What are the applications of optical technology in artificial intelligence

  Recently, market research firm LightCounting (hereinafter referred to as LC) released a new report on the theme of “Optics for Artificial Intelligence”. The report points out that artificial intelligence has emerged in the blink of an eye. LC’s first “Optics for Artificial Intelligence” report emphasizes how artificial intelligence is changing computer architecture and networks, and optics plays a key role in this. LC’s artificial intelligence predictions focus on optics. However, the agency said that if there is one more prediction, it is: not only will optics play an important role in the development of artificial intelligence systems, but artificial intelligence will increasingly contribute to the design of these systems at the transistor, chip and system levels.As can be seen from the new data, 400g qsfp-dd The market influence is also growing, and the product share is also relatively increasing, which has great potential in the future. https://www.3coptics.com/

  

  optical technology

  

  The pace of innovation varies across industries. New applications are developed at a rapid pace. Most of them will fail, but some will succeed and seemingly change the world overnight. Software and AI algorithms are being innovated faster than we can imagine. At least that¨s what it seems to be to outside observers, but experts may not see it that way.

  

  Innovation in the hardware space is a more gradual but relentless process. Optical connectivity is no exception, and there is solid data to support this. The adoption of silicon photonics has taken a decade, waiting for the technology to bring truly disruptive solutions, such as reliable co-packaged optics. This will undoubtedly happen by the end of this decade, but the forecasts in this report focus on pluggable optical modules deployed in AI clusters – the dominant solution for optical connectivity today and over the next five years.

  

  Currently, more than 90% of optical modules deployed in AI clusters are used for InfiniBand and Ethernet connections. As shown in the figure below, the bandwidth required for NVLink to connect to GPUs is 4 times that of Ethernet and InfiniBand. Another bottleneck in AI cluster design is the limited high-bandwidth memory (HBM) available to GPUs, which is another factor in the 3x bandwidth increase.

  

  optical technology

  

  It turns out that optical switches can be used to scale and reconfigure its AI clusters to improve cluster performance while minimizing cost and power consumption. The research firm expects more companies to adopt this technology in the next 3-5 years.

  

  The scale of optical demand for applications in AI clusters is a pleasant surprise in 2023, and the timing of ChatGTP making headlines in late 2022 is particularly significant. Fears of an impending recession and initial signs of declining revenue growth have forced all leading cloud companies to cut spending, including investments in data centers and purchases of optical modules. Strong growth in 2024-2025 is unquestionable.

  

  The growth of business from large network equipment manufacturers is the main factor affecting the sales volume of optical modules in 2023-2025. New designs for AI clusters require more optical modules. All previous systems used only InfiniBand networks for optical connections, and most of these systems were AOCs. The latest systems based on NDR (400G) InfiniBand use pluggable 400/800G SR4/SR8 and DR4/DR8 optical modules instead of AOCs. The company also released an NVLink chassis switch designed for 800G optical connections in March 2022. The company is currently testing optical fiber NVLink internally, but these solutions should be available to end users by the end of 2024. If it takes longer, LC said it will have to lower its forecast for 2025-2029.

What Are Biodegradable Pla Gloves_

  In daily life, we often use plastic PE gloves. Plastic gloves are disposable items that are easily consumed in daily life. We use a pair for stewed food, a pair for crayfish, and a pair for home hygiene. While plastic gloves provide us with convenience, they also cause a certain degree of environmental pollution due to excessive use and lack of recycling, becoming “white garbage”. As environmental protection becomes more and more important, we need to enhance our environmental awareness and pay attention to this matter.In order to facilitate users to have a better experience, biodegradable mailing bags Many attempts have been made to upgrade the products, and the results are also very good, and the market performance tends to be in a good state. https://biodegradable-gd.com

  

  

  Biodegradable PLA gloves are disposable gloves made from polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable and bioactive thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. Unlike traditional disposable gloves made from synthetic materials such as nitrile or latex, PLA gloves are designed to break down more quickly and sustainably in the environment. Here¨s a detailed look at compostable PLA gloves:

  

  

