Bioplastics

About

Bioplastics are a diverse group of materials derived from renewable biomass sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, and vegetable oils. They offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics by utilizing renewable resources that can regenerate annually. Bioplastics can be categorized into biobased, biodegradable, or both. Biobased plastics are made from organic materials, while biodegradable plastics break down naturally into substances like water and carbon dioxide through microbial action. The production of bioplastics involves various raw materials, including starches from corn and potatoes, and cellulose from plant cell walls. Common bioplastics include polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). These materials are used in packaging, disposable products, and other applications, offering benefits like reduced carbon footprints and compostability. Bioplastics can mimic the functionality of conventional plastics while providing environmentally friendly options for waste management and sustainability.