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Bioplastics for Sustainability: Manufacture, Technologies, and Environment offers an innovative approach to bioplastics, integrating state-of-the-art materials and technologies with detailed analysis of lifecycle, recycling, circularity, and environmental impact of bioplastics, and enabling circular utilization and successful scale-up of bioplastics. The book begins by introducing the fundamentals of bioplastics – including biodegradable, compostable, and oxodegradable materials – and discusses the various factors involved in encouraging commercial uptake of these materials. The second part of the book highlights cutting-edge approaches to the production of bioplastics, covering novel sources such as microalgae and organic waste, and solutions for industrial scale manufacturing. Other sections cover the environmental impact of bioplastics and routes to environmentally-friendly usage, and more. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students across polymer science, sustainable materials, plastics engineering, materials science, chemistry, environmental science, and engineering. In an industrial setting, this book supports engineers, scientists, and R&D professionals with an interest in sustainable manufacture and application of bioplastics, across a range of products, parts, and industries.Presents the latest advances in novel materials and manufacture techniques for bioplasticsFocuses on sustainable use of bioplastics, assessing biodegradability, life cycle, recycling, waste, and environmental impactAddresses other key considerations, such as industrial scale-up, commercialization, policies, and regulation

Studying (bio)degradable polymers value chain can help one understand the importance of these to the environment and human health. This book provides an overview of the biodegradable polymer along the value chain, identifies and analyses existing practices for biodegradable plastics and assess the relevant legal, regulatory, economic and practical reasons for the importance of proper use and proper recycling of biodegradable plastics. It covers related materials development, environmental impacts, their synthesis by traditional and biotechnological routes, policy and certification, manufacturing processes, (bio)degradable polymer properties and so forth.Features: Gives a clear idea of the present state of the art and future trends in the research of the biodegradable polymers in the context of circular economy Describes the entire value chain and life cycle of bioplastics are covered, considering different types of polymers Clarifies the life safety of (bio)degradable polymeric materials Presents novel opportunities and ideas for developing or improving technologies Determines the course of degradation during prediction study This book is aimed at researchers, graduate students and professionals in the polymer processing industry (petrochemical polymer industry, industry producing bio-based and (bio)degradable polymers), food packaging industry, industry involved in waste management, pharma industry, chemical engineering, product engineering and biotechnology.

Les plastiques actuels, à base de pétrole, nous ont menés dans un cul-de-sac. Toxiques et persistants dans l'environnement, ils sont néfastes autant pour la santé humaine que pour la faune en général. Et le recyclage, qui devait leur procurer une jeunesse éternelle, ne fonctionne tout simplement pas: bon an mal an, moins de 10% du plastique produit est recyclé et revalorisé, le reste terminant sa course dans les dépotoirs et la nature… Le plastique n'en reste pas moins un matériau aux qualités indéniables dont les sociétés industrielles modernes peuvent difficilement se passer. Comment le transformer en un produit sain et à durée contrôlable? Par chance, un substitut avantageux existe: le bioplastique. Dans cet ouvrage de vulgarisation scientifique, le docteur en biophysique Paul Lavallée présente un panorama complet des avantages de ce matériau fabriqué à partir d'éléments organiques (végétaux, résidus alimentaires, algues…). Dans les conditions appropriées, le bioplastique a la propriété de se décomposer en compost ou en biométhane sous l'action de bactéries, sans tri préalable, ce qui vient pallier les insuffisances du recyclage actuel. Plan de conversion à l'appui, ce livre essentiel montre comment le bioplastique, même s'il a généralement mauvaise presse, ouvre véritablement un avenir beaucoup plus sain pour l'environnement et le vivant. Mais pour que la pollution plastique cesse de poser un risque pour les générations futures, l'humanité aura un choix à faire: soit les pétroplastiques, soit les bioplastiques, mais pas les deux! Paul Lavallée nous donne les clés pour faire ce choix de façon éclairée.

Bio-degradable polymers are rapidly emerging as a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics and polymers. However, the synthesis and processing of such polymers present unique challenges and opportunities. In this comprehensive volume, Dr. Saha and her team provide an in-depth exploration of the synthesis and processing of bio-degradable polymers and their emerging applications in various sectors from drug delivery to food packaging. Covering a wide range of topics, including synthesis, modification, processing techniques, and few of their advanced applications in emerging areas, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the field. The authors also delve into cutting-edge research on the synthesis, properties and applications of bio-degradable polymers in various fields, such as agricultural, food preservation, biomedical arena, energy storage and other advanced application areas. This volume is an essential resource for scientists, engineers, and policymakers interested in the future of sustainable materials. Whether you are a researcher looking to expand your knowledge of biodegradable polymer synthesis and processing or a policymaker interested in the potential of biodegradable polymers to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, this book is an invaluable guide to the field.

