What is the degradation process of biodegradable tableware?

1. Preparation before degradation
Biodegradable tableware is usually made of biodegradable materials such as starch and polylactic acid (PLA). These materials undergo specific chemical and physical treatments during the manufacturing process to ensure their stability and durability during use. However, these treatments do not affect their biodegradability in the natural environment.

2. Participation of microorganisms
Microbial species: Specific bacteria, fungi and protozoa are the main players in the biodegradation process. They decompose plastic polymers by secreting extracellular enzymes.
Enzyme action: Enzymes secreted by microorganisms, such as esterases, proteases and cellulases, can catalyze the decomposition of different chemical bonds in plastics. These enzymes are highly specific and can accurately identify and act on specific chemical bonds.

3. Degradation process
Microbial adhesion: First, microorganisms form biofilms on the surface of tableware through adhesion. This is the initial stage of the degradation process.
Enzymatic decomposition: Then, the extracellular enzymes secreted by microorganisms interact with plastic polymers and catalyze the decomposition reaction. In this process, the polymer chains are gradually broken under the action of enzymes to form low molecular weight fragments.
Microbial uptake and metabolism: These fragments are then taken up by microorganisms and further metabolized. Microorganisms convert these fragments into inorganic substances such as water, carbon dioxide, and methane through their own metabolic activities. These substances are harmless to the environment and can participate in the cycle in nature.

IV. Degradation products and environmental impact
Harmless products: After the biodegradation process, the tableware is eventually converted into harmless substances such as carbon dioxide, water, and methane. These substances will not pollute the environment.
Environmental impact: It should be noted that although the degradation products of biodegradable tableware are harmless to the environment, different microorganisms have different abilities to degrade plastics. Therefore, in practical applications, it is necessary to further study the environmental impact of degradation products and take corresponding measures to ensure their environmental friendliness.