Biocomposites of polyhydroxyalkanoates and lignocellulosic components: A focus on biodegradation and 3D printing

EHMAN, N.; PONCE DE LEÓN, A.; FELISSIA F.E.; VALLEJOS M.E.; AREA, M.C.; CHINGA-CARRASCO, G.

Bioplastics for Sustainable Development

Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.

Año: 2021; p. 325 - 345

Polyhydroxyalkanoates(PHAs) are defined as natural and biodegradable biopolymers obtained bymicrobial synthesis. PHAs are classified as short chain length (3–5 carbonmonomers), medium chain length (6–14 carbon monomers), and long chain length(15–18 carbon monomers), depending on the number of carbons in the monomericconstituents. Little is known about the biodegradation potential of PHAs innature and how this can be tailored by adding complementary polymers andlignocellulosic components. In this chapter, we have reviewed the currentliterature with a focus on biocomposites based on PHAs and lignocellulosicmaterials. We also complemented this chapter with a case study, includingrecent results from our research activities within this area. Examples areprovided on how lignocellulosic materials affected the mechanical properties ofPHAs and increased the biodegradation rate in soil. We also explored thepotential of 3D printing by fused deposition modeling as a novel technology tomanufacture PHA-based products.