Handbook of Material Biodegradation, Biodeterioration, and Biostablization

This revised and updated second edition gives extensive information on those micro-organisms involved in the biodegradation of materials along with the biocides which are permitted for use according to the most up-to-date worldwide legislation. Mechanisms of biodegradation and biodeterioration, results of biodeterioration, and methods of biostabilization are all given for a large number of products. This makes it relevant for a range of industries and applications including construction, coatings/paints, medical and pharmaceutical applications, and electronics. Health and safety aspects of biocide application are covered in detail, as well as the personal protection of practitioners who are required to use them. Environmental implications are discussed - including concentrations, toxicity, and rates of decay. In addition the book contains up-to-date information on legislation and regulations governing the use of biocides - in the European Union, the USA, and worldwide. This is essential information for scientists and practitioners in the field, as regulations continually eliminate many previously used materials. This comprehensive source of fundamental information and data is based on thousands of papers, patents, and information from biocide manufacturers. The contents and the most-up-to-date information make this book essential for almost all the fields of applied chemistry. * Enables practitioners to identify the organisms responsible for biodeterioration in materials, select suitable preventative measures, and safely deploy methods of biostabilization* Contains information on the biostabilization of various industrial products - including 24 groups of polymers* Includes critical (and current) health and safety, environmental and regulatory guidelines and best practice