| Biothene® is an additive which degrades polyethylene under the influence of light and heat. The addition of 2 to 3% Biothene® will produce a photochemically and thermally degradable film.
Polyethylene containing Biothene® will not degrade before being exposed to UV light. Once the polyethylene has been exposed to UV light, the degradation reaction will be triggered and continues even in the dark, such as expected when buried in a landfill site.
Degradation will be accelerated by heat.
Once the polyethylene has been transformed into a fine powder, many studies have shown that biological degradation will take place. The end products of biodegradation will be carbon dioxide and water, with a very small residue of non-toxic inert mineral material.
Biological degradation can start when the surface area of the disintegrated plastic has been enlarged.
The residues of degraded polyethylene are NON-TOXIC. |
