An innovative technology that converts natural seawater into fully biodegradable plastic turned heads as it was showcased at the 27th China Hi-Tech Fair (CHTF) in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.

Developed by the research team at the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, the pioneering process captures carbon dioxide from seawater and transforms it into formic acid. This formic acid is then used to produce bioplastic monomers, like succinic acid and lactic acid, which are further synthesized into biodegradable plastics, such as polybutylene succinate and polylactic acid.

Straws, and other product prototypes, have already been produced.

"We have constructed and validated the 'Artificial Ocean Carbon Cycle System' for the first time, directly realizing the complete technological chain from 'seawater to chemicals', truly bridging the entire process of 'carbon capture — conversion — creation'," Gao Xiang, the project leader and associate researcher at SIAT, said.

This technology holds significant potential for applications in carbon dioxide capture and resource utilization, marine bio-manufacturing, biodegradable plastics, biofuels, pharmaceutical intermediates, and high-value chemical manufacturing.

The CHTF, recognized as a key platform for high-tech developments in China, is backed by the local government and is showcasing over 5,000 new technologies, products, and achievements.

This year's event, running from Nov 14 to 16 at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, covers 400,000 square meters and features more than 5,000 enterprises and international organizations from over 100 countries and regions, according to the fair's organizing committee.

The fair highlights international technological advancements, China's high-level innovation, and Shenzhen's "20+8" industrial clusters, with 22 major exhibition areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, consumer electronics, and commercial aerospace.

It aims to drive China's technological innovation and accelerate the adoption of global advancements, according to the fair's organizing committee.

For the first time, the fair set up a "Regional Economic and Technological Innovation Achievements Zone", showcasing breakthroughs across China, from clean energy in the northwest to digital economy advancements in the southeast.

Additionally, the fair features an International Friendly Cities Technology Exhibition Area and a "Belt and Road" International Cooperation Zone, gathering innovation leaders from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Countries such as Germany, Canada, Russia, Brazil, and Argentina are presenting their scientific and technological products, promoting global cooperation in technology transactions, project investment, and industrial partnerships.

An "International Procurement Docking Zone" is also part of the fair, with the opening day's focus on new energy and energy storage technology. This attracted over 80 international procurement groups from more than 30 countries.