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Plant- and Animal-Derived Organic Waste as Fillers in Biodegradable Composites for Advanced Applications: A
Roberto Scaffaro1,2, Francesco Paolo La Mantia1,2, Giada Lo Re3,4,5
1Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy.
Polymers
|January 10, 2026
Summary
This review explores biodegradable composites using natural waste fillers, highlighting their potential for sustainable materials. It details filler types, processing, and properties for applications in a circular economy.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Biodegradable composites offer sustainable alternatives to conventional materials.
- Valorization of organic waste (agricultural, animal by-products) is key for resource efficiency.
- Natural fillers enhance properties of biodegradable polymers like PLA, PCL, PHA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of biodegradable composites reinforced with natural fillers.
- To analyze filler characteristics, processing, and their impact on material properties.
- To discuss applications and guide future development in circular economy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on waste-derived fillers in biodegradable polymers.
- Comparative analysis of filler types, pretreatments, and processing methods.
- Evaluation of mechanical, thermal, functional, and biodegradation properties.
Main Results:
- Filler composition, morphology, and surface chemistry critically influence interfacial adhesion and performance.
- Diverse waste sources (plant, animal) can be effectively utilized as natural fillers.
- Properties are tailored by filler-matrix interactions for specific applications.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable composites from organic waste are crucial for sustainable material development.
- Understanding filler-matrix interactions is essential for optimizing performance.
- These materials support a circular economy by valorizing waste streams.
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