Bio-Based Packaging: Materials, Modifications, Industrial Applications and Sustainability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Chemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Growing environmental concerns and consumer demand drive the search for sustainable alternatives to petrochemical-based packaging.
• Bio-based materials offer a promising avenue to reduce environmental impact and reliance on fossil fuels in packaging and textiles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review synthetic and non-synthetic bio-based materials for packaging and textile applications.
• To summarize upscaling routes, industrial applications, sustainability assessments, and end-of-life management of these materials.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing information on various bio-based polymers and their properties.
• Analysis of modification techniques, biocomposites, and additives for property enhancement.
• Evaluation of processing, sustainability, and recycling options for bio-based materials.

Main Results:

• Identified key bio-based materials including polylactic acid, polyethylene furanoate, polybutylene succinate, polyhydroxyalkanoates, cellulose, starch, proteins, lipids, and waxes.
• Detailed modification strategies (coating, surface modification, additives) to improve barrier properties and biodegradability.
• Holistic overview of bio-based packaging, encompassing processing, sustainability, and recycling pathways.

Conclusions:

• Bio-based materials present viable alternatives to conventional packaging, with diverse synthetic and non-synthetic options available.
• Effective modification techniques and processing strategies are crucial for optimizing performance and biodegradability.
• This review facilitates knowledge transfer, promoting the adoption of sustainable bio-based packaging solutions.