Abstract
Biodegradable synthetic polymers are essential elements to resolve unsustainable plastic pollution and achieve a carbon-neutral society. In addition to fulfilling the required market standards of conventional polymers, biodegradable polymers must also satisfy the sustainability criteria concerning their carbon lifecycle. It is important to emphasize that the carbon neutrality aspect of biodegradable polymers can be ambiguous, as they can also be chemically synthesized using fossil-based monomers. Nevertheless, many advancements have been made in the past few decades with respect to polymer properties, synthesis routes, degradation protocols, and applications. Importantly, as of 2023, large chemical companies have finally begun to scale up the production of biodegradable polymers, such as polylactide (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polybutylene succinate (PBS), and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), to name a few. Many difficult challenges remain to be overcome, not only in technological but also in regulatory aspects, including certification and standardization. This chapter aims to provide an overview of synthetic biodegradable polymers, current challenges, and prospects.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Reference Module in Chemistry, Molecular Sciences and Chemical Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
