This review sets out to examine the current trends in the science of biopolymers — materials which, ideally, are both of renewable biological origin and are able to biodegrade at the end of their intended lifespan. Various types of biological polymers are discussed, along with the chemistry and synthesis of some key biopolymers, including cellulose, hemicellulose, starch, polyhydroxyalkanoates (of biological origin), tannins (polyphenolic plant products), cashew nut shell liquid, tree sap rosins, lignin, and man-made polylactides.

From the Introduction: “This review is a survey of the latest stage in the emergence of a type of polymer with perceived low environmental impact. These polymers are called with varying degrees of accuracy biopolymers, bioplastics, environmentally degradable polymers (EDP), or natural polymers. Biopolymers are polymers that are either biological (but non-fossil) in origin, or susceptible to digestion by microorganisms or chemical breakdown in the environment (e.g., hydrolysis), or ideally, both. Such materials address the criticism that plastics, whilst undoubtedly useful, are made from irreplaceable fossil raw materials, and though durable, are difficult to dispose of at the end of useful life...”

Rapra Review Reports contain a brief overview of the topic, followed by extensive references, with abstracts, from the Rapra database. They serve as condensed, valuable research tools for scientists, technologists, and other researchers working with rubber or plastics materials.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Synthesis of Biopolymers

Commercially Available Biopolymers

Uses of Biopolymers

Manfuacturing Technologies for Biopolymers

Fillers and Reinforcements for Biopolymers

The Markets and Economics of Biopolymers

Compostability Certification

The Chemistry and Biology of Polymer Degradation

Conclusions

Additional References

References from the Polymer Library Database

Subject Index