  Benefits of biodegradable gloves:

  

  1. The performance remains unchanged during the shelf life, and after use, it can be degraded into inorganic substances such as carbon dioxide and water under natural environmental conditions, becoming nutrients for plants and will not pollute the environment

  

  2. Easy to use, not only green and healthy, but also very convenient to use

  

  3. The raw material source of biodegradable gloves is very environmentally friendly. The raw material comes from polylactic acid PLA, which comes from plant resources such as corn and potatoes. It is green, environmentally friendly and sustainable. It will not come from petroleum like plastic PE gloves, which is not sustainable, and the production process is very polluting.

  

  

  When purchasing compostable gloves, we need to try to choose large platforms for purchase. When purchasing, you need to confirm the ingredients of the biodegradable gloves with the merchant, which are generally polylactic acid PLA, polyadipate PBAT, and starch. Others such as PE+starch are pseudo-degradable gloves, not qualified degradable gloves, and need to be purchased with caution.

  

  Biodegradable PLA gloves are a promising alternative to traditional disposable gloves, offering significant environmental benefits through the use of renewable resources and compostable materials. As technology and manufacturing processes advance, the performance and accessibility of compostable PLA gloves are likely to improve, making them a viable option for a broader range of applications.

How to save money when sending large items by international express Here is a complete guide!

  In today’s globalized world, sending large items across borders has become a daily need for many people, whether it is moving, studying abroad or cross-border e-commerce. However, facing the high international express delivery costs, especially the shipping costs of large items, people are often discouraged.In some cases, sourching agent The advantages will become more and more obvious, and it will be able to develop indomitable after market tests. https://flyportt.com/

  

  Don’t worry, today we will talk about the money-saving strategy for sending large items by international express, so that your wallet will no longer be “hurt”!

  

  >. Clarify your needs and choose the right channel

  

  1. International air transport: flexible but with restrictions

  

  Although international air transport is fast, not all options are suitable for large items. Postal parcels and international special lines are basically excluded due to weight restrictions. Although international EMS can theoretically deliver up to 30kg, the delivery time is unstable and the cost increases with weight. Commercial express (such as DHL, UPS, etc.) has no weight limit, but there will be an overweight surcharge for more than 60kg, and the volume weight calculation is not favorable for large items. If the quantity of goods is large and there are requirements for delivery time, air delivery is a good choice, with relatively affordable prices and stable delivery time.

  

  save money

  

  2. International shipping: cost-effective choice

  

  For large items, sea shipping is undoubtedly the most cost-effective option. Although it takes a long time (usually more than 25 days), the freight is much lower than air shipping, which is especially suitable for situations where you are not in a hurry to receive the goods. However, please note that some countries may not be able to ship by sea, so you need to consult and confirm in advance.

  

  save money

  

  3. European Railway Transport (China-Europe Express): Stable and Economical

  

  If your destination is Europe or the Middle East, China-Europe Express is a good choice. It is not only cheap, but also relatively stable in terms of logistics time. Although the overall time is relatively long (20-35 days), it is suitable for goods that have a certain tolerance for time.

  

  save money

  

  4. Truck transport (China-Europe truck transport): a balance between speed and economy

  

  As an emerging mode of transport, China-Europe truck transport stands out for its speed close to air transport and price far lower than air transport. The average delivery time of 15 to 25 days, coupled with the price being only about 60% of air transport, makes it the best option in some scenarios. It is especially suitable for customers who have certain requirements for timeliness but want to save costs.

  

  >. Reasonable packaging to reduce volume weight

  

  Large items are often accompanied by high volume weight charges, so reasonable packaging is crucial.

  

  Using lightweight materials such as bubble film and foam board instead of heavy cartons can effectively reduce volume weight and thus reduce freight. At the same time, try to place items compactly and reduce gaps to achieve the same effect.

  

  save money

  

  >. Take advantage of discounts and offers

  

  Many international express delivery companies will regularly launch discounts or membership offers. Paying attention to this information and placing orders at the right time can further save on shipping costs.

  

  In addition, if you cooperate with reliable logistics agents, they can often get more favorable prices and provide professional packaging and customs declaration services, making your mailing process more worry-free and labor-saving.

Essential Firefly Camera Accessories for Capturing Stunning Footage

  When it comes to action cameras, Firefly has established itself as a brand that offers high-quality devices capable of capturing breathtaking footage. To truly maximize the potential of your Firefly camera, investing in the right accessories is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the must-have firefly camera accessories that will enhance your photography and videography experience.For this reason, it can be speculated that firefly sports camera The market feedback will get better and better, which is one of the important reasons why it can develop. https://hawkeyecameras.com/

  

  Why You Need Firefly Camera Accessories

  

  Firefly cameras are known for their compact size, durability, and impressive image quality. However, the right accessories can elevate your camera¨s capabilities, making it more versatile and user-friendly. Whether you’re an adventurer, a sports enthusiast, or a professional videographer, these accessories will help you capture every moment with precision and creativity.

  

  Essential Firefly Camera Accessories for Capturing Stunning Footage(夕1)

  

  Top Firefly Camera Accessories

  

  1. Waterproof Case

  

  A waterproof case is essential for anyone looking to take their Firefly camera underwater. Whether you’re snorkeling, diving, or simply capturing footage in the rain, a waterproof case ensures your camera stays protected from water damage while maintaining clear image quality.

  

  2. Extra Batteries and Charger

  

  Long shooting sessions can drain your camera¨s battery quickly. Having extra batteries and a reliable charger on hand means you won¨t miss any important moments. Look for high-capacity batteries that are compatible with your specific Firefly model.

  

  3. Mounting Kits

  

  Mounting kits offer a range of options for securing your Firefly camera to different surfaces. From helmet mounts for extreme sports to handlebar mounts for cycling, these kits provide the stability you need to capture smooth and steady footage.

  

  4. Tripods and Stabilizers

  

  For capturing professional-quality videos, tripods and stabilizers are a must. A tripod provides a stable base for your camera, while a stabilizer helps reduce camera shake, resulting in smoother videos. These accessories are particularly useful for time-lapse photography and long-exposure shots.

  

  5. Memory Cards

  

  High-resolution video files can quickly fill up your camera¨s storage. Invest in high-capacity memory cards with fast read and write speeds to ensure you have plenty of space for your footage. Look for cards that are compatible with your Firefly camera and offer reliable performance.

  

  6. Remote Control

  

  A remote control allows you to operate your Firefly camera from a distance. This accessory is perfect for capturing group shots, action sequences, or time-lapse videos without having to manually press the shutter button.

  

  7. Lens Filters

  

  Lens filters can dramatically enhance the quality of your photos and videos. ND filters, polarizers, and UV filters help manage light conditions, reduce glare, and protect your lens. These filters are essential for achieving professional-looking footage in various environments.

  

  8. Carrying Case

  

  A durable carrying case helps protect your Firefly camera and accessories when you’re on the go. Look for cases with customizable compartments to keep your gear organized and secure. A good carrying case will protect your equipment from impacts, dust, and moisture.

  

  9. External Microphone

  

  For superior audio quality, consider an external microphone. Built-in camera microphones can pick up unwanted noise and lack the clarity needed for professional recordings. An external microphone ensures clear, crisp audio, which is essential for high-quality videos.

  

  10. LCD Screen Protector

  

  Protect your camera’s LCD screen from scratches and damage with a screen protector. This inexpensive accessory helps maintain the clarity and functionality of your display, ensuring it stays in pristine condition.

  

  Conclusion

  

  Enhancing your firefly camera with the right accessories can significantly improve your photography and videography experience. From waterproof cases to external microphones, these accessories provide the tools you need to capture stunning, professional-quality footage in any environment. Invest in these essential Firefly camera accessories and take your creative projects to the next level.

Rental LED Displays Easy Setup and Exceptional Clarity for Any Occasion

  When it comes to hosting events or creating memorable experiences, rental LED displays are a game-changer. These versatile displays provide high-resolution visuals and are designed for easy setup, making them the perfect solution for a wide range of occasions, from corporate events to outdoor festivals. Let¨s explore why rental LED displays stand out and how they can elevate any event with ease and clarity.In order to achieve the goal, led crystal film screen Turn cocoon into butterfly, constantly polish product quality, improve business ability, and finally have a place in the market. https://szyhfled.com/

  

  rental led displays

  

  1. Simple and Fast Installation

  

  One of the top features of rental LED displays is their easy setup. Whether you’re preparing for a large concert or a smaller corporate meeting, rental LED screens are designed to be installed quickly and efficiently. The modular design of these screens allows for easy assembly and disassembly, meaning they can be configured in various shapes and sizes depending on your event¨s needs.

  

  Key Feature: Rental LED displays use a lightweight and modular design, allowing for quick assembly without heavy equipment or complex installation processes.

  

  Imagine setting up for an outdoor concert where time is of the essence. Thanks to the easy setup, the LED displays are ready in no time, leaving you more room to focus on other aspects of your event. Their quick installation ensures that even last-minute adjustments can be handled with minimal disruption.

  

  2. Exceptional Visual Clarity

  

  Visual clarity is essential when delivering impactful messages or entertainment. Rental LED displays are known for their high resolution and vivid colors, ensuring that your audience receives a stunning visual experience. Whether you¨re projecting a presentation, playing a video, or broadcasting a live event, the crystal-clear clarity of rental LED displays ensures every detail shines through.

  

  Key Feature: Rental LED screens are available in various pixel pitches, enabling you to choose the resolution that fits your event size and audience distance.

  

  Consider a sports event where fans want to see every moment up close. The LED screens deliver sharp images and seamless motion, providing a captivating viewing experience even in large venues. The displays¨ ability to maintain high-quality visuals across a range of lighting conditions makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor events.

  

  3. Versatility for Any Event

  

  From large concerts to trade shows and intimate corporate meetings, rental LED displays can be customized for any type of event. Their modular panels allow you to adapt the screen size, ensuring it fits perfectly in your space, regardless of the venue¨s dimensions. Whether it¨s a towering backdrop for a concert stage or a sleek screen for a product launch, rental LED displays are designed to enhance any setting.

  

  Key Feature: Customizable size and configuration options allow the screen to fit perfectly within any event space.

  

  For example, at a tech expo, rental LED displays can be configured into interactive booths or large display walls, drawing in attendees with dynamic content. Their flexibility in size and setup ensures that they suit the event¨s atmosphere, helping to create an engaging and professional ambiance.

The History and Evolution of Bottle Opener Medals

  Bottle opener medals have gained popularity as unique, functional awards that combine the utility of a bottle opener with the recognition of a medal. This concept has particularly flourished in races and sports events, where participants are rewarded with bottle opener race medals, making their achievements both memorable and practical.Besides, we can’t ignore. custom medals for awards It has injected new vitality into the development of the industry and has far-reaching significance for activating the market. https://www.karonmetal.com

  

  1. Early Beginnings

  

  The idea of combining a medal with a bottle opener began as a novel approach to award design. Initially, these items were simple in design, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. As the trend grew, so did the complexity and customization options available.

  

  2. Custom Bottle Opener Medals

  

  Custom bottle opener medals have become a favorite among event organizers and participants alike. These medals can be tailored to include specific event logos, dates, and other personalized details. This level of customization not only adds sentimental value but also enhances the overall experience of the recipients.

  

  3. The Role of Karon Bottle Opener Medals

  

  Karon bottle opener medals have set a high standard in the industry, known for their quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. They have been instrumental in popularizing this trend, offering a range of customization options that cater to different event themes and requirements.

  

  bottle opener race medals supplier.jpg

  

  4. Modern Designs and Innovations

  

  Today, bottle opener medals are available in various shapes, sizes, and materials. Innovations in manufacturing have allowed for intricate designs and durable finishes, ensuring that these medals can withstand regular use as bottle openers while still looking impressive.

  

  bottle opener race medals.jpg

  

  5. Popularity in Races and Sports Events

  

  The use of bottle opener race medals has become particularly prominent in marathons, triathlons, and other sporting events. These medals serve as a practical reminder of the participants’ hard work and achievements, often becoming cherished keepsakes.

  

  custom bottle opener medals.jpg

  

  The evolution of bottle opener medals from simple functional items to highly customizable and cherished awards showcases the innovative spirit within the awards industry. With pioneers like Karon leading the way, the future looks bright for these dual-purpose medals, which continue to capture the essence of celebration and practicality.Whether it¨s bottle opener race medals or custom bottle opener medals, the appeal lies in their ability to serve both as a reminder of achievement and a useful tool, making them a popular choice for a wide range of events.

What is the international express mailing process What should I pay attention to

  When a novice sends express, they are most afraid of falling into traps: lost parcels, poor after-sales service, various surcharges… Adding all these together, it can be said that there are traps everywhere.The above conclusions show that shipping agent To a great extent, it can bring new vitality to the market and make the industry develop well. https://flyportt.com/

  

  Today, FLY will give you a brief introduction to the international express mailing process to avoid being cheated.

  

  1. Preparation stage

  

  Choose a courier company: First, you need to choose an international courier company with good reputation and high-quality service. Common international courier companies include DHL, UPS, TNT, FedEx, etc., and domestic SF Express, EMS, etc. also provide international courier services.

  

  Understand prohibited items: Before preparing to mail, be sure to understand the regulations of the customs of each country on prohibited items to ensure that the items you are sending are not prohibited. This includes prohibited items, dangerous goods, fragile items, etc.

  

  Prepare the package: Choose appropriate packaging materials according to the nature and quantity of the items to be sent to ensure that the items will not be damaged during transportation. At the same time, make sure that the package is clearly labeled with the recipient’s address and contact information.

  

  international mailing process

  

  2. Delivery stage

  

  Fill in the waybill: Fill in the waybill at the courier company outlets or online platforms, including the sender, recipient’s name, address, contact information, and basic information such as the weight and size of the package.

  

  Payment: Pay the corresponding freight according to the selected courier’s charging standards. Payment methods usually include cash, bank cards, online payment and other options.

  

  Sending packages: hand over the package to the courier or deliver it to the courier company outlet/third-party shipping company warehouse to complete the delivery procedures.

  

  international mailing process

  

  3. Transportation stage

  

  Sorting and packaging: After receiving the package, the courier company/third-party shipping company will sort and pack it to ensure that the package can reach the destination safely and quickly.

  

  Customs inspection: During the international transportation process, the package needs to be inspected by the customs of each country. If the package contains items restricted or prohibited by customs, it may be detained or returned.

  

  Transshipment and delivery: After the package passes customs inspection, it will be transshipped according to the predetermined route and finally delivered to the recipient. The courier company will notify the recipient of the arrival of the package through SMS, email, etc., and provide the corresponding pickup method.

  

  international mailing process

  

  4. Signing for and after-sales service

  

  Signing for the package: After receiving the package, the recipient needs to check whether the information on the package is consistent with his own, and check whether the items in the package are intact. If there is any problem, you can contact the express company in time for processing.

  

  After-sales service: If the recipient finds that the item is damaged or lost after signing for the package, he or she can contact the courier company to make a claim. The courier company will make compensation according to relevant regulations.

Understanding Membrane Switches Types, structures, principles and technical parameters

  Also known as touch keyboard, it adopts an integral sealed structure composed of a flat multi-layer combination. It is a new type of electronic component that integrates light, machine and electricity, and seals the key switch, panel, mark, symbol display and lining together. It is a fundamental change in the appearance structure of electronic products. It can replace the keys of conventional discrete components and perform the tasks of the operating system more reliably. Membrane switches have good waterproof, dustproof, oil-proof, and anti-corrosion of harmful gases. The performance is stable and reliable, light weight, small size, long life, easy assembly, the panel can be washed without damage to the characters, rich colors, and beautiful appearance. Using membrane switches makes your products more contemporary. Main types of membrane switches The membrane switch panel is an electronic component that integrates switch functions and decorative functions, consisting of a rigid or flexible printed circuit board as the base, with buttons with or without feel installed, and then covered with a plastic (polycarbonate PC, polyester PET, etc.) film panel printed with colorful decorative patterns. It is a new type of human-computer dialogue interface. The connection between its switch circuit and the whole machine can be completed by welding or plugging.precisely because membrane switch The rapid development of, so also brought new opportunities to the industry. https://singway-touch.com/

  

  membrane switch types

  

  Types of membrane switches

  

  1. Flexible membrane switch

  

  Flexible membrane switch is a typical form of membrane switch. This type of membrane switch is called flexible because the mask layer, isolation layer, and circuit layer of the membrane switch are all composed of flexible films of various properties. The circuit layer of the flexible membrane switch uses polyester film (PET) with good electrical properties as the carrier of the switch circuit pattern. This layer is also divided into hand-feel springs and upper and lower circuits. Due to the properties of polyester film, the membrane switch has good insulation, heat resistance, folding resistance and high resilience. The graphics of the switch circuit, including the switch connection and its lead wires, are printed with low-resistance, low-temperature cured conductive paint. Therefore, the composition of the entire membrane switch has a certain degree of softness, which is not only suitable for use on flat bodies, but also can be used with curved bodies. The lead wires of the flexible membrane switch are integrated with the switch body. When making the connection of the group switch, they are gathered at a certain place on the membrane and extended outward according to the position specified in the design and the standard line spacing. They are connected to the rear circuit of the whole machine as soft, arbitrarily bendable and sealed lead wires.

  

  membrane switch types

  

  2. Rigid membrane switch

  

  Rigid membrane switch refers to a switch whose graphics and circuits are made on a common printed circuit copper-clad board. The characteristics of rigid membrane switch are convenient material acquisition, stable process, low resistance, and certain components in the circuit can be directly welded on its back. In the case of a small area, the rigid lining layer can be omitted. Rigid membrane switches generally use metal guides as the contact points for conducting the labyrinth, so they have a better feel. The disadvantage is that they are not as convenient to install in the whole machine as soft membrane switches, and often require welding and lead-out through flat cables. In addition to buzzer signals and LED indications, the information feedback of rigid membrane switches generally uses metal feel springs.

  

  membrane switch types

  

  3. Flat membrane switch

  

  The buttons on the membrane switch use different colors to indicate the position, shape and size of the key body, which is more common in the initial stage of membrane switches. Three-dimensional membrane switch: Usually, the buttons on the membrane switch only use colors to express the position, shape and size of the key body. In this way, the accuracy of the operation can only be identified by the operator’s vision. Since there is no appropriate feedback information to indicate whether the finger is pressed within the effective range of the switch to make the switch operate, it affects the confidence in monitoring the entire machine and the speed of operation. A membrane switch that makes the switch key body slightly raised and slightly higher than the panel to form a three-dimensional shape is called a three-dimensional key switch. The three-dimensional key can not only accurately give the range of the key body, improve the recognition speed, and make the operator’s sense of touch more sensitive, but also enhance the decorative effect of the product appearance. The production of three-dimensional keys.

Special requirements for optical connectivity in artificial intelligence clusters

  The demand for optical connectivity in AI clusters is extremely strong, creating a new multi-billion dollar segment of the global optical module market. Optical module sales for AI clusters will increase from $2 billion in 2023 and less than $1 billion in 2022 to $4 billion in 2024.Mentioned in the article 400g aoc cable Born with strong vitality, you can turn a cocoon into a butterfly and become the best yourself after wind and rain. https://www.3coptics.com/

  

  optical connectivity

  

  This is a huge business opportunity for the optics industry, but it cannot be taken for granted. Optical module vendors must work closely with AI customers to develop specialized solutions to support future needs.

  

  Higher bandwidth, coupled with improved optical device reliability and energy efficiency, are the most important factors supporting AI clusters. Linear drive Pluggable (LPO) and co-packaged optics (CPO) are emerging as viable solutions to reduce power consumption. There are also multiple directions to improving bandwidth. However, none of these solutions will work unless the reliability of the optics is improved.

