Search

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are popular biopolymers due to their potential use as biodegradable thermoplastics. In this study, three aerobic sequencing batch reactors were operated identically except for their temperatures, which were set at 15 °C, 35 °C, and 48 °C. The reactors were subjected to a feast-famine feeding regime, where carbon sources are supplied intermittently, to enrich PHAaccumulating microbial consortia. The biomass was sampled for 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of both DNA (during the enrichment phase) and cDNA (during the enrichment and accumulation phases). All temperatures yielded highly enriched PHA-accumulating consortia. Thermophilic communities were significantly less diverse than those at low or mesophilic temperatures. In particular, Thauera was highly adaptable, abundant, and active at all temperatures. Low temperatures resulted in reduced PHA production rates and yields. Analysis of the microbial community revealed a collapse of community diversity during low-temperature PHA accumulation, suggesting that the substrate dosing strategy was unsuccessful at low temperatures. This points to future possibilities for optimizing low-temperature PHA accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of conventional plastics has increased tremendously in the last decades due to rapid industrialization, population growth, and advancement in the use of modern technologies. However, overuse of these fossil fuel-based plastics has resulted in serious environmental and health hazards by causing pollution, global warming, etc. Therefore, the use of microalgae as a feedstock is a promising, green, and sustainable approach for the production of biobased plastics. Various biopolymers, such as polyhydroxybutyrate, polyurethane, polylactic acid, cellulose-based polymers, starch-based polymers, and protein-based polymers, can be produced from different strains of microalgae under varying culture conditions. Different techniques, including genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, the use of photobioreactors, response surface methodology, and artificial intelligence, are used to alter and improve microalgae stocks for the commercial synthesis of bioplastics at lower costs. In comparison to conventional plastics, these biobased plastics are biodegradable, biocompatible, recyclable, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and sustainable, with robust mechanical and thermoplastic properties. In addition, the bioplastics are suitable for a plethora of applications in the agriculture, construction, healthcare, electrical and electronics, and packaging industries. Thus, this review focuses on techniques for the production of biopolymers and bioplastics from microalgae. In addition, it discusses innovative and efficient strategies for large-scale bioplastic production while also providing insights into the life cycle assessment, end-of-life, and applications of bioplastics. Furthermore, some challenges affecting industrial scale bioplastics production and recommendations for future research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review presents a comprehensive update of the biopolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), emphasizing its production, properties, and applications. The overall biosynthesis pathway of PHBV is explored in detail, highlighting recent advances in production techniques. The inherent physicochemical properties of PHBV, along with its degradation behavior, are discussed in detail. This review also explores various blends and composites of PHBV, demonstrating their potential for a range of applications. Finally, the versatility of PHBV-based materials in multiple sectors is examined, emphasizing their increasing importance in the field of biodegradable polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios is the property of Universidad Juarez Autonoma de Tabasco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Many industries are coming under increasing pressure to replace their petrochemical plastics in products and packaging with biopolymers. Retailers have a key role here because they determine the products to be marketed, but there is little research on how change processes differ between sectors. To guide wholesalers with broad product portfolio on how to effectively plan a plastics transition, this study interviewed 48 experts from the food, pharmaceutical, automotive and technics retailing. From the answers, sector-independent context factors were derived and finally their individual transition strategy for bioplastics was compared. Packaging is the main object for transition and the food and automotive sectors prefer the greatest possible standardisation of the plastics change. Largest group differences are in the recovery method of bioplastics products and in the assessment of the innovation potential. The results guide wholesalers and policy makers for an effective technology change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing use of synthetic polymers and their disposal has raised concern due to their adverse effects on the environment. Thus, other sustainable alternatives to synthetic plastics have been sought, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), which are promising microbial polyesters, mainly due to their compostable nature, biocompatibility, thermostability, and resilience, making this biopolymer acceptable in several applications in the global market. The large-scale production of PHAs by microorganisms is still limited by the high cost of production compared to conventional plastics. This review reports some strategies mentioned in the literature aimed at production and recovery, paving the way for the bio-based economy. For this, some aspects of PHAs are addressed, such as synthesis, production systems, process control using by-products from industries, and advances and challenges in the downstream. The bioplastics properties made them a prime candidate for food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industrial applications. With this paper, it is possible to see that biodegradable polymers are promising materials, mainly for reducing the pollution produced by polymers derived from petroleum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a sustainable economy, biodegradable biopolymers polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are desirable substitutes to petroleum-based plastics that contaminate our environment. Medium-chain-length (MCL) PHA bioplastics are particularly interesting due to their thermoplastic properties. To hamper the high cost associated to PHA production, the use of bacterial mixed cultures cultivated in open systems and using cheap resources is a promising strategy. Here, we studied the operating conditions favouring direct MCL accumulation by activated sludge, using oleic acid as a model substrate and phosphorus limitation in fed-batch bioreactors. Our results confirm the presence of PHA-accumulating organisms (PHAAO) in activated sludge able to accumulate MCL from oleic acid. A positive correlation between phosphorus (P) limitation and PHA accumulation was demonstrated, allowing up to 26% PHA/total biomass accumulation, and highlighted its negative impact on the MCL/PHA fraction in the polymer. Diversity analysis through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed a differential selection of PHAAO according to the P-limitation level. A differential behaviour for the orders Pseudomonadales and Burkholderiales at increasing P-limitation levels was revealed, with a higher abundance of the latter at high levels of P-limitation. The PHA accumulation observed in activated sludge open new perspectives for MCL-PHA production system based on P-limitation strategy applied to mixed microbial communities. Key points: • Direct accumulation of MCL-PHA in activated sludge was demonstrated. • MCL-PHA content is negatively correlated with P-limitation. • Burkholderiales members discriminate the highest P-limitation levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a lot of interest in developing and producing biodegradable polymers to address the current