Melting Plastics: Exploring Outcomes of Trawling Ocean Garbage Patches

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In summary, the conversation is discussing the potential outcome of melting plastics collected from ocean garbage patches in a furnace with an inert gas. The outcome would most likely be a messy, non-homogeneous solid that cannot be recycled. The discussion also touches on the inability for certain types of plastics to combine into a solid mold.
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ANarwhal
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What would happen if I trawled one of the oceans garbage patches (say the great pacific or atlantic garbage patches) and put everything I trawled into a furnace with an inert gas hot enough to melt the majority of plastics I picked up, what would be the outcome?

I am looking to know more about why certain types of plastics may not combine with others into a big mold.
 
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  • #2
You would be making a big mess which you wouldn't be able to recycle.
 
  • #3
Would the plastics still form 1 solid?
 
  • #4
Hard to say. Most likely yes, but not a homogeneous one. As SteamKing wrote, all you will get would be something messy.
 
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I would like to first address the issue of trawling ocean garbage patches. While it may seem like a simple solution to clean up the plastic waste in our oceans, it can actually have harmful consequences on marine life and the overall ecosystem. Trawling can disrupt the natural balance of the ocean and harm organisms that rely on the plastic debris as a habitat.

Now, onto the question of melting plastics from the garbage patch. The outcome of this process would depend on several factors such as the type of plastics present, the temperature of the furnace, and the composition of the inert gas. Plastics are made up of different polymers, and each type may have a different melting point. Some plastics may melt at lower temperatures, while others may require higher temperatures to melt.

Furthermore, it is important to note that melting plastics in a furnace can release harmful chemicals and pollutants into the air. These emissions can have negative effects on human health and the environment. Additionally, not all plastics may melt completely and could release toxic fumes or residue.

As for the issue of plastics not combining with each other, this is due to the different chemical compositions of each type of plastic. Plastics are made up of long chains of molecules called polymers, and the structure and properties of these polymers can vary greatly. This makes it difficult for different types of plastics to bond together and form a cohesive mold.

In conclusion, while melting plastics from ocean garbage patches may seem like a viable solution, it is not without its drawbacks and potential harm to the environment. It is important to find more sustainable and environmentally-friendly ways to reduce and manage plastic waste in our oceans.
 

1. Can plastic really melt in the ocean?

Yes, plastic can melt in the ocean, but the process is not the same as melting ice. Instead, plastic breaks down into smaller pieces through a process called photodegradation, where sunlight causes the plastic to become brittle and break apart. These smaller pieces can then be ingested by marine animals or enter the food chain, causing harm to the ecosystem.

2. How does trawling affect the melting of plastics in ocean garbage patches?

Trawling, or the practice of dragging a net through the ocean to collect marine debris, can actually accelerate the melting of plastics. As the net drags along the ocean floor, it can cause friction and heat, which can speed up the photodegradation process. Additionally, trawling can also break down larger pieces of plastic into smaller microplastics, which can be more difficult to clean up and have a greater impact on marine life.

3. What are the potential outcomes of melted plastic in ocean garbage patches?

The outcomes of melted plastic in ocean garbage patches can include harm to marine life, disruption of the food chain, and damage to the ocean ecosystem. Melted plastic can release harmful chemicals into the water, creating a toxic environment for marine animals. It can also entangle or choke marine animals, leading to injury or death. Furthermore, melted plastic can also affect the growth and reproduction of marine organisms, impacting the overall health of the ocean.

4. Can anything be done to prevent or slow down the melting of plastics in ocean garbage patches?

Yes, there are steps that can be taken to prevent or slow down the melting of plastics in ocean garbage patches. One solution is to reduce the amount of plastic waste produced in the first place, through measures such as using reusable bags and containers. Another solution is to properly dispose of plastic waste and recycle whenever possible. Additionally, implementing stricter regulations and clean-up efforts can help reduce the amount of plastic in the ocean and lessen the impact of trawling on plastic melting.

5. How can we as individuals make a difference in addressing the issue of melting plastics in ocean garbage patches?

As individuals, we can make a difference by reducing our own plastic consumption and properly disposing of plastic waste. We can also participate in beach clean-ups and support organizations that work towards cleaning up ocean garbage patches. Additionally, advocating for stricter regulations and supporting sustainable alternatives to plastic can also help address this issue on a larger scale.

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