Ex-ante life cycle assessment framework and application to a nano-reinforced biopolymer film based on mango kernel

Abstract

This article proposes a framework for ex-ante life cycle assessment (LCA) of biopolymers at low TRL, including: (i) scale-up; (ii) scenarios for processes and modelling choices; (iii) comparison with a fossil-based polymer, considering material substitution factors. The framework was applied to analyse a mango kernel starch (MKS) film and compare it with low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Mango seeds (feedstock) were modelled as burden-free since they do not have economic value (baseline). An industrial-scale model was built for the production of starch nanocrystals (SNC) and MKS film using process calculations based on experimental data. Most impacts occur at starch and SNC extraction due to steam and acid consumption. Compared to LDPE, MKS performs better in non-renewable energy use but worse in climate change, freshwater eutrophication, and terrestrial acidification. Scenario analysis showed that yield enhancement and acid shifting could considerably reduce impacts. The proposed framework shows potential to support sustainable innovation of biopolymers.