Biodegradable Polymers, Synthesis Properties and Applications

Bright Olickal Philip

doi:10.69968/ijisem.2025v4i3443-449

Authors

Bright Olickal Philip Associate Professor in Chemistry, K J Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Mumbai 400077

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69968/ijisem.2025v4i3443-449

Keywords:

Biodegradable Polymers, Synthesis Techniques, Plant-Based Biopolymers, Agriculture, Medicine

Abstract

People's perceptions about biodegradable materials have steadily changed as science and technology have advanced. Biodegradable materials often have a high percentage of polymers, many of which may be synthesised chemically. The manufacturing method is straightforward, and certain basic ingredients are inexpensive to get. The synthesis properties, applications, and perspectives of biodegradable polymers are the subject of this article, which reviews the related literature. This review highlights that biodegradable polymers such as PLA, PHA, PCL, PBS, and PBAT derived from renewable resources offer sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. Advances in synthesis techniques, including enzyme-catalyzed polycondensation, ring-opening polymerization, and copolymerization, have enhanced their thermal, mechanical, and degradation properties. Applications extend from packaging to biomedical fields, particularly in drug delivery and tissue engineering, where 3D bioprinting has shown great promise. Despite challenges in cost, scalability, and controlled degradation, biodegradable polymers demonstrate significant potential for reducing plastic pollution. Future research should focus on optimizing performance, standardizing processes, and developing multifunctional composites for broader industrial and medical applications.

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