Biodegradable Polymers in Theory and Practice

No change in strength or barrier properties Biologically inert [Pg.98]

Rapid chemical Molar mass reduction and physical Biomass formation modification [Pg.98]

Four main types of polymer are currently accepted as being environmentally degradable. They are the photolytic polymers, peroxidisable polymers, photo-biodegradable polymers and hydro-biodegradable polymers. Commercial products may be composite materials in which hydrolysable and peroxidisable polymers are combined (e.g. starch-polyethylene composites containing prooxidants). The application, advantages and limitations of each group will be briefly discussed. [Pg.98]