Physical properties of bacterial poly((R)-3-hydroxyalkanoates)

Abstract

Poly((R)-3-hydroxyalkanoates) are bacterial storage polyesters, currently receiving much attention because of their potential application as biodegradable and biocompatible plastics. Methods and skills from both microbiology and polymer science can be used to manipulate these materials to make their physical properties meet the requirements for specific applications. The present paper reviews the physical properties of the most promising poly((R)-3-hydroxyalkanoates) as well as the opportunities offered by polymer technology to improve them, emphasizing the mechanical properties in relation to structure and processing.Key words: biopolymers, poly(hydroxyalkanoates), PHB, PHA.