OXO-BIODEGRADABLE ADDITIVE MASTERBATCH

In response to the UAE’s commitment towards promoting an eco-friendly global environment, EnerPlastics Oxo-Biodegradable (OBD) additives offer an environmental friendly alternative to both plastic manufacturers and consumers. This sustainable solution will modify commodity plastics and ensure increased environmental responsibility. EnerPlastics OBD additives convert long-life polyolefin plastic bags to degrade after a pre-programed life span of complete mechanical integrity, is therefore an optimum approach to the environmental pollution and its consequences.
The mechanism of polyethylene biodegradation known as Oxo-Biodegradation involved in two stages, these are:
abiotic (photo or thermo) oxidation
microbial biodegradation
Initial abiotic oxidation is an important stage as it determines the rate of entire process. In this stage polyethylene is oxidized leading to reduction of its molecular weight significantly. Also hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (C=O) and carboxylic (-COOH) groups are introduced into polyethylene chain leading to further oxidation of polyethylene.
The main factors that influence abiotic oxidation are heat and sunlight. They are crucial for both reduction of molecular weight and the production of low molecular weight compounds that can be assimilated easily by the microorganisms.