The Effect of the Nature of Biodegradable Components on Biodegradability of Composites Based on Polyethylene

Abstract The introduction of biodegradable additives into the matrix of synthetic polymers allows one to develop environmentally friendly materials with increased biodegradability. In this paper, composite films based on low-density polyethylene with natural rubber at a content of 10–30 wt % are studied. A mycological test with fungi and field test of soil have shown that the composite with the addition of natural rubber in the amount of 30 wt % is the most biodegradable (mass loss is comprised 7.2 wt % in 90 days). In the experiment on biodegradation in soil, the most intensive development of filamentous fungi has been recorded in field tests. A study has been also conducted of compositions with the addition of polylactide, which belongs to biodegradable polymers. When exposed to soil, a different character of the destruction of the material is noted, mainly due to hydrolysis. Thus, depending on the nature of biodegradable polymer additives, operational characteristics and biodegradation in the soil change.