Biodegradable plastic is plastic that decomposes naturally in the environment. This is achieved by adding special additives to the raw material, which results in one that is less harmful to the environment than typical plastics.
Oxo-Bio-degradation Explained:
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First step is the Degradable part (breakdown
molecularly by reacting to Oxygen in the air).
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Begin to lose physical strength and properties
over time.
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Finally, it fragments into small pieces.
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Second step is the Bio.
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Fragmentation means the product is ready for
disposal. (Landfill or Compost).
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Microorganisms living in these environments will
use the plastic as fuel to produce energy.
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Additives are a catalyst that causes the
reaction to happen faster.
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The breakdown of plastic is a natural process
even without additives, but it takes a very long
period of time.
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Oxo-biodegradables simply speed up the process.
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Heat and UV light increase speed by increasing
the intake of oxygen.
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The thicker the item, the longer the process
since there is less exposure of plastic
available to react.
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PLA and Starch-based products produce the same
outcome as oxo-biodegradables but cost much
more.