environmental problem caused by the continued usage of synthetic polymers derived from petroleum products. Bioplastics have been identified as a possible alternative to the use of conventional plastics since they are biodegradable and/or derived from renewable resources. Additive manufacturing, also referred to as 3D printing, is a field of growing interest and can contribute towards a sustainable and circular economy. The manufacturing technology also provides a wide material selection with design flexibility increasing its usage in the manufacture of parts from bioplastics. With this material flexibility, efforts have been directed towards developing 3D printing filaments from bioplastics such as Poly (lactic acid) to substitute the common fossil- based conventional plastic filaments such as Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. Plant biomass is now utilized in the development of biocomposite materials. A lot of literature presents work done toward improving the biodegradability of printing filaments. However, additive manufacture of biocomposites from plant biomass is faced with printing challenges such as warping, low agglomeration between layers and poor mechanical properties of the printed parts. The aim of this paper is to review the technology of 3D printing using bioplastics, study the materials that have been utilized in this technology and how challenges of working with biocomposites in additive manufacture have been addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastics-based materials have a high carbon footprint, and their disposal is a considerable problem for the environment. Biodegradable bioplastics represent an alternative on which most countries have focused their attention to replace of conventional plastics in various sectors, among which food packaging is the most significant one. The evaluation of the optimal end-of-life process for bioplastic waste is of great importance for their sustainable use. In this review, the advantages and limits of different waste management routes—biodegradation, mechanical recycling and thermal degradation processes—are presented for the most common categories of biopolymers on the market, including starch-based bioplastics, PLA and PBAT. The analysis outlines that starch-based bioplastics, unless blended with other biopolymers, exhibit good biodegradation rates and are suitable for disposal by composting, while PLA and PBAT are incompatible with this process and require alternative strategies. The thermal degradation process is very promising for chemical recycling, enabling building blocks and the recovery of valuable chemicals from bioplastic waste, according to the principles of a sustainable and circular economy. Nevertheless, only a few articles have focused on this recycling process, highlighting the need for research to fully exploit the potentiality of this waste management route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of food contact materials is a hot topic since chemicals can migrate from packaging into food, thus raising health concerns about and/or producing changes in the organoleptic properties of foodstuffs. Migration tests are required to demonstrate the compliance with current regulations and to investigate the transferred compounds. In this context, mass spectrometry is the analytical technique of choice for the detection and quantitation of both intentionally added substances, such as antioxidants, stabilizers, processing aids, and non-intentionally added substances (NIAS). Untargeted strategies represent a major analytical challenge, providing a comprehensive fingerprinting of the packaging material and migrating components, allowing for NIAS identification. Hyphenated mass spectrometry-based techniques have been devised for screening the presence of migrating contaminants and for quantitation purposes. Both low-resolution (LRMS) and high-resolution (HRMS) methods were screened, with a special emphasis on the latter because of its capability to directly characterize food contact materials with minimal/no sample preparation, avoiding chromatographic separation, and reducing sample handling, analysis costs, and time. Examples related to the migration of contaminants from existing or newly developed bioplastic materials will be discussed, providing an overview of the most used MS-based methods, covering the state-of-the-art approaches from 2012 up to 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastics of petrochemical origin are materials difficult to degrade, and they have caused environmental impacts. The development of new biotechnological strategies for the production of bioplastics has attracted the attention of researchers all over the world, enabling the production of economically more viable, biodegradable materials with different possibilities of application in various industrial sectors. The polyhydroxyalkanoates are biopolymers with physicochemical properties similar to those of polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene commonly used by the industry. These bioplastics can be biosynthesized by various microorganisms and accumulate polyhydroxyalkanoates granules intracellularly. The high cost of polyhydroxyalkanoates production is still a limiting factor for its large-scale production, and the costs associated with the carbon source used are one of the reasons that increase the price of the product. This review discusses the main factors associated with polyhydroxyalkanoates production, providing an overview of the different attempts to produce the biopolymer from the use of low-cost substrates and the development of different fermentation strategies for the production of these polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioplastics are one of the possible alternative solutions to the polymers of petrochemical origins. Bioplastics have several advantages over traditional plastics in terms of low carbon footprint, energy efficiency, biodegradability and versatility. Although they have numerous benefits and are revolutionizing many application fields, they also have several weaknesses, such as brittleness, high-water absorption, low crystallization ability and low thermal degradation temperature. These drawbacks can be a limiting factor that prevents their use in many applications. Nonetheless, reinforcements and plasticizers can be added to bioplastic production as a way to overcome such limitations. Bioplastics materials are not yet studied in depth, but it is with great optimism that their industrial use and market scenarios are increasing; such growth can be a positive driver for more research in this field. National and international investments in the bioplastics industry can also promote the green transition. International projects, such as EcoPlast and Animpol, aim to study and develop new polymeric materials made from alternative sources. One of their biggest problems is their waste management; there is no separation process yet to recycle the nonbiodegradable bioplastics, and they are considered contaminants when mixed with other polymers. Some materials use additives, and their impact on the microplastics they leave after breaking apart is subject to debate. For this reason, it is important to consider their life cycle analysis and assess their environmental viability. These are materials that can possibly be processed in various ways, including conventional processes used for petrochemical ones. Those include injection moulding and extrusion, as well as digital manufacturing. This and the possibility to use these materials in several applications is one of their greatest strengths. All these aspects will be discussed in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Pulp & Paper is the property of China Pulp & Paper Magazines Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The extensive application of petroleum-based plastics has caused serious environmental pollution and ecological problems. Now, governments in the world are urgently aiming to develop biodegradable and renewable plastic alternatives. Agricultural waste, being widely available and affordable, may provide a resource of natural polymers to replace those from fossil sources for material manufacturing. However, there are still some non-negligible issues needing more attention. Herein, we briefly discuss the issues and challenges in the conversion of agricultural waste into bioplastics to provide a possible way for its further utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Search for alternatives to synthetic plastics led to the development of eco-friendly degradable polymers of natural origin termed 'bioplastic' which is a sustainable option to reduce the reliance on fossil fuel resources and address the needs of pressing environmental problems. Food packaging has become an important aspect of supply chain management that not only governs the food from spoilage but also contributes to a sensible biocompatible material, safe for human consumption as there is a recent concern on microplastic leaching. