Abstract
In order to evaluate the biodegradability of blends of polyethylene and poly (lactic acid), several formulations (LDPE/PLA) were subjected to the action of microorganisms containing in an activated sludge obtained from wastewater treatment plant. The biodegradability of the different mixtures was estimated by monitoring the variation of mass, variation of mechanical properties (tensile, microhardness) and change in the structure. After an exposure period of 13 weeks, the results show that blends LDPE/PLA exhibit a greater susceptibility to biodegradation than homopolymers.
Cuvinte cheie
Biodegradation
activated sludge
polyethylene
poly (lactic acid)