Biodegradable And Non Biodegradable Polymers

Introduction

Polymers are large molecules that are composed of repeating units known as monomers. Polymers are found in a wide variety of materials including plastics, rubber, fibers, and adhesives. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the environmental impact of polymers and the role they play in the accumulation of plastic waste. As a result, there has been a growing interest in biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers.

Definition of Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradable polymers are polymers that can be broken down by natural processes, such as those involving microorganisms, into smaller units that can be safely assimilated into the environment. These polymers are typically derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or cellulose, and are biocompatible, meaning that they do not harm living organisms.

Non-biodegradable polymers, on the other hand, are synthetic polymers that are not able to be broken down by natural processes. They are typically made from petroleum-based materials and are not biocompatible. Non-biodegradable polymers can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, leading to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills, oceans, and other environments. This can have a negative impact on wildlife and the ecosystem and contribute to the release of toxic substances into the environment.

Properties of Biodegradable Polymers

A. Composition:

Biodegradable polymers are typically derived from renewable resources such as starch, cellulose, or sugarcane. These materials are biocompatible and do not harm living organisms.

B. Physical Properties:

Biodegradable polymers typically have lower strength and durability compared to non-biodegradable polymers. They also have lower melting and glass transition temperatures, which limits their use in applications that require high temperature resistance.

C. Environmental Impact:

Biodegradable polymers are a more sustainable alternative to non-biodegradable polymers, as they can be broken down by natural processes into smaller units that can be safely assimilated into the environment. This helps to reduce plastic waste and the negative impact that plastic waste has on the environment.

D. Methods of Degradation:

Biodegradable polymers can be degraded by natural processes such as microbial degradation, photodegradation, and hydrolysis. These processes break down the polymer chains into smaller units that can be safely assimilated into the environment.

E. Compostability:

Biodegradable polymers are typically compostable, meaning that they can be broken down into organic matter through composting. This organic matter can then be used as a soil amendment to help improve soil fertility and structure.

F. Cost:

The cost of biodegradable polymers can be higher compared to non-biodegradable polymers, as the production process for biodegradable polymers is often more complex and requires more expensive raw materials. However, this cost difference is often offset by the benefits of reduced plastic waste and a more sustainable future for the environment.

Properties of Non-Biodegradable Polymers

A. Composition:

Non-biodegradable polymers are typically composed of synthetic materials such as petroleum-based plastics. These materials are non-renewable and are not biocompatible, meaning that they can be harmful to living organisms.

B. Physical Properties:

Non-biodegradable polymers have high strength and durability compared to biodegradable polymers. They also have high melting and glass transition temperatures, making them suitable for use in applications where high temperature resistance is required.

C. Environmental Impact:

Non-biodegradable polymers are a major contributor to plastic waste and have a negative impact on the environment. They do not break down in the environment and can persist for hundreds of years, leading to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills, oceans, and other environments. This can harm wildlife and the ecosystem, as well as contribute to the release of toxic substances into the environment.

D. Durability:

One of the benefits of non-biodegradable polymers is their durability. They are resistant to wear and tear, making them suitable for use in applications that require long-lasting materials.

E. Cost:

The cost of non-biodegradable polymers can be lower compared to biodegradable polymers, as the production process for synthetic plastics is often less complex and requires less expensive raw materials. However, the long-term cost of non-biodegradable polymers is often higher, as the accumulation of plastic waste and its negative impact on the environment can lead to higher cleanup costs and damage to ecosystems and wildlife.

Applications of Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Polymers

A. Applications of Biodegradable Polymers:

1. Packaging: Biodegradable polymers are used in packaging applications, such as food packaging, to reduce plastic waste. They can also be used as a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic packaging materials.
2. Agriculture: Biodegradable polymers are used in agriculture as mulch films to help retain moisture in the soil, improve soil fertility, and control weeds.
3. Medical Devices: Biodegradable polymers are used in medical devices, such as sutures and implants, as they are biocompatible and can be broken down by natural processes after use.

B. Applications of Non-Biodegradable Polymers:

1. Packaging: Non-biodegradable polymers are used extensively in packaging applications, such as plastic bags and containers, due to their durability and low cost.
2. Construction: Non-biodegradable polymers are used in construction applications, such as pipes and building materials, due to their high strength and durability.
3. Electronic Devices: Non-biodegradable polymers are used in electronic devices, such as mobile phones and computers, due to their durability and resistance to wear and tear.

Examples of Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradable polymers are those that can be broken down by natural processes into smaller molecules and eventually into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. Examples of biodegradable polymers include:

1. Polylactic acid (PLA)
2. Starch-based polymers
3. Cellulose-based polymers
4. Polycaprolactone (PCL)
5. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)

On the other hand, non-biodegradable polymers are those that do not break down over time and persist in the environment for a long period. Examples of non-biodegradable polymers include:

1. Polyethylene (PE)
2. Polypropylene (PP)
3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
4. Polystyrene (PS)
5. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

It’s important to note that the biodegradability of a polymer can be influenced by factors such as the environment, the type of microorganisms present, and the temperature.

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