ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses photocatalytic degradation of plastics. It explains the research works undertaken across the world to develop a photodegradable plastic film that can be degraded with the help of light, air, and water. Researchers generally study solar photocatalytic degradation of plastic by preparing a plastic–catalyst composite film and subsequently exposing it to sunlight. In general, the extent of photocatalytic degradation is measured by weight loss of the sample using a precision balance. The characteristics of the film, especially SEM micrograph and FTIR spectrograph of the plastic semiconductor film, after exposure compared to that before exposure reveal about the photocatalytic degradation of the film. For the photocatalytic treatment of plastics, a polymer–semiconductor composite film is generally prepared and it is exposed to actual or simulated sunlight or ultraviolet light for degradation. When plastics are discarded into soil, they pose resistance to recharging of groundwater aquifers owing to their non-biodegradable and water impervious nature.
