Biodegradable Polymer
A polymer that can be broken down into simple substances by the action of microorganisms.
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
Biodegradability requires linkages that enzymes can attack, such as the ester bonds in polyesters, whereas the inert carbon backbones of ordinary addition polymers persist for centuries. Complete degradation also requires the right conditions of moisture, oxygen and temperature.
Examples in the real world
Polylactic acid from fermented corn starch; PHB made by bacteria; biodegradable surgical sutures.