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The Degradability of Plastics
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English
Abstract
With few exceptions, it can be shown that the onset of oxidative degradation limits the useful lifetime of commodity thermoplastics. A considerable amount of chemical information has been generated concerning how to make such materials last longer by reducing the rate at which heat, radiation and mechanical stress cause the molecular weight reductions which give rise to the loss of useful properties. Combinations of stabilizing additives are universally used. In contrast, formulation have been developed which are characterized by enhanced sensitivity to sunlight; photodegradable plastics are produced commercially which last “indefinitely” indoors but which disintegrate in a few months outdoors. Commodity thermoplastics are largely very resistant to microorganisms and cannot be converted to “biodegradable” plastics bag admixture with anything.
Citation
Wiles, D., "The Degradability of Plastics," SAE Technical Paper 900853, 1990, https://doi.org/10.4271/900853.Also In
References
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- “The Photodegradation and Photostabilization of Polymers. A Review” Carlsson D.J. Wiles D.M. J. Radiation Curing Oct. 2 14 1975
- “Polypropylene Degradation by γ-Irradiation in Air” Carlsson D.J. Dobbin C.J.B. Jensen J.P.T. Wiles D.M. Amer. Chem. Soc. Symp. Ser. 359 371 1985
- “The Biodegradability of Synthetic Polymers” Potts J.E. Clendinning R.A. Ackart W.B. Niegisch W.D. 61 79 “Polymers and Ecological Problems” Guillet J.E. Plenum Press New York 1973
- “The Effect of Soil Burial Exposure on Some Geotechnical Fabrics” Colin G. Mitton M.T. Carlsson D.J. Wiles D.M. Geotextiles and Geomembranes 4 1-8 1986