Biopolymers

What is Biopolymer?

Biopolymers are synthetic polymers made from biological sources. These can either be biosynthesized by live organisms or chemically synthesized from biological ingredients. These are composed of monomeric components that are covalently bound together. Larger molecules are created by these monomeric units. Biopolymers are a sustainable resource since they are made from living things like plants and bacteria, in contrast to most polymers, which are made from petroleum. Biopolymers are typically biodegradable. Given their abundance, biocompatibility, and special qualities like non-toxicity, etc., biopolymers are intriguing materials.

How is Biopolymer made?

To produce biopolymers, microorganisms require a specific combination of nutrients as well as a regulated environment. They can be produced either directly through fermentation or inadvertently via the chemical polymerization of monomers, which are produced via fermentation. Most biopolymers are biocompatible and have no detrimental effects on biological systems. It is believed that bacteria create biopolymers as a kind of storage or as part of their defense mechanism.

Enzymes, bacteria, and other natural processes can break them down before they are reabsorbed into the environment. A biopolymer, also known as an organic plastic, is a type of plastic produced using sustainable biomass sources including vegetable oil, maize starch, pea starch, and others.

Biopolymer uses/forms

Biopolymer is used in various places like-

Implants
Scaffolds
Vascular Grafts
Sensors
Implants
Membranes
Diagnostic Devices
Drug Delivery

Types of Biopolymers

Cellulose based polymer

The primary structural element of plants, cellulose, is a polymeric raw material that is practically infinitely abundant and has a unique structure and set of features. More than 150 years have passed since cellulose was first used as a construction material. However, due to its high degree of crystalline (between 40% and 60%) and strong intermolecular and intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the various chains, it is not soluble in water in its native condition. To create water-soluble cellulose ester or ether derivatives, cellulose is chemically changed.

Synthetic Materials