This book provides the latest technical information on sustainable materials that are feedstocks for additive manufacturing (AM). Topics covered include an up-to-date and extensive overview of raw materials, their chemistry, and functional properties of their commercial versions; a description of the relevant AM processes, products, applications, advantages, and limitations; prices and market data; and a forecast of sustainable materials used in AM, their properties, and applications in the near future. Data included are relative to current commercial products and are presented in easy-to-read tables and charts. Features Highlights up-to-date information and data of actual commercial materials Offers a broad survey of state-of the-art information Forecasts future materials, applications, and areas of R&D Contains simple language, explains technical terms, and minimizes technical lingo Includes over 200 tables, nearly 200 figures, and more than 1,700 references to technical publications, mostly very recent Handbook of Sustainable Polymers for Additive Manufacturing appeals to a diverse audience of students and academic, technical, and business professionals in the fields of materials science and mechanical, chemical, and manufacturing engineering.

Enables Readers to Understand the What, Why, and How Behind Using Sustainable Plastics in Manufacturing Operations The impact of 50 years of unbridled plastics production, use, and disposal is now becoming well known and documented. Plastics made from non-renewable petroleum and natural gas resources threaten the environment, human health, species maintenance, and the very life of the ocean. This book helps readers understand the ability of plastics to be sustainable and goes over the plastic products which have a lower carbon footprint, lower waste, and lower pollution. The well-qualified author's unique perspective puts a special focus on comprehensive coverage of environmental impacts of plastics including Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) and sustainability strategies related to biobased plastics (e.g., corn), recycled plastics, and petroleum-based plastics. Other samples topics covered in the book include: End-of-life options for petroleum and biobased plastics including mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and composting ASTM biodegradation standards for compost, marine, anaerobic digestion, and landfill environments Polymer processing, including injection molding, blow molding, extrusion, and compression molding Environmental data and coverage of petroleum plastics, sustainable composites, and new information on bio-based plasticsThe book serves as an invaluable resource for plastics engineers, materials engineers, and all professionals in related disciplines looking to understand and apply the usage of sustainable plastics in many different types of manufacturing operations.

Biodegradable Polymers, Blends and Composites provides a comprehensive review on recent developments in this very important research field. The book's chapters cover the various types of biodegradable polymers currently available and their composites, with discussions on preparation, properties and applications. Sections cover natural rubber-based polymer blends, soy-protein, cellulose, chitin, starch-based, PLA, PHBV, PCL, PVA, PBAT-based blends, Poly (ethylene succinate), PHB and Poly (propylene carbonates). The book will be a valuable reference resource for academic and industrial researchers, technologists and engineers working on recent developments in the area of biodegradable polymers, their blends and composites. Discusses the various types of biodegradable polymers, blends and composites Covers natural rubber, cellulose, chitin, starch, PLA, PCL and PBAT Features modern processing technologies, properties, applications and biodegradability

Biodegradable Polymers in the Circular Plastics Economy A comprehensive overview of the burgeoning field of biodegradable plastics As the lasting impact of humanity's reliance on plastics comes into focus, scholars have begun to seek out solutions to plastic litter. In Biodegradable Polymers in the Circular Plastics Economy, an accomplished team of researchers delivers a focused guide (1) to understand plastic degradation and its role in waste hierarchy besides recycling, and (2) to create and use biodegradable plastics where appropriate. Created preferably from renewable resources, these eco-friendly polymers provide an opportunity to create sustainable and lasting solutions to the growing plastic-driven pollution problem. The broad approach to this handbook allows the authors to cover all aspects of these emerging materials, ranging from the problems present in the current plastics cycle, to the differences in type, production, and chemistry available within these systems, to end-of-life via recycling or degradation, and to life-cycle assessments. It also delves into potential commercial and policy issues to be addressed to successfully deploy this technology. Readers will also find: A thorough introduction to biodegradable polymers, focusing not only on the scientific aspects, but also addressing the larger political, commercial, and consumer concerns Mechanisms of biodegradation and the environmental impact of persistent polymers An in-depth discussion of degradable/hydrolysable polyesters, polysaccharides, lignin-based polymers, and vitrimers Management of plastic waste and life cycle assessment of bio-based plastics Biodegradable Polymers in the Circular Plastics Economy is the perfect overview of this complicated but essential research field and will appeal to polymer chemists, environmental chemists, chemical engineers, and bioengineers in academia and industry. The book is intended as a step towards a circular plastics economy that relies heavily on degradable plastics to sustain it.

