Applications of Novel Biodegradable Polymeric Materials

Dear Colleagues,

Commonly used traditional polymeric materials have many advantages, although their resistance to biological agents causes a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, the use of (bio)degradable polymers with a minimal carbon footprint should become widespread due to the growing interest in sustainability, organic recycling, environmental issues and healthcare. From the sustainability perspective, (bio)degradable polymers represent an interesting and fairly versatile alternative to conventional polymers. There is also increasing demand for (bio)degradable polymers that have been designed as materials for multi-faceted applications with a specific lifetime. Currently, there are challenges related to the design of materials that are stable in use, and at the same time susceptible to microbial attack during organic recycling. Materials intended for specific applications must not only perform specific functions but must also meet acceptable standards of safety during use and exhibit both chemical and physical stability.

Various natural, bio-based and synthetic biodegradable polymers are used in many fields. Although consumers are changing their behavior and increasingly expect ecoproducts, the broad introduction of biodegradable polymeric materials to the market must be preceded by a number of other changes, such as improving composting infrastructure, the development of new technology, financial capacity, as well as bioplastics and biodegradable polymer-related policies. Nevertheless, in the coming years an increase of biodegradable polymer applications can be expected, as the development of new possibilities in different areas predicts an increase in the market for biobased materials, such as natural fillers, whose addition to compositions with biodegradable polymers is intended to improve the properties of the materials, as well as reduce prices.

In this Special Issue, we aim to present a contemporary overview of recent developments in the field of biodegradable polymer or composites applications. Reviews, full papers, and short communications covering aspects of the current trends in the expansion of polymeric material applications are all welcome.

Dr. Joanna Rydz
Dr. Marta Musioł
Guest Editors

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