Bio-Based Polymer Materials and Natural Fillers

Dear Colleagues,

In view of moving towards a post-petroleum society, with the aim of protecting the environment and preserving its resources for future generations, research has to develop other processes to produce materials, starting from an eco-friendly and sustainable source. Moreover, the integration of better biomass producing and processing sectors to reconcile food security, natural resource scarcity and environmental objectives with the use of biomass for industrial and energy purposes is a highly current and revelant goal. Nowadays, extensive scientific and industrial research is concentrated on the development of advanced new materials and technologies for bio-based products. In addition, the high potential of nanofillers to replace glass fibres and lightweight benefits of natural nanofillers in combination with continuous development and improvement in their processing caused an obvious increase in the utilization of such sustainable materials.

The fundamental purpose of this special issue is therefore to collect the most advanced results concerning the synthesis of bio-based composites, as well as those with natural nanofiller polymer materials, with particular reference to the chemistry of the reactions involved and the relationships between the structure of functionalized products and the properties realized in terms of specific required application.

Dr. Laura Boggioni
Dr. Simona Losio
Dr. Letizia Verdolotti
Guest Editors