Intropic Materials embeds degrading enzymes directly into plastics to enable rapid and complete self-degradation into biodegradable or chemically recyclable small molecules. This technology addresses the challenge of enzyme instability outside of cells, unlocking truly compostable plastics and a sustainable circular bio-based economy.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Conventional plastics pose a significant environmental challenge due to their persistence in landfills and the environment, leading to pollution and resource depletion. While enzymes can break down plastics, their instability outside of cellular environments limits their practical application in degrading plastic waste.
Solution
Intropic Materials has developed a technology that embeds stabilized enzymes directly into plastics, enabling rapid and complete self-degradation into biodegradable or chemically recyclable small molecules. The company's patented nanoprotectants maintain enzyme stability and activity during plastic production and in various environmental conditions. This approach allows for the creation of truly compostable plastics and facilitates a circular bio-based economy by enabling the breakdown of plastics into reusable components. The stabilized enzymes retain their activity without compromising the inherent material properties of the plastic.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes manufacturers of plastic products seeking sustainable and compostable alternatives, as well as companies involved in waste management and recycling looking for innovative solutions to address plastic waste.
Features
- Nanoprotectants that stabilize enzymes in non-cellular environments
- Enables the use of enzymes in a wider range of solvents
- Allows for thermal processing to incorporate enzymes into plastics
- Self-degrading plastics that can be composted or perfectly recycled
- Technology validated through peer-reviewed publications in journals like Science and Nature