Polyhydroxyalkanoates degradation mechanism

Polyesters offer multiple options to meet the complex world of degradable polymers. All polyesters degrade eventually, with hydrolysis being the dominant mechanism. Degradation rates range from weeks for aliphatic polyesters (e.g. polyhydroxyalkanoates) to decades for aromatic polyesters (e.g. PET). Specific local environmental factors such as humidity, pH and temperature significantly influence the rate of degradation. 

Polyhydroxyalkanoates, Polyhydroxybutyrate, History, Bacterial synthesis. Chemical synthesis. Genetic engineering. Mechanical properties. Thermal transitions. Crystallization, Plasticizers, Thermal degradation. Processing, Applications... 

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