Abstract

Considering the global environmental issues, various factors such as industrial ecology, eco-efficiency, and chemical engineering are being combined to develop advanced material known as bio-based or natural polymer-based materials. The environment and the cost-effective factors are now propelling the inclination in the direction of greater utilization of bio-based polymers and materials. Biobased materials are generally used to make industrial products and reliable goods. They are composed of a natural polymer, reinforced with agricultural waste, natural fibres and carbohydrates like starch, lignin, and cellulose. In this paper, we have discussed the introductory part of the biopolymers, e.g., cellulose, chitin, chitosan, PLA, and soy protein. Also, the mechanical properties of composites developed by using these biopolymers and their applications, specifically in the areas of biomedical and packaging sectors, have been discussed.

Keywords: Biocomposites, cellulose, chitosan, mechanical properties, natural polymer, PLA.

Graphical Abstract