Polymer Science and Technology

Commercial Application of Biopolymers

A large variety of biopolymers, such as polysaccharides, polyesters, and polyamides, are naturally synthesized by microorganisms. These biopolymers range from viscous solutions to plastics and their physical properties which are dependent on the composition and molecular weight of the polymer. Genetic engineering of microorganisms has provided an enormous potential for the biotechnological production of biopolymers with desired properties suitable for medical application such as tissue engineering, material science, drug delivery and bioplastics. There are several benefits in commercializing biopolymers mostly for sustainable development, renewability and eco-friendly aspects. Bioplastics can be manufactured mainly with three different methods, one is modifying naturally occurring polymers such as starch, cellulose. Second, is by polymerizing bio-based monomers that are produced by fermentation and the last one, as mentioned earlier, by genetically modified microbes and plants. There are several technologies and processes designed for biopolymer production that include extrusion, film blowing, thermoforming, fermentation, injection moulding, etc.