The difference between degradable plastic bags and fully degradable packaging bags is mainly reflected in the degradation method, time, and environmental impact of the materials. The following is a detailed comparison:
1. Degradation degree
Degradable plastic bags: Degradable plastic bags refer to plastic bags that can be degraded under certain conditions (such as light, heat, oxygen, etc.). They usually add pro-degradants during the manufacturing process, which allow the plastic to gradually decompose into smaller particles under the action of light or heat. Although these particles have decomposed in appearance, they are not actually completely degraded into harmless substances, and there may still be problems with microplastics.
Fully degradable packaging bags: Fully degradable packaging bags refer to packaging bags that can be completely degraded in the natural environment, and eventually decompose into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. These plastic bags are usually made of bio-based materials (such as PLA, PHA, etc.), or special degradation technology, which enables them to be completely degraded in a shorter time without leaving any substances that are harmful to the environment.
2. Degradation time
Degradable plastic bags: Their degradation time may be as long as months or even years, depending on environmental conditions. If there is not enough light or heat, degradable plastic bags may not be able to degrade effectively and may still cause pollution to the environment.
Fully degradable packaging bags: Fully degradable bags degrade relatively quickly, usually completely decomposed within a few months to a year, and will not produce persistent environmental pollutants. Such products are usually designed to degrade under composting conditions.
3. Material composition
Degradable plastic bags: Most of them are made of traditional petroleum-based plastics (such as PE, PP) with degradation aids, and still contain a certain proportion of non-degradable components. They are just decomposed into smaller plastic particles and do not really disappear from the environment.
Fully degradable packaging bags: Generally made of renewable resources or bio-based materials, such as starch, PLA (polylactic acid), PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), etc. These materials can be completely decomposed into harmless substances through the action of microorganisms.
4. Impact on the environment
Degradable plastic bags: Although they can be decomposed to some extent, they do not completely eliminate plastic pollution, and microplastics still pose potential hazards to the environment and organisms.
Fully degradable packaging bags: They have stronger environmental performance and can be completely decomposed, reducing the negative impact on soil, water and organisms, so they are considered to be a more environmentally friendly choice.
5. Scope of application
Degradable plastic bags: Mainly used for daily shopping bags, garbage bags, etc. Although they are more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic bags, they have not achieved the most ideal environmental protection effect.
Fully degradable packaging bags: Usually used in food packaging, express packaging, disposable tableware and other fields that require higher environmental protection requirements, especially in areas with high requirements for green environmental protection policies and regulations.
Degradable plastic bags are a modified version of traditional plastics with partial degradation capabilities, but there are still environmental problems.
Fully degradable packaging bags are a more environmentally friendly choice that can be completely decomposed in the natural environment and reduce the long-term impact on the ecosystem.
