1
|
Costa T, Sampaio-Marques B, Neves NM, Aguilar H, Fraga AG. Antimicrobial properties of hindered amine light stabilizers in polymer coating materials and their mechanism of action. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1390513. [PMID: 38978720 PMCID: PMC11229053 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1390513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
UV-stabilizers are a class of additives that provide extended polymer resistance to UV-degradation, but have also been suggested to have antimicrobial activity, potentially preventing the spread of pathogens, and inhibiting microbial-induced biodegradation. In this work, we incorporated different UV-stabilizers, a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS), Tinuvin 770 DF and Tinuvin PA 123, or a hybrid HALS/UV-absorber, Tinuvin 5151, in polyurethane formulations to produce lacquer-films, and tested their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-resistant and -sensitive strains), Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. Lacquer-films incorporated with Tinuvin 770 DF showed strong antimicrobial performance against bacteria and fungi, while maintaining cytocompatibility. The mechanism of action revealed a positive relationship between Tinuvin 770 DF concentration, microbial death, and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), suggesting that RNS produced during autoxidation of Tinuvin 770 DF is responsible for the antimicrobial properties of this UV-stabilizer. Conversely, lacquer-films incorporated with Tinuvin 5151 or Tinuvin PA 123 exhibited no antimicrobial properties. Collectively, these results highlight the commercial potential of Tinuvin 770 DF to prevent photo- and biodegradation of polymers, while also inhibiting the spread of potentially harmful pathogens. Furthermore, we provide a better understanding of the mechanism underlying the biocidal activity of HALS associated to autooxidation of the amine group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Belém Sampaio-Marques
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno M. Neves
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- 3B’s Research Group on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Helena Aguilar
- Têxtil Manuel Gonçalves—Tecidos Plastificados e Outros Revestimentos Para a Indústria Automóvel, S.A. (TMG Automotive), Largo Comendador Manuel Gonçalves, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Alexandra G. Fraga
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Candela A, Sandrini G, Gadola M, Chindamo D, Magri P. Lightweighting in the automotive industry as a measure for energy efficiency: Review of the main materials and methods. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29728. [PMID: 38681593 PMCID: PMC11046240 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29728] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) and pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides (NOx) have led to environmental concerns. Hybrid and electric powertrains are being introduced as means to reduce pollutant emissions, especially at the local level. Additionally, the finite availability of fossil fuel sources, which are used to produce gasoline and diesel, highlights the need for alternative technical solutions. One approach to partly address these issues is lightweighting, which involves reducing the weight of vehicles to minimize their impact during the use phase. Mathematical models are employed to simulate the longitudinal dynamics of vehicles and estimate the energy required to accomplish driving missions. Appropriate metrics have been developed to quantify energy-saving effects that, in addition, can support the decision making, design, and development phase of future vehicles. To facilitate this process, it would be useful to build a database of ERV (Energy Reduction Value) and FRV (Fuel Reduction Value) figures derived through a unified procedure. Such a database would be useful in evaluating the effectiveness of vehicle lightweighting and its impact on energy consumption and pollutant emissions. The last phase of the analysis is the assessment of the overall reduction in the environmental impact of the vehicle throughout its life cycle by using the LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) approach. From this study, it was possible to conclude that lightweighting can be an appropriate solution to improve the energy efficiency of vehicles and that appropriate metrics, can support the development of new car models. The potential to integrate enhanced energy efficiency, lower emissions, and higher safety features into our everyday vehicles would represent a significant advancement in the automotive industry. There is a gap in the scientific literature on the effects of lightweighting on vehicle dynamics and energy usage which deserves to be investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Candela
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, I-25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Sandrini
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, I-25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Gadola
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, I-25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniel Chindamo
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, I-25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Magri
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, I-25123, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Siddiqui SA, Yang X, Deshmukh RK, Gaikwad KK, Bahmid NA, Castro-Muñoz R. Recent advances in reinforced bioplastics for food packaging - A critical review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 263:130399. [PMID: 38403219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Recently, diversifying the material, method, and application in food packaging has been massively developed to find more environment-friendly materials. However, the mechanical and barrier properties of the bioplastics are major hurdles to expansion in commercial realization. The compositional variation with the inclusion of different fillers could resolve the lacking performance of the bioplastic. This review summarizes the various reinforcement fillers and their effect on bioplastic development. In this review, we first discussed the status of bioplastics and their definition, advantages, and limitations regarding their performance in the food packaging application. Further, the overview of different fillers and development methods has been discussed thoroughly. The application of reinforced bioplastic for food packaging and its effect on food quality and shelf life are highlighted. The environmental issues, health concerns, and future perspectives of the reinforced bioplastic are also discussed at the end of the manuscript. Adding different fillers into the bioplastic improves physical, mechanical, barrier, and active properties, which render the required protective functions to replace conventional plastic for food packaging applications. Various fillers, such as natural and chemically synthesized, could be incorporated into the bioplastic, and their overall properties improve significantly for the food packaging application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Technical University of Munich, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Essigberg 3, 94315 Straubing, Germany; German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), Prof.-von-Klitzing Str. 7, 49610, Quakenbrück, Germany.