Plastics & Sustainability clearly lays out the thorny and contentious issues that we encounter at the nexus of plastics and sustainability. The book serves as a practical guide for making sustainability decisions about how plastics are made and used, including current developments in the newest bio-based plastics. Designers, marketers, academics, and engineers will all find something of value in this balanced and thoughtful second edition. Increased public scrutiny of plastics materials and the plastics industry has led, paradoxically, to both a deeper understanding and growing confusion about polymers, their origins, their uses, their risks, and ultimately their disposal. The author makes objective comparisons among major polymer grades and bioplastics including their life cycle assessments and practical performance in commercial applications.

With growing concern for the environment and the rising price of crude oil, there is increasing demand for non-petroleum-based polymers from renewable resources. Recognizing emerging developments in biopolymer systems research, this book brings together a number of key biopolymer and bioplastic topics in one place. The book highlights the importance and impact of eco-friendly green biopolymers and bioplastics, both environmentally and economically. It provides important insight into the diversity of polymers obtained directly from, or derived from, renewable resources. This volume, Applied Biopolymer Technology and Bioplastics: Sustainable Development by Green Engineering Materials, will be valuable for a broad audience of engineers and scientists, especially those designing with biopolymers and biodegradable plastics, or evaluating the options for switching from traditional plastics to biopolymers. The content of this book will prove useful for students, researchers, and professionals working in the field of green technology.

Enzymatic Plastic Degradation, Volume 648 in the Methods in Enzymology series, continues the legacy of this premier serial with chapters authored by leaders in the field. Chapters in this latest release include Evaluating plastic pollution and environmental degradation, Assessment methods for microplastic pollution in the oceans and fresh water, Exploring microbial consortia from various environments for plastic degradation, Characterization of filamentous fungi for attack on synthetic polymers via biological Fenton chemistry, Synthesis of radioactive-labeled nanoplastics for assaying the environmental (microbial) PS degradation, Exploring metagenome for plastic degrading enzymes, Cutinases from thermophilic bacteria (actinomycetes): from identification to functional and structural characterization, and much more. Provides the authority and expertise of leading contributors from an international board of authors Presents the latest release in the Methods in Enzymology series Covers the latest research and technologies in enzymatic plastic degradation

This book provides the latest information on bioplastics and biodegradable plastics. The initial chapters introduce readers to the various sources and substrates for the synthesis of bioplastics and biodegradable plastics, and explain their general structure, physio-chemical properties and classification.In turn, the book discusses innovative methods for the production of bioplastics at the industrial level and for the microbial production of bioplastics. It highlights the processes that are involved in the conversion of agro-industrial waste into bioplastics, while also summarizing the mechanisms of biodegradation in bioplastics.The book addresses a range of biotechnological applications of bioplastics such as in agriculture, food packaging and pharmaceutical industry, as well as biomedical applications.

This book is about development of biodegradable polymers alternatives, which are required to save our reserves of fossil fuels and to save our mother earth from further environmental degradation. This book deals with the family of biodegradable polymers which have to be prepared with a novel idea of studying polymers with a “Cradle to Grave” approach. It touches upon basic materials, which can be potential materials to prepare biodegradable polymers with their basic structures, properties, behaviour and limitations known till date. This book will help students in understanding various characterization techniques which can be used for the study of identification of functional group, structural properties, thermal behaviour, crystallographic nature, mechanical properties and morphological properties through FTIR–ATR for physico chemical properties, DSC & TGA for thermal studies, XRD for crystallographic studies & SEM for morphological studies. It also provides an overview of various testing methods to analysebiodegradability including standard guideline for evaluation of biodegradation and compostability of polymer material through ASTM/ISO/EN standard methods. Note: T&F does not sell or distribute the Hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Presenting a comprehensive overview of the field, Biofiller-Reinforced Biodegradable Polymer Composites examines biodegradable composites derived from biofiller and biodegradable polymers while providing critical information for efficient use of biocomposites developed from natural resources. Discusses advanced techniques for the use of both biofiller and biodegradable polymers as the matrix for composites. Highlights application of both natural fiber and natural matrix for composites in the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable materials. Introduces the basics of biocomposites, the processing and characteristics of new composite materials, and new combinations of composites such as soy protein and nanocellulose. Elaborates on the introduction of new materials to develop biodegradable polymers. This book has been written for researchers, advanced students, and professional engineers and materials scientists working in the area of bio-based polymers, natural fiber composites, and biocomposites.

