{"id":48,"date":"2015-06-05T15:13:15","date_gmt":"2015-06-05T15:13:15","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/setorreciclagem.com.br\/site\/o-que-e-plastico-biodegradavel\/"},"modified":"2024-08-20T17:38:55","modified_gmt":"2024-08-20T20:38:55","slug":"plasticos-biodegradaveis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/setorreciclagem.com.br\/en\/materiais-biodegradaveis\/plasticos-biodegradaveis\/","title":{"rendered":"What are biodegradable plastics?"},"content":{"rendered":"

The term \u201cbiodegradable plastic\u201d has generated debate and controversy, especially when it comes to its effectiveness and environmental impact. With growing concerns about sustainability, it is crucial to understand what biodegradability really means and how biodegradable plastics behave in the environment. In this post, we will explore in detail the concept of biodegradable plastics, its advantages, challenges, and its role in recycling and preserving the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"pl\u00e1sticos<\/a>
If a product is made of plastic, it can most likely be made of bioplastic.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Truth About Plastics and Bioplastics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Plastics are an integral part of our modern lives, found in virtually every aspect of our daily lives. However, the problem arises with their durability, which, while an advantage in terms of use, becomes an environmental disadvantage when disposed of incorrectly. Most traditional plastics, derived from petroleum, are degradable but not biodegradable. This means that over time they break down into microplastics, but do not completely decompose, persisting in the environment for hundreds of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, biodegradable plastics, also known as bioplastics, are developed from renewable sources, such as plants and animals. These materials have the ability to decompose under suitable conditions, significantly reducing their environmental impact. However, it is important to note that the fact that a plastic is biodegradable does not mean that it will disintegrate in any environment. Specific conditions, such as composting, are necessary for biodegradation to occur effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Biodegradation Process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Biodegradation is a biological process in which microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, break down materials into simpler components, such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. This process is essential to the natural cycle of matter and plays a crucial role in the recycling of organic waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a plastic to be considered biodegradable, it must decompose within 180 days, according to international standards. Biodegradation occurs in two main stages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Initial Degradation:<\/strong> At this stage, the polymer chains of the plastic are broken down by factors such as heat, humidity or enzymatic action. The material becomes brittle and begins to fragment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Complete Biodegradation:<\/strong> The resulting small carbon chains are assimilated by microorganisms as a food source, being transformed into natural products such as water, carbon dioxide and biomass. This process varies depending on the environment in which it occurs, and can be aerobic (with oxygen) or anaerobic (without oxygen).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Biodegradability Standards and Certifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Certification of biodegradable plastics is a vital aspect of ensuring that these materials deliver on their environmental promises. The ASTM D6400 standard, for example, is one of the main guidelines for assessing the biodegradability of plastics, establishing three fundamental criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n