Biodegradation of Plastic in Municipal Solid Waste

Plastic component in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is a serious issue, particularly in developing and transitory nations. Although recycling of plastic could reduce the actual quantum that reached landfill, the amount disposed into landfill could be extremely high. Landfilling is still considered the most economical and practical options of MSW disposal in the developing nations. Hence, it is imperative to reduce the actual amount of plastic disposed into these landfills. Alternatively, options should be available for the use of degradable plastic. The latter type of plastic is increasingly being introduced in many countries. The question is, is this material really biodegradable? This book attempts to answer this question scientifically. The contents of the book includes international scenario on plastic consumption and disposal, issues related to plastic industries and details on the type of plastic, and mechanism of degradation. Discussion on the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) coupled with microbial studies gives evidence of degradability. Undoubtedly the book will form an important source of information on plastic waste management.

Autorentext

Prof. Agamuthu P.Professor, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Email: agamuthu@um.edu.myPhone: 603-79676756 / Facsimile: 603-79674178