Are Orbeez Biodegradable: Analyzing the Decay Time

Left orbeez outside and thinking that they will degrade over time? The question itself holds significant important for everyone who thinks these polymers will dengerate over times. But the truth about their degenerative properties lies in their chemical compositions. The answer to the basic question: are orbeez biodegradable depends much on how our biosphere treats orbeez.

We studies different articles to find answers about the degenerative properties of polyacrylate polymer. This is the basic components of which your orbeez are made of. Since, chemical science can better answer these question, our analytical study will reveal how long will it take for orbeez to completely degenerate.

Since, environmental protection upholds pivotal position to all those looking out for these questions, let’s elaborate on first how orbeez are made, which is the major component of orbeez. Lastly, we’ll talk about are orbeez biodegradable and how long will it take for orbeez to decompose completely.

Let’s begin

Defining the Key Variable – Biodegradable Substance

According to Oxford dictionary, a biodegradable substance or object is capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organism. As a result, such substances are environmental friendly since they are naturally decomposed by out earth and thereby avoid pollution.

Chemical Composition of Orbeez

These beautiful colorful beads are primarily made up of superabsorbent polymer known as sodium polycacrylate. The polymer is primarily made up of acrylic acid and sodium hydroxide. This is a non-toxic polymer which is also used in hygiene products such as diapers and sanitary pads.

Due to it’s chemical composition, the beads are super-absorbent and can absorb 100 times of water than their weight.

Therefore, when orbeez are exposed to water, they expand into gel-like spheres and provide entertainment to the user.

Why Orbeez hard to Biodegrade

You might wonder why orbeez are not biodegradable since they are used much of the product of our daily use. The truth is that since orbeez are made up of sodium acrylate polymer, they acquire water absorbent nature which make them hard to degrade over time.

According to a peer-reviewed study published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research, polyacrylate has a low degradation rate. The result of the finds are:

• About 0.12% to 0.24% of orbeez degraded per six months.
• The fact that this degradation rate is so low highlights how durable polyacrylate is.
• While some naturally occurring microorganisms can use polyacrylate as their main food supply, there isn’t enough proof to say that these microbes are commonly found in landfills.

The results highlight the need for additional investigation and careful assessment of the environmental consequences linked to the gradual deterioration of polyacrylate materials.

How long will it take for Orbeez to Decay

The exponential decay formula for Orbeez degradation over time, assuming the decay follows the form exp(-t/τ), where τ is the half-life, can be expressed as:

N(t)=N0⋅e−tτN(t)=N0​⋅e−τt​

Where:

• N(t)N(t) is the remaining quantity of Orbeez at time tt.
• N0N0​ is the initial quantity of Orbeez.
• ττ is the half-life of Orbeez.

Solving for the half-life (ττ) in terms of the measured decay rate yields:

τ=−tln⁡(N(t)N0)τ=−ln(N0​N(t)​)t​

In the given context, the half-life (ττ) can be calculated for the upper and lower ranges of measurements, resulting in a half-life range of 2496 to 4997 months. This translates to 208 to 416 years for Orbeez to decay by half.

Degradation Period of Orbeez Based on Above Formula

Remaining Orbeez in Landfill for Six Months

• 99.76% to 99.88% of Orbeez.

In the first six months, very little deterioration happens, and most Orbeez is still intact.

Three years in a landfill

• 99.28% to 98.50% of Orbeez.

Degradation is comparatively little even after three years, demonstrating Orbeez’s tenacious character in a landfill setting.

50 years in a landfill

• 78.63% to 88.66% of the orbeez.

Over the course of fifty years, there is a notable amount of deterioration, but a sizable portion of Orbeez remains intact, demonstrating their durability.

After 200 Years in a Landfill

38.23% to 61.86% of Orbeez.

A significant amount of Orbeez remains after two centuries, highlighting the material’s durability in the absence of unique microorganisms.

Impact of Orbeez on Environment

If we look at the decomposing property of orbez, they take a lot of time to decompose. Simply said, these super abosrband polymers once used and thrown into the environment are very much like to act like a plastic bag.
Due to their small size, they mix up with our soil and are no easily visible to naked eye. Over time they can cause potential loss to water quality and overall eco system.

Things to Keep in Mind for Sustainable Usage of Orbeez

Here’s what you need to keep in mind for sustainable usage of orbeez:

Use Moderate Amount of Orbeez

Choose a methodical technique while adding Orbeez to your soil. Adequate hydration can be supplied to plant soil in moderation without becoming too much for the environment to handle.

Usage Limits

Limit the use of Orbeez to pots, containers, or enclosed garden beds to reduce the possibility that they will harm the environment. By keeping them inside defined borders, this containment technique guards against possible damage to nearby ecosystems.

Opt for Eco-friendly Ways

Examine long-term environmental implications by looking into Orbeez substitutes. Similar benefits of moisture retention are offered by environmentally friendly alternatives like coconut coir or vermiculite, but they don’t have the possible negative effects of synthetic materials.

How Make Effective Use of Orbeez without Hurting the Environment

Many believe orbeez don’t have use apart from entertainment. However, this is not true. These water beads can be used in multiple other ways:

• Stress Relieving Agent: Create an Orbeez Stress ball and use it as stress relieving agent.
• Use Orbeez in Sensory Play: Children who have trouble communicating their needs often find it comforting in playing with soft orbjects like orbeez. Since they do not required any veral communication, they can use it a s beautiful piece of art.
• Use them in in-door plants: Why dispose orbeez when they can also be used in door plants. The usage of orbeez in the pot will keep the plants hydrated for long.

Conclusion

Because of their attractive qualities, Orbeez stand out as a perfect addition to a variety of locations, including homes, offices, and classrooms. Their eco-friendliness adds an additional element of attraction, even though they provide a safe and non-toxic experience that is appropriate for people of all ages.

Orbeez are easily disposed of by dissolving them in water, which is both a practical and eco-friendly solution. Notwithstanding its advantages, it’s important to remember that Orbeez may take some time to completely dissolve. However, the length of time it takes for them to dissolve is negligible when compared to the many advantages they offer, like safety, adaptability, and simplicity of disposal.

All things considered, Orbeez is a good option for anybody looking for a pleasurable and environmentally responsible sensory experience.