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Bioplastics

Bioplastics

Bioplastics derived from microbial processes present a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. Among these, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), particularly polyhydroxybutyrates (PHBs), have emerged as prominent candidates due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. These polymers are synthesized by a variety of bacteria, such as Cupriavidus necator and Pseudomonas putida, which naturally accumulate PHAs as intracellular carbon and energy reserves, especially under...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 29, 2026

Fabrication of a Bioactive, PCL-based "Self-fitting" Shape Memory Polymer Scaffold

Fabrication of a Bioactive, PCL-based "Self-fitting" Shape Memory Polymer Scaffold

Published on: October 23, 2015

Sustainable 4D Printable Biobased Shape Memory Polymers with Linear Tunability and Multistimuli Actuation for

Maksims Jurinovs¹, Madara Veseta¹, Alisa Sabalina¹

¹Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Technology Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology Riga Technical University P. Valdena Str. 3 Riga LV-1048 Latvia.

|July 16, 2025

Summary

Researchers developed a novel, 4D printable shape memory polymer from plant-based materials. This sustainable polymer offers tunable properties and remote actuation, outperforming traditional plastics for advanced applications.

Keywords:

3D printing actuators additive manufacturing plant‐based acrylates sustainability

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Area of Science:

Materials Science
Polymer Chemistry
Sustainable Technology

Background:

Advanced functional materials are essential for next-generation technologies, demanding eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based polymers.
Current shape memory polymers often rely on non-renewable resources and lack precise control over properties.

Purpose of the Study:

To present a novel, fully bioderived, 4D printable shape memory polymer.
To achieve linear tunability and remote actuation capabilities in a sustainable material.
To demonstrate the potential of biobased materials in advanced technological applications.

Main Methods:

Formulation of a linearly tunable polymer matrix using plant-derived acrylates (e.g., acrylated rapeseed oil, isobornyl acrylate, isobornyl methacrylate) with high biosourced carbon content (75-87%).
Incorporation of carbon nanotubes (up to 0.2 wt%) to enhance electrical and thermal conductivity.
Fabrication of complex 4D structures using vat photopolymerization and characterization via thermomechanical analysis.

Main Results:

Achieved precise linear control over glass transition temperatures and mechanical properties.
Demonstrated enhanced electrical and thermal conductivity for Joule heating and light-driven actuation.
Exhibited shape fixity and recovery ratios above 90% for complex 4D printed geometries (auxetic, spiral).
Showcased dual-stage actuation and modular recovery capabilities with lower activation voltages compared to petroleum-based materials.

Conclusions:

The developed biobased shape memory polymer offers superior performance and sustainability over conventional materials.
The material's tunable properties, 4D printability, and remote actuation enable multifunctional applications.
This work paves the way for greener technologies in soft robotics, aerospace, medical devices, and smart textiles.