Wuhan: Chinese scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking method to tackle the pervasive issue of microplastic contamination in water sources. Small plastic particles have become a significant pollutant, raising health concerns due to their widespread presence. A new strategy developed by a Chinese research team promises to effectively remove these contaminants.According to Namibia Press Agency, the study, published in the journal Science Advances, introduces a reusable and biodegradable foam capable of absorbing microplastics with an efficiency of up to 99.8 percent upon its first use. Researchers from Wuhan University and Huazhong University of Science and Technology crafted the foam using chitin from squid bone and cellulose from cotton, resulting in a sustainable fibrous material.The foam's porous structure facilitates interaction with microplastics commonly found in electronics, food packaging, textiles, and other industrial products. To assess its effectiveness, the team tested the foam on samples fr om four real-world water sources, including irrigation water, lake water, seawater, and pond water. The results showed that the foam absorbed nearly 100 percent of microplastics in its initial cycles and maintained removal rates exceeding 95 percent after five cycles, highlighting its reusability.The study further indicates that the foam's adsorptive capacity remains largely unaffected by inorganic particles, heavy metals, organic pollutants, and microorganisms in water. Deng Hongbing from Wuhan University, the study's corresponding author, emphasized the urgency of addressing microplastic pollution, noting the continuous increase of plastic waste in the environment.Deng also highlighted the potential of biomass materials as a cost-effective solution to the complex issue of microplastic contamination in water. The research team has applied for a patent for this innovative technology, aiming to integrate it into real-world water treatment systems and home water purifiers in the near future.