never been more prevalent – here’s our basic guide to help you better understand air pollution and our environment. If you don’t already know, air pollution is when the air is contaminated (indoors or outdoors) by a chemical or biological agent that modifies the atmosphere. For example, these pollutants…
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