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Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition

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A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 10572

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Concepción Valencia-Barragán

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Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Chemical Process and Product Technology Research Centre (Pro2TecS), Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
Interests: rheology; lubricating greases; colloids; biopolymers; gels; adhesives; bio-based materials; vegetable oils; emulsions
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Dr. Esperanza Cortés Triviño

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Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Chemical Process and Product Technology Research Centre (Pro2TecS), Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
Interests: lignocellulose; cellulose pulp; epoxidized biopolymers; bio-based materials; biolubricating grease; rheology
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Dr. Adrián Tenorio-Alfonso

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Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Chemical Process and Product Technology Research Centre (Pro2TecS), Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
Interests: lignocellulosic materials; biomaterials; biopolymers; polyurethane; adhesives; rheology; vegetable oil
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Dr. Clara Delgado-Sánchez

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Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Chemical Process and Product Technology Research Centre (Pro2TecS), Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
Interests: tannin-based materials; rigid foams; porous material characterization; non-aqueous emulsions; stability; phase change materials (PCM); rheology
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Following the success of the previous Special Issues of Polymers (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/polymers/special_issues/dev_bio_mater and https://www.mdpi.com/journal/polymers/special_issues/T8F1Z2OS62), we are delighted to launch this third edition, now entitled “Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition”.

The present Special Issue deals with the need to find suitable biomaterials and procedures from which alternative products, able to imitate or even enhance the performance of currently used products, can be obtained. Thus, the development of partial or fully bio-based materials is welcome. Furthermore, the search for alternative procedures that can reduce the carbon footprint or optimize both production and energy consumption is also encouraged. Special emphasis can be put on synthesis, characterization, or/and application.

Prof. Dr. Concepción Valencia-Barragán
Dr. Esperanza Cortés Triviño
Dr. Adrián Tenorio-Alfonso
Dr. Clara Delgado-Sánchez
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

biomaterials
bioproduct
biopolymers
lignocellulose
vegetable oil
lignin
cellulose
hemicellulose
chitin chitosan
ecofriendly procedure
optimization
biomass
proteins
polysaccharides
polyphenols
bio-sourced products
natural resources
environmentally-friendly products
biodegradation
colloids
emulsions

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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24 pages, 5795 KB

Open AccessArticle

Conductive Chitosan–Graphene Oxide Scaffold with Applications in Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering

by Andreea-Isabela Lazăr, Aida Șelaru, Alexa-Maria Croitoru, Ludmila Motelica, Ovidiu-Cristian Oprea, Roxana-Doina Trușcă, Denisa Ficai, Dănuț-Ionel Văireanu, Anton Ficai and Sorina Dinescu

Polymers 2025, 17(17), 2398; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17172398 - 2 Sep 2025

Viewed by 759

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a novel biomaterial for neural tissue regeneration by combining chitosan (CS), a natural polymer, with graphene oxide (GO) at concentrations of 3%, 6%, and 9%. The homogeneity, conductivity, three-dimensional characteristics, and ability to support cell viability of the composite materials were systematically evaluated. Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful incorporation of GO into the CS matrix, while UV-Vis and photoluminescence (PL) spectrometry revealed modifications in the optical properties with increasing GO content. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DSC) demonstrated improved thermal stability of the composites, and swelling tests indicated enhanced water absorption capacity. Although some agglomerates were observed, the homogeneity was reasonable at both macroscopic and microscopic level (optical visualization–FTIR and electron microscopy). The composite films exhibited promising physical and electrochemical properties, highlighting their potential for neural tissue engineering applications. Their biological activity was assessed by culturing neuronal cells on the CS-GO scaffolds. Results from MTT, LDH, and LIVE/DEAD assays demonstrated excellent cell viability, moderate-to-good cell attachment, and the promotion of intercellular network formation. Among the tested formulations, the CS-GO 6% scaffold showed the most favorable biological response, with a significant increase in SH-SY5Y cell viability after 7 days (p < 0.05) compared to the CS control. LIVE/DEAD imaging confirmed enhanced cell attachment and elongated morphology, while the LDH assay indicated minimal cytotoxicity. Notably, a critical threshold was identified between 6% and 9% GO, where conductivity increased by approximately 52-fold. Future studies should focus on optimizing the composite parameters, loading them with specific biologically active agents and thus targeting specific neuronal applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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20 pages, 4236 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study of PVP and PLA Systems and Fibers Obtained by Solution Blow Spinning for Chlorhexidine Release

by Oliver Rosas, Manuel Acevedo and Itziar Vélaz

Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1839; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131839 - 30 Jun 2025

Viewed by 627

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance arises from treatment non-adherence and ineffective delivery systems. Optimal wound dressings combine localized drug release, exudate management, and bacterial encapsulation through hydrogel-forming nanofibers for enhanced therapy. In this work, polylactic acid (PLA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) fibers loaded with chlorhexidine (CHX) were developed using Solution Blow Spinning (SBS), a scalable electrospinning alternative that enables in situ deposition. Molecular interactions between CHX and polymers in solution (by UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy) and in solid state (by FTIR, XRD and thermal analysis) were studied. The morphology of the polymeric fibers was determined by optical microscopy, showing that PVP fibers are thinner (1625 nm) and more uniform than those of PLA (2237 nm). Finally, drug release from single-polymer fibers discs, overlapping fibers discs (PLA/PVP/PLA and PVP/PLA/PVP), and solid dispersions was determined by UV-Vis spectrometry. PVP-based fibers exhibited faster CHX release due to their hydrophilic nature, while PLA fibers proved sustained release, attributed to their hydrophobic matrix. This study highlights the potential of PLA/PVP-CHX fibers made from SBS as advanced wound dressings, combining biocompatibility and personalized drug delivery, offering a promising platform for localized and controlled antibiotic delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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30 pages, 13935 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bio-Based Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Blends for 3D Printing: Rheological, Mechanical, Biocompatibility, and Biodegradation Properties

by Michal Ďurfina, Nafiseh Babaei, Zuzana Vanovčanová, Jozef Feranc, Vojtech Horváth, Ida Vašková, Ján Kruželák, Katarína Tomanová and Roderik Plavec

Polymers 2025, 17(11), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111477 - 26 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2003

Abstract

This study develops highly flexible, biodegradable polymer blends using bio-based polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. A Design of Experiment (DoE) approach optimized blend compositions by varying crystallinity levels of three PHAs, processed via twin-screw extrusion. Rheological analysis revealed that PHA blends exhibited 30–50% lower viscosity than PLA at low shear rates, ensuring improved processability. Tensile testing confirmed favorable mechanical properties, with elongation at break exceeding 2000%, significantly surpassing PLA (29%). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated partial miscibility and crystallinity reductions of up to 50%, influencing printability. Optimized 3D printing parameters demonstrated minimal warping for blends with crystallinity below 18%, ensuring high-dimensional stability. During home composting tests, PHA blends showed significant degradation within two months, whereas PLA remained intact. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed microbial degradation. Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that the blends were non-toxic, supporting applications in tissue engineering. These findings highlight the potential of PHA-based blends as sustainable, high-performance materials for biomedical, packaging, and environmental applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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19 pages, 18047 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Composites from Post-Consumer Polypropylene and Oilseed Pomace Fillers

by Karolina Lipska, Izabela Betlej, Katarzyna Rybak, Małgorzata Nowacka and Piotr Boruszewski

Polymers 2024, 16(24), 3557; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16243557 - 20 Dec 2024

Viewed by 825

Abstract

This study investigates the properties of composites produced using post-consumer polypropylene (PP) reinforced with lignocellulosic fillers from Nigella sativa (black cumin) and rapeseed pomace. Using agri-food by-products like pomace supports waste management efforts and reduces the demand for wood in wood–plastic composites. The composite production method combined extrusion and hot flat pressing. Mechanical tests showed a decrease in the tested parameters. Compared to the control variant, the MOE decreased by 26.4% (PP_R variant) and 46.9% (PP_N variant), and the MOR value decreased by 78.7% (PP_N) and 55.1% (PP_R). No significant differences in surface roughness parameters were observed. The composite with nigella particles demonstrated increased wettability. TGA tests showed reduced thermal stability compared to PP and differences between composite variants. The composites exhibited susceptibility to fungal overgrowth, which suggests potential biodegradability. The composites demonstrated complete overgrowth by inoculated fungi, reaching 100% coverage, while samples from PP known to be resistant to biological factors remained unaffected. Although the mechanical properties of the composites were degraded, the use of lignocellulosic fillers offers undeniable advantages, such as waste management of lignocellulosic and polypropylene byproducts, reduced wood demand, and the potential biodegradability of the obtained composites. However, there is a need for further optimization of manufacturing processes and material composition to enhance the material performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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19 pages, 7873 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Antimicrobial Activity of HTCC and Its Nanoparticles: A Synergistic Approach for Antibacterial and Antiviral Applications Through Combined In Silico and In Vitro Studies

by Khanyisile S. Dhlamini, Cyril T. Selepe, Bathabile Ramalapa, Zamani Cele, Kanyane Malatji, Krishna K. Govender, Lesego Tshweu and Suprakas Sinha Ray

Polymers 2024, 16(21), 2999; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16212999 - 25 Oct 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1888

Abstract

N-(2-hydroxyl) propyl-3-trimethyl ammonium chitosan chloride (HTCC), a quaternized chitosan derivative, has been shown to exhibit a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, especially against bacteria and enveloped viruses. Despite this, molecular docking studies showing its atomic-level mechanisms against these microorganisms are scarce. Here, for the first time, we employed molecular docking analyses to investigate the potential antibacterial activity of HTCC against Staphylococcus aureus and its antiviral activity against human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1). According to the findings, HTCC exhibited promising antibacterial activity with high binding affinities; however, it had limited antiviral activity. To validate these theoretical outcomes, experimental studies were conducted. Different derivatives of HTCC were synthesized and characterized using NMR, XRD, FTIR, and DLS. The in vitro assays validated the potent antibacterial efficacy of HTCC against S. aureus, whereas the antiviral studies did not show good antiviral activity. However, our research also revealed a promising avenue for further exploration of the antimicrobial activity of HTCC nanoparticles (NPs), since, thus far, no studies have been conducted to show the antiviral activity of HTCC NPs against HIV-1. The nanosized HTCC exhibited superior antiviral performance compared to the parent polymers, with complete (100%) inhibition of HIV-1 viral activity at the highest tested concentration (0.33 mg/mL). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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44 pages, 6867 KB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Micro-Nanoparticles on Morphology, Thermal, Barrier, Mechanical, and Thermomechanical Properties of PLA/PCL Blends for Application in Personal Hygiene: A Review

by Tiisetso Ephraim Mokoena, Lesia Sydney Mokoena and Julia Puseletso Mofokeng

Polymers 2025, 17(17), 2396; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17172396 - 2 Sep 2025

Viewed by 764

Abstract

This present review aims to provide a clear overview of the environmental impact of non-biodegradable materials, and the use of biodegradable materials as their replacements. Non-biodegradable polymers have been used in the past, and now they are considered a threat to the environment. Recently, it has become a necessity to manufacture products with biodegradable polymers to alleviate waste pollution because they can degrade in a short period of time in the environment. Biodegradable polymers can be used in various applications like cosmetics, coatings, wound dressings, gene delivery, and tissue engineering scaffolds. Blending biodegradable polymers could provide an excellent opportunity to produce innovative green biocomposites suitable for any desired applications. This paper reviews all the recent related works on biodegradable PLA and PCL materials and the introduction of fillers for the development of green biocomposites. The properties and characterisation of PLA/PCL blends and PLA-PCL-filler green biocomposites on morphology, thermal, mechanical, thermomechanical, and barrier properties are thoroughly reviewed. The applications, limitations, and future prospects of these green biocomposites is also highlighted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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30 pages, 1614 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Hydrogel-Based Systems as Smart Food Packaging: A Review

by Beata Niemczyk-Soczynska and Paweł Łukasz Sajkiewicz

Polymers 2025, 17(8), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17081005 - 8 Apr 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2823

Abstract

In recent years, non-degradable petroleum-based polymer packaging has generated serious disposal, pollution, and ecological issues. The application of biodegradable food packaging for common purposes could overcome these problems. Bio-based hydrogel films are interesting materials as potential alternatives to non-biodegradable commercial food packaging due to biodegradability, biocompatibility, ease of processability, low cost of production, and the absorption ability of food exudates. The rising need to provide additional functionality for food packaging has led scientists to design approaches extending the shelf life of food products by incorporating antimicrobial and antioxidant agents and sensing the accurate moment of food spoilage. In this review, we thoroughly discuss recent hydrogel-based film applications such as active, intelligent packaging, as well as a combination of these approaches. We highlight their potential as food packaging but also indicate the drawbacks, especially poor barrier and mechanical properties, that need to be improved in the future. We emphasize discussions on the mechanical properties of currently studied hydrogels and compare them with current commercial food packaging. Finally, the future directions of these types of approaches are described. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, 3rd Edition)

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