What is PVOH?

PVOH is a readily biodegradable, water soluble polymer.

No harmful residues - PVOH films and packaging biodegrade ultimately to naturally occurring substances - carbon dioxide, water and biomass

Biodegradation

PVOH can be degraded using thermal, mechanical, photochemical, ultraviolet, biological and chemical processes.

Regarding biodegradation, a number of micro-organisms, and a number of moulds and yeasts have been shown to degrade PVOH. These organisms can occur in both artificial environments, such as anaerobic digesters, activated sewage sludge and composts, and natural environments such as aquatic systems and soil.

The micro-organisms use PVOH as a food source by producing a variety of enzymes that are capable of reacting with it. The ultimate end products from this process are the naturally occurring substances carbon dioxide, water and biomass.

Toxicity

PVOH is non-toxic and formulated products can maintain this non-toxicity by selection of appropriate formulating ingredients.

Water-solubility

PVOH grades can be engineered to dissolve in a controlled  time & at specific temperature. This makes it possible for the packaged contents to completely diffuse when required to do so. Outstanding water solvency and decomposition eliminates the need for any special disposal requirements. By carefully selecting the PVOH grade the correct dissolution characteristic is achieved resulting in a clear water appearance with little or no discolouration