Biodegradable Plastic Soft Lures Decomposition Evaluation Test We would like to present part of the Soft Lures decomposition evaluation test that we have undertaken in cooperation with Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. The two sample types were: A: Aliphatic polyester resin soft lure (ECOGEAR) B: Generic resin type of lure with decomposition enhancers (Other brand)
The BOD tester that was used in a 100 day decomposition test, showed that soon after the lure A (ECOGEAR) was placed in the saltwater it started to degrade, and that decomposition happened at an extremely fast pace up until the 20th day. However there was barely any decomposition of lure B. The surface layer of the lures was then viewed using a scanning electron microscope. There are small cracks in the surface of Lure A suggesting decomposition of the aliphatic polyester (see diagram Sample A (60 days)). On the other hand, while there are holes in the surface caused by the dissolving of the decomposition enhancers, the Generic Lure exhibits almost no change and decomposition can not be confirmed (See diagram Sample B (60 days)).
Sample A
(0 days)
Sample A
(60 days)
Sample B
(0 days)
Sample B
(60 days)
(x100)
What happens when fish eat the Lure? And, what happens if people ate that fish? We undertook an experiment were Rainbow Trout breed in aquaculture facilities and other fish were fed ECOGEAR's Biodegradable lure "E-TUBE". It was confirmed that the lure shrunk and passed approximately one week after being consumed.
ECOGEAR also uses only plasticizers that are regarded as safe (contain no suspected endocrine disrupters), therefore we have reduced the risk involved as much as possible to any body eating such fish.
Test in Progress
Top: Lure before digestion
Bottom: Lure after Digestion
Kanagawa Pref. ASHINOKO Decomposition Test in freshwater mountain lake. Changes in the weight are extremely slow because of the clear water and low water temperature. Decomposition proceeds slowly.
Shizuoka Pref. SHIMODA Saltwater Decomposition Test. The water temperature is high, and decomposition proceeds at a quick pace.
Saitama Pref. HANYU Decomposition Test in low lying freshwater lake. Due to the large amount of microbacteria decomposition proceeds at a healthy rate.
ASHINOKO: 27 months
SHIMODA: 27 months
HANYU: 27 months
PUCHI EBI PRE-TEST
We have been undertaking decomposition tests in the field and collecting a wide range of data from 1999 at the crucian carp fishing pond, HANYU-YOSHINUMA and ASHINOKO, as well as at SHIMODA Ocean Aquarium from 2002. We have also begun a new series of tests with the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. We will continue to focus our research on the mechanism causing the difference between rates of decomposition in different environments.
"Environmental Protection Mark" System Japan Fishing Tackle Manufacturers Association has started an "Environmental Protection Mark" system from 2006. Born from the idea "Fishing takes place in the natural environment and the advancement of products which do not burden the environment". Currently lead sinkers, fishing line and soft plastic lures are under consideration. ECOGEAR's biodegradable lures are one of the products to have cleared the strict JFTMA standards.
Copyright (C) 2006 Marukyu Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
We would like to present part of the Soft Lures decomposition evaluation test that we have undertaken in cooperation with Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. The two sample types were:
We have been undertaking decomposition tests in the field and collecting a wide range of data from 1999 at the crucian carp fishing pond, HANYU-YOSHINUMA and ASHINOKO, as well as at SHIMODA Ocean Aquarium from 2002. We have also begun a new series of tests with the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. We will continue to focus our research on the mechanism causing the difference between rates of decomposition in different environments.
Japan Fishing Tackle Manufacturers Association has started an "Environmental Protection Mark" system from 2006. Born from the idea "Fishing takes place in the natural environment and the advancement of products which do not burden the environment". Currently lead sinkers, fishing line and soft plastic lures are under consideration. ECOGEAR's biodegradable lures are one of the products to have cleared the strict JFTMA standards.
