Definition of Biodegradation

Smith, J. R.,Tomicek, R. M Swallow, P. V., Weightman, R. L.,Nakles, D. V. Helbling, M. (1995). Definition of biodegradation endpoints for PAH contaminated soils using a risk-based approach. In Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soils, vol. 5, ed. P. T. Kostecki, E. J. Calabese M. Bonazountas, pp. 531-72. Amherst, MA Amherst Scientific Publishers. 

This report uses the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) definitions of biodegradable and compostable plastics. 

In relation to various definitions of biodegradability, several standard tests have been developed by Standards Organizations all around the world. We will present the most dynamic ones and the standard tests that they propose. 

There are many definitions of biodegradation, all of which include the same main principles. 

According to the French norm NFU 52001 Biodegradable materials in agriculture and horticulture - mulching films - AFNOR 2005, the definition of biodegradation is as follows ... 

The definition of biodegradable has been assessed during the past decade. Some examples of definitions of biodegradable plastic are given below. 

Most of the definitions of biodegradation are based on the same concept the action of microorganisms on the material and its conversion into carbon dioxide or methane and water. 

For several years, there has been considerable debate and controversy on the definitions of biodegradable plastic (e.g. at International Workshops on Biodegradable Plastics, Toronto 1989, Tokyo ISBP 1990, Montpellier 1991, Osaka 1993, and elsewhere). While the concept of biodegradability is broadly accepted by many, most of the debate has focused on reducing the broad concept with all its ramifications to a narrow statement, which tends to be accepted by very few. 

There are many definitions of biodegradability expounded by different authors. One publication [3] defines biodegradable polymer composites as "materials obtained from nature or by synthetic route, whose chemical bonds are cleaved at least in one step by enz5mies from the biosphere." T) ical degradation times for various materials, including biopol5miers and biocomposites, have now been estimated and are shown in Table 10.1. 

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