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Kumar V, Lakkaboyana SK, Tsouko E, Maina S, Pandey M, Umesh M, Singhal B, Sharma N, Awasthi MK, Andler R, Jayaraj I, Yuzir A. Commercialization potential of agro-based polyhydroxyalkanoates biorefinery: A technical perspective on advances and critical barriers. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 234:123733. [PMID: 36801274 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The exponential increase in the use and careless discard of synthetic plastics has created an alarming concern over the environmental health due to the detrimental effects of petroleum based synthetic polymeric compounds. Piling up of these plastic commodities on various ecological niches and entry of their fragmented parts into soil and water has clearly affected the quality of these ecosystems in the past few decades. Among the many constructive strategies developed to tackle this global issue, use of biopolymers like polyhydroxyalkanoates as sustainable alternatives for synthetic plastics has gained momentum. Despite their excellent material properties and significant biodegradability, polyhydroxyalkanoates still fails to compete with their synthetic counterparts majorly due to the high cost associated with their production and purification thereby limiting their commercialization. Usage of renewable feedstocks as substrates for polyhydroxyalkanoates production has been the thrust area of research to attain the sustainability tag. This review work attempts to provide insights about the recent developments in the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates using renewable feedstock along with various pretreatment methods used for substrate preparation for polyhydroxyalkanoates production. Further, the application of blends based on polyhydroxyalkanoates, and the challenges associated with the waste valorization based polyhydroxyalkanoates production strategy is elaborated in this review work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Kumar
- Ecotoxicity and Bioconversion Laboratory, Department of Community Medicine, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Thandalam 602105, India; Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Sivarama Krishna Lakkaboyana
- Department of Chemistry, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Avadi, Chennai 600062, India; Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (ChEE), Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT)-Universiti Technologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, 54100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Erminta Tsouko
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of Environment, University of the Aegean, Metropolite Ioakeim 2, 81400, Myrina, Lemnos, Greece
| | - Sofia Maina
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, Iera Odos 75, 11855 Athens, Greece
| | - Muskan Pandey
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, U.P., India
| | - Mridul Umesh
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560029, Karnataka, India
| | - Barkha Singhal
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, U.P., India
| | - Neha Sharma
- Metagenomics and Bioprocess Design Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Rodrigo Andler
- Escuela de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Centro de Biotecnología de los Recursos Naturales (Cenbio), Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile
| | - Iyyappan Jayaraj
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai 602105, India
| | - Ali Yuzir
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (ChEE), Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT)-Universiti Technologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, 54100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Fabrication of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) Fibers Using Centrifugal Fiber Spinning: Structure, Properties and Application Potential. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15051181. [PMID: 36904422 PMCID: PMC10006915 DOI: 10.3390/polym15051181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Biobased and biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are currently gaining momentum. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) polymer has a useful processing window for extrusion and injection molding of packaging, agricultural and fishery applications with required flexibility. Processing PHBHHx into fibers using electrospinning or centrifugal fiber spinning (CFS) can further broaden the application area, although CFS remains rather unexplored. In this study, PHBHHx fibers are centrifugally spun from 4-12 wt.% polymer/chloroform solutions. Beads and beads-on-a-string (BOAS) fibrous structures with an average diameter (ϕav) between 0.5 and 1.6 µm form at 4-8 wt.% polymer concentrations, while more continuous fibers (ϕav = 3.6-4.6 µm) with few beads form at 10-12 wt.% polymer concentrations. This change is correlated with increased solution viscosity and enhanced mechanical properties of the fiber mats (strength, stiffness and elongation values range between 1.2-9.4 MPa, 11-93 MPa, and 102-188%, respectively), though the crystallinity degree of the fibers remains constant (33.0-34.3%). In addition, PHBHHx fibers are shown to anneal at 160 °C in a hot press into 10-20 µm compact top-layers on PHBHHx film substrates. We conclude that CFS is a promising novel processing technique for the production of PHBHHx fibers with tunable morphology and properties. Subsequent thermal post-processing as a barrier or active substrate top-layer offers new application potential.
