Use of Biodegradable Polymers and Plastics- A Suitable Alternate to Prevent Environmental Contamination

Abstract

Bioplastics are plastics that are manufactured from biomass. These polymers have become increasingly popular as a means of conserving fossil fuels, lowering CO2 emissions and minimising plastic waste. The biodegradability of bioplastics has been highly promoted, and the demand for packaging among merchants and the food industry is fast rising. It also has a lot of potential applications in the biological and automobile industries. The plastic on the market is extremely dangerous because it is non-biodegradable and harmful to the environment. As a result, the production and usage of biodegradable polymers are becoming increasingly popular. Some of the more recent formulations, partially as a result of third-party certifications, are more compliant than the initial generation of degradable plastics, which failed to achieve marketing claims. Many “degradable” plastics, on the other hand, do not degrade quickly, and it is unclear whether their use will lead to significant reductions in a litter. Biodegradable polymers, such as poly(lactic acid), are seen as viable replacements for commodity plastics. In seawater, however, poly(lactic acid) is practically non-degradable. Other biodegradable polymers' degradation rates are further influenced by the habitats they wind up in, such as soil or marine water, or when utilised in healthcare equipment. All of these aspects are discussed in detail in this chapter, including bioplastic types, applications, production, degradation, problems in landfills and sea water, fermentation, synthesis, and sustainability. This chapter, taken as a whole, is intended to help evaluate the possibilities of biodegradable polymers as alternative materials to commercial plastics.