DEGRADATION OF PLASTICS IN SEA WATER IN LABORATORY

Abstract

When these materials are thrown as waste, biodegradable plastics are used to lessen the environmental implications. These compounds, however, have the potential to be introduced into natural ecosystems due to poor management methods and environmental contamination. The efficacy of biodegradable and oxodegradable polymers in marine environments is assessed using a respirometric laboratory test in this study. Plastic probes, both pre-exposed to simulated weathering and without prior exposure, were inoculated with a marine organism over 48 days. This procedure was carried out with the assistance of a continuous aeration system, which also aided in the absorption of the ensuing CO2 emissions. Following the test, an assessment was done regarding the samples' loss in mechanical qualities. The biodegradable plastic had a higher percentage of mineralization (10%), whilst the polyolefins showed no significant difference (range from 2.06% to 2.78%) regardless of the presence or absence of pro-oxidants or previous abiotic deterioration. In contrast, when exposed to UV light, the oxodegradable plastic had a considerable loss in elongation at breakage (>68%). The results show that the polymers under examination are more susceptible to physical breakdown, with much slower rates of biodegradation. These entities may fragment as a result of a combination of numerous mechanisms preceding their significant biodegradation. Although the materials may be useful in certain waste management settings, it is critical to limit the formation of microplastics by ensuring their exclusion from marine environments.