Biodegradability of aliphatic-aromatic copolyester in aqueous anaerobic and aerobic environments

Abstract

Biodegradation of different forms of aliphatic-aromatic biodegradable copolyester Ecoflex® was investigated in aqueous aerobic and anaerobic environments. The material was tested in four forms differing above all by their specific surface (thin and thick films, powder and thin coating on inert surface). Biodegradability of different forms of the aliphatic-aromatic copolyester Ecoflex® in aqueous anaerobic environments was studied in the presence of a mixed microbial culture supplied in the form digested activated sludge from the municipal wastewater treatment plant. Percentage of biologically removed polymer under anaerobic condition was evaluated through produced carbon dioxide and methane in gas phase and produced carbon dioxide in liquid phase. Biodegradation in aerobic environment was evaluated through produced carbon dioxide in gas phase. Biodegradability of four different forms of the aliphatic-aromatic biodegradable copolyester Ecoflex® in aqueous anaerobic environment did not exceed 2%. Also in the aerobic environment only limited degradation was achieved, but an influence of the degree of decomposition on specific surfaces of samples has been shown. Although its biodegradation in compost was verified in our previous presented work Ecoflex® experienced very slow degradation in aqueous aerobic and aqueous anaerobic environments.