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Updated: Apr 25, 2026
10:22
Designed for Molecular Recycling: A Lignin-Derived Semi-aromatic Biobased Polymer
Published on: November 30, 2020
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Functional Bio-Based Additives for Sustainable Polymers: A Systematic Review of Processing and Performance Enhancers
Odilon Souza Leite-Barbosa1, Debora Cristina da Silva Santos1, Cláudia Carnaval de Oliveira Pinto1
1Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro 22290-270, RJ, Brazil.
Biotech (Basel (Switzerland))
|April 24, 2026
Summary
Renewable bio-based additives are replacing fossil-derived ones in plastics, enhancing safety and sustainability. These advanced materials offer improved performance and integration into circular economy frameworks for next-generation bioplastics.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science and Engineering
- Materials Chemistry
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- The plastics industry faces environmental challenges from persistent, fossil-derived additives.
- A shift towards renewable alternatives is crucial for environmental safety and sustainability.
- Bio-based functional additives offer a promising solution for greener plastics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in bio-based functional additives for polymers.
- To assess their integration into circular economy models.
- To identify emerging trends and challenges in this field.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines (Scopus database, 2023-2026).
- Search terms included bio-based plasticizers, flame retardants, antioxidants, and compatibilizers.
- Screening focused on experimental validation in polymer matrices and data mining for research fronts.
Main Results:
- 54 studies were selected, revealing a shift towards active, multifunctional macromolecular agents.
- Targeted molecular interventions (e.g., phosphorylated lignin) improve polymer properties at low loadings.
- Summaries of synthesis, performance, and end-of-life data for various bio-based additive classes.
Conclusions:
- Bio-based additives are evolving into sophisticated tools for designing sustainable polymers.
- Challenges in scalability and high-temperature processing remain.
- Integration into circular economy strategies provides a path for advanced bioplastics.
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