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), derived from microorganisms, are extensively used as a polymeric base for packaging applications in food industries as they offer advantages such as biodegradability, non-toxicity, hydrophobicity, thermoplasticity, and superior barrier properties, thereby making them a promising alternative to conventional synthetic plastics. However, challenges related to material properties, performance, and cost of the product must be addressed for PHA to make it an economical and feasible packaging material. Recent developments in PHA formulations in terms of technology, additives, and production factors have led to improvement in the polymer properties and beaconed the advent of active packaging. PHA-based packaging systems can redefine food industry packaging, turning it from a passive physical entity into an active solution that sustainably ensures food quality and safety. This review examines the sustainable microbial production of PHA from waste resources, recent advancements in PHA formulations, and their impact on material properties. It highlights emerging trends in active food packaging with PHA, such as controlled-release, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, advanced barrier properties and spoilage indicators. [Display omitted] • Sustainable bio-production of PHA through microbial fermentation. • Strategies to enhance the PHA synthesis by microbial candidates are explored. • The emerging trends in active food packaging associated with PHA have been emphasized. • Safety and regulatory aspects of PHA-based packaging have been emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lately, environmentally benign packaging materials with biodegradability, flexibility, and high barrier properties are sought after as a substitute for conventional plastic packaging materials due to increasing plastic pollution and microplastics in the environment. Although natural polymers can be sustainable alternatives to petro‐sourced, non‐biodegradable plastics, they suffer from the poor barrier and mechanical properties. In this study, a mechanically stable, biodegradable film of tree gum kondagogu with remarkable barrier properties is fabricated. The introduction of spray‐coated, waterborne, large‐aspect ratio sodium‐hectorite dispersion on tree‐gum films ensured very high barrier properties even at high relative humidity conditions (oxygen transmission rate (OTR) ≈1.7 cm3 m−2 day−1 bar−1 at 75% relative humidity). The coating not only decreases gas permeability through the films but also minimizes the sensitivity of performance to humidity levels. The clay‐coated nanocomposite films outperformed various commercial polymers and are comparable to high‐performance packaging films in terms of oxygen barrier properties. Further, the coating improved the mechanical properties of the films rendering them a prospective packaging material. These biodegradable, high‐barrier and mechanically robust films are a promising advance in the field of sustainable packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marvellous and versatile properties of synthetic plastics make them an indispensable part of human lives. But in the recent years, plastic pollution has become the biggest environmental concern for the whole world globally. Environmental distress over plastic pollution associated with a rising debate over fossil fuel dependence and abatement have brought the attention of researchers towards finding a suitable alternative to plastics i.e., bioplastic. Bioplastics are specially designed to have lower carbon footprint, less dependent on natural resources, energy efficiency, environmental safety and sustainability. These are bio-resources based polymers which have the potential of substituting conventional petroleum-based plastics. This review article summarizes need for developing eco-friendly alternative to plastics, bioplastics, importance of bioplastic, advantages of bioplastics over plastics and current trends in production of bioplastics. It also highlights types of bioplastics based on various sources and a variety of bioplastic materials such as starch, cellulose, chitosan, chitin, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polylactic acid, Bio-PE, Bio-PET, Bio-PBS, etc., their synthesis, applications and biodegradability. A comparative analysis of both natural and bio-based polymers in term of their availability, nature, structure, properties such as thermal stability, biodegradability, tensile strength, etc. has also been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because petroleum-based plastics are not biodegradable, as well as the energy they require in their production, the rising plastic substantially contributes to the depletion of the environment. In contrast to synthetic plastics, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are sustainable and eco-friendly bioplastics. A variety of microorganisms, such as fungi, bacteria, and algae, can be used to entirely synthesize PHAs. Enhanced biodegradability, biocompatibility, as well as other mechano-chemical properties are some of the promising properties of value-added biopolymers. It was also shown that PHA polymers have different properties depending on their chemical composition (units of monomer) and substrates. As an alternative to petroleum-based polymers, PHAs have great promise and need further study to determine how to economically produce and utilize them. Various applications of microbially synthesized PHAs are described in the review. Several microbial groups have also been shown to synthesize these biopolymers by genetic regulation. Also revealed in this review are the potential biomedical, environmental, and industrial applications of this biopolymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to understand the molecular and supramolecular transformations of wheat endosperm biopolymers during bread-making, and their implications to fabricate self-standing films from stale white bread. A reduction in the M w of amylopectin (51.8 × 106 vs 425.1 × 106 g/mol) and water extractable arabinoxylans WEAX (1.79 × 105 vs 7.63 × 105 g/mol), and a decrease in amylose length (245 vs 748 glucose units) was observed after bread-baking. The chain length distribution of amylopectin and the arabinose-to-xylose (A/X) ratio of WEAX remained unaffected during bread-making, suggesting that heat- or/and shear-induced chain scission is the mechanism responsible for molecular fragmentation. Bread-making also resulted in more insoluble cell wall residue, featured by water unextractable arabinoxylan of lower A/X and M w , along with the formation of a gluten network. Flexible and transparent films with good light-blocking performance (<30 % transmittance) and DPPH-radical scavenging capacity (~ 8.5 %) were successfully developed from bread and flour. Bread films exhibited lower hygroscopicity, tensile strength (2.7 vs 8.5 MPa) and elastic modulus (67 vs 501 MPa) than flour films, while having a 6-fold higher elongation at break (10.0 vs 61.2 %). This study provides insights into the changes in wheat biopolymers during bread-making and sets a precedent for using stale bread as composite polymeric materials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic fraction of the municipal waste (OFMSW) is a valuable resource