Journal Published Online: 10 October 2014
Volume 43, Issue 5

Validation of an Electronic Sensor Network (ESN) Control Chamber for Monitoring the Soil Decomposition Process of Sago Starch-filled Natural Rubber Latex Films

CODEN: JTEVAB

Abstract

Biodegradable sago starch-filled natural rubber latex films were subjected to soil decomposition. Decomposition indicators such as temperature, soil pH and humidity, and volume of carbon dioxide and oxygen were monitored via an electronic sensor network (ESN) control chamber. During the assessment, the environmental temperature was kept constant and a small increase in soil humidity was detected. The ESN control chamber detected the increment of soil pH and carbon dioxide level and a decrease in oxygen content during the biodegradation process. The changes in these parameters confirmed the progress of the biodegradation process. The mass loss retention for films was compared with data obtained from the ESN control chamber to get the coefficient of correlation (r) value, which describes the relationships between the two datasets. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed the formation and growth of microorganism colonies, and Fourier transform infrared analysis indicated the breakage of double-bonded carbon in sago starch-filled natural rubber latex films and carbonyl group intensification, signifying the formation of aldehyde and ketone groups after the fourth week of soil decomposition.

Author Information

Misman, M.
School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, MY
Azura, A.
School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, MY
Sidek, Othman
Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellent Center, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, MY
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JTE20130277
ISSN: 0090-3973
DOI: 10.1520/JTE20130277