Are Biodegradable Plastics “Biodegradable” at Deep Sea Environment?
11 Pages Posted: 18 Jan 2024
Abstract
This micro article spotlights the “two-edged sword” nature of biodegradable plastics in marine environment. The term "biodegradable" plastic is frequently used to describe eco-friendly beneficial substitutes. However, for newly engineered biodegradable materials, there is a potential risk that the proven degrading qualities seen at the atmospheric pressure surface may not materialize in the deep-sea high-pressure environment. Lab-scale high-pressure tests are therefore needed to assess deep sea plastic degradation. High-pressure tolerant foil packs in the form of pouches are proposed as reactor vessels to demonstrate the plastic biodegradation and these foil packs may be used to replace the conventional serum bottles which are pressure sensitive. Analytical techniques like Scanning Electron Microscopy and Gas Chromatography help in experimental validation of plastic biodegradation. Biodegradable plastic materials should be tested at high-pressure conditions to exercise their widespread applications and to reduce toxicity in a marine environment.
Keywords: biodegradable plastic, deep sea, plastic accumulation, foil pack, polymer degradation
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