The degradation of polylactide (PLA) films of different structures under conditions of controlled composting has been studied. We have demonstrated that PLA underwent degradation within one month in a substrate that simulated standard industrial composting. Regardless of the initial structure of the samples, the number-average molecular weight (M_n) decreased to 4 kDa while the degree of crystallinity increased to about 70% after 21 days of composting. Addition of an inoculant to the standard substrate resulted in the accelerated degradation of the PLA samples for one week due to an abiotic hydrolysis. These findings have confirmed that industrial composting could solve the problem of plastic disposal at least for PLA.

The lyocell process, which utilizes N -methylmorpholine N -oxide monohydrate (NMMO) as a direct, non-derivatizing solvent for cellulose, currently represents the most environmentally benign technology for producing man-made cellulosic fibers. While dissolution and spinning are often perceived as physical processes, the system is, in fact, governed by a complex network of chemical side reactions. This review provides a critical examination of the “chemistry” of the lyocell process, with a focus on developments from the past two decades. The discussion encompasses the homolytic (radical) and heterolytic (ionic) degradation pathways of NMMO, which lead to solvent consumption and the formation of byproducts, such as N -methylmorpholine and morpholine. These reactions are linked to the autocatalytic degradation of NMMO and related “exothermic events”, but also to oxidative degradation of cellulose, resulting in chain scission and the generation of carbonyl functionalities. A significant consequence of these processes is the formation of chromophores, which cause discoloration of the spinning dope and the final fibers; their identification and formation mechanisms are also discussed. Given the unavoidable nature of these side reactions, a substantial part of this account is dedicated to the chemistry of the stabilizers, with propyl gallate serving as a key example, which are introduced to minimize those side reactions and their effects. The review analyzes the dual antioxidant and intermediate-scavenging roles of stabilizers, their consumption mechanisms, and their unintended involvement in chromophore generation. Finally, the influence of critical process factors, such as temperature, cellulose feedstock quality, and the impact of metal ions, is evaluated, providing a comprehensive overview of the chemical challenges and advancements in modern lyocell technology.