The Mechanisms of Biodegradation of Synthetic Polymers

Abstract

This research was an attempt to gain a better understanding of the processes involved in the microbial degradation of synthetic polymers. It involved the examination of extracellular and cell associated enzymes capable of cleaving the model polyester, polycaprolactone. An effort was made to compare these enzymes to gain some understanding of their multiplicity and activity. As information was gained regarding the degradation process we attempted the modification of other polymers to render them degradable or more degradable. Enzymes, Biodegradation, Polymers, Synthetic polymers, Microbial degradation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 17, 1989
Accession Number
ADA205628

Entities

People

  • J. A. Cameron
  • S. J. Huang

Organizations

  • University of Connecticut

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Biodegradation
  • Cells
  • Chemistry
  • Composite Materials
  • Composite Structures
  • Degradation
  • Fungi
  • Gel Permeation Chromatography
  • Materials Science
  • Military Research
  • Molecular Weight
  • Monitoring
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Synthetic Polymers

Readers

  • Polymer Science and Engineering.
  • Polymer Science and Technology
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Biotechnology - Bioremediation