Biodegradation of Blends of Low-Density Polyethylene with Natural Rubber in Soil

The biological degradation of mixed composites of low density polyethylene (PE) with natural rubber (NR) in soil is studied. The biodegradability of composites was monitored through changes in the mass, appearance, and chemical composition of the materials using infrared spectroscopy. Analysis of the changes in the IR spectra of the samples after exposure to soil showed a decrease in the cis-1,4-double bonds, as well as the formation of carbonyl groups and functional groups belonging to the biomaterial. The results obtained agree with the concept of the oxidative mechanism of the initial stage of the NR biodegradation process and provide information on the accumulation of biomass in blends of low-density PE and NR, depending on the composition.