Researchers from Oman have developed an ingenious "green synthesis" method to give aluminum foil fresh life beyond Reynolds Wrap.
The National University of Science and Technology experts' eco-friendly approach turns old foil into aluminum oxide nanoparticles. They can be put to use in multiple settings, including health care, agriculture, and industry, according to the publication AL Circle and the Oman News Agency.
Humans create loads of aluminum waste that's worth millions of dollars. In the U.S. alone, Business Insider reported that $800 million worth of cans are trashed each year. Data from 2023 from The Aluminum Association estimated that about 43% of cans shipped stateside were recycled that year.
What's more, research published by the National Library of Medicine found that increased urbanization is contributing to more foil waste. In total, the Oman News Agency reported that millions of tons of aluminum waste end up in a landfill instead of being reused.
The NUST team's innovative process is billed as an answer.
"It's a striking example of how waste can be reimagined as a resource, paving the way for a more circular, sustainable future," AL Circle reported.
The articles don't go into great detail on NUST's lab work, but the result is an antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-corrosion substance.
In the medical field, the nanoparticles could provide safe coatings for tools, lowering the risk of infection. The corrosion-proof particles can be applied to architectural materials or water purification systems. In fields, the anti-fungal ability can help to improve soil health, while on grocers' shelves, food packaging with microbial protection could be developed, as noted by AL Circle.
"By giving waste a new lease of life, this research paves the way for greener technologies with real-world impact," the report stated.
It's part of innovations happening around the world to combat tough-to-recycle materials. Experts in Kenya have discovered an insect that can eat plastic. University of Connecticut researchers are studying how to turn crustacean shells into a safer plastic alternative for biodegradable packaging. The United Nations reported that plastics can take centuries to decompose, turning into harmful microplastics with human health risks that are still being studied.
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Many glass jars and other containers — pill bottles used to make a sewing kit, for example — can be given a great second life, keeping them from the landfill.
At NUST, the team has a nano solution for troublesome aluminum foil waste.
"The study's findings underscore the transformative potential of repurposing aluminum waste into high-performance nanomaterials," per the Oman News Agency.
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