How quickly will a plastic bag break down?

Answer 1

10,00 years. no jokes!

Answer 2

Because Plastic bags have only been around for 50 years, scientists use respirometry tests.

First the scientists take something like a banana peel, a newspaper or a plastic bag (waste products) in a vessel along with compost that is rich in microorganisms, and then they expose the mixture to air or oxygen. The microorganisms consume the waste sample and make carbon dioxide or CO2 and the amount of CO2 shows the degradation of the waste samples.

Newspapers take 5 months to biodegrade and bananas take just several days.

When scientists tested plastic bags using the respirometry test no CO2 was produced and there was no decomposition. This is because the majority of plastic bags are made from polyethylene. Microorganisms don't see it as food because it is man made.

500years to 1000years

they might take a couple of years if you put one in a microwave, so far no tests have been accurate because the motor of the microwaves blew up.

Answer 3

There are many items that end up in landfills, but take years to decay. Oftentimes, these items could be recycled instead of just thrown away. Take, for instance, a plastic bag. It takes around 15 years to decay, but could be recycled instead, which would save resources.

Answer 4

A plastic grocery bag will last centuries if it is buried in a landfill where oxygen and ultraviolet light cannot degrade it. It may last as little as a few weeks if it is made with cornstarch to be biodegradeable and it is allowed to be exposed to sun, water and oxygen.

Some bags are designed to last for long periods of time. The plastic bag that you cover your motorcycle with had better last more than a couple seasons or you'll be rather ticked.

Answer 5

it depends on the environment and it usually takes a long time too break down.

Answer 6

500-1000 years