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53
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Biodegradable polymers – research and applications. PHYSICAL SCIENCES REVIEWS 2023. [DOI: 10.1515/psr-2022-0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
The major concern in ecology we are facing in this era of modernization is environmental pollution due to non-biodegradable plastics. Because of its low cost, readily available nature, light weight, corrosion resistance, and added additives, it is adaptable and suitable for a wide range of applications. But the problem is that most of the petroleum-based plastics are not recyclable. Recycling and degradation of plastics are time-consuming and also release harmful chemicals, which pose a great threat to the environment. It is the need of the modern era to focus on the production of biodegradable and eco-friendly polymers as alternatives to these plastics. Nowadays, plant-based polymers are coming onto the market, which are easily degraded into soil with the help of microorganisms. However, commercialization is less due to its high production costs and the requirement for large agricultural lands for production, and their degradation also necessitated the use of special composting techniques. It is urgently needed to produce good quality and a high quantity of biodegradable polymers. The microorganisms are often searched for and screened from the carbon-rich and nutrient-deficient environment, but the commercial value of the polymers from microorganisms is very costly. Moreover, the currently explored microbes like Ralstonia eutropha, Aspergillus eutrophus, Cupriavidus necator, etc. are producing polymers naturally as a carbon reserve. But the quality as well as quantity of production are low, which means they cannot meet our requirements. So, the main aim of this chapter is to focus on the wide applications of different biodegradable polymers from plants, animals and even microbes and recent advancements in their production and improvement of biopolymers to increase their quality and quantity from natural sources, as well as their applications in packaging, the medical field, aquaculture, and other various fields for the commercialization of the product.
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Bianchi M, Dorigato A, Morreale M, Pegoretti A. Evaluation of the Physical and Shape Memory Properties of Fully Biodegradable Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/Poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT) Blends. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15040881. [PMID: 36850164 PMCID: PMC9963890 DOI: 10.3390/polym15040881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers have recently become popular; in particular, blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT) have recently attracted significant attention due to their potential application in the packaging field. However, there is little information about the thermomechanical properties of these blends and especially the effect induced by the addition of PBAT on the shape memory properties of PLA. This work, therefore, aims at producing and investigating the microstructural, thermomechanical and shape memory properties of PLA/PBAT blends prepared by melt compounding. More specifically, PLA and PBAT were melt-blended in a wide range of relative concentrations (from 85/15 to 25/75 wt%). A microstructural investigation was carried out, evidencing the immiscibility and the low interfacial adhesion between the PLA and PBAT phases. The immiscibility was also confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). A thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that the addition of PBAT slightly improved the thermal stability of PLA. The stiffness and strength of the blends decreased with the PBAT amount, while the elongation at break remained comparable to that of neat PLA up to a PBAT content of 45 wt%, while a significant increment in ductility was observed only for higher PBAT concentrations. The shape memory performance of PLA was impaired by the addition of PBAT, probably due to the low interfacial adhesion observed in the blends. These results constitute a basis for future research on these innovative biodegradable polymer blends, and their physical properties might be further enhanced by adding suitable compatibilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Bianchi
- Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM Research Unit, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Andrea Dorigato
- Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM Research Unit, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (M.M.)
| | - Marco Morreale
- Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Kore University of Enna, Cittadella Universitaria, 94100 Enna, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (M.M.)
| | - Alessandro Pegoretti
- Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM Research Unit, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
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Corapi A, Gallo L, Lucadamo L, Tursi A, Chidichimo G. Evaluation of the Ecotoxicity of New Polyurethane Composites on Target Organisms for Aquatic and Atmospheric Environments. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2023; 42:421-436. [PMID: 36420672 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated if new biocomposite materials, polyurethanes (PURs) added with functionalized cellulose fibers, produce potential toxic effects on two target organisms currently used in biomonitoring the quality of two different environmental compartments. Natural fibers were extracted from the species Spartium junceum L., a shrub commonly found in the southern region of the Mediterranean having a high cellulose content. All PURs produced were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and their structure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. We measured the effects of exposure to aromatic and aliphatic PUR composites (containing or not cellulose fibers) on the aquatic model organism Daphnia magna Straus, a freshwater crustacean (Cladocera), and a biomonitor of air quality, the fruticose epiphytic lichen Pseudevernia furfuracea (L.) Zopf. Leachates from aliphatic PUR composite not containing cellulose are more toxic to D. magna than all others, showing a slight acute toxicity in the case of the shortest exposure (24 h) and a moderate acute toxicity in the longer one (48 h). This effect is most likely due to the presence of free organic ammines and amides, which, in their turn, are immobilized in composites containing cellulosic fibers because of the considerable amount of chemical functional groups. Regarding lichens, both types of aliphatic PURs resulted in a toxic effect. Formulate not added with cellulose strongly promoted fungal peroxidation, whereas that which was functionalized affected the pigment concentration of the algal partner. Our results suggest that the use of cellulose in PUR production, in general, can limit the ecotoxicological effects on both test organisms and reduce the potential environmental impact due to this type of polymer. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:421-436. © 2022 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Corapi
