7-22 FB Fruit Plastic

 Fruit Plastic That’s As Strong As Kevlar

Don't laugh folks, but according to scientists down in Sao Paolo, Brazil, we could be driving biodegradable Buicks made from fruit in the not so distant future.  Hi, I'm David Sparks, and that's right, progress is being made in the manufacture of super strong plastics from fruit fibers that are as tough as Kevlar, the material used in bullet-proof vests.  Has someone spiked the fruit punch down there or is this for real?  I'll have more in a minute.

Inhabitat reports:

Scientists from Sao Paulo State University have found a way to take the fibers from bananas, pineapples and other fruits, transforming them into strong, durable, lightweight plastic. Though expensive to mass produce, the fruit-based plastics are claimed to be more resistant than traditional plastics.The lead researcher in the project said that the fruit-based plastics are more resistant to heat, gasoline, and water, making them the perfect plastic to use in cars and other vehicles. Not only would the plastic be less likely to catch fire in a crash, but the product’s light weight would equate to better fuel economy. Plus, the plastic is made entirely from renewable materials and is biodegradable.To create the plastic, the leaves and stems of useable plants are cooked in a device similar to a pressure cooker, creating a talcum powder-like substance. The best fruit for the job seems to be the pineapple, but bananas, coconut shells, and agave all work well, too.