Environmental Impact on Biodegradation Speed and Biodegradability of Polyethylene and Ipomoea Batatas Starch Blend

Abstract

All over the world, even in developing countries, plastics have quickly become one of the most common things found around. Unsurprisingly, this has caused a major waste management problem, particularly because synthetic polymers do not break down and degrade like organic waste. As a result, an alternative is being sought out in biopolymers. This study explores the suitability of a biopolymer blend;Ipomoea batatasmixed with low density polyethylene (LDPE) at various compositions. Biodegradation of this biopolymer blend was observed periodically when produced samples ofIpomoea batatas/LDPE were buried in loamy sand over a period of 28 days. Results show that produced biopolymers are environmentally compatible and bio-degradable. It was also observed that the sample blend with equal portions by weight ofIpomoea batatas(50%) and LDPE (50%) showed the most optimum pattern of degradation. There was steady degradation over the study period and the rate of degradation observed showed sustainability.