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Calabria, Italy
| | - Luana Gallo
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Calabria, Italy
| | - Lucio Lucadamo
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Calabria, Italy
| | - Antonio Tursi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technologies, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Calabria, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Chidichimo
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technologies, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Calabria, Italy
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Santos-Beneit F, Chen LM, Bordel S, Frutos de la Flor R, García-Depraect O, Lebrero R, Rodriguez-Vega S, Muñoz R, Börner RA, Börner T. Screening Enzymes That Can Depolymerize Commercial Biodegradable Polymers: Heterologous Expression of Fusarium solani Cutinase in Escherichia coli. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020328. [PMID: 36838293 PMCID: PMC9963400 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a number of microbial enzymes capable of degrading plastics have been identified. Biocatalytic depolymerization mediated by enzymes has emerged as a potentially more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to the currently employed methods for plastic treatment and recycling. However, the functional and systematic study of depolymerase enzymes with respect to the degradation of a series of plastic polymers in a single work has not been widely addressed at present. In this study, the ability of a set of enzymes (esterase, arylesterase and cutinase) to degrade commercial biodegradable polymers (PBS, PBAT, PHB, PHBH, PHBV, PCL, PLA and PLA/PCL) and the effect of pre-treatment methods on their degradation rate was assessed. The degradation products were identified and quantified by HPLC and LC-HRMS analysis. Out of the three enzymes, Fusarium solani cutinase (FsCut) showed the highest activity on grinded PBAT, PBS and PCL after 7 days of incubation. FsCut was engineered and heterologous expressed in Escherichia coli, which conferred the bacterium the capability of degrading solid discs of PBAT and to grow in PBS as the sole carbon source of the medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Santos-Beneit
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.S.-B.); (T.B.)
| | - Le Min Chen
- Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Route du Jorat 57, 1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sergio Bordel
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Raquel Frutos de la Flor
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Octavio García-Depraect
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Raquel Lebrero
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Sara Rodriguez-Vega
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Raúl Muñoz
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Rosa Aragão Börner
- Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Route du Jorat 57, 1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tim Börner
- Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Route du Jorat 57, 1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (F.S.-B.); (T.B.)
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Bioplastics: Innovation for Green Transition. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15030517. [PMID: 36771817 PMCID: PMC9920607 DOI: 10.3390/polym15030517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioplastics are one of the possible alternative solutions to the polymers of petrochemical origins. Bioplastics have several advantages over traditional plastics in terms of low carbon footprint, energy efficiency, biodegradability and versatility. Although they have numerous benefits and are revolutionizing many application fields, they also have several weaknesses, such as brittleness, high-water absorption, low crystallization ability and low thermal degradation temperature. These drawbacks can be a limiting factor that prevents their use in many applications. Nonetheless, reinforcements and plasticizers can be added to bioplastic production as a way to overcome such limitations. Bioplastics materials are not yet studied in depth, but it is with great optimism that their industrial use and market scenarios are increasing; such growth can be a positive driver for more research in this field. National and international investments in the bioplastics industry can also promote the green transition. International projects, such as EcoPlast and Animpol, aim to study and develop new polymeric materials made from alternative sources. One of their biggest problems is their waste management; there is no separation process yet to recycle the nonbiodegradable bioplastics, and they are considered contaminants when mixed with other polymers. Some materials use additives, and their impact on the microplastics they leave after breaking apart is subject to debate. For this reason, it is important to consider their life cycle analysis and assess their environmental viability. These are materials that can possibly be processed in various ways, including conventional processes used for petrochemical ones. Those include injection moulding and extrusion, as well as digital manufacturing. This and the possibility to use these materials in several applications is one of their greatest strengths. All these aspects will be discussed in this review.
