Handbook of Material Biodegradation, Biodeterioration, and Biostablization

This book is about protection of materials and products against colonization and subsequent degradation of their properties. The book contains 11 chapters each devoted to essential aspects related to biodegradation and biostabilization. The introductory chapter gives historical note on chronological developments in the field, presents classification of biocidal products, and defines essential terms which are frequently used in the subject of the book. Microorganisms involved in biodegradation and biodeterioration of materials are presented within the framework of their classification, based on the most recent findings and conclusions. Information on 13 groups of bacteria 7 groups of fungi, and 4 groups of protozoa involved in biodegradative processes are discussed in Chapter 2. Chapter 3 is devoted to industrial biocides. In this discussion, biocides are divided into 19 groups and properties of stabilizers for each group are given in the tabular form. Only stabilizers permitted for use in European Union and the USA are included in the discussion. The selection is based on the most current lists of approved substances. Information on different biocides is followed by sections discussing principles of selection of biostabilizers and methods of stabilizers delivery (bulk addition, nanoparticles, delayed delivery, surface coating, and reaction with functionalized polymer). Chapter 4 contains discussion on influence of material properties on biodeterioration. The following topics are discussed in this chapter: surface properties, crystalline structure, pH, effect of oxidation prior to biodegradation, and effect of pigments. Chapter 5 aims at discussion of mechanism and kinetics of biostabilizers action. Among many other topics influence of biomass adhesion, resistance to biocide, biocide leaching rate, and longevity of biostabilized materials are discussed. Chapter 6 contains information on biodegradation, biodeterioration and biostabilization of industrial products. For each group of products, relevant microorganisms, essential product components, mechanisms of biodegradation and biodeterioration, results of biodeterioration, biostabilization, and used formulations are given. 22 groups of industrial products are included in evaluation. This, the most important chapter, discusses also, more than 28 groups of polymers in separate sections. Chapter 7 contains information on standard and frequently used analytical methods in the field of the biodegradation, biodeterioration and biostabilization of materials.. Chapter 8 contains evaluation of health and safety aspects of biocide application, including topics, such as toxic substance control, carcinogenic effect, workplace exposure limits, and food regulatory acts. Chapter 9 contains the most current information on the environmental fate of biostabilizers, including their concentrations, toxicity, and the rates of decay. Discussion is based on the data to give real picture of the current situation. Chapter 10 contains information on regulations developed in European Union, by world organizations, and in the USA to give a comprehensive background of legislative measures. The last chapter is on protection of workers who use biocides in their work. This comprehensive source of fundamental information and data is based on thousands of papers, patents, and information from biocide manufacturers. The above contents and the most-up-to-date information make this book essential for almost all the fields of applied chemistry. Very drastic changes in biocides which can be used according to regulations make most of the very informative books published in past misleading because regulations eliminated many products, which they discuss. This book only looks to future applications, giving ideas on how to protect materials in today's environment.