Biodegradable polymeric films based on microbial poly(3-hydroxybutyrate). Effect of gamma-radiation on mechanical properties and biodegradability

摘要

Two samples of microbial poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) having different molecular weight were used for the preparation of films to be exposed to gamma radiation. The effect of radiation on those samples with high molecular weight increased the fragility of the film. Biodegradability increased with time and reached about 95% after 18 days. Weight-loss of both samples (irradiated and non-irradiated) after 23 days were 100%, for those films with molecular weight of 265 kD. [References: 11]