for biogas production through anaerobic digestion (AD). Bioplastics is widely used in daily activities, especially with food related items and collection bags, and can reach biogas plants through separate collection of OFMSW. PHAs, starch and cellulose based polymers with different compositions can degrade under anaerobic conditions. Cellulose and PHAs can degrade under both mesophilic and thermophilic conditions where, starch blends required thermophilic conditions in general. Other biopolymers, such as the most abundant PLA, are not able to degrade in the time frame of the facilities in most of the cases. Pre-treatment methods through abiotic and bio-augmentation, as well as post treatment methods, such as composting subsequent to AD are encountered as possible solutions for achieving better degradation or safer disposal of these polymers. The post-treatment/pre-disposal of the materials should be further studied as well as the pre-treatment methods. Studies on the effect of additives in biopolymers was not studied widely and requires further investigation. Degradation of biopolymers under AD, biogas production, pre-treatment and post-treatment methods as well as standard methods (or lack thereof) are discussed in detail in this paper, in order to point out to the possible scenarios that can be encountered when bioplastics end up in co-digestion conditions with organic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-biodegradable plastics are continually amassing landfills and oceans worldwide while creating severe environmental issues and hazards to animal and human health. Plastic pollution has resulted in the death of millions of seabirds and aquatic animals. The worldwide production of plastics in 2020 has increased by 36% since 2010. This has generated significant interest in bioplastics to supplement global plastic demands. Bioplastics have several advantages over conventional plastics in terms of biodegradability, low carbon footprint, energy efficiency, versatility, unique mechanical and thermal characteristics, and societal acceptance. Bioplastics have huge potential to replace petroleum-based plastics in a wide range of industries from automobiles to biomedical applications. Here we review bioplastic polymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoate, polylactic acid, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate, polyamide 11, and polyhydroxyurethanes; and cellulose-based, starch-based, protein-based and lipid-based biopolymers. We discuss economic benefits, market scenarios, chemistry and applications of bioplastic polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plastics industry is proliferating continuously and the global plastics production in 2018 has reached around 360 million tones. This has further compounded the problem of waste plastics, which if not appropriately disposed cause serious environmental problems like land pollution, marine pollution and water source pollution. As an alternative, there has been a paradigm shift from substituting synthetic plastics i.e. fossil-based to bioplastics. However, the world of bioplastics is riddled with many problems as the current terminology used around such bioplastics is confusing and general public is not provided with reliable information about the true biodegradability/compostability of the products. As a result, "greenwashing" is on the rise, with brands even making spurious claims about the environmental benefits of their products. This review article scans the world of biodegradable/bioplastics, major players and production capacities, their current status with respect to production and application. The commercial biopolymers available in the market and their technology have been also discussed in detail. The article also reviews various technologies like enzyme-based technology and oxo-degradable technology being propagated as a tool to convert conventional plastics like PE/PP/PET etc. to a biodegradable plastic. Further, various issues with oxo-based technology and enzyme-based technology have been compiled. Besides, various standards, test methods (ASTM/ISO) related to testing, specifications of biodegradable plastics, their scope/limitations and potential misuse have been covered. Further, the review article discusses the limitation of the various standards and why changes in the standards are required. The article tries to focus on various myths & realities of biodegradable/bioplastics and the challenges and expectations of the real world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, polymer science and engineering research has shifted toward the development of environmentally benign polymers to reduce the impact of plastic leakage on the ecosystems. Stringent regulations and concerns regarding conventional polymers are the main driving forces for the development of renewable, biodegradable, sustainable, and environmentally benign materials. Although biopolymers can alleviate plastic‐related pollution, several factors dictate the utilization of biopolymers. Herein, an overview of the potential and limitations of synthetic biopolymers and their composites in the context of environmentally benign materials for a sustainable future are presented. The synthetic biopolymer market, technical advancements for different applications, lifecycle analysis, and biodegradability are covered. The current trends, challenges, and opportunities for bioplastic recycling are also discussed. In summary, this review is expected to provide guidelines for future development related to synthetic biopolymer‐based sustainable polymeric materials suitable for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Obtaining films from a vegetable biopolymer from the peel (a by-product) of passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) (BPM) and contribute to reduce the environmental pollution generated by the consumption of petroleum-derived plastics. Design/methodology/approach: By acid hydrolysis at four concentrations of citric acid (0, 1, 2, and 3%), pectin was extracted of passion fruit peels, making a paste mixture with glycerol. The obtained biofilms with an approximate 1 mm thickness were characterized by transformed Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with coupled elemental analyzer (EDS). Results: XRD diffractograms revealed that passion fruit bioplastic had a semi-crystalline structure and a calculated crystallinity index of 74.6%. Its value reduced by the half as the citric acid increased concentration, the samples with lower concentration with greater flexibility (1%). FTIR analysis suggested alterations in the BMP structures and a decrease of methoxyl groups in the polymeric chains with the increasing in citric acid content. Limitations/implications: SEM micrographs showed homogeneity in the films, although with some granular irregularities and folding. Findings/conclusions: The increase in citric acid concentration decreased the degree of gelation in the writing of the obtained biofilms, suggested by EDS and FTIR results, with a consequent reduced flexibility of the GMP films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this era of green and sustainable manufacturing, natural fibre-reinforced polymer composites (NFPC) have been widely accepted as the potential alternatives for polymer matrix composites (PMC) or any other non-biodegradable composites. Despite the increasing need to replace plastic bottles, bags, disposable plastic plates and trays, seedling pots used in our day to day life, not many studies have been made in this direction. The current work aims at developing a hundred percent biodegradable composite by reinforcing waste Kibisu silk fibre into wheat gluten as a possible replacement of plastic disposables. The developed composites are made up of different mass fractions of Kibisu silk fibre reinforced into plasticised wheat gluten. The prepared composites have been characterised to obtain the best combination. The developed composites were found to have adequate tensile property, mass degradation at a considerably high temperature and most importantly, the outstanding rate of biodegradation under normal atmospheric conditions. The soil quality