dt a level mock bio degradable polymers

how do the additives in the degradable polymers work

additives cause it to degrade more quickly when in the presents of oxygen, light or water.

these additives can be added to any thermoplastics

why do degradable polymers disintegrate

when chemicals, light or heat is applied basically a change in properties.

oxo-degradable polymer

plastic containing additives that make it break down faster through oxidation when exposed to oxygen, heat and UV light.

oxygen

degradable polymer that brakes down due to the influences of oxygen.

the time to degrade is programmed when made.

commonly used for carrier bags

photodegradable

polymer that brakes down from exposer to ultraviolet light

used for a lot for agriculture

hydro degradable

exposer to water, examples of this would be washing machine tablets

recycling

Biodegradable plastics can contaminate conventional plastic recycling if mixed with non-biodegradable plastics. They may require separate processing.

forming

Degradable plastics can be heated, melted and shaped using standard thermoplastic processes, such as injection moulding and extrusion.