(127i) Investigating the Influence of PHA Polymer Coating Methods on the Biodegradability of Burlap Sacks for Shore Restoration

An important environmental problem that calls for creative restoration strategies is shoreline erosion. We investigate the effectiveness of coating burlap sacks containing glass sand with polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers to restore shorelines. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of different coating techniques on the biodegradability of these bags in marine environments.

A number of PHA polymers are examined, such as poly(3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHV), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and engineered commercial versions. To apply these polymers onto the burlap substrate and assess their efficiency in improving biodegradability, we studied several coating methods. The techniques we tried involve dip-coating, single-sided lamination and double-sided lamination. To identify structural changes brought about by the coating procedure, the crystallinity changes in coated burlap samples are characterized.

Degradation studies are also conducted to find out how coating techniques affect how long burlap sacks take to degrade in oceanic water settings. We hope to clarify the connection between coating technique, crystallinity variations, and degradation time by methodical testing and analysis, offering important information for the creation of sustainable solutions in coastal restoration projects.