Aliphatic polyesters : Abiotic and biotic degradation and degradation products

This paper reviews the degradation behavior of aliphatic polyesters of current interest, including polylactide, polycaprolactone, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and their copolymers. Special focus is given to degradation products formed in different abiotic and biotic environments. The influence of processing and processing additives on the properties and degradation behavior is also briefly discussed.

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