Study of the Degradation of Poly(ethyl glyoxylate): Biodegradation, Toxicity and Ecotoxicity Assays

Biodegradation of poly (ethyl glyoxylate) (PEtG), a functionalized polyacetal, was investigated over 6?month according to ASTM 5988-96 modified method and compared to micronized cellulose. More than 95?% of the polymer was converted into CO₂ over that period attesting the biodegradability of PEtG. The degradation by-products toxicity and ecotoxicity were evaluated. Toxicity was checked using an innovant non-mammalian toxicological model using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Ecotoxicity was performed using a plant growth test with cress (Lepidium Sativum), and barley (Hordeum vulgare). In all cases, results concluded on the harmlessness of PEtG and relative by-products.