Last April 23, 2011 I tied an oxo-biodegradable plastic bag on pole of tv antenna. The plastic was claimed to degrade when exposed to sun’s heat, ultraviolet light and mechanical stress. I would like to know how long this plastic would last when exposed under the sun.
January 19, 2012 – almost nine months have passed and the plastic plastic was still clinging on pole antenna. I took if off for inspection.
The plastic was dirty. There are cracks near nylon tie. I pulled it and it broke easily. The bag handle was still strong though. I crumpled it and plastic fragments fell on table.
Further observations and comments:
1) There are signs of degradation after nine months. It was not even. Maybe the other parts were not directly exposed to sun.
2) If the community will use this kind of plastic, The nine months period is more than enough to cause pollution and clogging of waterways if proper disposal is not done.
3) I guessed the plastic will not degrade if buried underground or dump water deep.
4) The oxo-biodegradable plastic is good but not enough. More research and development efforts should be done.