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Arman Alim AA, Baharum A, Mohammad Shirajuddin SS, Anuar FH. Blending of Low-Density Polyethylene and Poly(Butylene Succinate) (LDPE/PBS) with Polyethylene-Graft-Maleic Anhydride (PE-g-MA) as a Compatibilizer on the Phase Morphology, Mechanical and Thermal Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15020261. [PMID: 36679142 PMCID: PMC9860711 DOI: 10.3390/polym15020261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is of significant concern that the buildup of non-biodegradable plastic waste in the environment may result in long-term issues with the environment, the economy and waste management. In this study, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) was compounded with different contents of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) at 10-50 wt.%, to evaluate the potential of replacing commercial plastics with a biodegradable renewable polymer, PBS for packaging applications. The morphological, mechanical and thermal properties of the LDPE/PBS blends were examined in relation to the effect of polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) as a compatibilizer. LDPE/PBS/PE-g-MA blends were fabricated via the melt blending method using an internal mixer and then were compression molded into test samples. The presence of LDPE, PBS and PE-g-MA individually in the matrix for each blend presented physical interaction between the constituents, as shown by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The morphology of LDPE/PBS/PE-g-MA blends showed improved compatibility and homogeneity between the LDPE matrix and PBS phase. Compatibilized LDPE/PBS blends showed an improvement in the tensile strength, with 5 phr of compatibilizer providing the optimal content. The thermal stability of LDPE/PBS blends decreased with higher PBS content and the thermal stability of compatibilized blends was higher in contrast to the uncompatibilized blends. Therefore, our research demonstrated that the partial substitution of LDPE with a biodegradable PBS and the incorporation of the PE-g-MA compatibilizer could develop an innovative blend with improved structural, mechanical and thermal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aina Aqila Arman Alim
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Azizah Baharum
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Polymer Research Center (PORCE), Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Farah Hannan Anuar
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Polymer Research Center (PORCE), Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
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59
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Ferrari F, Striani R, Fico D, Alam MM, Greco A, Esposito Corcione C. An Overview on Wood Waste Valorization as Biopolymers and Biocomposites: Definition, Classification, Production, Properties and Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14245519. [PMID: 36559886 PMCID: PMC9787771 DOI: 10.3390/polym14245519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bio-based polymers, obtained from natural biomass, are nowadays considered good candidates for the replacement of traditional fossil-derived plastics. The need for substituting traditional synthetic plastics is mainly driven by many concerns about their detrimental effects on the environment and human health. The most innovative way to produce bioplastics involves the use of raw materials derived from wastes. Raw materials are of vital importance for human and animal health and due to their economic and environmental benefits. Among these, wood waste is gaining popularity as an innovative raw material for biopolymer manufacturing. On the other hand, the use of wastes as a source to produce biopolymers and biocomposites is still under development and the processing methods are currently being studied in order to reach a high reproducibility and thus increase the yield of production. This study therefore aimed to cover the current developments in the classification, manufacturing, performances and fields of application of bio-based polymers, especially focusing on wood waste sources. The work was carried out using both a descriptive and an analytical methodology: first, a description of the state of art as it exists at present was reported, then the available information was analyzed to make a critical evaluation of the results. A second way to employ wood scraps involves their use as bio-reinforcements for composites; therefore, the increase in the mechanical response obtained by the addition of wood waste in different bio-based matrices was explored in this work. Results showed an increase in Young's modulus up to 9 GPa for wood-reinforced PLA and up to 6 GPa for wood-reinforced PHA.
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60
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Achinas S, Poulios E, Bergsma S, Euverink GJW. Ovation of biopolymers in conterminous EU members via clustering of biotechnological advances : A mini-compendium. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1061652. [DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1061652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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61
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Novel Production Methods of Polyhydroxyalkanoates and Their Innovative Uses in Biomedicine and Industry. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238351. [PMID: 36500442 PMCID: PMC9740486 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), a biodegradable polymer obtained from microorganisms and plants, have been widely used in biomedical applications and devices, such as sutures, cardiac valves, bone scaffold, and drug delivery of compounds with pharmaceutical interests, as well as in food packaging. This review focuses on the use of polyhydroxyalkanoates beyond the most common uses, aiming to inform about the potential uses of the biopolymer as a biosensor, cosmetics, drug delivery, flame retardancy, and electrospinning, among other interesting uses. The novel applications are based on the production and composition of the polymer, which can be modified by genetic engineering, a semi-synthetic approach, by changing feeding carbon sources and/or supplement addition, among others. The future of PHA is promising, and despite its production costs being higher than petroleum-based plastics, tools given by synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and machine learning, among others, have allowed for great production yields, monomer and polymer functionalization, stability, and versatility, a key feature to increase the uses of this interesting family of polymers.
