Underwater drone for capturing microplastics

The design of an autonomous underwater drone addresses ecological issues related to cleaning the oceans from plastic contamination. The main part of the drone consists of sheets made of a special biodegradable nanocellulose material that can effectively capture microplastics in saltwater due to its structure. However, the effectiveness of the concept is contingent upon the creation of a comprehensive system that limits the overall production of plastic products or ensures their efficient recycling. Therefore, the ambition of the concept is currently not within its capabilities to solve the problem of ocean pollution by microplastics on a global scale. In the future, however, it could contribute to mitigating and reducing its impacts.