test before and after degradation also showed no significant changes in the quality of the soil. FTIR studies revealed improved interaction between wheat gluten, glycerol and Kibisu fibres upon addition of natural lemon extract as crosslinker. Overall results indicate that the developed biocomposites have the potential to substitute harmful plastic disposables like plastic seedling pots and plates, disposable hospital tray, dustbin, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building new value chains, through the valorization of biomass components for the development of innovative bio‐based products (BBPs) aimed at specific market sectors, will accelerate the transition from traditional production technologies to the concept of biorefineries. Recent studies aimed at mapping the most relevant innovations undergoing in the field of BBPs (Fabbri et al. 2019, Final Report of the Task 3 BIOSPRI Tender Study on Support to R&I Policy in the Area of Bio‐based Products and Services, delivered to the European Commission (DG RTD)), clearly showed the dominant position played by the plastics sector, in which new materials and innovative technical solutions based on renewable resources, concretely contribute to the achievement of relevant global sustainability goals. New sustainable solutions for the plastic sector, either bio‐based or bio‐based and biodegradable, have been intensely investigated in recent years. The global bioplastics and biopolymers market size is expected to grow from USD 10.5 billion in 2020 to USD 27.9 billion by 2025 (Markets and Markets, 2020, Bioplastics & Biopolymers Market by Type (Non‐Biodegradable/Bio‐Based, Biodegradable), End‐Use Industry (Packaging, Consumer Goods, Automotive & Transportation, Textiles, Agriculture & Horticulture), Region ‐ Global Forecast to 2025), and this high growth is driven primarily by the growth of the global packaging end‐use industry. Such relevant opportunities are the outcomes of intensive scientific and technological research devoted to the development of new materials with selected technical features, which can represent feasible substitutes for the fossil‐based plastic materials currently used in the packaging sectors and other main fields. This article offers a map of the latest developments connected to the plastic sector, achieved through the application of biotechnological routes for the preparation of completely new polymeric structures, or drop‐in substitutes derived from renewable resources, and it describes the specific role played by biotechnology in promoting and making this transition faster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PBAT-based films for food packaging are produced using a variety of methods. • Being biodegradable, PBAT polymers are suitable for use in active food packaging. • The properties of PBAT-based films can be modified by incorporating other polymers and bioactive compounds. • Functional packaging materials based on PBAT can improve packaged foods' quality and shelf life. Bioplastics are a promising alternative to non-biodegradable plastics. One of these bioplastics, PBAT (polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate), is a polyester-based bioplastic commonly used to manufacture flexible packaging films. PBAT-based films have high flexibility but relatively low strength compared to other bioplastics. The strength of PBAT films can be improved by blending them with other fillers/polymers. Additionally, the functionality of PBAT films can be enhanced by incorporating bioactive functional fillers. The physical and functional properties of PBAT films produced by adding active ingredients provide functionality and are a good alternative to non-degradable petrochemical-based plastics. The PBAT-based functional films protect food and improve packaged foods' quality and life span. Thus, this review provides recent advances in PBAT-based films and their use in active food packaging applications. After briefly describing the different fabrication methods of PBAT films, various important physical and functional properties and biodegradability are comprehensively discussed. PBAT-based active packaging film in real-time food packaging is also briefly covered. Through this review, more attention is expected to be focused on research on PBAT-based biodegradable active food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic disposal and their degraded products in the environment are global concern due to its adverse effects and persistence in nature. To overcome plastic pollution and its impacts on environment, a sustainable bioplastic production using renewable feedstock's, such as algae, are envisioned. In this review, the production of polymer precursors such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxybutyrates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, agar, carrageenan and alginate from microalgae and macroalgae through direct conversion and fermentation routes are summarized and discussed. The direct conversion of algal biopolymers without any bioprocess (whole algal biomass used emphasizing zero waste discharge concept) favours economic feasibility. Whereas indirect method uses conversion of algal polymers to monomers after pretreatment followed by bioplastic precursor production by fermentation are emphasized. This review paper also outlines the current state of technological developments in the field of algae-based bioplastic, both in industry and in research, and highlights the creation of novel solutions for green bioplastic production employing algal polymers. Finally, the cost economics of the bioplastic production using algal biopolymers are clearly mentioned with future directions of next level bioplastic production. In this review study, the cost estimation was given at laboratory level bioplastic production using casting methods. Further development of bioplastics at pilot scale level may give clear economic feasibility of production at industry. Here, in this review, we emphasized the overview of algal biopolymers for different bioplastic product development and its economic value and also current industries involved in bioplastic production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution is now considered one of the largest environmental threats facing humans and animals globally. Development of bioplastic materials may offer part of the solution as bioplastics include both nondegradable and biodegradable materials with both being important for sustainability. Bioplastic materials are currently being designed to encompass minimal carbon footprint, high recycling value and complete biodegradability. This review examines recent developments and trends in the field of bioplastic materials. A range of the most utilized bioplastic materials is presented (poly(lactic acid) (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), starch, cellulose, bio-based poly(butylene succinate) (bio-PBS) and bio-polyethylene (bio-PE)) including their production, application and degradation options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this review is to evaluate previous life cycle assessment (LCA) studies of first- and second-generation bioplastics, to understand the state of the art and the main problems addressed during the development of new bioplastics. Furthermore, it provides an overview on land use change (LUC) impacts accounted for, methodologies chosen, and the results obtained. Methods: Studies related to the impact assessment of bioplastics and published between 2007 and 2018 were gathered. Five keyword strings were used to perform a wide search and select relevant LCA studies. The study aimed to analyze critical methodological aspects in LCA, in order to determine the most common choices made during biobased material analyses, as well as major limitations. Three filters were applied to select comparable studies, ending with a final number of 17 papers. Recommendations were obtained by comparing common practices performed by different authors with suggested best available practices mentioned in handbooks and guidelines. Interestingly, LUC metrics and impacts were, most of the time, neglected. Thus, a specific assessment and discussion