| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThis synthetic thermoplastic polymer is structurally stable throughout its useful life and, when placed in an appropriate environment, decomposes into harmless products under chemical, photochemical and biodegradation mechanisms. Stabilizers can be included in the thermoplastic polymer to help maintain structural and functional integrity throughout the useful life of the product. Degradation is accomplished by the synergistic action of biodegradable components, oxidizable components, transition metal additives and aromatic ketones in a thermoplastic polymer. During the degradation process, the biodegradable components are metabolized, exposing the surface of the thermoplastic polymer and exposing it to chemical attack. The oxidizable component along with the catalyst system oxidatively decomposes the thermoplastic polymer resulting in low molecular weight fragments susceptible to enzymatic action in the decomposition environment. As a result, the thermoplastic polymer decomposes completely into harmless products. The chemical, photochemical and biodegradative mechanisms that make up the degradation process occur sequentially or simultaneously and synergize to produce the desired result. |