Effect of Amylase Producing Vibrios From the Benthic Environment on the Biodegradation of Low Density Polyethylene-Dextrin Blends

Low-density polyethylene was mixed with dextrin having different particle sizes (100, 200 and 300 mesh). Various compositions were prepared and their mechanical properties were evaluated and thermal studies have been carried out. Biodegradability of these samples has been checked using liquid culture medium containing Vibrios (an amylase producing bacteria), which were isolated from marine benthic environment. Soil burial test was done and reprocessability of these samples was evaluated. The results indicate that the newly prepared blends are reprocessable without sacrificing much of their mechanical properties. The biodegradability tests on these blends indicate that these are partially biodegradable

Polymer-Plastics Technology and Engineering

Fine (approximately 18 nm) particles of nickel ferrite were synthesized by the sol-gel technique, and their structural properties were evaluated by X-ray diffraction. Neoprene-based rubber ferrite composites were prepared by incorporating these nickel ferrite powders in the rubber matrix according to a specific recipe. The cure characteristics were analyzed, and the samples were molded into particular shapes whose properties were determined according to ASTM standards. Magnetization studies were carried out using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer. This study indicates that neoprene rubber-based flexible magnets with desired magnetic properties and appropriate mechanical properties can be prepared by incorporating an adequate amount of nanoscale nickel ferrite particles within the rubber matrix