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Japan.
| | - Ram Kumar Deshmukh
- Department of Paper Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India.
| | - Kirtiraj K Gaikwad
- Department of Paper Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India.
| | - Nur Alim Bahmid
- Research Center for Food Technology and Processing, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Gading, Playen, Gunungkidul, 55861 Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Gdansk University of Technology, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Sanitary Engineering, 80 - 233 Gdansk, G. Narutowicza St. 11/12, Poland.
| | - Roberto Castro-Muñoz
- Gdansk University of Technology, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Sanitary Engineering, 80 - 233 Gdansk, G. Narutowicza St. 11/12, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mao S, He C, Niu G, Ma Y. Effect of aging on the release of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate from biodegradable and petroleum-based microplastics into soil. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116006. [PMID: 38295739 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116006] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Due to microplastics (MPs) being widely distributed in soil, the use of advanced oxidation to remediate organic-contaminated soils may accelerate the aging of MPs in soil and impact the release of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a potential carcinogen used as a plasticizer in plastics, from MPs. In this study, persulfate oxidation (PO) and temperature treatment (TT) were used to treat biodegradable and petroleum-based MPs, including polylactic acid (PLA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS). The methods used for evaluating the characteristics changes of MP were X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and water contact angle measurement. The effects of aging on DEHP release from MPs were investigated via soil incubation. The results showed PO and TT led to increased surface roughness, oxygen-containing functional group content, and hydrophilicity of the MPs with prolonged aging, consequently accelerating the release of DEHP from the MPs. Interestingly, PLA aged faster than PVC and PS under similar conditions. After 30 days of PO treatment, DEHP release from PLA into the soil increased 0.789-fold, exceeding the increase from PVC (0.454-fold) and PS (0.287-fold). This suggests that aged PLA poses a higher ecological risk than aged PVC or PS. Furthermore, PO treatment resulted in the oxidation and degradation of DEHP on the MP surface. After 30 days of PO treatment, the DEHP content in PLA, PVC, and PS decreased by 19.1%, 25.8%, and 23.5%, respectively. Specifying the types of MPs studied and the environmental conditions would provide a more precise context for the results. These findings provide novel insights into the fate of biodegradable and petroleum-based MPs and the potential ecotoxicity arising from advanced oxidation remediation in contaminated soils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Mao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Chiquan He
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - Guoyao Niu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Yangyang Ma
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Plota-Pietrzak A, Czechowski L, Masek A. Influence of a Biofiller, Polylactide, on the General Characteristics of Epoxy-Based Materials. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:1069. [PMID: 38473541 DOI: 10.3390/ma17051069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to obtain epoxy-based composite structures with good mechanical performance, high aging resistance, and an improved degradability profile. For this purpose, powdered polylactide in the amount of 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 phr was introduced into the epoxy resin, and the composites were fabricated by a simple method, which is similar to that used on an industrial scale in the fabrication of these products. The first analysis concerned the study of the effect of PLA addition to epoxy resin-based composites on their mechanical properties. One-directional tensile tests of samples were performed for three directions (0, 90, and 45 degrees referring to the plate edges). Another aspect of this research was the assessment of the resistance of these composites to long-term exposure to solar radiation and elevated temperature. Based on the obtained results, it was observed that the samples containing 20 or 40 phr of polylactide were characterized by the lowest resistance to the solar aging process. It was therefore concluded that the optimal amount of polylactide in the epoxy resin composite should not be greater than 10 phr to maintain its mechanical behavior and high aging resistance. In the available literature, there are many examples in which scientists have proposed the use of various biofillers (e.g., lignin, starch, rice husk, coconut shell powder) in epoxy composites; however, the impact of polylactide on the general characteristics of the epoxy resin has not been described so far. Therefore, this work perfectly fills the gaps in the literature and may contribute to a more widespread use of additives of natural origin, which may constitute an excellent alternative to commonly used non-renewable compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Plota-Pietrzak
