ENVIRONMENT-ADAPTABLE POLYMERS

Scott-Gilead low density polyethylene (LDPE) containing pro-oxidant me tal complexes has been subjected to ageing in a weatherometer (i.e. ph otooxidation). Samples were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry to monitor changes in the carbonyl index and in the crystallinity during photo-oxidation. Volatile low molecular weight degradation products were detected usin g head-space gas chromatography (hs-GC) and changes in tensile strengt h were monitored in an Instron tester. Other methods for accelerating biodegradation are discussed.