Comparative Study of Biodegradable and Conventional Plastic Degradation Rates

Abstract

Plastic pollution is an environmental crisis that can cause massive ramifications, and plastic pollution's hallmark is the longevity of standard plastic in the environment. Biodegradable plastics such as PLA and PHA present viable alternatives, but more field research is needed to investigate the in-field degradation rates of plastics. The goal of this study is to compare the degradation rates of biodegradable (PLA and PHA) and conventional plastics (LDPE and HDPE) in soil and compost conditions using a quantitative approach. A total of 100 plastic strips were standardized and buried in soil and compost for 90 days. The degradation of the materials was assessed using weight loss, reductions in tensile strength, and surface analysis of the plastocs prior to burial. Differences were assessed with statistical tests (i.e. t test, ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests). PLA and PHA showed significantly higher degradation rates, especially in compost, with PHA reaching over 91%. LDPE and HDPE exhibited minimal degradation (<2%). Biodegradable plastics degrade effectively in compost but not in soil. Policy and infrastructure support are essential for maximizing their environmental benefits.