Chapter 18 - Characterization Techniques for Algae-Based Materials

Abstract

Biodegradable polyesters obtained from renewable resources or by synthesis from fossil resources can be now blended with low-price organic fillers to produce biocomposites as an alternative to solve pollution problems and attracted attention in the development of new green materials. Biocomposites produced by blending low-cost fillers into biodegradable polymers has become a feasible alternative for several applications nowadays. In this regard, over the past three decades, natural fibers and biopolymers, such as starch, are used as reinforcement or filler in biocomposites. Algal biomass is a copious and low-price renewable resource that can be transformed into novel biodegradable polyesters suitable for biomedical applications. Algal-polymer/polyester blends and composites have tunable biodegradability and biocompatibility, and therefore they are widely utilized in cartilage, bone, cardiac, and nerve tissue regeneration. For continuous and controlled delivery of drugs, algae-based polyesters’ microspheres and microcapsules are explored to produce humoral and cellular immunity with efficient intracellular delivery. In this chapter, the most common characterization techniques used in algae-based materials are described, along with some details of applications and potential uses of these materials.