CONFIRMED: SMAST Seminar - DEOS - "Biodegradation Test Methods for Polymers in the Marine Environment" By: Jo Ann Ratto Ross
Department of Estuarine and Ocean Sciences "Biodegradation Test Methods for Polymers in the Marine Environment" Jo Ann Ratto Ross Adjunct Professor, Plastics Engineering Department, UMass Lowell Wednesday, December 4, 2024 12:30pm-1:30pm SMAST E 101-102 and via Zoom Abstract: Biodegradable polymers have historically been studied as a solution to reduce solid waste since they can decompose in soil, compost and/or the marine environment. However, biodegradation is a challenge for most polymers in the marine environment. An introduction to polymers will be presented focusing on several biodegradable polymers. A tiered approach to evaluate the biodegradation of polymers in the marine environment will also be reviewed. The Tier 1 method utilizes an optimized environment, sample preparation and conditions to evaluate biodegradation by respirometry. A Tier 2 test uses weight loss as a function of time to evaluate actual items in the marine environment, and a Tier 3 test has items positioned in the deep sea for weight loss studies. Overall, this Tier 1 approach is a valuable screening method for polymers while Tiers 2 and 3 are real-life test methods for determining the fate of polymers in the marine environment. Toxicity as well as disintegration tests are also important when studying polymers in the marine environment. Sample data and results will be shown for a variety of materials. Join the Zoom https://umassd.zoom.us/j/97440069270 Note: Meeting passcode required, email contact below to receive To request the Zoom passcode, or for any other questions, please email Callie Rumbut at c.rumbut@umassd.edu
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https://umassd.zoom.us/j/97440069270