Plastic materials used in pet toys often pose health risks when ingested due to being non-digestible. This research study investigates new plastic materials as alternatives to conventional plastic toy-fillings, such as polyester fibers. The newly invented materials have the potential to be digestible materials that create safer options for pets and reduce environmental pollution. To assess degradation in canine digestion, the samplers were put under five conditions to mimic the canine gastrointestinal environment. Preliminary findings suggest that they have enzymatic degradation. Approximately, ten percent degradation is observed after 14 days. Future studies will focus on other factors, such as pH levels, to understand if the materials are digested faster in different conditions.
Exploring Enzymatic Degradation of New Plastic Materials for Digestible Pet Toys
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Student Abstract Submission