Microbial-Derived Biopolymers: A Pathway to Sustainable Civil Engineering

Modern innovations increasingly prioritize eco-friendliness, aiming to pave the way for a sustainable future. The field of civil engineering is no exception to this approach, and, in fact, it is associated with almost every sustainable development goal framed by the United Nations. Therefore, the sector has a pivotal role in achieving these goals. One such innovation is exploring the possibilities of using nature-friendly materials in different applications. Biopolymers are substances that are produced either by the chemical synthesis of natural materials or by the biosynthesizing activities of microorganisms. Microbial-derived biopolymers are known for their non-toxic and nature-friendly characteristics. However, their applications are mostly restricted to the field of biotechnology and not fully explored in civil engineering. This article reviews various microbial-derived biopolymers, focusing on the types available on the market, their source and properties, and more importantly, their wide range of applications in the civil engineering field. Additionally, the article explores the prospects for future research and the potential for the practical implementation of these techniques in the pursuit of a sustainable future.