Tunable enzymatic biodegradation of poly(butylene succinate): biobased coatings and self-degradable films

Boosting the Biodegradation and Bioactivity of PBS‐DLS Copolymers via Incorporation of PEG

“…It is already known from the literature that PBS is a degradable polymer that undergoes erosion during degradation. [ 18 ] This has been confirmed by both experimental findings, including our previous studies, [ 11 ] and theoretical models that predict erosion mechanisms in water‐insoluble biodegradable polymers. [ 41 ] This comprehensive model, incorporating parameters such as water diffusivity, degradation rates of polymer functional groups, and matrix dimensions, suggests that degradable polymers experience either surface erosion or bulk erosion depending on specific conditions.…”

“…Thus, it is clearly demonstrated that hydrophilic PEG and higher amount of soft segments contributed significantly to the progress of enzymatic degradation since addition of PEG has been found to turn the copolymers to hydrophilic material. [ 15 ] In support of observed surface erosion mechanism, studies reported [ 18,71 ] on PBS‐based copolymers have reported analogous surface features, including the formation of holes and cracks during enzymatic degradation. These findings are consistent with our SEM observations, where we observed the manifestation of cracks and pores after 20 days of enzymatic degradation.…”

“…[ 46 ] Furthermore, the diversity in enzymatic conditions, encompassing factors like temperature, stirring, shaking, enzyme density, and activity, among others, can contribute to variations in PBS degradation results. [ 18 ]…”

“…[46] Furthermore, the diversity in enzymatic conditions, encompassing factors like temperature, stirring, shaking, enzyme density, and activity, among others, can contribute to variations in PBS degradation results. [18] This emphasizes the significant impact of introducing soft segments into the molecular structure of PBS, resulting in an increased rate of degradation, which is enhanced further by the hydrophilic PEG. Overall, the degradation rate of copolyesters is influenced by various factors, including their chemical composition, structure, physical properties, and surface characteristics.…”

“…Some studies report rapid and extensive PBS degradation within hours, facilitated by various lipases, while others demonstrate more moderate weight loss. [ 18 ] In this study, we introduce a novel aspect to PBS‐based polymers research, modifying PBS properties specifically target enzymatic degradation of PBS films, utilizing a lipase derived from Pseudomonas cepacia as our catalyst.…”