Biobased Polyesters
Properties and Applications
Biobased polyesters are a a large class of bioplastics that are
derived from renewable resources such as natural fats and oils. Some
biobased polyesters that have gained commercial use or that are
currently investigated for commercial use include
polylactic acid
(PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA),
poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL),
polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and
poly(3-hydroxy valerate). Among
these, PLA is the most extensively studied
biodegradable thermoplastic polyesters. It is truly
biodegradable and biocompatible polyester with a relatively high
melting point (160 °C).
Aliphatic polyesters are often blended with other resins to
improve their processing and end use properties. For example, they
can be blended with starch to lower cost and to increase the
biodegradability. Biodegradable polyesters are also used as the
matrix resin for mostly unidirectional bio-composite materials.
Biobased Polyesters are used as a feedstock for injection-molding of disposable articles like drinking cups and food containers. Some other applications include soil retention sheething, waste bags, and packaging material in general. Biopolyesters have also found many applications in the medical and pharmaceutical industry, for example, in drug delivery systems, wound closure, surgical sutures, implants, and tissue engineering.
Manufacturers
1The global market of biodegradable plastics is to reach ca. $3.5 billion by 2022, growing at CAGR of approx. 11.5 percent.2
2Global Information Inc., Market Research Report Global Biodegradable Plastics Market Insights, June 13, 2016