Future trends in the bio-based polymer processing industry

Conventional petrochemical processing is now being replaced with more eco-friendly bioprocesses, making the production/consumption/waste treatment sustainable. Recent developments in exploring the raw material and processing techniques are catalyzing the feasible design of bio-based polymers to reduce the current challenges of petroleum-based and bio-based polymers. The bio-based polymers have a very bright future as they have emerged as a solution to the problems generated by polymer and plastic technology. Bio-based polymers have unique features that have enabled them to find a significant place in the huge polymer industry, including minimal carbon footprint, optimum recyclability, and complete biodegradability. The development of numerous innovative bio-based polymers has developed the market for expanded applications; industries are investing in growing the production capacity of the bio-based polymers through innovative processing techniques including; microwave irradiation, 3D processing, green electro-spinning processing, etc. The future of bio-based polymer is dependent only on its competitiveness and consumer affordability. Currently, although bio-based polymers answer ecological concerns, they have economic and performance restrictions; for example, thermal resistance barrier, and mechanical properties, which can be improved by the reduction of indirect costs and by increasing mass production. Sustainability, industrial ecology, eco-efficiency, and green chemistry are guiding the development of the next generation of materials, products, and processes. Biodegradable plastics and bio-based polymer products based on annually renewable agricultural and biomass feedstock can form the basis for a portfolio of sustainable, eco-efficient products that can compete and capture the market currently dominated by products based exclusively on petroleum feedstock.