Fiber Innovations: From Production to Application > Biopolymer & Natural Fibers

Exploring the disintegration and utilization of melt-spun biodegradable fibers

Saal C
Freitag, 12.09.2025, 09:40 - 10:00 Uhr

• Hydrolysis as a key factor in biodegradation: The rate of hydrolysis (and the type: abiotic or enzymatic) significantly affects the degradation behavior of melt-spun biodegradable fibers, with PGA and PLGA exhibiting rapid hydrolysis, while PBAT or even PHAs hydrolyze (abiotic) more slowly due to their molecular structures. • Balancing biodegradation and durability: Different performance aspects of melt-spun fibers show that the biodegradation rate and durability or service life are contradictory. • Mesocosm assessments for real-world validation: Controlled biodegradation studies, and mesocosm assessments in industrial and home composting conditions, provided valuable insights into the disintegration and ultimate utilization of biodegradable fibers.

Sprecher
Mohammadreza Naeimirad (Senbis)
Co-Authoren
Gert-Jan Gruter (Avantium), Bas Krins (Senbis)
The environmental impact of synthetic fibers has intensified the demand for biodegradable alternatives in the textile industry. This study provides an overview of the hydrolysis rate and utilization of melt-spun biodegradable fibers, including homopolymers such as polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), and polyglycolic acid (PGA), as well as copolymers like polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT), polybutylene succinate-co-adipate (PBSA), and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). The hydrolysis process plays a crucial role in the disintegration and eventual biodegradation of these fibers, influencing their mechanical stability, environmental breakdown, and suitability for textile applications. This study examines fiber hydrolysis (abiotic) under controlled laboratory conditions and real-world environments using mesocosm assessments, including industrial and home composting. Results indicate that PGA and PLGA exhibit rapid hydrolysis due to their high water sensitivity, whereas PBS and PBAT or even cellulose or PHAs disintegrate at a slower rate due to their more stable ester bonds. On the other hand, some other samples e.g. cellulose or PHAs are faster in biodegradation. This shows that the biodegradation pathway of some polymers is based on abiotic hydrolysis, while others are based on enzymatic hydrolysis. Understanding the relationship between polymer structure, processing parameters (to make the fibers), and hydrolysis behavior is essential for developing sustainable textile fibers. This research contributes to the advancement of biodegradable alternatives to synthetic fibers, promoting environmentally responsible solutions in the textile industry.