- Institute of Polymer and Dye Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, 90-537 Lodz, Poland
| | - Leszek Czechowski
- Department of Strength of Materials, Lodz University of Technology, 90-537 Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Masek
- Institute of Polymer and Dye Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, 90-537 Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mao S, He C. Effect of particle size and environmental conditions on the release of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate from microplastics. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 345:140474. [PMID: 37865205 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140474] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The extensive use and improper handling of plastics have caused extensive microplastic (MP) pollution in terrestrial environments. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), the main additive used in plastics, is toxic to organisms and may pose risks to human and animal reproductive functions. However, research on the release behavior of DEHP from MPs is scarce. In this study, the effects of particle size and environmental conditions (temperature, pH, ionic strength, and cation type) on DEHP release from polylactide (PLA), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MPs were determined by performing leaching experiments. The results showed that when particle size decreased, the content of DEHP in the MPs and the amount of released DEHP increased though increasing specific surface area. An increase in temperature also promoted DEHP release; when the temperature increased from 15 °C to 45 °C, the amount of DEHP released from PLA, PS, and PVC increased by 38.4%, 71.0%, and 109%, respectively. The lower the crystallinity, the greater the increase in the amount of DEHP released. Ionic strength inhibited the release of DEHP from MPs. When Na+ concentration increased from 0 to 200 mM, the amount of DEHP released from PLA, PS, and PVC decreased by 27.4%, 41.6%, and 35.3%, respectively. The effect of Ca2+ on DEHP release from MPs was greater than that of Na+. In addition, the process of DEHP release from MPs fit well with a pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for managing and controlling the risks associated with plastic wastes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Mao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Chiquan He
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
de Souza MF, Luna CBB, Siqueira DD, Bezerra EDOT, de Cerqueira GR, Araújo EM, Wellen RMR. Toward the Improvement of Maleic Anhydride Functionalization in Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB): Effect of Styrene Monomer and Sn(Oct) 2 Catalyst. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14409. [PMID: 37833855 PMCID: PMC10572386 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) was maleic anhydride (MA)-grafted in the molten state, using dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as a reaction initiator. Tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate (Sn(Oct)2) and styrene monomer (St.) were used to maximize the maleic anhydride grafting degree. When PHB was modified with MA/DCP and MA/DCP/Sn(Oct)2, viscosity was reduced, suggesting chain scission in relation to pure PHB. However, when the styrene monomer was added, the viscosity increased due to multiple grafts of MA and styrene into the PHB chain. In addition, the FTIR showed the formation of a new band at 1780 cm-1 and 704 cm-1, suggesting a multiphase copolymer PHB-g-(St-co-MA). The PHB (MA/DCP) system showed a grafting degree of 0.23%; however, the value increased to 0.39% with incorporating Sn(Oct)2. The highest grafting efficiency was for the PHB (MA/DCP/St.) system with a value of 0.91%, while the PHB (MA/DCP/St./Sn(Oct)2) hybrid mixture was reduced to 0.73%. The chemical modification process of PHB with maleic anhydride increased the thermal stability by about 20 °C compared with pure PHB. The incorporation of 0.5 phr of the Sn(Oct)2 catalyst increased the efficiency of the grafting degree in the PHB. However, the St./Sn(Oct)2 hybrid mixture caused a deleterious effect on the maleic anhydride grafting degree.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Ferreira de Souza
- Academic Unit of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Campina Grande, Av. Aprígio Veloso, 882-Bodocongó, Campina Grande 58429-900, PB, Brazil; (M.F.d.S.); (D.D.S.); (E.M.A.)
