London researchers unveil biodegradable balloon that decomposes in under a year
Scientists at Imperial College London have created a fully compostable party balloon that breaks down within nine months, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional latex balloons.
Imperial College London scientists have announced the creation of Bioloon, the first party balloon designed to decompose completely within nine months. The innovation stems from a process that links biodegradable polymers without the sulphur-based additives typical of ordinary balloons, which can persist for years and leach hazardous chemicals. Juliana Cumming, a 29-year-old PhD candidate, explained that the new method preserves the material’s stretchiness while ensuring full breakdown.
Funding was partially supplied by event planner Charlotte Melia, who was motivated after a large function left her surrounded by thousands of deflated balloons. Compared with standard latex balloons, Bioloon is priced similarly and is reportedly easier to inflate. The team projects commercial availability in about two years and envisions extending the material to products like gloves, surgical latex, and even condoms.
Why it matters
It offers a practical solution to balloon litter that harms marine wildlife, reducing environmental pollution.
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