Biodegradable polymers: A review about biodegradation and its implications and applications

Abstract

Plastic waste pollution is a global environmental problem that could be solved by biodegradable materials. In addition, its biodegradability has been important for medical applications. In this way, the biodegradability performance has been investigated for different materials under diversified environmental conditions. In this context, this review shows the main up-to-date biodegradable polymers (from renewable sources and fossil-based), their structure and properties, and their biodegradability characteristics. Also, this review shows the effect of polymer properties and environmental conditions on biodegradability, methods of biodegradability and toxicity determination, modification processes to enhance biodegradability, and main applications of biodegradable polymers for agriculture, medical, and packaging. Finally, this review presents a discussion of the implications of biodegradation on the environment, the current context, and future perspectives of plastic biodegradation.

New Biodegradable Materials for Re-Thought Packaging from Pre-Consumer Wastes by Controlling the Storage Time as Method to Increase the Mechanical Recycling Efficiency

“…Consequently, all three polymers of the studied compounds are hydrophilic polymers susceptible to chemical hydrolysis. If the hydrolysis takes place under enzymatic conditions, then well-known structural damage occurs with a loss of integrity and transformation into CO 2 and water, i.e., biodegradation [ 52 , 53 , 54 , 55 ].…”

A Review of Biodegradable Plastics: Chemistry, Applications, Properties, and Future Research Needs

“…Furthermore, when evaluating the biodegradability of plastics, it is essential to assess their potential toxicity, particularly when new biodegradable materials are introduced alongside traditional biowaste. , Toxicity assessments can be species-specific, with single-species tests, such as the earthworm acute toxicity test (OECD Guideline 207) and the terrestrial plant growth test (OECD Guideline 208) being commonly used. However, these tests have limitations, and multispecies tests with model ecosystems provide more comprehensive information on the real fate of compounds .…”

Additive Manufacturing of a Super Toughened Biodegradable Polymer Blend: Structure–Property-Processing Correlation and 3D Printed Prosthetic Part Development

“…These polymers can undergo degradation into smaller molecules by microorganisms like bacteria, algae, or fungi over a specific period, which can vary from several months to years. 3,4 These polymers have numerous potential applications in various industries, including health, agriculture, and packaging. 5,6 Even though the global bioplastic market grew by over 1.5% in 2021, biodegradable plastic limitations, such as lower mechanical properties, poor thermal stability, and higher costs relative to petroleum-based plastics, hinder their widespread use.…”