Polymer Biodegradability (A-Level Chemistry)
Polymer Biodegradability
Biodegradability of Polymers
The biodegradability of polymers depends on the types of intermolecular forces within the polymer chains.
If there a no polar bonds within the polymer, the polymer is non-biodegradable.
If there are polar bonds within the polymer, the polymer can be hydrolysed by acid or base and be broken apart.
Different products are made depending on whether acid or base are used.
Photodegradable polymers are new synthetic polymers have developed that decompose when exposed to UV light.
Polyalkenes
Polymers produced by addition polymerisation are called polyalkenes.
Addition polymers are made when alkenes molecules add together.
The main polymer chain is made from carbon atoms bonded by strong covalent bonds.
There are, therefore no polar bonds in addition polymers.
This makes the polyalkenes inert and non-biodegradable.
Polyesters
Polyesters have a polar C=O bond within the ester link.
Polyesters can be hydrolysed by acid and alkali, just like any ester.
With dilute acids, the original dicarboxylic acids and diols are produced.
With dilute alkalis, the dicarboxylic acid salts and diols are produced.
Worked example: Draw the products formed from the base hydrolysis of Terylene.
Polyamides
Likewise, polyamides also have polar C=O bond within the amide link.
With dilute acids, the original dicarboxylic acid and diamine salts are produced.
With dilute alkalis, the dicarboxylic acid salt and diamines are produced.
Polymer biodegradability in A-Level Chemistry refers to the ability of a polymer to be broken down into smaller, harmless components by natural processes, such as those carried out by microorganisms.
Polymer biodegradability is important in A-Level Chemistry because it helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the environment. This is important for reducing the negative impact of plastic waste on wildlife, the ecosystem, and human health.
Polymer biodegradability in A-Level Chemistry is usually measured by conducting laboratory tests that simulate the conditions that occur in the environment. These tests measure the rate at which the polymer breaks down into smaller, harmless components.
The factors that affect polymer biodegradability in A-Level Chemistry include the chemical composition of the polymer, the presence of additives, the exposure to light and heat, and the presence of moisture.
Not all polymers can be biodegraded in A-Level Chemistry. Some polymers, such as those made from petroleum-based plastics, are resistant to biodegradation and can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment.
Biodegradable polymers in A-Level Chemistry are polymers that are designed to break down into smaller, harmless components when exposed to natural processes, such as those carried out by microorganisms. These polymers are made from renewable, plant-based materials and are a more sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics.
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