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62
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Chemical recycling and upcycling of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) via metal acetate catalyzed glycolysis. Polym Degrad Stab 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2022.110210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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63
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Cruz RMS, Krauter V, Krauter S, Agriopoulou S, Weinrich R, Herbes C, Scholten PBV, Uysal-Unalan I, Sogut E, Kopacic S, Lahti J, Rutkaite R, Varzakas T. Bioplastics for Food Packaging: Environmental Impact, Trends and Regulatory Aspects. Foods 2022; 11:3087. [PMID: 36230164 PMCID: PMC9563026 DOI: 10.3390/foods11193087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The demand to develop and produce eco-friendly alternatives for food packaging is increasing. The huge negative impact that the disposal of so-called "single-use plastics" has on the environment is propelling the market to search for new solutions, and requires initiatives to drive faster responses from the scientific community, the industry, and governmental bodies for the adoption and implementation of new materials. Bioplastics are an alternative group of materials that are partly or entirely produced from renewable sources. Some bioplastics are biodegradable or even compostable under the right conditions. This review presents the different properties of these materials, mechanisms of biodegradation, and their environmental impact, but also presents a holistic overview of the most important bioplastics available in the market and their potential application for food packaging, consumer perception of the bioplastics, regulatory aspects, and future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui M S Cruz
- Department of Food Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Campus da Penha, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- MED-Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development and CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Campus de Gambelas, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Victoria Krauter
- Packaging and Resource Management, Department Applied Life Sciences, FH Campus Wien, University of Applied Sciences, 1100 Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon Krauter
- Packaging and Resource Management, Department Applied Life Sciences, FH Campus Wien, University of Applied Sciences, 1100 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sofia Agriopoulou
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Ramona Weinrich
- Department of Consumer Behaviour in the Bioeconomy, University of Hohenheim, Wollgrasweg 49, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Carsten Herbes
- Institute for International Research on Sustainable Management and Renewable Energy, Nuertingen Geislingen University, Neckarsteige 6-10, 72622 Nuertingen, Germany
| | - Philip B V Scholten
- Bloom Biorenewables, Route de l'Ancienne Papeterie 106, 1723 Marly, Switzerland
| | - Ilke Uysal-Unalan
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Agro Food Park 48, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- CiFOOD-Center for Innovative Food Research, Aarhus University, Agro Food Park 48, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ece Sogut
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Agro Food Park 48, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Food Engineering, Suleyman Demirel University, 32200 Isparta, Turkey
| | - Samir Kopacic
- Institute for Bioproducts and Paper Technology, Graz University of Technology, Inffeldgasse 23, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Johanna Lahti
- Sustainable Products and Materials, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Visiokatu 4, 33720 Tampere, Finland
| | - Ramune Rutkaite
- Department of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilenu Rd 19, 50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Theodoros Varzakas
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
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Gaglieri C, Alarcon RT, Magri R, North M, Bannach G. Development of renewable thermosetting polymers based on grape seed oil derivatives. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.52990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Gaglieri
- School of Sciences, Chemistry Department UNESP ‐ São Paulo State University Bauru Brazil
| | - Rafael Turra Alarcon
- School of Sciences, Chemistry Department UNESP ‐ São Paulo State University Bauru Brazil
| | - Raquel Magri
- School of Sciences, Chemistry Department UNESP ‐ São Paulo State University Bauru Brazil
| | - Michael North
- Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Department of Chemistry The University of York York UK
| | - Gilbert Bannach
- School of Sciences, Chemistry Department UNESP ‐ São Paulo State University Bauru Brazil
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Li J, Chen S, Fu J, Xie J, Ju J, Yu B, Wang L. Efficient molasses utilization for low-molecular-weight poly-γ-glutamic acid production using a novel Bacillus subtilis stain. Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:140. [PMID: 35842664 PMCID: PMC9287850 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01867-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is a biopolymer and has various applications based on its biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and edibility. Low-molecular-weight (Mw)-γ-PGA has promising applications in agriculture and pharmaceuticals. It is traditionally produced by enzymatic hydrolysis. Cost-effective bioproduction of low-Mw-γ-PGA is essential for commercial application of γ-PGA. Results Bacillus subtilis 242 is a newly isolated low-Mw-γ-PGA-producing strain. To develop cost-effective production of γ-PGA using this newly isolated strain, cane molasses and corn steep liquor were used to produce γ-PGA. The concentration of cane molasses was optimized and 100 g/L cane molasses resulted in high γ-PGA production. The effects of yeast extract and corn steep liquor on γ-PGA yield were investigated. High concentration of γ-PGA was obtained in the medium with corn steep liquor. A concentration of 32.14 g/L γ-PGA was achieved in fed-batch fermentation, with a productivity of 0.67 g/L/h and a percentage yield (gγ-PGA/gglutamate) of 106.39%. The Mw of γ-PGA was 27.99 kDa. Conclusion This study demonstrated the potential application of B. subtilis 242 for cost-effective production of low-Mw-γ-PGA from cane molasses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology & Business University (BTBU), Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China.,College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, People's Republic of China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Shengbao Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jiaming Fu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianchun Xie
