Biodegradation of Polyurethane (PU) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Abstract

The accumulation of plastic trash has been recognized as a significant environmental issue that impacts all forms of life, natural ecosystems, and the global economy. In these circumstances, it is crucial to prioritize the search for environ mentally friendly alternatives, such as biodegradation instead of conventional dis posal methods. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding the mechanisms and effectiveness of plastic biodegradation. The purpose of this study is to provide a concise overview of the biodegradation processes of polyurethane (PU) and polyvi nyl chloride (PVC), highlighting their significance in terms of environmental sus tainability and waste management. Biodegradation, which harnesses the power of microbes and enzymes, holds immense promise in tackling the environmental issues associated with synthetic polymers. Biodegradation refers to the natural process by which microbes and enzymes break down organic matter. To effectively develop strategies for managing plastic waste and promoting sustainability, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the mechanisms and factors that affect the biodeg radation of polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.