biopolymere

Biopolymers are polymers produced by living organisms or derived from renewable biological resources. They include natural polymers such as proteins (collagen, silk fibroin, gelatin), nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) and polysaccharides (cellulose, starch, chitin, pectin, alginates). They also encompass bio-based polymers synthesized from renewable feedstocks, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), which are typically produced by microbial fermentation.

Natural polymers occur widely in nature and provide structural and functional roles in cells and tissues. Bio-based polymers result from fermentation or biotechnological processes and may be designed to be biodegradable under specific conditions.

Properties: Biopolymers often exhibit biocompatibility and biodegradability, but their mechanical and thermal properties vary widely. Many require blending, chemical modification or cross-linking to meet application requirements.

Applications: In medicine, biopolymers are used for tissue scaffolds, drug delivery systems and wound dressings. In food, gelling, thickening and stabilizing functions are provided by gelatin, pectin, alginates and carrageenan. In packaging, starch-based films and PLA are explored as biodegradable alternatives.

Sustainability and challenges: While biopolymers can reduce reliance on fossil resources, their environmental performance depends on end-of-life handling. Biodegradability varies by product and habitat, and cost, supply, and processing challenges limit widespread replacement of conventional plastics. Standards for compostability and labeling exist in many regions.