Bacterial Polyesters: The Issue of their Market Acceptance and Potential Solutions

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Why is it important?

The present book chapter is aimed at providing an outlook about the synthesis, properties and potential applications of bacterial Poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate)] (PHB) and its copolymer with (R)-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBHV). Selected reports were analyzed in order to provide strategies aimed at producing standard formulations based on PHB and PHBHV by given emphasis on packaging applications. Modification of PHB and PHBHV properties by using reinforcing agents and blends with biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers has been reviewed. The strategies for modulation and/or standardization of PHB and PHBHV, in composite formulations and blends, were done by taking into account thermo-mechanical properties, dimensional stability and melt flow index data. Odor control in the end-products by using additives and potential methodologies to mitigate it as well as guidelines for the production of odorless, standard and biodegradable PHB and PHBHV based products for packaging were also provided.