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Updated: May 26, 2026

Isolation of Native Soil Microorganisms with Potential for Breaking Down Biodegradable Plastic Mulch Films Used in Agriculture
Published on: May 10, 2013
Application of PVA-derived porous media to accelerate biodegradation (composting) of organic solid substrates
Hsiao-Dao Chang1, Chao-Ying Chen
1Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming-Chi University of Technology, Taishan, Taipei, 24301, Taiwan, ROC.
Abstract:
Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-derived cubes with fine pores and high water-binding and microbial adhesion capacities, enhanced the biodegradation of organic solid substrates with the temperature of the mixture increasing to over 65°C on the second day and being maintained ~60°C for the following 3 days, averaging at least 15°C higher than the control. The amount of CO(2) evolved also reflected a higher level of biodegradation. The compost made with PVA porous cubes for 2 weeks improved lettuce cultivation and crop losses decreased by at least 10% compared with the control. Thus PVA porous cubes can facilitate the production of mature compost for plants.
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