The Institute for Polymer Research is hosting a seminar by Nicolas Kalogerakis, a professor of biochemical engineering and vice-president of the University Council at the Technical University of Crete in Greece. Professor Kalogerakis is presenting, "Bio-degradation of plastic debris in the marine environment: Any hope for clean oceans?"
Key topics covered
Plastic debris represents a significant problem among the various pollution problems facing the marine environment. Several studies have been conducted on the fate and weathering of plastics in the marine environment including the generation and fate of microplastics. Laboratory results on the biodegradation of plastics show great variability. An important question, which remains unanswered, is what is the level of weathering (measured as cumulative luminance exposure) that makes the plastic biodegradable at a reasonably fast rate.
In this presentation we focus on the determination of biodegradation and fragmentation rates of PS and PE films naturally weathered on beach sand as well as films weathered while floating in seawater. The results are very encouraging pointing to new challenges that need to be addressed for the successful biodegradation of plastics in the marine environment. Furthermore, the most effective mitigation measures and plastic debris removal technologies from the marine environment will be presented.
Speaker bio
Nicolas Kalogerakisis a professor of biochemical engineering and vice-president of the University Council at the Technical University of Crete. His area of expertise includes environmental biotechnology focusing on bioremediation and phytoremediation technologies for the restoration of contaminated sites; protection and restoration of the marine environment; novel oxygenation systems and wastewater treatment; and mathematical modeling of environmental processes.