Overview of Bioplastic Introduction and Its Applications in Product Packaging

Abstract

Each year, more than 330 million tons of plastic are produced worldwide. The main consumers of plastics are the packaging (40%), building (20%) and automotive (8%) industries, as well as for the manufacture of household appliances. The vast majority of industrial plastics are not biodegradable and, therefore, create environmental problems due to the increase in the amount of solid waste. Studies have been conducted to produce biodegradable materials such as bioplastics to overcome this environmental problem. Bioplastics are defined as materials that are bio-based, biodegradable, or both; they can provide excellent biodegradability and can be used to help alleviate environmental problems. Therefore, this article presents an overview of the introduction of bioplastic materials and classifications, and a comprehensive review of their drawbacks and areas of importance, including basic and applied research, as well as biopolymer mixtures and biocomposites developed in the last decade. At the same time, this article provides insights into the development of bioplastics research to meet the needs of many industries, especially in the packaging industry in Malaysia. This review paper also focuses generally on bioplastic packaging applications such as food and beverage, healthcare, cosmetics, etc.

Production of Biodegradable Bioplastics Filled with Jordanian Olive Tree Leaves

“…For the composite bioplastic, the AFM images show that the surfaces with filler are rougher and contain some irregular structures compared to those without filler. This is also in agreement with the work of Ibrahim et al [27].…”

Environmental Impact of Polymer Fiber Manufacture

“…[ 114 ] At present, it costs around 20–50% to manufacture bioplastic in comparison to regular plastics. [ 115 ] However, with the implementation of new technology which is currently being researched like the pressurized gyration system for the manufacture of polymeric fibers, these costs can be seriously reduced. Some biodegradable plastic products are known to contain certain metals, which may evolve during decomposition.…”

3D printing of polylactic acid: recent advances and opportunities

“…Even though, drop-in biopolymers biopropylene (PP) and biopolyethylene (PE) will not meet those percentages. Changes might be prompt when green awareness brings a breakthrough or favorable government regulation would help [ 1 , 24 ].…”

“…Despite this, research on a new class of polymers known as bio-based polymers and biopolymers (such as polylactide and biopolyesters) has become increasingly important in recent years. Research into replacing traditional oil-based polymers with biopolymers and bio-based polymers has increased [ 24 , 27 ].…”