| | - Carlos Bruno Barreto Luna
- Academic Unit of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Campina Grande, Av. Aprígio Veloso, 882-Bodocongó, Campina Grande 58429-900, PB, Brazil; (M.F.d.S.); (D.D.S.); (E.M.A.)
| | - Danilo Diniz Siqueira
- Academic Unit of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Campina Grande, Av. Aprígio Veloso, 882-Bodocongó, Campina Grande 58429-900, PB, Brazil; (M.F.d.S.); (D.D.S.); (E.M.A.)
| | | | - Grazielle Rozendo de Cerqueira
- Department of Materials Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. da Arquitetura-Cidade Universitária, Recife 50740-540, PE, Brazil;
| | - Edcleide Maria Araújo
- Academic Unit of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Campina Grande, Av. Aprígio Veloso, 882-Bodocongó, Campina Grande 58429-900, PB, Brazil; (M.F.d.S.); (D.D.S.); (E.M.A.)
| | - Renate Maria Ramos Wellen
- Department of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, Cidade Universitária, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lazăr S, Dobrotă D, Breaz RE, Racz SG. Eco-Design of Polymer Matrix Composite Parts: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3634. [PMID: 37688260 PMCID: PMC10490263 DOI: 10.3390/polym15173634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This research presents a series of analyses related to the eco-design of polymer matrix composite parts, addressing various aspects of it. The main objective was to clarify the definition of ecological design, the benefits of its implementation and its importance in all stages of obtaining a product (design, manufacturing, recycling). Global environmental issues are presented, emphasizing the importance of adopting sustainable approaches in product design and manufacturing. Special attention is paid to the analysis of waste recycling technologies for polymer matrix composite materials. The analysis carried out identifies specific ecological design principles applicable to these materials and presents recent trends in the field. Relevant case studies are highlighted, demonstrating the benefits of ecological design in order to obtain sustainable products. Additionally, the conducted research allowed for finding answers to the questions "what", "why", "when" and "how" it is necessary to apply the principles of eco-design in the case of composite materials with a polymer matrix. In general, the research promotes eco-design as an indispensable strategy for sustainable and responsible production, inspiring companies to adopt these principles for the benefit of the environment and their business performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Radu-Eugen Breaz
- Faculty of Engineering, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania; (S.L.); (D.D.); (S.-G.R.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang S, He X, Xia X, Xiao P, Wu Q, Zheng F, Lu Q. Machine-Learning-Enabled Framework in Engineering Plastics Discovery: A Case Study of Designing Polyimides with Desired Glass-Transition Temperature. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:37893-37902. [PMID: 37490394 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c05376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Great and continuous efforts have been made to discover high-performance engineering plastics with specific properties to replace traditional engineering materials in many fields. The utilization of machine learning (ML) has brought more opportunities for the discovery of high-performing engineering plastics. However, hindered by either the relatively small database or a lack of accurate structure descriptors with clear physical and chemical meanings relating to polymer properties, the current ML studies show some flaws in the accuracy and efficiency in polymer development. Herein, we collected a dataset of 878 polyimides (PI), one of the best engineering plastics, with experimentally measured glass-transition temperature (Tg) values, and developed a rapid and accurate ML approach to design PI candidates with the desired Tg value. After the conversion from PI structures into "mechanically identifiable" SMILES (Simplified molecular input line entry system) language, the eight most critical descriptors were ultimately obtained by multiple analysis methods. The physiochemical meaning of the key descriptors was further analyzed carefully to translate the implicit "machine language" to chemical knowledge. The artificial neural network (ANN)-based model gave the most accurate results with a root-mean-square error of ∼11 K among the studied ML methods. More importantly, three potential PI candidates with desired Tg (DPIs) were designed according to the chemical insight of the key descriptors, which were then verified by experiments. The experimental and predicted Tg values of DPIs have an acceptable average deviation of ca. 3.66%. This accuracy has reached the level of the traditional molecular simulation, but the time consumption and hold-up computing resource are tremendously reduced. Furthermore, the current ML approach could offer a scalable and adaptable framework in future engineer plastics innovation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songyang Zhang
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaojie He
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xuejian Xia
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qi Wu
- Shanghai Key Lab of Electrical & Thermal Aging, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Feng Zheng
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qinghua Lu
