Degradable plastic Biodegradable water-soluble

There have been numerous definitions proposed for environmentally degradable and biodegradable water-soluble polymers and plastics, almost every article written on the subject includes the author s favorite definitions. All tend to encompass the same broad concepts but are slightly different in phraseology depending on the author s perspective... 

Degradability of other polyesters There are two main water-soluble polymer types commercially available polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) and ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH). PVOH is a readily biodegradable, water-soluble polymer. The degradation of PVOH is influenced by its crystallinity and molecular weight PVOH does not biodegrade, but simply dissolves in water or can be biodegraded by activated sludge treatment. EVOH is another water-soluble synthetic plastic. 

Figure 14.24a), have been developed. Other common categories of degradable plastics include synthetic biodegradable plastics which are broken down by bacteria, as well as plastics which dissolve in water (Figure 14.24b). The property that allows plastic to dissolve in water has been used in relatively new products, including soluble capsules containing liquid detergent. However, the vast majority of polymers are still non-biodegradable.

In summary, it is apparent tbat there are selective opportunities for environmentally degradable polymers and plastics. Notably for water-soluble polymers where recovery is unlikely. There are niche opportunities for plastics such as fast food wrappers, fast food utensils, where separation is avoided and the plastic is already in a food matrix that is suitable for biodegradation litter ocean dumping agricultural applications where recoveiy is unlikely and expensive for films and mulch and hygienic products. 

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