DEGRADABLE POLYMERIC FILMS

摘要

A method of controlling the degradation of a polymeric film to cause the film to degrade after an intended useful life time includes providing a polymeric film comprising a polymer and prodegradant for the polymer adapted to be activated on irradiation with a controlled dosage of electromagnetic radiation, activating one or more sources of artificial radiation adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation and irradiating at least part of the polymeric film with the artificial radiation. The electromagnetic radiation comprises wavelengths less than about 400 nm. A system for predisposing a polymeric film containing a prodegradant to degrade after an intended service life includes one or more sources of artificial radiation and an irradiation controller, together with a film dispenser dispensing film into the irradiation zone.