General overview of biopolymers: structure and properties

Abstract

Abstract Biopolymers are synthesized from a biological origin under natural phenomenon especially during their growth cycle, in the form of polymeric substances that portrays excellent properties such as flexibility, tensile strength, steadiness, reusability, and so on. The amalgamated form of two or more biopolymers leads to the formation of “biocomposites” with novel applications. Several mechanisms were identified for the effective production of biopolymers from diverse life forms such as microbial origin plant and animal origin. Based on their origin, biopolymer differs in their structure and functions. Biopolymers are preferred over chemically synthesized polymers due to their biodegradability and their impact on the environment. Biopolymers play a pivotal role in pharmaceutical industries. The biopolymers could be employed for, the administration of medicine as well as regenerative medicine to reach minimal immunogenicity and maximum pharmacological expressivity in a treated individual. Based on their properties biopolymers were exclusively used in medical devices, cosmaceuticals, and confectionaries, it is also used as additives in food industries, bio-sensors, textile industries, and wastewater treatment plants. Ecological support is of utmost concern nowadays due to the ever-expanding ramification over the planet by usage of plastic as packaging material, turning up scientists and researchers to focus on biodegradable biopolymer utilization. The miscibility-structural-property relation between every biopolymer must be focused on to improve the better environment. Specific biopolymers are designed for the betterment of agrarian and commoners of society. Advanced structural modifications, properties of biopolymers, and applications of biopolymers to achieve a greener environment were discussed in this chapter.