Induced photodegradation of styrene polymers: A survey

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Abstract
Although polymeric materials have a relatively minor role in our solid waste disposal problems, they display a particular prominence as litter because of their environmental permanence, Photodegradation has been suggested as one possible solution, but considerable debate has centered on the need, costs, and limitations of such degradable systems. The chemical mechanisms involved in practical photodegradation are illustrated by a review of the oxidation schemes for normal and sensitized polystyrene. The different mechanisms associated with the use of additives, comonomers, and halogens are considered in some detail. A listing of patent literature relating specifically to photodegradable polystyrene is included in the review.

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