What are bio-based polymers?
Bio-based polymers are defined as materials for which at least a portion of the polymer consists of material produced from renewable raw materials. For example, bio-based polymers may be produced from corn or sugarcane. The remaining portion of the polymers may be from fossil fuel-based carbon.
Why bio-based plastic have been used instead of synthetic polymer?
To solve this issue, bio-based polymers have emerged as a substitute to traditional (petroleum) plastics. Bio-based polymers will decompose naturally (when environmental microorganisms break down and metabolize the chemical bonds present in the structure of bio-based polymers).
How are bio-based polymers made?
Bio-based polymers similar to conventional polymers are produced by bacterial fermentation processes by synthesizing the building blocks (monomers) from renewable resources, including lignocellulosic biomass (starch and cellulose), fatty acids, and organic waste.
What is the best plastic?
Polyethylene Terephthalate
3 types of plastic that are considered as safer options among the others are Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (2-HDPE), and Polypropylene (5-PP).
Why are biological polymers biodegradable?
Polymers, specifically biodegradable polymers, have extremely strong carbon backbones that are difficult to break, such that degradation often starts from the end-groups. Since the degradation begins at the end, a high surface area is common as it allows easy access for either the chemical, light, or organism.
Who invented PLA?
chemist Wallace Carothers
PLA was created in the 1930s by the American chemist Wallace Carothers, most recognised for the development of nylon and neoprene in the chemical company DuPont.
Is PLA recycled?
Technically, PLA is therefore recyclable provided that the collection consists exclusively of PLA, without contamination by other plastics.”