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U.S. Department of Energy
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Water and UV degradable lactic acid polymers

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7100739

A water and UV light degradable copolymer of monomers of lactic acid and a modifying monomer were selected from the class consisting of ethylene and polyethylene glycols, propylene and polypropylene glycols, P-dioxanone, 1,5 dioxepan-2-one, 1,4 -oxathialan-2-one, 1,4-dioxide and mixtures. These copolymers are useful for waste disposal and agricultural purposes. Also disclosed is a water degradable blend of polylactic acid or modified polylactic acid and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide where the high molecular weight polyethylene oxide is present in the range of from about 2% by weight to about 50% by weight, suitable for films. A method of applying an active material selected from the class of seeds, seedlings, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and mixtures to an agricultural site is also disclosed.

DOE Contract Number:
W-31109-ENG-38
Assignee:
Arch Development Corp., Chicago, IL (United States)
Patent Number(s):
A; US 5360892
Application Number:
PPN: US 8-102703
OSTI ID:
7100739
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English