was performed regarding the methods used to quantify LUC impacts, considering its importance during the production of biobased materials. Results and discussion: The study discussed the main environmental problems linked to the development of new biomaterials. LCA of agricultural products or systems, when compared with fossil-based counterparts, is expected to show higher environmental impacts in categories directly affected by fertilizer use, occupied and transformed land, among others. Thus, studies that included additional impact categories besides global warming (e.g., eutrophication or acidification) concluded that biobased materials present higher impacts, recommending improvements in farming practices to improve their overall environmental profile. Moreover, this review gathered methodologies used to account for LUC impacts and the results obtained. The main constraint of including LUC impacts was the lack of a standardized methodology, as well as large uncertainties in existing methodologies. Conclusions: Most studies concluded that improvements in farming practices might reduce the attributed environmental impacts with the reduction of the amount of land, fertilizer, pesticides, and water used. Studies computing LUC impacts agreed on the importance of including these impacts and concluded that greenhouse gas emissions of bioplastic production would increase, but in most cases would still be lower than the impact of their fossil-based counterparts. However, challenges remain when computing LUC impacts that need to be tackled when working with the available methodologies, including the collection of reliable inventory data (site-specific or regional data) and regionalized characterization factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable polymers have been developing rapidly in the last years and are widely used today in the fields of pharmacy, ciinical biomedicine, cosmetic, medical, and packing industries, tissue engineering, agriculture and other areas. The interest in biodegradable polymers has been increasing, mainly due to rising oiprices, which is the basic feedstock of plastic derived from petroleum, and also due to the problem of the removal of waste plastics that accumulate in the environment. Biodegradable polymers have many advantages in contrast to synthetic polymers and can be decomposed in the environment to non-hazardous substances. Biodegradable polymers are classified into two classes based on their synthesis, i.e., synthetic and natural polymers. They are derived either from petroleum resources or from biological resources. The following review presents an overview of the different biodegradable polymers andtheir properties, current scientific research, applications, global production of bioplastic and replacement of conventional plastic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biopolyesters produced by microorganisms as intracellular granules under nutrient stress. Due to non-toxic and biodegradable behavior these polyesters are a sustainable source of wide range of biomaterials such as bioplastics. As a result of excellent polymeric properties such as melting temperatures (Tm), glass transition temperature (Tg), crystallinity, Young's modulus and stress to break ratio these polyesters are capable of replacing the synthetic plastics. Bioplastics produced using PHAs as biomass source can be used for packaging material and disposable products on the other hand biofuels can also be generated using PHAs. PHAs find countless applications in industry, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and health. A large number of bacterial, microalgal and fungal species can produce these polyesters. Bacterial species such as Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, P. oleovorans, P. stutzeri and Cupriavidus necator are some highly studied microorganisms for PHA production. This review summarizes the most important aspects of PHAs, crystalline and granular structure of PHA biosynthesizing genes and their relevant proteins. Thermal and physical properties, sources, extraction, purification methods of PHAs are briefly discussed. Applications of PHAs, phylogenetic analysis of Pseudomonas sp. in term of its PHAs synthesizing genes, future prospects and possible outcomes are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable polymers is an alternative option to efficient waste management solution as opposed to conventional plastics. The production of biodegradable materials from renewable sources has attracted the interest of the global community, resulting in the examination and increased use of several renewable and sustanble feedstocks. Abundant renewable sources, such as corn, soy beans, sugar cane, wood, agricultural residues, lignocellulosic residues obtained from logging or wood processing etc. could be utilized as raw materials in bioplastics production. In this study, the development of bioplastics from the past to the present is reviewed, as well as a categorization of the existent bioplastics, are implemented based on the raw materials and properties, the main advantages and disadvantages of bioplastics are analyzed. The tendency of recent years on the research field of bioplastics is recorded, while the main current European and International standards referring to the bioplastics production, application and end-of-life management are being presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based plastics have a huge market and a wide range of applications and then have become increased in economy and research. Due to the environmental hazard on all organisms and the pollution that happens in all natural resources such as air, water, plants and soil pollution and the limitation of quantity of fossil resources on our planet, the future cannot depend on petro-plastics. All fossil products should be replaced by bio-based products. The petro-plastics are one of the fossil products which should be replaced by bio-based plastics. In this study, potato peels were used to produce bioplastics by the extraction of the starch from the peels and adding some ingredients such as water, glycerin, vinegar and industrial colors with different ratios and in biochemical reaction under heating. This process produced a wide range of bioplastics samples with different properties such as texture, hardness and coherence. It was found that when the glycerin ratio increases the produced bioplastic becomes more flexible which withstands compressive stress to 0.5 MP, and vice versa when the glycerin ratio decreases the produced bioplastic becomes hard which withstands compressive stress to 1.1 MP. It was concluded that the bio-based materials can be used effectively to process bioproducts such as bioplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Metropolitana de Sustentabilidade is the property of Revista Metropolitana de Sustentabilidade - RMS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Protein-based bioplastics may be regarded as novel biopolymer matrices based on renewable natural components. Due to technological, economic and environmental benefits, these biopolymer matrices are highly attractive for the incorporation and subsequent release of micronutrients that are essential for the development and health of plants, avoiding the typical excesses of conventional fertilizers. In addition, soy protein isolate (SPI) seems to be an adequate resource for the manufacture of natural-based superabsorbent materials due to its hydrophilic character and excellent processability when combined with a plasticizer. The objective of this work is to develop soy protein-based bioplastic matrices loaded zinc sulphate monohydrate with potential applications in horticulture. With this aim, the micronutrient loading level and water absorption are the most important properties to assess. The effect of the presence of a selected micronutrient (zinc) at different concentrations in the soy protein-based matrix was assessed, evaluating the mechanical properties, water uptake capacity, microstructure and loading level of zinc. The results confirm that important amounts of an essential micronutrient for a plant (Zn) can be incorporated into bioplastic