In Brief

  • Challenge: Plastics Challenge
  • Challenge Type: SFI Future Innovator Prize
  • Status: Complete
  • Phase: Special Prize winner

The Challenge

Plastics can break down into small fragments known as microplastics due to chemical and physical processes.  Microplastics are now ubiquitous in the environment and are a global concern due to the potential risk to ecosystems and human health.  The focus to date has been on the transfer of microplastics from waterways and soils into the food chain driven by the degradation of plastics in the environment.  However, recent research from Trinity has shown that there is a significant and direct risk of exposure to microplastics from many plastic products commonly used in food preparation.

The Solution

Develop technologies to mitigate microplastic generation to allow the safe use and re-purposing of plastic products and to secure a sustainable future for products and technologies based on plastic materials. Our strategy is two pronged: (i) the development of surface treatment and coating technologies that prevent the exposure of plastics to the environment and inhibit microplastic release, and (ii) development of fabrication technologies to create plastic products with specific surface properties that prevent the release of microplastics.

UN SDG Alignment

Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

The Team

  • Team Lead: Prof. John Boland, Trinity College Dublin
  • Team Co-Lead: Dr Jing Jing Wang, Trinity College Dublin

Societal Impact Champion

  • Caolan Bushell, Mergon International