Biodegradation of polyethylene films with prooxidant additives.
Prooxidant additives represent a promising solution to the problem of the environment contamination with polyethylene film litter. Prooxidants accelerate photo- and thermo-oxidation and consequent polymer chain cleavage rendering the product apparently more susceptible to biodegradation. The question not fully resolved remains the biodegradation itself, its mechanism and especially the factors influencing the time-frame in which it can occur. The presented review is aimed to provide comprehensible information for both microbiologists and polymer scientists, who need participate in the research leading to an understanding of the microorganism action on the oxidized polyethylene and to design of new materials.
Koutny
Marek
M
Centre National d'Evaluation de Photoprotection, CNEP, Universite Blaise Pascal, 63 177 Aubiere cedex, France. mkoutny@ft.utb.cz
Lemaire
Jacques
J
Delort
Anne-Marie
AM
D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000032:analysis*; D016877:Oxidants / Q000737:chemistry*; D020959:Polyethylene / Q000032:analysis* / Q000737:chemistry; D012037:Refuse Disposal / Q000379:methods*
D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D016877:Oxidants; D020959:Polyethylene