Study on the accelerated biodegradation of PP modified with an organic pro-degradant additive

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science Vol. 131; no. 22; pp. np - n/a
• Main Authors: Montagna, Larissa Stieven, Forte, Maria Madalena de Camargo, Santana, Ruth Marlene Campomanes
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Blackwell Publishing Ltd 15-11-2014; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: biodegradable; degradation; Materials science; Polymers; polyolefins
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.41054

ABSTRACT
In order to reduce the environmental impact of the accumulation of synthetic polymer waste, especially in the case of products with a short shelf life, such as disposable diapers and sanitary napkins, this study evaluated the biodegradation of samples of polypropylene (PP) modified with an organic additive free of transition metals. The samples were prepared using a single‐screw extruder, then ground with liquid nitrogen and processed by thermal compression molding into the form of plates. They were then submitted to a respirometric test involving biodegradation carried out at 58°C for 120 days. The samples were characterized according to their physical, thermal, and morphological properties. The results verified that the modified PP showed evidence of enhanced degradation through increased CO2 generation and weight loss during incubation. The thermal analysis revealed an increase in the degree of crystallinity and a decrease in the melt temperature. SEM micrographs showed exfoliation, the appearance of holes, and surface deterioration. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41054.