Researchers at Northeastern University have found that common materials used in biodegradable electronics can decompose into microplastics, posing a threat to the environment even after disposal. According to a study published in npj Flexible Electronics, PEDOT:PSS, used in medical research, can take up to eight years to dissolve and may break down into microplastics, potentially causing health issues. On the other hand, materials such as cellulose and silk fibroin degrade rapidly and do not release harmful byproducts.
The two team members, Electrical and Computer Engineering Prof. Ravinder Dahiya and researcher Sofia Sandhu, used a partially degradable pressure sensor and a fully degradable photodetector to study the effects of the materials employed.
