Chapter 1 - Introduction to biodegradable and biocompatible polymer nanocomposites: synthesis, structure, fundamental properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability

Abstract

Polymers, with their appealing properties and widespread applications, have been a critical area of research since their inception. However, rising environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil reserves have raised concerns about traditional petroleum-based synthetic polymers. Furthermore, the growing awareness of environmental and economic concerns has piqued the interest of researchers in the development of biodegradable polymers. Furthermore, the abundant supply of renewable resources has been extensively researched in this area over the last two decades. These polymers derived from renewable resources are environmentally friendly. Because of their nontoxic and biodegradable properties, the biocompatibility of certain biodegradable polymers has sparked significant research interest in a variety of disciplines. Furthermore, the incorporation of various nanomaterials imparts fascinating properties to these polymers, broadening their range of applications. As a result of their desired tunable mechanical, physical, chemical, and biological properties, the demand for these biodegradable and biocompatible polymers, as well as their nanocomposites, is increasing exponentially. Natural polymers such as polysaccharide and protein, such as starch, cellulose, gelatin, chitin, collagen, and so on, are discussed here, as well as their properties and applications. This chapter also covers the synthesis, structure, and fundamental properties of bio-based polymers that are both biodegradable and biocompatible, such as polyesters, poly(ester amide)s, polyurethanes, poly(lactic acid), epoxy, and poly(butyl succinate). In addition, the chapter demonstrated the fabrication of biodegradable and biocompatible polymer nanocomposites, as well as their properties and applications. As a result, this chapter discusses the various synthetic pathways, fabrication methods, and approaches used in the production of these biodegradable and biocompatible polymers and their nanocomposites. Fundamental understanding of these polymer nanocomposites is required to use their basic assets in various industrial applications for a better, greener, and cleaner future.