ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Biodegradation of Degradable/Biodegradable
Plastic Material in Controlled Composting
Environment
Dana Adamcová, Magdalena Vaverková
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Department of Applied and Landscape Ecology, Faculty of Agronomy, Mendel University in Brno,
Zemědělská 1, 61300 Brno, Czech Republic
Pol. J. Environ. Stud. 2014;23(5):1465-1474
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
The biodegradability of different plastic material was investigated under aerobic conditions. The samples
were placed in the compost pile and were checked over 15 weeks. After the expiration of the experimental
period it was found that the samples with the additive (samples 1, 2, and 3) had not decomposed, their color
had not changed, and that no degradation or physical changes had occurred. SEM photomicrograph images of
the surface of the samples confirm this statement. Samples 4, 5, 6, and 7 (certified as compostable) were
decomposed. Samples 5, 6, and 7 exhibited the highest decomposition rates. The SEM observation showed
that the film surface of the samples was totally eroded and its smoothness disappeared. The present study suggests
that the biodegradable characteristics differed significantly depending on the type of biodegradable/
degradable plastics.