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[Display omitted] • PBS is intensively studied as biodegradable alternative to polyolefins. • Production, synthesis, physico-chemical and mechanical properties of PBS are covered. • Studies on blend and composite applications are comprehensively reviewed. • Challenges, state-of-the-art and future opportunities critically assessed. Rising energy concerns, rapid infrastructure development, and greater environmental awareness have fueled the demand for sustainable materials. In this direction, sustainable bio-based polymer generated from different resources through several operations can meet most of the annual synthetic plastics demand at least in Europe. The advancement of sustainable technologies for the effective utilization of sustainable materials for bioplastic and biomaterials production can afford a novel biorenewable source of sustainable products and biofuel as well as address the rising environmental concerns. Poly(butylene succinate) is one biopolymer that has enormous potential to be used in a wide range of applications. There is currently no extensive review on the PBS based polymer covering the advanced technologies for the development of high-value material. This article covers the advanced state of synthesis, process integrating biological and thermochemical conversion to produce bioplastics (PBS), physico-chemical and mechanical properties, and the recent applications. We have also provided a structural perspective on how PBS can be adopted via appropriate engineering/ modification to its properties. Different changes in the precursors of polymer materials and composites enable a various range of applications, including but not limited to the manufacturing of high-performance polymer materials to composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the growing market presence of bioplastics manufacturers in Europe. The bioplastics sector contributes 50,000 tons to the market according to European Bioplastics. Plantic Technologies has developed a starch-based biopolymer that has replaced polyvinyl chloride dividers inside Nestle's Dairy Box and Black Magic Chocolates in Great Britain. A new legislation would require all French shopping bags to be biodegradable by 2010.