Plastics are everywhere. Bags, bank cards, bottles, and even boats can all be made of this celebrated but much-maligned material. Yet most of us know next to nothing about plastics. We do know that they are practical and cheap--but they also represent a huge environmental problem, for they literally take ages to decompose. In this engaging book, E.S. Stevens tells us everything we have always wondered about plastics and of the efforts, in America, Europe, and Asia, to develop a new breed of environmentally friendly plastics. He points to a possible future where plastics will no longer be made of petroleum, but of plants. The first two chapters assess the increased use of plastics as a relatively new alternative to other materials. The third chapter introduces us to their impact on the environment and strategies for their disposal or recycling. The next two chapters cover basic concepts and terms used in polymer sciences and provide some basic chemistry. With these fundamentals in tow, the author compares how petroleum-based and biological polymers are made, and the various ways in which they decompose. He acquaints readers with the emerging technologies, their commercial viability, and their future. Finally, instructions are given for preparing basic bioplastics using readily available materials. Nonspecialists will find Green Plastics a concise introduction to this exciting interdisciplinary topic--an introduction otherwise not available. For students it provides easy entry to an area of science with wide appeal and current importance; for teachers, excellent background reading for courses in various sciences. The prospect of depleted fossil fuel supplies, and the potential benefits of bioplastics to the environment and to rural areas that could supply the raw materials, make this book a compelling presentation of a subject whose time has come.

The recent explosion of interdisciplinary research has fragmented the knowledge base surrounding renewable polymers. The Chemistry of Bio-based Polymers, 2nd edition brings together, in one volume, the research and work of Professor Johannes Fink, focusing on biopolymers that can be synthesized from renewable polymers. After introducing general aspects of the field, the book's subsequent chapters examine the chemistry of biodegradable polymeric types sorted by their chemical compounds, including the synthesis of low molecular compounds. Various categories of biopolymers are detailed including vinyl-based polymers, acid and lactone polymers, ester and amide polymers, carbohydrate-related polymers and others. Procedures for the preparation of biopolymers and biodegradable nanocomposites are arranged by chemical methods and in vitro biological methods, with discussion of the issue of'plastics from bacteria.'The factors influencing the degradation and biodegradation of polymers used in food packaging, exposed to various environments, are detailed at length. The book covers the medical applications of bio-based polymers, concentrating on controlled drug delivery, temporary prostheses, and scaffolds for tissue engineering. Professor Fink also addresses renewable resources for fabricating biofuels and argues for localized biorefineries, as biomass feedstocks are more efficiently handled locally.

This handbook covers characteristics, processability and application areas of biodegradable polymers, with key polymer family groups discussed. It explores the role of biodegradable polymers in different waste management practices including anaerobic digestion, and considers topics such as the different types of biorefineries for renewable monomers used in producing the building blocks for biodegradable polymers.

Polylactic Acid: A Practical Guide for the Processing, Manufacturing, and Applications of PLA, Second Edition, provides a practical guide for engineers and scientists working in PLA and on the development of emerging new products. The current market situation for PLA and biodegradable polymers is described, along with applications across a range of market sectors. In addition, the mechanical, chemical, thermal, rheology and degradation properties are included. Updates include new chapters covering various processing methods, as well as recycling methods, and additives and processing aids. New applications cover a range of products (including 3D Printing), and an environmental assessment, including regulatory aspects. The book is not only a useful introduction to this topic, but also a practical, readily applicable reference book that will support decision-making in the plastics industry. Presents an essential reference for engineers, scientists and product designers considering switching to a sustainable plastic Covers the properties, synthesis and polymerization of PLA, along with processing techniques involved in fabricating parts from this polymer Includes critical new chapters on processing, additives, recycling and environmental considerations relating to PLA

