Algae-Based Polymers: Current Trends and Emerging Opportunities

Dear Colleagues,

Plastics play a crucial role in most aspects of modern society. However, the well-known environmental burdens associated with the massive use of these materials have exposed the need for the development of greener and more sustainable solutions.

Among possible natural sources of biopolymers, aquatic biomass, such as macro- and micro-algae, offers a rich variety of valuable molecules. Polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and polyphenols are in fact the main classes of materials found in algae, which have been employed for packaging, food, pharmaceutical, and other biomedical applications.

This Special Issue aims at establishing a platform where the latest discoveries in the field of production and exploitation of algae-based materials can be shared, covering all interdisciplinary aspects of this research area, from algae identification and cultivation to materials’ functional properties and final application. Authors are encouraged to submit their studies in the form of full papers, communications or critical reviews.

Dr. Matteo Gigli
Dr. Heiko Lange
Guest Editors