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Polymer Chemistry: A primer to enzymatic polymer degradation
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This review primer covers how enzymes can be used to biodegrade polymers, with applications for chemical recycling of plastics and removal of microplastic debris from the environment. Enzymatic degradation offers a targeted, environmentally friendly approach to breaking down persistent plastic polymers at the source.
Abstract As highly efficient biocatalysts, enzymes could be used in technical applications for the degradation of polymers, for chemical recycling of polymers, and for the removal of microplastic debris. The formulation of enzymes with preservation of their enzymatic activity is a major challenge for applications with polymers.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.