Bio-Degradable Plastics: Properties, Applications, and Environmental Impact Assessment

Abstract

Biodegradable plastics have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics due to their potential to reduce environmental pollution and dependence on fossil resources. These materials are designed to degrade naturally through the action of microorganisms, leading to reduced persistence in ecosystems. This paper reviews the physicochemical properties, industrial applications, and environmental impact assessments of biodegradable plastics as understood in 2018. Common types include polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), starch blends, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), each exhibiting distinct degradation mechanisms and mechanical properties. The study synthesizes data on tensile strength, thermal stability, biodegradation rates under various conditions (composting, soil, marine), and lifecycle analyses (LCA) from recent literature. Applications span packaging, agriculture (mulch films), biomedical devices, and consumer products. While biodegradable plastics offer advantages such as reduced landfill accumulation and potential carbon footprint reduction, challenges remain in ensuring complete degradation, avoiding microplastic formation, and achieving economic competitiveness. Environmental assessments reveal that degradation efficacy depends heavily on ambient conditions and waste management infrastructures, with industrial composting facilities providing optimal results. This review highlights that the integration of biodegradable plastics into circular economy models requires coordinated efforts in material design, standardization, and policy frameworks. Ongoing research focuses on improving mechanical properties and accelerating biodegradation without compromising functionality. The paper also discusses emerging trends in additive incorporation (e.g., enzymes, nanofillers) to enhance performance and sustainability. In conclusion, biodegradable plastics present a viable but complex solution for reducing plastic pollution. Their widespread adoption necessitates comprehensive impact evaluations encompassing production, use, and end-of-life stages to minimize unintended environmental consequences and maximize societal benefits.