Biodegradable polymers respirometric characterization

Our research program on biodegradable polymers consists of the respirometric characterization of biodegradation of polymers, as reported in this paper, and mechanical, thermal-analytical and chromatographic characterization which will be reported later. 

Poly(vinyl alcohol) is the most readily biodegraded, compared to other vinyl polymers, e.g., polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Respirometric assays with mixed culture activated sludge have shown that poly(vinyl alcohol) is mineralized [92]. Extensive studies have been reported on the purification, characterization, and mechanism on degradation of poly(vinyl alcohol) by enzymes isolated fi om pseudomonas. The polymer is degraded as the sole carbon source by thee organisms the mechanism of action is summarized in Figure 5.52. 

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