How can PBAT granular raw materials achieve 100% biodegradability?

1. Biodegradation mechanism of PBAT

The biodegradation of PBAT mainly depends on the action of microorganisms, especially the hydrolases (such as lipase, protease, etc.) secreted by microorganisms to cleave its ester bonds and release monomers and oligomers, which can be further metabolized by microorganisms into carbon dioxide and water. Studies have shown that certain microbial strains (such as NKCM1712) can secrete hydrolases to bind to PBAT, thereby accelerating its degradation. In addition, under industrial composting conditions, PBAT can be completely degraded into non-toxic substances within 6 months.

2. Methods to improve the biodegradability of PBAT

(1) Modification and composite materials
The biodegradability and mechanical properties of PBAT can be improved by mixing with other biodegradable materials (such as PLA, starch, etc.). For example, the blend of PBAT and PLA has higher strength and toughness while retaining good biodegradability. In addition, the addition of natural fillers (such as rice husks, lignin, etc.) can also enhance the mechanical properties and degradability of PBAT.

(2) Microbial flora optimization
Studies have found that by domesticating specific microbial flora (such as SX flora), the degradation rate of PBAT can be significantly improved in a short period of time. For example, the domesticated SX flora can achieve efficient degradation of PBAT within 13 days.

(3) Chemical modification
The degradation performance and environmental adaptability of PBAT can be improved by introducing functional groups (such as acrylic acid grafting) or adding nanofillers (such as titanium dioxide).

(4) Environmental condition optimization
The degradation rate of PBAT is greatly affected by environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity and oxygen concentration. Under industrial composting conditions (such as high temperature and high humidity), the degradation efficiency of PBAT is higher.

3. Production and application of PBAT granular raw materials

PBAT granular raw materials are usually prepared by esterification or transesterification reaction and have good processing performance and mechanical properties. Its production process includes steps such as co-esterification, partial esterification and tandem esterification, which can effectively improve the purity and performance of PBAT. PBAT particles are widely used in packaging materials, ground films, disposable products and other fields, and meet international biodegradation standards (such as EN13432 and D6400)