Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026

Designed for Molecular Recycling: A Lignin-Derived Semi-aromatic Biobased Polymer
Published on: November 30, 2020
Understanding bio-based polymers: A study of origins, properties, biodegradation and their impact on health and the
Sabina Kolbl Repinc1,2, Blaž Stres1, Mirica Karlovits1
1Department of Catalysis and Chemical Reaction Engineering, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Abstract:
A growing demand for sustainable materials across various industries has sparked an increasing interest in bio-based polymers as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional fossil-based polymers. Sourced from renewable materials, bio-based polymers offer significant advantages, such as biocompatibility, the ability to modify their functional properties for specific applications and, increasingly sought after, the capability for biodegradation. This review article provides an overview of bio-based polymer sources, discussing their unique functional properties, environmental impact and potential for end-of-life options, such as composting and anaerobic digestion. It highlights the importance of ensuring human health and environmental hazard assessment, by incorporating principles like a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) approach and assessing the product's life cycle (LCA). The dual role of the anaerobic digestion of biodegradable polymers and its potential for methane generation is reviewed, emphasising its contribution to reducing environmental impact and renewable energy production through waste management. Lastly, possibilities of applications in different industries and future market trends are reviewed. By integrating current knowledge, this review highlights the potential of bio-based polymers in advancing sustainability across various sectors, while addressing key existing challenges and future opportunities in their development, production, and application across various sectors, while addressing key existing challenges and future opportunities in their development, production and application.
Related Concept Videos
Polymer Classification: Architecture
Polymers
Polymers
Types of Step-Growth Polymers: Polyesters
Polyesters are commonly prepared from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol; the crude product is known as poly(ethylene terephthalate) or PET. However, polyesters are synthesized industrially by transesterification of dimethyl terephthalate with ethylene glycol at 150 °C. The two reactants and the polymer...
Biofilms
Environmental Applications of Microorganisms