matrices, modifying water absorption, mechanical and microstructural properties. In any case, the results obtained in this work open up a great potential for the use of this matrices as a supplying source of micronutrients for horticultural crop applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioplastics are currently and increasingly used as substitutes of conventional plastics; furthermore, they are mainly utilised in order to cope with problems related to plastic-based pollution. Certified international standard methods identify the criteria a bioplastic must comply with in order to be labelled as compostable and/or biodegradable. In addition, this is particularly the case when operating under the conditions that are expected in full-scale waste facilities. However, biodegradation in natural environments occurs under a manifold of different conditions, such that the aim of research studies is to estimate the extent to which a bioplastic can biodegrade under simulated natural conditions. For this reason, specific indexes are used to quantitatively estimate the degree of degradation. In the present paper, a description of the standard methods, research methods, and the indexes used to assess the biodegradability of bioplastics under different environmental conditions is provided. By summarising the results obtained by this study, it can be concluded that: (i) biopolymers claimed as biodegradable bioplastics may not degrade in full-scale plants due to the fact that the process conditions present in industrial waste treatment plants cannot completely reproduced at lab-scale; (ii) the static conditions set by the standard methods are not representative of the dynamic processes that occur in natural or industrial environments; and (iii) experimental tests are difficult to compare to one other due to the differences in the multitude of matrixes that can be used (i.e., inocula, soils, and biopolymers). [Display omitted] • Different standards (STDs) are used for testing bioplastics (BPs) biodegradability. • STDs should reflect more natural and industrial environments conditions. • The effects of microBPs on environment and human health need to be studied. • Results are not comparable due to the difference of procedures and materials used. • Research methods need to be more standardised to deliver comparable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutin is the main component of plant cuticles constituting the framework that supports the rest of the cuticle components. This biopolymer is composed of esterified bi- and trifunctional fatty acids. Despite its ubiquity in terrestrial plants, it has been underutilized as raw material due to its insolubility and lack of melting point. However, in recent years, a few technologies have been developed to obtain cutin monomers from several agro-wastes at an industrial scale. This review is focused on the description of cutin properties, biodegradability, chemical composition, processability, abundance, and the state of art of the fabrication of cutin-based materials in order to evaluate whether this biopolymer can be considered a source for the production of renewable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Utilization of agroresidues for poly-3-hydroxy alkanoates (PHA) production were discussed. • Challenges in PHA production and future perspectives were addressed. • Discussed strategies adopted for preetreatment of agroresidues. • Blending with different biopolymers improved properties of the PHA composite. The enormous production and widespread applications of non -biodegradable plastics lead to their accumulation and toxicity to animals and humans. The issue can be addressed by the development of eco-friendly strategies for the production of biopolymers by utilization of waste residues like agro residues. This will address two societal issues – waste management and the development of an eco-friendly biopolymer, poly-3-hydroxy alkanoates (PHAs). Strategies adopted for utilization of agro-residues, challenges and future perspectives are discussed in detail in this comprehensive review. The possibility of PHA properties improvements can be increased by preparation of blends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic materials are used to manufacture a broad variety of items with a short useful lifespan, resulting in significant amounts of waste material generation. This form of waste is often observed floating at sea, and different microplastics have been discovered in fish stomachs and women's placentas. Bioplastics are a more biodegradable substitute for fossil-based polymers. Microalgae are capable of producing poly (hydroxy alkanoate) esters (PHAs), aliphatic polyesters that are biodegradable. The most prevalent and well-characterized biopolymer is the poly (3-hydroxy butyrate) ester (PHB), which belongs to the short-chain PHAs. Under aerobic conditions, PHB compounds degrade fully to carbon dioxide and water. They are ecologically neutral, having thermal and mechanical qualities comparable to those of petrochemical polymers. Numerous microalgae species have been reported in the literature to be capable of making bioplastics under certain conditions (N-P restriction, light exposure, etc.), which may be exploited as a source of energy and carbon. To further ameliorate the environmental impact of microalgae culture for bioplastics production, a limited number of published studies have examined the accumulation of bioplastics, from microalgae grown in wastewater, at a concentration of 5.5–65% of dry biomass weight. • Plastic material usage lasts for a short time resulting in large amounts of waste. • Common plastics can be replaced by bioplastics as they exhibit similar properties. • Microalgae species have been reported as capable of producing bioplastics. • More sustainable bioplastics can be produced from microalgae grown in wastewater. • Up to 65% of wastewater-grown microalgae bioplastics concentration has been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indiscriminate usage, disposal and recalcitrance of petroleum-based plastics have led to its accumulation leaving a negative impact on the environment. Bioplastics, particularly microbial bioplastics serve as an ecologically sustainable solution to nullify the negative impacts of plastics. Microbial production of biopolymers like Polyhydroxyalkanoates, Polyhydroxybutyrates and Polylactic acid using renewable feedstocks as well as industrial wastes have gained momentum in the recent years. The current study outlays types of bioplastics, their microbial sources and applications in various fields. Scientific evidence on bioplastics has suggested a unique range of applications such as industrial, agricultural and medical applications. Though diverse microorganisms such as Alcaligenes latus, Burkholderia sacchari, Micrococcus species , Lactobacillus pentosus, Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Klebsiella sp., Rhizobium sp., Enterobacter sp., Escherichia sp., Azototobacter sp., Protomonas sp., Cupriavidus sp., Halomonas sp., Saccharomyces sp., Kluyveromyces sp., and Ralstonia sp. are known to produce bioplastics, the industrial production of bioplastics is still challenging. Thus this paper also provides deep insights on the advancements made to maximise production of bioplastics using different approaches such as metabolic engineering, rDNA technologies and multitude of cultivation strategies. Finally, the constraints to microbial bioplastic production and the future directions of research are briefed. Hence the present review emphasizes on the importance of using bioplastics as a sustainable alternative to petroleum based plastic products to diminish environmental pollution. [Display omitted] • Overview of microbial bioplastics. • Leads and hurdles of microbial bioplastics were discussed. • Diverse applications were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide has become one of the most promising resources to substitute synthetic plastics because of its wide abundance, renewability, low cost and near-zero carbon footprint. In this work, a novel polysaccharide-derived biopolymer has been investigated as a potential candidate in