Agro-polymers and biopolyesters

Abstract

The interest in bio-based and biodegradable products has increased recently, following the depletion of fossil fuels and aggravation of environmental problems all over the world. Replacement of nondegradable synthetic polymers by biodegradable polymers brings about a 10–20% per year expansion to the market of environmentally pure and friendly composites and materials. A lot of researchers take part in studies on biodegradable polymers. According to their synthesis route, structure, properties, and application areas, biodegradable polymers are classified into agro-polymers (including cellulose, starch, chitin, and protein) and biodegradable polyesters: poly(lactic acid), poly(hydroxyalkanoates). So-called biopolyesters were synthesized from fossil fuel resources, but the modern trend is towards obtaining the main products from renewable resources.