Biodegradable materials are materials that can be reduced to simpler substances or can completely break down to minerals through natural processes catalyzed by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.(1) It is important to note that a material’s potential for biodegradability does not guarantee that it will always biodegrade, as biodegradation is a natural process that depends on suitable environmental conditions such as temperature, nutrient sources, pH and oxygen levels.(2) In addition, biodegradability also requires that all inputs, including dyes, washes or other chemicals used in the production are also biodegradable; this includes anything that may leave chemical traces or prevent a material from decomposing. There are three main types of biodegradable fibers: 1. natural fibers, including wool, cotton, silk, hemp and linen as well as cellulose-based fibers such as modal, viscose and lyocell; 2. synthetic fibers that are bio-based, including polylactic acid (PLA) plastics, cellulose acetate and aliphatic polyesters; 3. polyesters that are produced by microorganisms, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), usually created through bacterial fermentation.(1) The terms ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ are often used interchangeably. However, while exact definitions vary, biodegradability generally refers to natural decomposition while compostability relies on managed processes of decomposition, such as industrial composting.
BIODEGRADABLE MATERIALS
