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Characterization of biodegradable polymers: A review
Summary
This review characterizes three biodegradable polymers — polycaprolactone, polylactic acid, and polybutylene succinate — as potential replacements for conventional plastics. Biodegradable alternatives that fully break down are important for reducing the accumulation of persistent microplastics in soil and aquatic environments.
The growing concern over global pollution, particularly from non-degradable plastics, has driven the search for sustainable alternatives. Biodegradable polymers offer a promising solution by combining functionality with environmental compatibility. This review focuses on the characterization of three key biodegradable polymers polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic acid (PLA), and polybutylene succinate (PBS), highlighting their structural, thermal, and morphological properties. Techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) are employed to analyze these polymers, revealing insights into their molecular structure, crystallinity, biocompatibility, and thermal behavior. The findings underscore the potential of PCL, PLA, and PBS in diverse applications, from biomedical engineering to packaging, while addressing the urgent need for materials that mitigate environmental impact. This paper consolidates current knowledge to advance the development and optimization of biodegradable polymers for a sustainable future.
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