A team led by Professor Deng Hongbing and Associate Professor Zhao Ze from Wuhan University's School of Resource and Environmental Sciences has published groundbreaking findings in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

Their study introduces a novel biodegradable biocomposite material, derived from waste biomass resources, that matches the strength and water resistance of traditional petroleum-based plastics.

This research, detailed in the paper titled "Hierarchical assembly of biomass fiber–lamella–macromolecule networks for biocomposites with high strength and water-resistant sealing", follows the team's previous success in the field of degradable plastics, as highlighted by their earlier publication in Science Advances.

The team has developed an innovative strategy based on the multiscale spontaneous assembly and reorganization of biomass. This method utilizes the complementary physicochemical properties of three natural biomass components: cellulose fibers offer structural integrity, pollen microgel particles serve as adaptive interfacial fillers, and chitosan acts as a molecular adhesive and sealant.

The resulting material is highly durable, water-resistant, and fully biodegradable. Its production process is energy-efficient and free from chemical modifications. Chitosan’s adhesive properties allow for seamless waterproof sealing, making it ideal for use in food packaging, biodegradable straws, and waterproof patches.