Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a modified strain of algae that captures microplastics from contaminated water by producing an orange-scented oil. The process also cleans wastewater and could support bioplastic production.
Susie Dai, a professor in the College of Engineering, led the creation of the algae through genetic engineering. The algae produce limonene, which alters their surface to attract water-repelling microplastics and form sinking clumps that are easier to collect.