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology & Business University (BTBU), Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiansong Ju
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Limin Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology & Business University (BTBU), Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China. .,CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
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66
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Yang S, Cheng Y, Liu T, Huang S, Yin L, Pu Y, Liang G. Impact of waste of COVID-19 protective equipment on the environment, animals and human health: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:2951-2970. [PMID: 35791338 PMCID: PMC9247942 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-022-01462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
During the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, protective equipment, such as masks, gloves and shields, has become mandatory to prevent person-to-person transmission of coronavirus. However, the excessive use and abandoned protective equipment is aggravating the world's growing plastic problem. Moreover, above protective equipment can eventually break down into microplastics and enter the environment. Here we review the threat of protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic wastes to environments, animals and human health, and reveal the protective equipment associated microplastic cycle. The major points are the following:1) COVID-19 protective equipment is the emerging source of plastic and microplastic wastes in the environment. 2) protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic wastes are polluting aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments. 3) Discarded protective equipment can harm animals by entrapment, entanglement and ingestion, and derived microplastics can also cause adverse implications on animals and human health. 4) We also provide several recommendations and future research priority for the sustainable environment. Therefore, much importance should be attached to potential protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic pollution to protect the environment, animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanping Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shaoping Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Thermoplastic Starch with Poly(butylene adipate- co-terephthalate) Blends Foamed by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14101952. [PMID: 35631835 PMCID: PMC9145724 DOI: 10.3390/polym14101952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Starch-based biodegradable foams with a high starch content are developed using industrial starch as the base material and supercritical CO2 as blowing or foaming agents. The superior cushioning properties of these foams can lead to competitiveness in the market. Despite this, a weak melting strength property of starch is not sufficient to hold the foaming agents within it. Due to the rapid diffusion of foaming gas into the environment, it is difficult for starch to maintain pore structure in starch foams. Therefore, producing starch foam by using supercritical CO2 foaming gas faces severe challenges. To overcome this, we have synthesized thermoplastic starch (TPS) by dispersing starch into water or glycerin. Consecutively, the TPS surface was modified by compatibilizer silane A (SA) to improve the dispersion with poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) to become (TPS with SA)/PBAT composite foam. Furthermore, the foam-forming process was optimized by varying the ratios of TPS and PBAT under different forming temperatures of 85 °C to 105 °C, and two different pressures, 17 Mpa and 23 Mpa were studied in detail. The obtained results indicate that the SA surface modification on TPS can influence the great compatibility with PBAT blended foams (foam density: 0.16 g/cm3); whereas unmodified TPS and PBAT (foam density: 0.349 g/cm3) exhibit high foam density, rigid foam structure, and poor tensile properties. In addition, we have found that the 80% TPS/20% PBAT foam can be achieved with good flexible properties. Because of this flexibility, lightweight and environment-friendly nature, we have the opportunity to resolve the strong demands from the packing market.
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Promising Developments in Bio-Based Products as Alternatives to Conventional Plastics to Enable Circular Economy in Ukraine. RECYCLING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/recycling7020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Transforming the plastic industry toward producing more sustainable alternatives than conventional plastics, as an essential enabler of the bio-based circular economy (CE), requires reinforcing initiatives to drive solutions from the lab to the market. In this regard, startups and ideation and innovation events can potentially play significant roles in consolidating efforts and investments by academia and industry to foster bio-based and biodegradable plastic-related developments. This study aimed to present the current trends and challenges of bioplastics and bio-based materials as sustainable alternatives for plastics. On this basis, having conducted a systematic literature review, the seminal research themes of the bio-based materials and bioplastics literature were unfolded and discussed. Then, the most recent developments of bio-based sustainable products in Ukraine, as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, that have gained publicity through local startup programs and hackathons were presented. The findings shed light on the potential of the bio-based sector to facilitate the CE transition through (i) rendering innovative solutions most of which have been less noticed in academia before; (ii) enhancing academic debate and bridging the gap between developers, scholars, and practitioners within the plastic industry toward creating circularity across the supply chain; (iii) identifying the main challenges and future perspectives for further investigations in the future.
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