INTEGRATED RESPIROMETRIC SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING THE BIODEGRADATION OF BIOPLASTICS BY CAPTURING AND QUANTIFYING CARBON DIOXIDE

Abstract

Integrated device and procedure for evaluating the aerobic biodegradation of plastic materials by quantifying the carbon dioxide generated during the decomposition process. The device comprises a structural frame with rails, channels, and adjustable clamps that securely fix all its components in position; a compressor mounted on an anti-vibration base connected in series to a primary sodium hydroxide trap; a set of 100 mL airtight reactors immersed in a constant-temperature water bath; a micro-caliber gas duct network with airtight connectors; and secondary sodium hydroxide traps individually connected to each reactor, equipped with volumetric graduations and a visible bubble point. The quantification of the captured carbon dioxide is performed by volumetric titration with hydrochloric acid and phenolphthalein as an indicator.The device allows the simultaneous and independent evaluation of multiple samples under controlled and reproducible conditions.