D2w

d2w refers to an additive that, when incorporated into conventional plastics, aims to speed up their degradation through a process known as oxidation. The resulting plastics are called “oxo-biodegradable.” The main idea is that once exposed to specific conditions of temperature, light, and oxygen, the additive initiates a fragmentation process that reduces the time it takes for the plastic to break down.

How does d2w work?

1. Oxidative process: The d2w additive promotes the breaking of polymer chains in the presence of oxygen. This phase is key to reducing the material’s resistance.
2. Plastic fragmentation: Once the plastic’s structure is compromised, it breaks into smaller pieces.
3. Biodegradation stage: Theoretically, microorganisms in the environment finish decomposing these fragments. However, the efficiency of this phase depends heavily on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, or exposure to light.

Potential advantages

• Reduced longevity: Compared to conventional plastics, those containing d2w may decompose over a shorter period, thus occupying less space in landfills.
• Relative ease of implementation: The additive can be integrated during the manufacturing of plastic products without radically altering the production process.
• Lower additional cost: Generally, manufacturing costs do not increase significantly, making it easier for some companies to adopt.

Criticisms and controversies

Several experts point out that breaking plastic into smaller pieces does not equate to full biodegradation, and these smaller remnants can become microplastics harmful to marine life and terrestrial ecosystems. Moreover, if oxo-biodegradable plastics end up in environments without sufficient oxygen or heat (such as buried landfills), the oxidation process may be interrupted, leaving the material nearly intact.

In some regions, the use of oxo-biodegradable additives has been restricted or is under scrutiny due to concerns that it may create a false sense of security among consumers, who might believe that merely using these plastics solves the pollution problem.

d2w: An alternative for plastic degradation?

The use of d2w reflects the quest for alternatives to the environmental crisis caused by plastics, but it also underscores the complexity of finding truly effective and sustainable solutions. While the additive seeks to speed up plastic decomposition, questions remain regarding the formation of microplastics and the need for specific conditions to achieve complete biodegradation.