Properties and applications of sustainable polymers

Singh, Gurbhej, Vasudev, Hitesh, Sharma, Pankaj ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-5368-0520 and Singh, Bhupinder (2026) Properties and applications of sustainable polymers. In: Multifunctional and smart materials: advances in sustainable engineering applications. CRC Press, Boca Raton, pp. 1-11. ISBN 9781003634140

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Abstract

Sustainable polymers have emerged as a promising solution to the environmental challenges posed by traditional petroleumbased plastics. These ecofriendly materials, derived from renewable resources or recycled waste, exhibit a range of desirable properties and find applications across various industries. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the key characteristics and industrial uses of sustainable polymers. The biodegradability of these materials, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), allows them to decompose naturally under specific conditions, reducing plastic pollution. Despite their ecofriendly nature, sustainable polymers demonstrate competitive mechanical strength, with PLA exhibiting tensile strength comparable to polystyrene. Thermal stability varies among different types, with PLA and Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) suitable for low- to mediumtemperature applications. Chemical resistance also differs, with PHAs showing greater resistance to solvents and water compared to PLA. Recyclability is a significant advantage, although the success of recycling efforts depends on proper collection, sorting, and processing infrastructure. Sustainable polymers find extensive applications in packaging, biomedical fields, 3D printing, automotive industry, and agriculture. The packaging sector, particularly food packaging, is the largest consumer of these materials. In medicine, biodegradable polymers like chitosan and collagen are used for wound healing, drug delivery, and tissue repair. 3D printing has opened up new possibilities for PLA and PHB in prototyping and medical applications. The automotive industry is exploring the use of biobased polymers for lightweight and ecofriendly vehicle components. In agriculture, PHAs are used for biodegradable mulch films and timerelease fertilizers. As research and innovation continue, sustainable polymers are expected to play a crucial role in transitioning towards a more sustainable and circular economy.

Item Type: Book Section
Uncontrolled Keywords: 3-D printing | 3D-printing | Automotives | Eco-friendly | Eco-friendly materials | Environmental challenges | Polyhydroxyalkanoates | Polyhydroxybutyrate | Property | Sustainable polymers
Subjects: Physical, Life and Health Sciences > Engineering and Technology
Depositing User: Mr. Syed Anas
Date Deposited: 09 Apr 2026 07:14
Last Modified: 12 Apr 2026 09:36
Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003634140-1
URI: https://pure.jgu.edu.in/id/eprint/11149

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