Embracing Sustainability: The World of Bio-Based Polymers in a Mini Review

Embracing Sustainability: The World of Bio-Based Polymers in a Mini Review

30 March 2024 | Grazia Isa C. Righetti, Filippo Faedi and Antonino Famulari
This mini-review explores three important bio-based polymers: polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and polyhydroxy polyamides (PHPAs). These polymers are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and renewable sources. PLA is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester derived from lactic acid, which can be obtained from renewable resources like corn starch. It has been extensively studied for its high biodegradability and biocompatibility, and is used in various applications, including packaging, biomedical fields, and 3D printing. However, its rigidity and brittleness at room temperature limit its use, and plasticizers are often added to improve its flexibility and processability. PHA is a class of biopolymers derived from natural resources, known for their biodegradability and ability to be produced by microorganisms. PHAs are categorized into short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain lengths, with PHB being the most studied. PHAs have a wide range of applications, including medical, agricultural, and packaging fields, due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxic nature. However, PHAs face challenges such as high production costs and limited mechanical properties, which are being addressed through physical and chemical modifications. PHPAs are hydroxylated polyamides derived from aldaric acids, which are dicarboxylic acids obtained from the oxidation of aldoses. These polymers are promising for their biodegradability, renewable origin, and potential applications in various fields. The synthesis of PHPAs involves the polymerization of activated monomers, and their properties can be modified through chemical and physical methods to enhance their performance. Overall, these bio-based polymers are essential components in the transition towards a more sustainable future, offering a viable alternative to traditional plastics.This mini-review explores three important bio-based polymers: polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and polyhydroxy polyamides (PHPAs). These polymers are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and renewable sources. PLA is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester derived from lactic acid, which can be obtained from renewable resources like corn starch. It has been extensively studied for its high biodegradability and biocompatibility, and is used in various applications, including packaging, biomedical fields, and 3D printing. However, its rigidity and brittleness at room temperature limit its use, and plasticizers are often added to improve its flexibility and processability. PHA is a class of biopolymers derived from natural resources, known for their biodegradability and ability to be produced by microorganisms. PHAs are categorized into short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain lengths, with PHB being the most studied. PHAs have a wide range of applications, including medical, agricultural, and packaging fields, due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxic nature. However, PHAs face challenges such as high production costs and limited mechanical properties, which are being addressed through physical and chemical modifications. PHPAs are hydroxylated polyamides derived from aldaric acids, which are dicarboxylic acids obtained from the oxidation of aldoses. These polymers are promising for their biodegradability, renewable origin, and potential applications in various fields. The synthesis of PHPAs involves the polymerization of activated monomers, and their properties can be modified through chemical and physical methods to enhance their performance. Overall, these bio-based polymers are essential components in the transition towards a more sustainable future, offering a viable alternative to traditional plastics.
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[slides and audio] Embracing Sustainability%3A The World of Bio-Based Polymers in a Mini Review