| abstract |
Water-soluble polymers and/or copolymers possessing enhanced biodegradability, and their applications are disclosed. Acrylic and/or vinyl polymers and/or copolymers containing acid groups, in which 35% to 90% of the active acid sites are neutralized by magnesium ions, the specific viscosity is at most 25, and biodegradability is enhanced. Their decomposition after 36 days is greater than 50% as measured by the modified Sturm test. These polymers can be used in industries as varied as: paper-making, paints, plastics, petroleum, drilling fluids, water treatment, detergents, cosmetics, textiles, inks, leather, grinding and/or splitting of minerals in water. |