developing hybrid biocomposite foam. Through the study of microcellular morphology and thermal degradation behaviour, an optimised processing methodology was identified. A synergistic technique of ball milling of modified biopolymer granules and two-step foam processing resulted in achieving reduced particle sizes, narrower particle size distribution and improved dispersion of biopolymer, which in turn resulted in enhanced microcellular morphology within the hybrid biocomposite foam. Considering the renewed interest for such bio-based materials and their potential use as reinforcements and fillers, a much needed study was undertaken to assess its health safety in terms of in vitro biocompatibility and cytotoxicity. The results from the studies indicated that modified biopolymer did not pose any health safety risks and were non-cytotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Rice bran is an underutilized by-product of rice production, containing proteins, lipids and carbohydrates (mainly starches). Proteins and starches have been previously used to produce rice bran-based bioplastics, providing a high-added-value by-product, while contributing to the development of biobased, biodegradable bioplastics. However, rice bran contains oil (18–22%), which can have a detrimental effect on bioplastic properties. Its extraction could be convenient, since rice bran oil is becoming increasingly attractive due to its variety of applications in the food, pharmacy and cosmetic industries. In this way, the aim of this work was to analyze the effect of the different components of rice bran on the final properties of the bioplastics. Rice bran refining was carried out by extracting the oil and fiber fractions, and the effects of these two procedures on the final properties were addressed with mechanical, functional and microstructural measures. Results revealed that defatted rice bran produced bioplastics with higher viscoelastic moduli and better tensile behavior while decreasing the water uptake capacity and the soluble matter loss of the samples. However, no significant improvements were observed for systems produced from fiber-free rice bran. The microstructures observed in the SEM micrographs matched the obtained results, supporting the conclusions drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The case of bioplastics illustrates how business models can link producers and customers through the development of new technologies and products. Chemical companies have assumed that reducing costs, increasing yields, and developing better feedstock supplies will guarantee the success of bioplastics in the market, yet a number of unconventional hurdles exist. Companies need to build markets for bioplastics and to assure customers that bioplastics are indeed sustainably made. We contend that companies are most able to develop business models that bring bioplastics to market effectively when they develop and mobilize their “dynamic capabilities” around sustainability. DuPont, BASF, and Braskem have identified new market opportunities for bioplastics, designed distinctive types of business models to seize these opportunities, and devised ways to create increased value by communicating performance advantages and environmental impact reduction to downstream entities. Because they have not included societal actors in their efforts to define sustainability, the firms face significant risk that their sustainable value propositions may not endure without further innovations in creating accountability systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper gives an overview of the current state in research, development and production of bioplastics. In some cases, quality and price already allow them to successfully compete with petrochemical plastics. In other cases, a significant effort is required either on the side of the raw materials or on the processing, in order to achieve useful and economic materials. Four specific groups of biopolymers (polyisoprenoids, starches, proteins and poly-β-hydroxyalkanoates) and their applications were singled out herein. However, many other potential sources and products may be considered, based on new raw material streams, opportunities, and processing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

mylose containing polysaccharides are one of the most abundant and inexpensive naturally occurring biopolymers. Therefore, they are one of the most promising candidates to produce substitute plastics, especially in packaging applications. To determine the suitability for packaging applications, cytotoxicity of a modified amylose based bioplastic was investigated using NIH 3T3 Fibroblast cells from observation of cell morphology and MTS assay. Chemical durability of the amylose based bioplastic film was also studied by ion release and pH measurement after immersing the film into water. In vitro cytotoxicity (Cell morphology study and MTS assay) showed that the amylose based bioplastic film has in vitro biocompatibility and can be used for packaging applications. The ion release and pH measurement also supported the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Striving to achieve cost-competitive biomass-derived materials for the plastics industry, the incorporation of starch (corn and potato) to a base formulation of albumen and glycerol was considered. To study the effects of formulation and processing, albumen/starch-based bioplastics containing 0–30wt.% starch were prepared by thermo-plastic and thermo-mechanical processing. Transmittance measurements, DSC, DMTA and tensile tests were performed on the resulting bioplastics. Optical and tensile properties were strongly affected by starch concentration. However, DMTA at low deformation proved to be insensitive to starch addition. Thermo-mechanical processing led to transparent albumen/starch materials with values of strength at low deformation comparable to commodity plastics. Consequently, albumen biopolymers may become a biodegradable alternative to oil-derived plastics for manufacturing transparent packaging and other plastic stuffs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bioplastics constitute an emerging and innovative industrial segment, characterized by new synergies and collaborations among the chemical, biotechnological, agricultural, and consumer sectors. This study will encompass analyses of recent data about different types of bioplastics, whether biodegradable or not, wholly or partially from renewable sources, their producers and installed capacities, with reference to production and biopolymer processing. Innovation issues are raised when comparing the number of scientific publications and patent deposits in bioplastics over the past 10 years, connecting to the expectations of new industrial capacities for the next 5 years. A brief characterization of the scenario where these developments are taking place is made and the identification of near future trends in technological and industrial progress is attempted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For commercial success, bioplastics have to possess adequate physical properties. But the same properties of biopolymers - such as starch - that make them environmentally attractive feedstocks can affect their performance as materials. Despite the attractive properties of plant-based plastics, there have been few commercial applications due to their property drawbacks (e.g., high cost, brittleness, and lower impact resistance). Many biopolymers, such as starch, are often hydrophilic and some are even soluble in hot water. These properties have to be managed and controlled through the development of adequate formulations and processing. The primary challenge is to develop fast reactions that can be transformed into viable processes and integrated into existing process lines with economically viable formulations that are friendly to the environment. Cross-linking of starches is the most common method used in polysaccharide chemistry. This article briefly reviews some of the most promising chemistries available for the cross-linking of biodegradable starch materials and their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]