- Shanghai Key Lab of Electrical & Thermal Aging, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kong U, Mohammad Rawi NF, Tay GS. The Potential Applications of Reinforced Bioplastics in Various Industries: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102399. [PMID: 37242974 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The introduction of bioplastics has been an evolution for plastic industry since conventional plastics have been claimed to cause several environmental issues. Apart from its biodegradability, one of the advantages can be identified of using bioplastic is that they are produced by renewal resources as the raw materials for synthesis. Nevertheless, bioplastics can be classified into two types, which are biodegradable and non-biodegradable, depending on the type of plastic that is produced. Although some of the bioplastics are non-biodegradable, the usage of biomass in synthesising the bioplastics helps in preserving non-renewable resources, which are petrochemical, in producing conventional plastics. However, the mechanical strength of bioplastic still has room for improvement as compared to conventional plastics, which is believed to limit its application. Ideally, bioplastics need to be reinforced for improving their performance and properties to serve their application. Before 21st century, synthetic reinforcement has been used to reinforce conventional plastic to achieve its desire properties to serve its application, such as glass fiber. Owing to several issues, the trend has been diversified to utilise natural resources as reinforcements. There are several industries that have started to use reinforced bioplastic, and this article focuses on the advantages of using reinforced bioplastic in various industries and its limitations. Therefore, this article aims to study the trend of reinforced bioplastic applications and the potential applications of reinforced bioplastics in various industries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uwei Kong
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Fazita Mohammad Rawi
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Guan Seng Tay
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kumar R, Sadeghi K, Jang J, Seo J. Mechanical, chemical, and bio-recycling of biodegradable plastics: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 882:163446. [PMID: 37075991 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ritesh Kumar
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Kambiz Sadeghi
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Jaeyoung Jang
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Jongchul Seo
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jung H, Shin G, Kwak H, Hao LT, Jegal J, Kim HJ, Jeon H, Park J, Oh DX. Review of polymer technologies for improving the recycling and upcycling efficiency of plastic waste. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 320:138089. [PMID: 36754297 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Human society has become increasingly reliant on plastic because it allows for convenient and sanitary living. However, recycling rates are currently low, which means that the majority of plastic waste ends up in landfills or the ocean. Increasing recycling and upcycling rates is a critical strategy for addressing the issues caused by plastic pollution, but there are several technical limitations to overcome. This article reviews advancements in polymer technology that aim to improve the efficiency of recycling and upcycling plastic waste. In food packaging, natural polymers with excellent gas barrier properties and self-cleaning abilities have been introduced as environmentally friendly alternatives to existing materials and to reduce food-derived contamination. Upcycling and valorization approaches have emerged to transform plastic waste into high-value-added products. Recent advancements in the development of recyclable high-performance plastics include the design of super engineering thermoplastics and engineering chemical bonds of thermosets to make them recyclable and biodegradable. Further research is needed to develop more cost-effective and scalable technologies to address the plastic pollution problem through sustainable recycling and upcycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyuni Jung
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoung Shin
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojung Kwak
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Lam Tan Hao
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonggeon Jegal
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jeong Kim
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonyeol Jeon
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jeyoung Park
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dongyeop X Oh
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan, 44429, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Malinowski R, Fiedurek K, Rytlewski P, Puszczykowska N, Kaczor D, Stasiek A. The structure and selected properties of poly(ε-caprolactone)-based biodegradable composites with high calcium carbonate concentration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 867:161528. [PMID: 36638989 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The article refers to new polycaprolactone (PCL) composites with high concentration of calcium carbonate (CC). The objective of the present study was the manufacturing of PCL-based biodegradable composites, containing from 24 to 75 % of CC by mass, along with analyses of changes in selected properties of the obtained PCL composites, occurring upon various amounts of CC. Importantly, in the study relatively cheap and unmodified kind of CC has been used to determine the changeover cost of produced composites. Qualitative and quantitative analyses in addition to structure analysis of the obtained composites, including the distribution of the filler particles and their average dimensions were conducted. Furthermore, the mechanical and thermal properties, mass melt flow rate and the density have been determined. Finally, a commercially important economic analysis has been presented. A significant influence of CC on the mechanical properties of PCL was found. Specifically, the reduction of its relative elongation at break and impact strength, as well as the increase of its flexural modulus and bending strength. An increase in the thermal stability of the produced composites was also observed, however the characteristic temperatures of phase transitions as well as the degree of crystallinity did not change significantly. Considering the results of the density tests, an increase in the CC content resulted in a significant decrease in the unit price of the produced composites. This is of particular application importance, because a lower cost material with new properties could be obtained.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Malinowski
- Łukasiewicz Research Network - Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, 55 M. Skłodowska-Curie Street, 87-100 Toruń, Poland.
