Bio-Derived Foam

14.11.2024

Bio-Derived Foam

Why in the news?

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a biodegradable foam that could transform the packaging industry while addressing critical environmental concerns.

About Bio-Derived Foam:

• Bio-derived foam offers a sustainable alternative to plastic materials used in traditional Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) packaging.
• The foam is made from bio-based epoxy resins, non-edible oils approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and hardeners derived from tea leaves.
• It offers industries an environmentally responsible alternative to conventional expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane foam.
• The new foam's unique chemical structure features dynamic covalent bonds that can break and reform under external stimuli. This allows the foams to be mechanically reprocessed or dissolved in eco-friendly solvents without losing strength.
• Unlike conventional packaging materials that persist in landfills for centuries, these bio-foams can disintegrate within three hours when exposed to eco-friendly solvents at 80°C.
• It disintegrates safely in landfills without contaminating groundwater, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic foams.
• Significance: The Indian foam market is currently valued at $7.9 billion and is expected to reach $11.1 billion by 2032, according to an analysis report by Research and Markets.
• With less than 1% of the 2.3 million tonnes of plastic foam produced annually being recycled, this innovation addresses a pressing environmental challenge.

                                                             Source: The Times of India

Consider the following statements regarding the Bio-derived foam:

1. It is made from bio-based epoxy resins and hardeners derived from tea leaves.

2. It disintegrates safely in landfills without contaminating groundwater.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A)1 only

B)2 only

C)Both 1 and 2

D)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer C