Japanese researchers investigate melanin derived from cuttlefish ink for biopolymer films and particles

In Japan, melanin is a ubiquitous compound in nature, produced by many organisms. However, its potential as a biomass resource to produce value-added chemicals and materials remains relatively unexplored. In a recent study, researchers from Japan investigated the chemical decomposition of melanin derived from cuttlefish ink and showcased its application in the synthesis of biopolymer films and particles. Their efforts will hopefully pave the way to the adoption of melanin upcycling.

In a recent study published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, a research team from the Graduate School of Engineering at Chiba University, Japan, set out to address this knowledge gap. Using both artificially and naturally sourced melanin, they performed a detailed analysis of the decomposition of melanin and showcased its upcycling potential. Their paper, which was made available online on April 19, 2024, and published in Volume 12, Issue 18 of the journal on May 6, 2024.