Book excerpt: Handbook of Material Biodegradation, Biodeterioration, and Biostabilization, Second Edition gives extensive information on the microorganisms involved in the biodegradation of materials, along with the biocides which are permitted for use according to the most up-to-date worldwide legislation. Mechanisms of biodegradation and biodeterioration, results of biodeterioration, and methods of biostabilization are covered for a large number of products, making the title relevant for a range of industries and applications, including construction, coatings/paints, medical and pharmaceutical applications, and electronics. In addition, the health and safety aspects of biocide application are covered in detail, as well as the personal protection of practitioners who are required to use them. The contents and the most-up-to-date information make this book essential for almost all the fields of applied chemistry. Enables practitioners to identify the organisms responsible for biodeterioration in materials, select suitable preventative measures, and safely deploy methods of biostabilization Contains information on the biostabilization of various industrial products, including 24 groups of polymers Includes critical (and current) health and safety, environmental, and regulatory guidelines and best practices, and their relationships to legislation, regulation, toxicity, micro-organisms, biocides, and polymers Essential reading for scientists and practitioners as new regulations eliminate the use of previously used materials Contains up-to-date information on legislation and regulations governing the use of biocides in the European Union, the United States, and worldwide