Bioplastics

Bioplastics from natural polymers

Petroleum based plastics are valuable to the society; however, they are non-biodegradable and generate several health and environmental problems. Therefore, it is important to find alternative resources for plastics production, which are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Natural polymers from plants e.g. wheat gluten protein, potato starch, and polymers produced by bacteria are such assets. These polymers have been shown as being suitable for building environmentally friendly bioplastics due to their functional stuffs. Recent studies have reported the potential use of these natural polymers to produce plastics with capable mechanical and gas barrier properties. However, depending on the application the properties such as moisture liability in the environment and strength of these polymers are not satisfactory and there is a need for improvement. One of the solutions is to combine the properties of two polymers in one composite material with unique characteristics.