Abstract
The composting degradation tests of poly (L-lactic acid) (PLA) were carried out in aerobic and anaerobic conditions at different temperatures (25-50°C). The degradation rate of PLA was fastest in anaerobic condition at 50°C. In this condition, concentrations of fatty acids generated in the compost were highest. The result suggested that the acids catalyzed the hydrolysis of PLA in the compost. The degradation tests of PLA were also conducted in the fatty acid solutions (acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid) as well as ammonia solutions separately. The results suggested that these acids and base strongly promoted the degradation of PLA.
