Can we ignore the role of plastic in our lives altogether? But, neither can we ignore the impact plastics leave on the environment.
Manufacturers have consistently been searching for something that bridges this demand and sustainability gap. That's where oxo-biodegradable materials come in. This is a type of plastic that has been designed to break down faster than traditional ones. The presence of additives in it helps them degrade when they get exposed to oxygen and heat.
Why does this matter? It's because of the growing concerns about plastic waste piling up everywhere, from landfills to oceans. Consumers and manufacturers are looking for more responsible options that are smarter.
Oxo-biodegradable plastics come in handy as they behave like regular plastics, but don't stick around forever. In this guide, we have explored what makes them special, along with their benefits and side effects.
What Makes a Plastic Oxo-Biodegradable?
Oxo-biodegradable plastics might sound complex, but the idea is straightforward. Some special additives are present in these plastics. These are essential to start a breakdown process when they are exposed to heat, sunlight, or oxygen. Over time, the structure of the plastic weakens, and it gets fragmented. The plastic degrades into smaller pieces through a process known as oxidation. This process speeds up the breakdown far beyond the regular experience with plastics.
It's faster, but the process isn't constant. This significantly matters when plastic waste lingers for hundreds of years to decompose.
How It Differs from Other Biodegradables
There's often confusion around terms like biodegradable, compostable, and oxo-biodegradable. While all relate to plastic breakdown, they work differently.
- Biodegradable plastics break down through natural biological processes, usually needing specific conditions like moisture and microbes.
- Compostable plastics go a step further. They break down into non-toxic components within a short time in industrial composting setups.
- Oxo-biodegradable plastics, on the other hand, rely on oxidation first, then biodegradation, making them unique.
Where Are Oxo-Biodegradable Materials Used?
Oxo-biodegradable materials have found extensive applications across various industries. Check out the major use cases of these plastics in different sectors.
Packaging Industry
The packaging world is one of the biggest users of oxo-biodegradable materials. Think about those single-use plastic bags at the store or the thin films that wrap fresh produce.
When you add these oxo-biodegradable additives to plastics, they help them in breaking down faster once discarded. It reduces the impact on the environment, slashing landfill waste. So, it's a practical way in which brands can make everyday packaging more eco-friendly. They need not change the process of how the products are made or used.
Agriculture and Outdoor Applications
Coming to farming and outdoor use, oxo-biodegradable plastics find a practical use. Take the instance of mulch films. They are laid over soil, which retains moisture and protects crops.
These films degrade naturally once the job is done. It goes a long way in minimizing waste. Moreover, you need not involve any labor-intensive removal processes.
The same principle is used in protective coverings for plants and temporary outdoor installations. These applications last long enough before quietly breaking down.
Other Regular Products
Oxo-biodegradable materials are used beyond bags and films. They find a broad application in items like disposable cutlery, plates, and containers. These products serve for one-time or short-term use. However, the volume of waste they generate is significantly high.
When oxo-biodegradable plastics are used in these cases, they cut down on persistent plastic pollution, while ensuring convenience.
Benefits of Oxo-Biodegradable Materials
Take a look at the prime benefits of oxo-biodegradable materials.
Environmentally Friendly Disposal
One of the biggest wins with oxo-biodegradable plastics is their ability to reduce long-term pollution. As you know, traditional plastic materials remain in the environment for hundreds of years. They take a lot of time to break down into smaller pieces.
On the other hand, oxo-biodegradable materials degrade more quickly when exposed to oxygen, sunlight, and heat. This means less plastic piling up in landfills or drifting into oceans. They significantly cut down the visible and invisible damage caused by persistent plastic waste.
Compatibility with Existing Manufacturing
One of the best advantages of using oxo-biodegradable materials is their compatibility with existing materials. Manufacturers reserve the ability to integrate oxo-biodegradable additives into existing plastic production lines. The best part is that they need not make any major modifications.
So, you need not invest in expensive machinery or get involved in complicated processes. As a result, industries can adopt more sustainable solutions, but their output won't slow down.
Cost-Effectiveness
You may be familiar with some eco-friendly plastics like the plant-based biodegradable or compostable ones. However, they can be costly, beyond the affordability of most businesses.
Oxo-biodegradable materials are a great alternative since they are more affordable. This cost advantage makes them a practical choice for a wide range of businesses. You may be a small local store or a large-scale manufacturer. In any case, oxo-biodegradable plastics provide you with a greener path without straining your budget.
Concerns And Side Effects Of Using Oxo-Biodegradable Materials
Oxo-biodegradable plastics break down faster. However, research is still being carried out, so we need to wait to know what exactly happens in the future.
According to experts, some plastic fragments may still be left over. In case they enter the food chain, they can cause harm. This makes ongoing research crucial to ensure it doesn't create a new set of problems.
Misuse and Improper Disposal Issues
In case oxo-biodegradable plastics end up in recycling streams, there's a risk involved. These materials can contaminate the process, which can lead to substandard quality in the recycled products. This implies, public awareness and proper disposal are essential.
Nimbasia - Providing Oxo-Biodegradable Solutions
At Nimbasia, we have been formulating advanced oxo-biodegradable solutions for various industries. We offer high-quality additives tailored to the needs of our clients. All our products are backed by strict quality control and regulatory compliance.
With expertise and innovation, we empower businesses to move towards more sustainable packaging choices. Partner with Nimbasia to meet your global environmental goals without compromising on performance or affordability.
