Factors affecting biodegradation

This section focuses on (1) a discussion of the overall process of biodegradation, (2) a review of the different types, aspects and phases of biodegradation of several classes of organic pollutants, (3) an examination of the environmental factors affecting biodegradation and biotransformation mechanisms, and (4) a description of the different biodegradation and biotransformation pathways. 

The data presented illustrate the need of further studies on the factors affecting biodegradation of environmental persistent chemicals sorbed on sludge and soil nnder both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. 

Chu, C.C., 1995a. Biodegradable suture materials intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting biodegradation phenomena. In Handbook of Biomaterials and Applications, D.L. Wise, D.E. Altobelli, E.R. Schwartz, M. Yszemski, J.D. Gresser, and D.J. Trantolo, Eds., Marcel Dekker, New York. 

This volume in the series deals in a timely and comprehensive manner with the crucial topic of biodegradable polymers of natural synthetic or semi-synthetic origin. All the key classes of absorbable polymers used in the fabrication of microspheres and nanospheres, membranes, reservoirs and other components ofinjected or implanted delivery systems are covered. A better understanding of the chemical and physical factors affecting biodegradability will allow more precise prediction of the lifetime of systems in vivo and the more informed choice of polymeric vehicle. 

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