| | - Kacper Fiedurek
- Łukasiewicz Research Network - Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, 55 M. Skłodowska-Curie Street, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Piotr Rytlewski
- Faculty of Materials Engineering, Kazimierz Wielki University, 30 Chodkiewicza Street, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Natalia Puszczykowska
- Łukasiewicz Research Network - Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, 55 M. Skłodowska-Curie Street, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Daniel Kaczor
- Łukasiewicz Research Network - Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, 55 M. Skłodowska-Curie Street, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Andrzej Stasiek
- Łukasiewicz Research Network - Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, 55 M. Skłodowska-Curie Street, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bumbac M, Nicolescu CM, Olteanu RL, Gherghinoiu SC, Bumbac C, Tiron O, Manea EE, Radulescu C, Gorghiu LM, Stanescu SG, Serban BC, Buiu O. Preparation and Characterization of Microalgae Styrene-Butadiene Composites Using Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis Biomass. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:1357. [PMID: 36987138 PMCID: PMC10055758 DOI: 10.3390/polym15061357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The food industry is a high consumer of polymer packing materials, sealing materials, and engineering components used in production equipment. Biobased polymer composites used in the food industry are obtained by incorporating different biogenic materials into the structure of a base polymer matrix. Renewable resources such as microalgae, bacteria, and plants may be used as biogenic materials for this purpose. Photoautotrophic microalgae are valuable microorganisms that are able to harvest sunlight energy and capture CO2 into biomass. They are characterized by their metabolic adaptability to environmental conditions, higher photosynthetic efficiency than terrestrial plants, and natural macromolecules and pigments. The flexibility of microalgae to grow in either low-nutrient or nutrient-rich environments (including wastewater) has led to the attention for their use in various biotechnological applications. Carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are the main three classes of macromolecular compounds contained in microalgal biomass. The content in each of these components depends on their growth conditions. In general, proteins represent 40-70% of microalgae dry biomass, followed by carbohydrates (10-30%) and lipids (5-20%). A distinctive feature of microalgae cells is the presence of light-harvesting compounds such as photosynthetic pigments carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phycobilins, which are also receiving growing interest for applications in various industrial fields. The study comparatively reports on polymer composites obtained with biomass made of two species of green microalgae: Chlorella vulgaris and filamentous, gram-negative cyanobacterium Arthrospira. Experiments were conducted to reach an incorporation ratio of the biogenic material into the matrix in the 5-30% range, and the resulting materials were characterized by their mechanical and physicochemical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marius Bumbac
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Cristina Mihaela Nicolescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Radu Lucian Olteanu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Stefan Cosmin Gherghinoiu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Costel Bumbac
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Olga Tiron
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Elisabeta Manea
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristiana Radulescu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Laura Monica Gorghiu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Sorina Geanina Stanescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Bogdan Catalin Serban
- IMT Bucharest, National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies, 126A Erou Iancu Nicolae, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
| | - Octavian Buiu
- IMT Bucharest, National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies, 126A Erou Iancu Nicolae, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
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.
Collapse
|