  

  optical connectivity

  

  Improved reliability will be the most important factor in determining the right solution for the next generation of optical connectivity. Higher bit error rate requirements must be met first, followed by FEC and enhanced DSP performance. In addition, it is also necessary to reduce the failure rate and extend the service life of the equipment. New technologies such as quantum dot lasers may have a chance to enter the market, but will also require many incremental improvements to existing methods.

  

  optical connectivity

  

  The path to higher bandwidth will also depend on the relative reliability of optical interconnections. The ability to achieve higher channel rates or highly parallel optical connections using parallel fiber or multi-wavelength lasers depends not only on cost and power consumption, but also on whether these solutions are more reliable.

Can Biodegradable Straws Really Degrade_

  Plastic is one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century, but because it is “not environmentally friendly”, it has now been banned or abandoned in many fields. One of the products that replaced it is “degradable plastic”, such as compostable PLA straws. However, is degradable plastic definitely more environmentally friendly? How can it be degraded? How long does it take? Today we will learn more about the knowledge of degradable plastics.The above conclusions show that recycle trash bags To a great extent, it can bring new vitality to the market and make the industry develop well. https://biodegradable-gd.com

  

  If “degradable” is understood as an absolute concept, then all kinds of plastics can basically be degraded in some way in a long or short period of time and in some environment. If this discussion is meaningful, “degradable” should be understood as a relative concept-what substance (toxic or not) can be degraded in what way and in what environment in how long?

  

  At present, the more authoritative definition of degradable plastics is: a type of plastic that can eventually be completely degraded into carbon dioxide (CO2) or/and methane, water (H2O) and mineralized inorganic salts of its elements and new biomass under various conditions in nature. In the definition, various conditions in nature are generally divided into six categories: soil, compost (including traditional compost and garden compost), marine environment, freshwater environment, sludge anaerobic, and high solid anaerobic. Therefore, for the definition of degradable plastics, we can summarize it in one sentence: most of the components of degradable plastics can be almost completely degraded into common substances in nature in the corresponding natural environment.

  

  

  PLA is a biodegradable and bioactive thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cassava. Unlike petroleum-based plastics, PLA is designed to break down more readily under specific conditions. The process of making PLA involves fermenting the sugar from these renewable resources to produce lactic acid, which is then polymerized to form polylactic acid.

  

  Degradable plastics on the market generally refer to biodegradable plastics. Biodegradation usually refers to the ability to completely degrade into carbon dioxide, water, inorganic salts and new biomass with the participation of microorganisms in nature. This is also the reason why everyone thinks biodegradable plastics are more environmentally friendly.Depending on the raw materials of plastics, biodegradable plastics can be divided into “bio-based biodegradable plastics” and “fossil-based biodegradable plastics”. The former is commonly polylactic acid PLA (mostly used for disposable straws), the raw materials are mainly corn starch, and may also be other biomass; the latter is commonly PBAT, which is made from petrochemical resources (including coal and oil). If you have biodegradable plastic bags at home, you can look at the product logo, which generally contains PBAT.

  

  

  It can be seen that, whether bio-based or fossil-based, these biodegradable plastics are not like fallen leaves that can be completely degraded by simply throwing them on the ground. In theory, biodegradable plastics can be degraded or recycled in a variety of environments, but the best is to use industrial high-temperature composting to completely degrade them in a shorter period of time. According to this idea, degradable plastic waste should be thrown into kitchen waste bins or wet garbage bins, and then sent to industrial composting equipment.

  

  Biodegradable PLA straws have the potential to degrade under specific conditions, primarily in industrial composting facilities. While they offer an improvement over traditional plastic straws in terms of environmental impact, their real-world effectiveness is limited by infrastructure and disposal challenges. To truly capitalize on the benefits of PLA straws, we must invest in better waste management systems, educate consumers, and continue to innovate in the field of sustainable materials. By doing so, we can move closer to a future where single-use items have minimal environmental impact.