Biodegradable polymers – research and applications
Author:
Megha Mahajan1, Kamaraj Murugesan2, Nithya Thirumullaivoyal G.1, GokilaLakshmi Shanmugaselvam1, Santhosh Pugazh1, Balavaishnavi Balasubramanian1
Affiliation:
1. Department of Biochemistry , College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology , Kattankulathur , Tamil Nadu 603203 , India 2. Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities , SRM Institute of Science and Technology - Ramapuram Campus , Chennai 600089 , Tamil Nadu , India
Abstract
Abstract
The major concern in ecology we are facing in this era of modernization is environmental pollution due to non-biodegradable plastics. Because of its low cost, readily available nature, light weight, corrosion resistance, and added additives, it is adaptable and suitable for a wide range of applications. But the problem is that most of the petroleum-based plastics are not recyclable. Recycling and degradation of plastics are time-consuming and also release harmful chemicals, which pose a great threat to the environment. It is the need of the modern era to focus on the production of biodegradable and eco-friendly polymers as alternatives to these plastics. Nowadays, plant-based polymers are coming onto the market, which are easily degraded into soil with the help of microorganisms. However, commercialization is less due to its high production costs and the requirement for large agricultural lands for production, and their degradation also necessitated the use of special composting techniques. It is urgently needed to produce good quality and a high quantity of biodegradable polymers. The microorganisms are often searched for and screened from the carbon-rich and nutrient-deficient environment, but the commercial value of the polymers from microorganisms is very costly. Moreover, the currently explored microbes like Ralstonia eutropha, Aspergillus eutrophus, Cupriavidus necator, etc. are producing polymers naturally as a carbon reserve. But the quality as well as quantity of production are low, which means they cannot meet our requirements. So, the main aim of this chapter is to focus on the wide applications of different biodegradable polymers from plants, animals and even microbes and recent advancements in their production and improvement of biopolymers to increase their quality and quantity from natural sources, as well as their applications in packaging, the medical field, aquaculture, and other various fields for the commercialization of the product.
Publisher
Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Subject
General Physics and Astronomy,General Materials Science,General Chemistry
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