Evaluation of Biodegradability of Different Blends of Polystyrene and Starch Buried in Soil

Abstract

Summary: Polystyrene/cornstarch blends were prepared by melt‐processing in the presence of maleic anhydride (MA), using an internal mixer as reactor. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize the blends morphology. Addition of MA contributed to improve interfacial adhesion between the two phases. Soil burial tests were used to investigate biodegradability. Results from samples weight loss, as a function of incubation time, revealed that the increase in the content of starch contributed to increase biodegradability. The results showed that the microbial activity inside the specimens was accelerated in the first 15 days of evaluation. Photographs of the films showed significant differences after 30 days of incubation in soil. SEM was also used to evaluate biodegradation, and revealed fractured surfaces covered with a heterogeneous microorganism community.

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