Abstract: Anaerobically biodegradable polyesters, and compositions and articles of manufacture containing the polyesters are described. Polyesters previously thought to be non-biodegradable under anaerobic conditions have been surprisingly and unexpectedly rendered anaerobically biodegradable by controlling the aromatic monomer content in the polyester. These polyesters can be made into fibers, films, non-woven fabrics, and adhesives. They are suitable for use in absorbent articles such as flushable personal hygiene products.

Abstract: Disclosed are blends of aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters with poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) copolymers and shaped articles prepared therefrom. These blends have higher melt strength than the aliphatic-aromatic copolyester alone and exhibit increased melt strength and better processability. In addition, the blends and shaped articles show bio-disintegration and/or biodegradability in a composting environment.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for releasing ATP from living cells in aqueous mixtures of polymers or pigments. The aqueous mixture of a polymer or pigment is agitated in the presence of a particulate disruption agent to cause rupturing of the living cells and release of the ATP contained therein. Also disclosed is a process for detecting living cells in a aqueous mixtures of polymer or pigments by detecting the ATP released by the disruption process by a luciferin/luciferase assay. A kit for the detection of living cells in aqueous mixtures of polymers or pigments also is described.