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Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor), a species commonly used as animal feed, can consume polyethylene and polystyrene. [5] [9] [10] Its congener T. obscurus can also consume polystyrene, [19] as can superworm (Zophobas morio) and red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) from different genera in the same family. [20] [13] A waxworm
A more recent concern in microplastic pollution is the use of plastic films in agriculture. 7.4 million tons of plastic film are used each year to increase food production. [22] Scientists have found that microbial biofilms can form within 7–14 days on plastic film surfaces, and have the ability to alter the chemical properties of the soil ...
Additives are generally in masterbatch formation that use carrier resins such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Most common synthetic plastics are not biodegradable, and both chemical and physical properties of plastics play important roles in the process of plastic degradation.
The biodegradable polymers used in biomedical applications typically consist of hydrolyzable esters and hydrazones. These molecules, upon external stimulation, go on to be cleaved and broken down. The cleaving activation process can be achieved through use of an acidic environment, increasing the temperature, or by use of enzymes. [82]
Polystyrene copolymers are also produced; these contain one or more other monomers in addition to styrene. In recent years the expanded polystyrene composites with cellulose [39] [40] and starch [41] have also been produced. Polystyrene is used in some polymer-bonded explosives (PBX). [citation needed]
Plastic degradation in marine bacteria describes when certain pelagic bacteria break down polymers and use them as a primary source of carbon for energy. Polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are incredibly useful for their durability and relatively low cost of production, however it is their persistence and difficulty to be properly ...
Note 3: The use of the term "bioplastic" is discouraged. Use the expression "biobased polymer". Note 4: A biobased polymer similar to a petrobased one does not imply any superiority with respect to the environment unless the comparison of respective life cycle assessments is favourable. [15]
Stabilizers are used at all stages of the polymer life-cycle. They allow plastic items to be produced faster and with fewer defects, extend their useful lifespan, and facilitate their recycling. [1] However they also continue to stabilise waste plastic, causing it to remain in the environment for longer. Many different types of plastic exist ...