Compatibilization in bio-based and biodegradable polymer blends

• Published in: European polymer journal 2013-06, Vol.49 (6), p.1215-1233
• Main Authors: Imre, B., Pukánszky, B.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Biopolymers; Blends; Commodities; Compatibilization; Copolymerization; Coupling agents; Crashworthiness; Degradation; Exact sciences and technology; Impact resistance; Natural polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; Polymer blends; Reactive processing
• ISSN: 0014-3057; 1873-1945
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2013.01.019

[Display omitted] ► Exact definitions related to biopolymers, renewable resources and biodegradability are provided. ► The various modification approaches are reviewed. ► We describe the factors determining miscibility and compatibility of biopolymer blends. ► Available methods for the compatibilization of biopolymer blends are critically reviewed. ► We describe the current use of biopolymer and hybrid blends including advanced biomedical applications. The production and use of biopolymers increases continuously with a very high rate thus all information on these materials is very important. This feature article first defines the terms used in the area then discusses the distinction between degradation and biodegradation as well as their importance for practice. Biopolymers often have inferior properties compared to commodity polymers. Modification is a way to improve properties and achieve property combinations required for specific applications. One technique is blending which allows considerable improvement in the impact resistance of brittle polymers. However, further study is needed on the miscibility–structure–property relationships of these materials to utilize all potentials of the approach. The chemical structure of biopolymers opens up possibilities to their reactive modification. Copolymerization, grafting, trans-esterification, the use of reactive coupling agents have all been utilized with success to achieve polymers and blends with improved properties. Several examples are shown for the various approaches and their outcome. Biopolymers and their blends are applied successfully in several areas from agriculture to consumer goods, packaging and automotive.