Compostable Polymer Materials, Second Edition, deals with the environmentally important family of polymers designed to be disposed of in industrial and municipal compost facilities after their useful life. These compostable plastics undergo degradation and leave no visible, distinguishable, or toxic residue. Environmental concerns and legislative measures taken in different regions of the world make composting an increasingly attractive route for the disposal of redundant polymers.This book covers the entire spectrum of preparation, degradation, and evironmental issues related to compostable polymers. It emphasizes recent studies concerning compostability and ecotoxilogical assessment of polymer materials. It descibes the thermal behavior, including flammability properties, of compostable polymers. It also explores possible routes of compostable polymers waste disposal through an ecological lens. Finally, the book examines the economic factors at work, including price evolution over the past decade, the current market, and future perspectives. Compostable Polymer Materials is an essential resource for graduate students and scientists working in chemistry, materials science, ecology, and environmental science. Provides a comprehensive study of the composting process Details methods of compostable polymers preparation, including properties, processing and applications Presents the state-of-the-art knowledge on ecotoxicity testing and biodegradation under real composting conditions of compostable polymers, as well as biodegradation in various environments, such as marine environments and anaerobic conditions Discusses the evolution of waste management in Europe and the United States, as well as the status of MSW disposal and treatment methods in countries such as China and Brazil Overviews biodegradation studies under real composting conditions of products made of compostable polymers, e.g. bags, bottles, cutletry Analyzes evolution of market development, including price of compostable polymers during the last decade

The purpose of this study is to develop a degradable Cellulose based packaging film with improved mechanical properties. A series of Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)/Microcrystalline Cellulose composites were prepared by twin screw extrusion with the addition of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene as compatibilizer and TiO2 as pro-oxidative additives. Polyethylene wax was used as processing aid to ease the blown film process. The film was processed via a conventional blown film machine.

Soy and its coproducts are rapidly emerging as one of the most prominent sustainable plastics of the 21st century. The relative abundance of soy and its functional and thermoplastic properties, low cost, and biodegradable characteristics have made it a material of great interest for widespread use in the plastics industry. As most of the functional properties of the final products are directly related to the physico-chemical properties of the raw material, a detailed knowledge of the inherent characteristics of soy-based materials is essential for understanding and manipulating their properties for better end-user applications. This book summarises in a most comprehensive manner the recent technical research accomplishments in the area of soy-based bioplastics. The prime aim and focus of this book is to present recent advances in the processing and applications of soy-based biopolymers as potential bioplastics. It reflects recent theoretical advances and experimental results, and opens new avenues for researchers as well as readers working in the field of plastics and sustainable materials. The different topics covered in this book include: structural analysis of soy-based materials; soy/biopolymer blends; films, fibres, foams, and composites; and different advanced applications. In addition, several critical issues and suggestions for future work are comprehensively discussed in the hope that the book will provide a deep insight into the state of the art of soy-based bioplastics. The book is unique, with contributions from leading experts in the bioplastics research area, and is a useful reference for scientists, academics, research scholars, and technologists.

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a thermoplastic biodegradable polyester, which has had biomedical application in the 1970s and 1980s as a long-term drug delivery systems, which then gained acceptance from the Food and Drugs Administration. However, due to very slow degradation, PCL was replaced by faster degrading polymers, such as polyglycolide, polylactides and their copolymers. The polymer gained popularity again in the 1990s, together with the development of tissue engineering. This book discusses the properties, applications and examines new research of polycaprolactones.

This volume incorporates 13 contributions from renowned experts from the relevant research fields that are related biodegradable and biobased polymers and their environmental and biomedical applications. Specifically, the book highlights: Developments in polyhydroxyalkanoates applications in agriculture, biodegradable packaging material and biomedical field like drug delivery systems, implants, tissue engineering and scaffolds The synthesis and elaboration of cellulose microfibrils from sisal fibres for high performance engineering applications in various sectors such as the automotive and aerospace industries, or for building and construction The different classes and chemical modifications of tannins Electro-activity and applications of Jatropha latex and seed The synthesis, properties and applications of poly(lactic acid) The synthesis, processing and properties of poly(butylene succinate), its copolymers, composites and nanocomposites The different routes for preparation polymers from vegetable oil and the effects of reinforcement and nano-reinforcement on the physical properties of such biobased polymers The different types of modified drug delivery systems together with the concept of the drug delivery matrix for controlled release of drugs and for antitumor drugs The use of nanocellulose as sustainable adsorbents for the removal of water pollutants mainly heavy metal ions, organic molecules, dyes, oil and CO2 The main extraction techniques, structure, properties and different chemical modifications of lignins Proteins and nucleic acids based biopolymers The role of tamarind seed polysaccharide-based multiple-unit systems in sustained drug release

