Oxo-biodegradable Plastic (OBP)
A masterbatch which turns ordinary plastic at the end of its useful life, in the presence of oxygen, into a material with a different molecular structure. At the end of the process, it is no longer a plastic, and instead has changed to a material which is biodegradable (by bacteria and fungi) in the open environment.
Stages of oxo-biodegradation:
- OBP masterbatch is added at the manufacturing stage.
- Film containing OBP masterbatch is extruded and then converted into bags or packaging.
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The product behaves like conventional plastic during its intended service life.
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After its service life, the bag or packaging may end up in the open environment.
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The OBP masterbatch then takes effect and the product begins to degrade in the presence of oxygen.
- The product will degrade and biodegrade in a continuous, irreversible and unstoppable process leaving nothing more than carbon dioxide, water and biomass.
Standards
- British Standard 8472
- American ASTM D6954
- United Arab Emirates Standard 5009:2009 French Accord T51-808
- Saudi Standard SASO 2879