Bioplastik

Bioplastics are plastics made from renewable biomass or designed to biodegrade more readily than conventional plastics. They include materials that are bio-based, biodegradable, or both. Bio-based describes the source of the polymer; biodegradable describes the ability to be broken down by microorganisms under certain conditions.

Some, like PLA and PHA, are both bio-based and biodegradable. Others, such as bio-based PET, come from biomass but are not readily biodegradable. Starch blends and other formulations are used to improve compostability or reduce fossil resource use.

PLA is produced by fermenting sugars to lactic acid, then polymerizing. PHA is produced by bacteria that accumulate the polymer. Other bioplastics come from bio-derived monomers or are blends designed to modify properties and cost.

End-of-life options vary. Many compostable plastics require industrial composting. Recycling compatibility depends on the resin; some can be recycled with conventional plastics, others are designed for composting or soil and marine environments. Standards include EN 13432 and ASTM D6400.

Environmental considerations include potential fossil-resource reductions but must account for land use, energy, and waste systems. Life-cycle assessments are material- and context-dependent.

Applications include packaging, disposable tableware, agricultural films, medical devices, and 3D printing. Prices and performance are evolving, influenced by regulation and consumer acceptance.