The structure and selected properties of poly(ε-caprolactone)-based biodegradable composites with high calcium carbonate concentration

Polycaprolactone-Based Films Incorporated with Birch Tar-Thermal, Physicochemical, Antibacterial, and Biodegradable Properties

We present new polymer materials consisting of polycaprolactone (PCL), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and birch tar (D). PEG was introduced into the polymer matrix in order to obtain a plasticizing effect, while tar was added to obtain antibacterial properties and to change the physicochemical properties of the film. The materials were obtained by the solvent method and characterized using a variety of methods to test their performance and susceptibility to biodegradation. The obtained data indicate that the introduction of the bioactive substance (D) into PCL improved the thermal stability and significantly lowered the Young's modulus values of the tested polymers. Moreover, the addition of birch tar improved the barrier and bacteriostatic properties, resulting in a reduction in the growth of pathogenic bacteria on the surface of the film. The films are not mutagenic but are susceptible to biodegradation in various environments. Due to their properties, they have potential for application in agriculture and horticulture and for packaging food, mainly vegetables grown in the field.

Mechanical, chemical, and bio-recycling of biodegradable plastics: A review

The extensive use of petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastics for various applications has led to global concerns regarding the severe environmental issues associated with them. However, biodegradable plastics are emerging as green alternatives to petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastics. Biodegradable plastics, which include bio-based and petroleum-based biodegradable polymers, exhibit advantageous properties such as renewability, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. Furthermore, certain biodegradable plastics are compatible with existing recycling streams intended for conventional plastics and are biodegradable in controlled and/or predicted environments. Recycling biodegradable plastics before their end-of-life (EOL) degradation further enhances their sustainability and reduces their carbon footprint. Since the production of biodegradable plastic is increasing and these materials will coexist with conventional plastics for many years to come, it is essential to identify the optimal recycling options for each of the most prevalent biodegradable plastics. The substitution of virgin biodegradable plastics by their recyclates leads to higher savings in the primary energy demand and reduces global warming impact. This review covers the current state of the mechanical, chemical, and bio-recycling of post-industrial and post-consumer waste of biodegradable plastics and their related composites. The effects of recycling on the chemical structure and thermomechanical properties of biodegradable plastics are also reported. Additionally, the improvement of biodegradable plastics by blending them with other polymers and nanoparticles is comprehensively discussed. Finally, the status of bioplastic usage, life cycle assessment, EOL management, bioplastic market, and the challenges associated with the recyclability of biodegradable plastics are addressed. This review gives comprehensive insights into the recycling processes that may be employed for the recycling of biodegradable plastics.