Materials derived from biomass/biodegradable materials.

TLDR

Biodegradable plastics from renewable resources, such as PHBV copolymers produced by bacteria from agricultural raw materials, have gained interest but remain in early commercialization stages. The paper reviews PHBV copolymer manufacturing, properties, biodegradability, and commercial applications, illustrating how new technology can meet society’s plastic and environmental needs. It examines the manufacturing process, material properties, biodegradability, and commercial issues of PHBV copolymers.

Abstract

Interest in biodegradable plastics made from renewable resources has increased significantly in recent years. PHBV (polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate) copolymers are good examples of this type of materials. This paper provides an overview of the manufacturing process, properties, biodegradability, and application/commercial issues associated with PHBV copolymers. They are naturally produced by bacteria from agricultural raw materials, and they can be processed to make a variety of useful products, where their biodegradability and naturalness are quite beneficial. PHBV copolymers are still in the first stage of commercialization. But they are presented in this paper as an example of how new technology can help meet society's needs for plastics and a clean environment.