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Peer-reviewed

Biodegradation of Polymers: Stages, Measurement, Standards and Prospects

Rafael Resende Assis Silva; Clara Suprani Marques; Társila Rodrigues Arruda; Samiris Côcco Teixeira; Taíla Veloso de Oliveira

Macromol—A Journal of Macromolecular Research · 2023

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Summary

Nowadays, sustainable and biodegradable bioplastics are gaining significant attention due to resource depletion and plastic pollution. An increasing number of environmentally friendly plastics are being introduced to the market with the aim of addressing these concerns. However, many final products still contain additives or mix non-biodegradable polymers to ensure minimum performance, which often undermines their ecological footprint. Moreover, there is a lack of knowledge about all stages of biodegradation and their accuracy in classifying products as biodegradable. Therefore, this review provides an overview of biodegradable polymers, elucidating the steps and mechanisms of polymer biodegradation. We also caution readers about the growing marketing practice of “greenwashing” where compa

Source type
Peer-reviewed study
DOI
10.3390/macromol3020023
Catalogue ID
NRmo9rin9c-0uf
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