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Aspects of biodeterioration of inert and degradable polymers

1993; Elsevier BV; Volume: 31; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/0964-8305(93)90002-j

1879-0208

Ann‐Christine Albertsson, Sigbritt Karlsson,

Microplastics and Plastic Pollution

Inert and degradable polymers are susceptible to deterioration to varying degrees. The process is slow for inert polymers but can be encouraged to take place quickly or with a predetermined rate by using degradable polymers. Degradable polymers can be inert polymers containing an additive, which thus accelerates degradation; a polymer with a backbone susceptible to, for example, photo-oxidation, hydrolysis, or biodegradation; or a native polymer (biopolymer). Performing biodegradation tests the selection of relevant micro-organisms, the creation of an optimal environment for biodegradation, and the avoidance of the accumulation of toxic compounds during the test, which could affect the viability of the micro-organisms