Introduction to Bioplastics Engineering is a practical, user-friendly reference for plastics engineers working with biopolymers and biodegradable plastics that addresses topics that are required for the successful development of cohesive bioplastic products. While there has been considerable demand for the use of bioplastics in industry, processing these bioplastics is a big challenge. The book provides plastics engineers and researchers with a fundamental, practical understanding of the differences between bioplastics and biodegradable polymers, along with guidance on the different methods used to process bioplastics. The book also covers additives and modifiers for biopolymers and their effect on properties. Examples include commercial applications of bioplastics, current bioplastics being developed, and future trends in the industry. This enables engineers, researchers, technicians, and students to understand the decisive relationship between different processing techniques, morphology, mechanical properties, and the further applications of bio-based polymers. The book presents a true engineering approach for the industry on the processing of biopolymers and biodegradable plastics – discussing the ease of use of the polymer, mechanical and thermal properties, rate of biodegradation in particular environments, and pros and cons of particular bioplastics. Enables engineers, researchers, technicians, and students to understand the decisive relationship between different processing techniques, morphology, mechanical properties, and the further applications of bio-based polymers. Covers additives and modifiers for biopolymers and their effect on properties Includes examples that illustrate the commercial applications of bioplastics, current bioplastics being developed, and future trends in the industry

Collating otherwise hard-to-get and recently acquired knowledge in one work, this is a comprehensive reference on the synthesis, properties, characterization, and applications of this eco-friendly class of plastics. A group of internationally renowned researchers offer their first-hand experience and knowledge, dealing exclusively with those biodegradable polyesters that have become increasingly important over the past two decades due to environmental concerns on the one hand and newly-devised applications in the biomedical field on the other. The result is an unparalleled overview for the industrial chemist and materials scientist, as well as for developers and researchers in industry and academia alike.

Keeping in mind the advantages of bio-based materials, this book focuses on the potential efficacy of different biocomposites procured from diverse natural resources and the preparation and processing of the biocomposites to be used for a variety of applications. Each chapter gives an overview on a particular biocomposite material and its processin

There is much interest in biodegradable polymers for different uses and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have potential applications in a broad range of areas from food packaging to biomedical applications. The book will provide a comprehensive overview of the recent accomplishments in the area of polyhydroxyalkanoates providing a resource that helps find solutions to both fundamental and applied problems. The book introduces polyhydroxyalkanoates including their biosynthesis, recovery and extraction followed by specific chapters on blends, composites and nanocomposites. The book finishes with the applications of the materials including additives in paints, adhesives, production of plastics as well as tissue engineering and drug delivery. The book provides a reference for students and researchers in chemistry, polymer science, materials science, biotechnology and life sciences working in the field of bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites as well as those interested in its applications.

Biodegradable polymers from renewable resources are sought after for many purposes, from packaging materials in food to biomedical applications. Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) is a well-known biopolymer derived from corn starch or sugar cane used in different food packaging and artificial bones and scaffolds. Poly(lactic acid) Science and Technology first introduces the basic concepts of PLA and then covers PLA synthesis and polymerization, processing, characterization and physical properties of PLA, PLA-based nano-biocomposites, the main applications in active packaging and as biomaterials for tissue engineering, degradation and biodegradation of PLA and finally industrial and legislative issues. This interdisciplinary approach provides readers with a general overview of all relevant aspects related to PLA including fundamental issues, innovative applications, new types of processing and emerging applications, modification of PLA, life cycle assessment, bio-additives, bio/degradation and sustainability and international regulations. Experts provide a complete resource and whole perspective on PLA covering scientific, ecological, social and economic issues. The book will appeal to chemists, food technologists and materials engineers as well as researchers interested in bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites.

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a synthetic and biodegradable polymer. PLA can have important applications in tissue engineering as three-dimensional porous structures. Biodegradable polymers are used in medicine to replace and increase the volume of tissues, as tissue supports and also for controlled drug release. One of the most widely used biodegradable polymers is polylactic acid (PLA), as it is easily biodegraded. This material is used as microspheres or microcapsules to host a broad diversity of drugs, such as antiinflamatory, anticonceptives, narcotics antagonists, local anesthetics and vaccines. This book discusses new developments in the research of polylactic acid.