Programmable self-destructing plastic can break down when triggered

Researchers at Rutgers University, led by chemist Yuwei Gu, have developed a novel type of programmable self-destructing plastic inspired by natural polymers like DNA and RNA, which naturally break down over time. Unlike conventional plastics that persist in the environment, this new plastic incorporates small chemical "helper" groups strategically positioned within its structure, enabling it to degrade on demand when exposed to everyday triggers such as ultraviolet light or metal ions—without requiring heat or harsh chemicals. This biomimetic approach allows the plastic to remain durable during use but break down naturally afterward, addressing a major environmental challenge posed by synthetic plastics. A key innovation of this technology is the ability to control the degradation speed by adjusting the spatial arrangement of the chemical groups within the polymer. This means the same plastic can be engineered to decompose in days, months, or years depending on its intended application—for example, short-lived take-out containers or long-lasting car parts. Early laboratory tests indicate that the breakdown products are non-toxic, and future