【科技日报】科研团队首创人工海洋碳循环系统 实现“海水变生物塑料”

Core Insights - The article discusses the development of an "artificial ocean carbon cycling system" that integrates electrocatalysis and biocatalysis to capture and convert CO2 from seawater into valuable chemical products, addressing both ocean acidification and carbon reduction goals [3][4][6]. Group 1: Research Overview - The research was conducted by a collaboration between the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, resulting in a system that captures CO2 from seawater and converts it into intermediates for biomanufacturing [3][4]. - The system demonstrates a complete chain from CO2 capture to the production of materials and molecules, showcasing a scalable platform for interdisciplinary integration [4]. Group 2: Key Technological Innovations - The electrocatalysis team developed a novel electrolytic device that operates continuously for over 500 hours in natural seawater, achieving a CO2 capture efficiency of over 70% and producing hydrogen as a byproduct [6]. - The cost of capturing one ton of CO2 is approximately $229.9, indicating a promising economic outlook for practical applications [6]. Group 3: Biocatalysis Development - The biocatalysis team created a "supercell" capable of efficiently utilizing formic acid, derived from captured CO2, to produce biodegradable plastic monomers [7][8]. - The engineered bacteria can convert formic acid into succinic acid and lactic acid, which are core monomers for biodegradable plastics [8]. Group 4: Industrial Applications and Future Plans - The research has led to the synthesis of fully biodegradable PBS and PLA, demonstrating the potential for industrial applications in converting seawater into green materials [9]. - Future plans include establishing integrated "green factories" along coastal areas to continuously capture CO2 and convert it into green plastic raw materials, contributing to sustainable production models and supporting the "blue economy" [9].