How can Hokkaido University's ICReDD program help address plastic waste?

The ICReDD program has developed a method to use plastic waste, such as grocery bags, in chemical reactions that make toxic compounds safer. By breaking down plastic in a ball mill, they create radicals that can strip out harmful halogens, leading to the development of safer and more efficient chemical processes.

How much plastic waste does the world produce annually?

According to the article, humans produce an estimated 267 million tons of plastic waste per year, making it a serious social problem that needs to be addressed.

Home / Environment / Plastic Waste Smashing Technique Unlocks Safer Chemical Reactions

Plastic Waste Smashing Technique Unlocks Safer Chemical Reactions

Q: What is the potential impact of this plastic waste utilization technique?

The researchers say this breakthrough holds significant potential to foster the development of industrially attractive, safe, and highly efficient chemical processes. It could be a "game-changer" for handling toxic substances used in various industries.

11 Nov

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Summary

Plastic bags broken down in ball mill create radicals that strip toxins
Breakthrough could lead to safer, more efficient chemical processes
Researchers aim to utilize waste plastic and reduce environmental impact

Plastic Waste Smashing Technique Unlocks Safer Chemical Reactions

As of November 11th, 2025, scientists have made a significant breakthrough in utilizing plastic waste to improve chemical safety. Researchers at the Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (ICReDD) at Hokkaido University have discovered that by throwing plastic bags into a ball mill, which rapidly mixes solids using a steel ball, the chemical bonds in the plastic break apart, creating radicals.

These radicals can then be used in chemical reactions to strip halogens out of toxic substances, making them safer for human, animal, and environmental health. The researchers say this "game-changing" approach holds the potential to foster the development of industrially attractive, safe, and highly efficient chemical processes.