Biotic decomposition

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Biotic decomposition (or biotic degradation , biotic degradation ) means in chemistry and biology the decomposition of a chemical compound into smaller molecules or even into elements through biological influences.

Biotic decomposition

Living beings that break down biological substances are grouped under the name saprobionts or destructors . These are animals such as mites , woodlice , and microorganisms such as bacteria (e.g. actinomycetes ) and fungi . Organic substances, mostly high-polymer proteins or carbohydrates, are first broken down mechanically by these organisms, then chemically either with the exclusion of air ( anaerobic ) or in the presence of air ( aerobic ). The saprobionts use the organic compounds as an energy source.

If the mineralization is complete , the breakdown of the polymers by enzymes from the hydrolase class results in monomers such as amino acids and monosaccharides . These are then completely broken down into carbon dioxide, water, ammonium compounds and nitrates . If the conditions are not optimal, only high-molecular humic substances are produced . The decomposition of dead living things is called putrefaction . Under anaerobic conditions, the biological decomposition is called putrefaction . The decomposition of plant material under aerobic conditions is called composting in horticulture .

Biotic degradation

Badges of DIN CERTCO and European Bioplastics according to EN 13432

The decomposition of organic substances in waste by saprobionts or their enzymes that feed waste into the natural material cycle is also generally called biological degradation . The biodegradability of industrially produced chemicals , u. a. on the basis of renewable raw materials as in oleochemicals , and materials (e.g. plastics) are examined with (partly) specific test procedures. Labeling systems exist, especially for biodegradable plastics . The terms biodegradability or biodegradability are also often used.

Substances are said to be resistant to degradation if they are not subject to biological degradation. If they are not broken down by other chemical or physical processes, they are referred to as persistent .

Bio-corrosion

The corrosion of substances by living things is known as bio- corrosion . This includes both decomposition processes, which serve their metabolism , and excreted secondary metabolites , which lead to decomposition.

Web links

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ Science online lexica: Entry on decomposition in the compact lexicon of chemistry. Retrieved September 28, 2008.