Characterization of low density polyethylene greenhouse films during the composting of rose residues

Abstract

This study presents an evaluation of a potential alternative to plastic degradation in the form of organic composting. It stems from the urgent need of finding solutions to the plastic residues and focuses on the compost-based degradation of greenhouse film covers in an important rose exporter company in Ecuador. Thus, this study analyzes the physical, chemical, and biological changes of rose wastes composting, and also evaluates the stability of new and aged agricultural plastic under these conditions. Interestingly, results of compost characterization show a slow degradation rate of organic matter and total organic carbon, along with a significant increase in pH and rise of bacterial populations. However, the results demonstrate that despite these findings, composting conditions had no significant influence on plastic degradation, and while deterioration of aged plastic samples was reported in some tests, it may be the result of environmental conditions and a prolonged exposure to solar radiation. Importantly, these factors could facilitate the adhesion of microorganisms and promote plastic biodegradation. Hence, it is encouraged for future studies to analyze the ecotoxicity of plastics in the compost, as well as isolate, identify, and evaluate the possible biodegradative potential of these microorganisms as an alternative to plastic waste management.

Insights of the degradation of plastics PET and PE type under composting conditions using coffee pulp as substrate

“…Thereby, the evaluation of the physicochemical and structural properties by using other characterization techniques as FT-IR, SEM or TGA enable to identify speci c behaviour that is only evidenced in detail through those techniques, and it will elucidate changes in the plastic samples subjected to composting treatment [20]. On the other hand, to understand how degradation processes of the plastic considered non-degradable occur under composting conditions, the determination of the parameters and conditions of the compost, nature, and environment where composting happen are relevant factors to get an effective process of degradation or disintegration of the plastics without a pre-treatment.…”

Recent developments in bio-based polyethylene: Degradation studies, waste management and recycling

“…The changes in microbial growth and composition must be evaluated continuously to quantify the compostability process. The four phases are mesophilic, thermophilic, cooling, and maturation, in which the temperature changes and microbiota composition are the two variables that promote the degradation of the organic matter until a complete biosorption in the media [ 92 , 93 ]. Some of the most recent advances in the composting process for PE are found when the blend or the final product is a mixture of PE and some reinforced materials, which brings a more hydrophilic character to the non-degradable plastics.…”

“…Recently, Álvarez-Vega et al [ 92 ] studied the PE changes in the chemical, physical and biological properties due to composting with rose waste. The samples were composted for 124 days, but the results were detected as insignificant.…”