Current State and Use of Biodegradable Materials

Introduction. One of the important factors in the need to develop biodegradable packaging is the presence of its non-decomposable variations in waste up to 50%. In this regard, the modification of biodegradable polymers to impart high performance properties while maintaining the ability to biodegrade is an urgent task.

Purpose. To consider the current state and the use of biodegradable materials in Russia and abroad.

Materials and Methods. The selection of studies was carried out in two stages: a  decision was made to include a publication in the review based on its title and abstract, and full-text articles were studied for a detailed assessment of compliance with the inclusion criteria. An assessment of the research quality was conducted. During data synthesis, the results of individual studies were compared, combined, and summarized. The review included articles published from 1999 to 2024. The articles were selected based on the number of citations for the following keywords: biodegradable packaging, medicine, pharmaceuticals, environment, food technology, biomass and chemical synthesis. 

Results. As a result of this interactive search, 56 studies were identified. After analyzing the research, it was found that the variety of biodegradable polymers allows them to unlock their potential for use in various fields. A wide range of such polymers provides an opportunity to create new materials that can efficiently decompose in nature and have the performance properties we need. Also, most studies have not found adverse effects for various organisms, and only a limited statement can be made about the environmental compatibility of biodegradable polymers. The use of various modifications has led to the expansion of the utilization of edible and biodegradable films, which is associated with an improvement in the general characteristics of biopolymers, increasing their mechanical, thermal and barrier properties, usually even at very low content. Thus, modifiers play an important role in increasing the efficiency of biopolymers application, which reduce the amount of packaging waste associated with processed foods and contribute to the preservation of products by extending their shelf life.

Conclusions. This article discusses biodegradable polymers and compositions based on them, the current state and use of biodegradable materials in various fields. Modern studies on the assessment of the possible impact of biodegradable polymers on the environment are presented. Promising trends in the use of biodegradable polymers in the food industry, as well as in medicine and pharmaceuticals are shown.

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