Developments of biobased plasticizers for compostable polymers in the green packaging applications: A review

Abstract

The demand for biobased materials for various end‐uses in the bioplastic industry is substantially growing due to increasing awareness of health and environmental concerns, along with the toxicity of synthetic plasticizers such as phthalates. This fact has stimulated new regulations requiring the replacement of synthetic conventional plasticizers, particularly for packaging applications. Biobased plasticizers have recently been considered as essential additives, which may be used during the processing of compostable polymers to enormously boost biobased packaging applications. The development and utilization of biobased plasticizers derived from epoxidized soybean oil, castor oil, cardanol, citrate, and isosorbide have been broadly investigated. The synthesis of biobased plasticizers derived from renewable feedstocks and their impact on packaging material performance have been emphasized. Moreover, the effect of biobased plasticizer concentration, interaction, and compatibility on the polymer properties has been examined. Recent developments have resulted in the replacement of synthetic plasticizers by biobased counterparts. Particularly, this has been the case for some biodegradable thermoplastics‐based packaging applications.

Poly(Lactic Acid)-Based Graft Copolymers: Syntheses Strategies and Improvement of Properties for Biomedical and Environmentally Friendly Applications: A Review

“…Natural fibers have many advantages-low density, low cost, renewability, biodegradability-that make them excellent candidates for the design of biodegradable materials. They can advantageously replace mineral reinforcements in PLA matrices [3,4]. However, a poor compatibility between the fiber and the polymer matrix leads to materials with poor performances.…”

“…They can advantageously replace mineral reinforcements in PLA matrices. [3,4]. However, a poor compatibility between the fiber and the polymer matrix leads to materials with poor performances.…”

“…To overcome these limitations, polymer blends can provide the desired properties at a low cost through simple physical processes, rather than chemical approaches such as copolymerization reactions. Polymer blends and composites [3], as well as plasticizers [4], are used to improve the mechanical properties of polymers. The melt blending of dissimilar polymers is a classic method for obtaining new enhanced properties.…”

“…Molecules 2022, 27, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 23 approaches such as copolymerization reactions. Polymer blends and composites [3], as well as plasticizers [4], are used to improve the mechanical properties of polymers. The melt blending of dissimilar polymers is a classic method for obtaining new enhanced properties.…”

Methyl isobutyl ketone-enabled selective dehydration–esterification of sorbitol to isosorbide esters over the H-beta catalyst

“…[16][17][18][19][20] In particular, isosorbide diesters are promising biobased green plasticizers to replace traditional petro-based phthalates for the production of polyvinyl chloride products requiring safety and non-toxicity, such as children's toys, medical devices or food packaging. [21][22][23] Isosorbide esters are currently produced via esterification starting from isosorbide and carboxylic acids by enzymatic or acid-catalyzed routes. 15,24 Lipase-catalyzed esterification has been investigated for the selective synthesis of isosorbide esters from isosorbide with several fatty acids such as octanoic acid and oleic acid.…”