Degradation

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-002931",
  "term": "Degradation",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A process involving the irreversible alteration of a polymer's chemical structure, leading to a reduction in its molecular weight and physical properties. This change is caused by the scission of covalent bonds within the polymer chains. Degradation can be induced by chemical, physical, or biological agents, such as oxidation, hydrolysis, photolysis, or enzymatic action.",
  "subject": "Polymer",
  "see_also": [
    "disintegration",
    "enzymatic degradation"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 377. 'Terminology for biorelated polymers and applications (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 387 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-10-12-04)",
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 377. 'Terminology for biorelated polymers and applications (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 388 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-10-12-04)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/degradation/"
}