Abstract
This review focuses on the polyesters such as polylactide and polyhydroxyalkonoates, as well as polyamides produced from renewable resources, which are currently among the most promising (bio)degradable polymers. Synthetic pathways, favourable properties and utilisation (most important applications) of these attractive polymer families are outlined. Environmental impact and in particular (bio)degradation of aliphatic polyesters, polyamides and related copolymer structures are described in view of the potential applications in various fields.
Highlights
Polymeric materials currently play an important role in everyday life due to their unique range of properties
The possible preparation pathways and valuable properties of new copolymers, blends and composites based on polyhydroxyalkanoates from renewable resources containing synthetic poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) have not been covered broadly in the published surveys
PHA of natural origin can be modified to produce tailored block, graft and random copolymers containing structural segments derived from synthetic analogues and other synthetic polymers such as polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) or synthetic PHB resulting in various materials with special features
Summary
Polymeric materials currently play an important role in everyday life due to their unique range of properties. There is a remarkable increase in the potential use of biodegradable polymers in various areas such as medicine, pharmacy, agrochemistry or the packaging industry. This fast growing scientific area relates directly to the most crucial health and social problems nowadays [1]. Introduction of new environmentally friendly and sustainable plastics in the packaging and end-user industries is the solution to major problems in waste management. This can be achieved through information dissemination and by identifying and removing the barriers to faster and more widespread use of sustainable plastics, biodegradable and those based on renewable resources. The possible preparation pathways and valuable properties of new copolymers, blends and composites based on polyhydroxyalkanoates from renewable resources containing synthetic poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) have not been covered broadly in the published surveys
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