In brief
In Newfoundland, a chemist has made significant progress in uncovering the mystery behind strange blobs washing ashore along Placentia Bay, which have puzzled residents and scientists alike.
The sticky blobs, ranging from coin to dinner plate size, have been spotted since September and have sparked an investigation by Canada's environmental agency, though they haven’t yet concluded their findings. Chris Kozak, a chemist at Memorial University of Newfoundland, has studied samples from the blobs and noted a petrochemical smell. Initially suspecting polyurethane, he discovered that the blobs sank in water, leading to further tests. Analysis revealed a chemical composition of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, indicating no natural source, while the absence of silicone eliminated it as a possibility. The inquiry continues as scientists work to unravel the full story behind these curious coastal visitors.
