LG Elec's ThinQ UP washing machine lowers microplastic emissions

LG Electronics Inc. on Tuesday said it will add a new function to its ThinQ UP upgradable washing machines that drastically reduces the emission of microplastics to protect the marine environment.

From next month, the company's Tromm washer brand will see the upgraded "microplastic care" course. Buyers of ThinQ Up devices can use new features offered by the related app from the ThinQ UP home appliance center.

The new function reduces the volume of microplastic emissions caused by damage to synthetic fibers through lowering friction on the fabrics, with the washing effect maintained even with longer washing time.

Testing conducted by LG Electronics with Intertek, a UK-based internationally accredited agency for testing and certification, showed that the course reduced the amount of microplastics of over 20 micrometers generated during washing by 70% from the standard course.

To cut the production of such waste, the water temperature was lowered to 75% of that of the standard course, resulting in the lowering of energy consumption by 30%.

An estimated 35% of microplastics in the world's oceans come from synthetic fibers damaged during washing. Such materials that go into the sea contaminate the ocean ecosystem and harm the human body through food.

"We will enhance the customer experience with Tromm washing machines through differentiated ThinQ UP upgrades that consider the environment," said Baek Seung-tae, executive vice president of LG Electronics' Living Solutions Business Division.

Write to Jeong-Soo Hwang at hjs@hankyung.com