Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a sustainable material based on plant proteins that could replace single-use plastics in consumer goods and is similar to spider silk.
The spider's silk thread is a unique natural fibre, extremely tear-resistant and elastic at the same time. Researchers at the University of Cambridge have now succeeded in developing a polymer film that imitates the properties of the spider thread. The new material is just as durable as many plastics in use today and could replace plastic in many common household products.
The vegan spider silk becomes with the help of a new process from plant proteins and mimics the properties of silk at the molecular level. The result: a plastic-like, stable film that can be produced on an industrial scale. It is similar to high-performance engineering plastics such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE).
Vegan spider silk for waterproof coatings
The polymer can be coloured and also used to produce waterproof coatings. It is also home compostable.
The sustainable new material is marketed by Xampla, a Spin-off from the University of Cambridge, which focuses on the development of alternatives to single-use plastic and microplastics. The company plans to launch its first film packaging for dishwasher tabs and detergent capsules on the market this year.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge
