Biobased polymers for advanced applications: Towards a sustainable future
Renato Gonçalves, João P. Serra, Ander Reizabal, D.M. Correia, Liliana C. Fernandes, Ricardo Brito‐Pereira, Erlantz Lizundia, C.M. Costa, S. Lanceros‐Méndez
Abstract
Rapid technological developments in biomedicine, sensors, actuators and energy areas are taken place in the context of the global digital transformation, supported by the “Industry 4.0″ and “Internet of Things” (IoT) concepts. Those developments must include circular economy considerations in the scope of the 2030 sustainable developments goals to ensure easy access to affordable, sustainable, reliable, and modern services for all. To fulfil these advances, materials with high-performance based on biopolymers with tailored dielectric, magnetic and conducting properties are needed for improving devices performance while reducing environmental impact. Within this scope, bio-based resources are considered as next-generation materials for a broader range of applications. In this context, we present on the molecular structure, organization, main physical-chemical and functional properties of the most promising biopolymers. Further, the various possible modifications and processing methods are discussed to reach specific morphological, structural and/or functional characteristics. Finally, bio polymers-based blends and composites are discussed, alongside with their main application areas, opportunities, and challenges.