Materials Performance: Biodegradability

Understanding Biodegradability

Biodegradability refers to a material’s ability to decompose naturally through the action of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae.
Biodegradable materials are favoured for their environmentally friendly nature, as they reduce waste and are often less harmful to the environment than their non-biodegradable counterparts.
The rate of degradation can vary widely depending on factors such as environmental conditions, the type and amount of microorganisms present, and the physical and chemical structure of the material.

Compostability: This term refers to a specific type of biodegradability whereby a material breaks down under composting conditions, resulting into a nutrient-rich compost or humus.
Oxodegradable: These are materials, often plastics, designed to fragment and oxidize into smaller molecules under the action of heat, light, or mechanical stress.
Photodegradable: Materials that decompose primarily through the action of sunlight are classed as photodegradable.
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA): It is a tool used to assess the environmental impacts of a product throughout its lifecycle from the extraction of raw materials through production, use, end of life treatment, recycling and final disposal.

Bio-plastics, like Polylactic Acid (PLA) or Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), are made from renewable resources and are commonly used for packaging or disposable items.
Natural materials such as wool, cotton, and silk are biodegradable and are often used in the fashion industry.
Paper and cardboard are arguably the most recognised biodegradable materials, widely used in packaging, stationery, etc.

In the packaging industry, biodegradable materials are becoming increasingly popular as a way to reduce environmental impact and waste.
In areas like agriculture, biodegradable materials can be useful for creating items like plant pots and seed trays which can be planted straight into the ground and will degrade naturally over time.
Biodegradable materials are also used in the production of disposable items such as plates, cutlery, and straws, reducing plastic waste.
The concept of biodegradability is an important consideration in waste management and contributes significantly to the promotion of sustainable product design and development.