Biodegradation of Polymeric Insulators Used in Electrical power

Abstract

Polymeric materials have a variety of uses due to structural versatility. Their biodegradation is a common concern since when used as electrical insulators the breach of their structural integrity exposes people to electrical dangers. The process of degradation of the insulators by biofilms begins by the formation of a biofilm on its surface. Formation of the biofilm has to be under appropriate environmental conditions like in a damp or moist environment. This paper presents the process of biodegradation of polymeric insulators. It looks at the processes that are involved in the same and the factors that amplify the biodegradation process.  Once the biofilms have been formed on their surface, the microbes will secrete enzymes that can attack and hydrolyze the surface of the polymer.

The paper concludes that the most common factors that aid the biodegradation are the composition of the polymers, the crystalline nature, and the environmental factors.