biopolymerbased

Biopolymer-based materials are polymers from biological sources or produced by living organisms and used across many applications. They include polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), cellulose derivatives, starch polymers, chitosan, alginate, collagen, and gelatin, as well as modified natural polymers. Design emphasizes renewable feedstocks, biodegradability, and end-of-life sustainability relative to petrochemical plastics.

Sourced from plants, microorganisms, or marine biomass, these polymers can be biodegradable under compost or soil, or persist longer in medical settings. Mechanical and barrier properties vary; crystallinity, moisture sensitivity, and thermal stability influence processing. Blending with other polymers or reinforcing with natural fibers tailors properties.

Processing involves solution casting, extrusion, injection and blow molding, and 3D printing. Biopolymer-based materials are processed to minimize thermal degradation and moisture uptake. Plasticizers, fillers, and compatibilizers improve rheology and compatibility.

Applications include packaging films and coatings that aim to replace conventional plastics while reducing environmental impact. In biomedicine, they are used for sutures, wound dressings, scaffolds, and controlled drug delivery. Agricultural films and sensors are growing sectors.

Challenges and outlook focus on cost competitiveness, supply chain variability, and controlled biodegradation. Regulatory acceptance and biodegradation metrics standardization are ongoing. Research emphasizes processability, mechanical performance, and functional properties such as antimicrobial activity or bioactivity.

Examples include PLA, PHA, cellulose derivatives, starch blends, chitosan, alginate, and collagen-based materials.