CHAPTER I
LITTERATURE REVIEW
22
Poly(ethene
furanoate)
PEF
Polyester Yes
Partly
Bottles, foils,
fibers
PET
2.5 Bioplastics from microalgae
The world hosts numerous species of microalgae, each with unique qualities and the potential
to produce bioplastics. Microorganisms such as Chlorella, Spirulina, and others play a crucial
role in developing sustainable and biodegradable materials that could revolutionize the plastics
industry. Spirulina species, in particular, can produce bioplastics with superior tensile
properties compared to petroleum-based plastics like polystyrene. Spirulina-based polymers
demonstrate excellent tensile strength, elongation, and flexibility. Additionally, Spirulina
species can synthesize biopolymers such as PHA and PHB under photoautotrophic conditions.
In bioplastic composites, Spirulina can also be used as a filler or reinforcing fiber, enhancing
the mechanical properties of the resulting bioplastics (A and G, 2024).
2.5.1 Bioplastics binders
Microalgae, renowned for their high protein content, hold considerable potential as biopolymer
materials. Nonetheless, the production of functional bioplastics from microalgae without the
use of binders presents substantial challenges. Binders like glycerol and gelatin are crucial as
they significantly enhance the physical and mechanical properties of the bioplastic.
Glycerol’s moisture-retaining properties properties prevent the bioplastic from drying out,
while its compatibility with other components ensures a uniform, stable mixture. Glycerol also
contributes to biodegradability and improves processing characteristics, facilitating efficient
production (Dianursanti et al., 2018). Gelatin enhances moldability, plasticizing properties,
and overall mechanical strength. Its natural, biodegradable nature further boosts the final
product's environmental friendliness. Gelatin’s compatibility with PHB ensures a cohesive
bioplastic material, enhancing ease of shaping and molding (Adetunji and Erasmus, 2024).
LITTERATURE REVIEW
22
Poly(ethene
furanoate)
PEF
Polyester Yes
Partly
Bottles, foils,
fibers
PET
2.5 Bioplastics from microalgae
The world hosts numerous species of microalgae, each with unique qualities and the potential
to produce bioplastics. Microorganisms such as Chlorella, Spirulina, and others play a crucial
role in developing sustainable and biodegradable materials that could revolutionize the plastics
industry. Spirulina species, in particular, can produce bioplastics with superior tensile
properties compared to petroleum-based plastics like polystyrene. Spirulina-based polymers
demonstrate excellent tensile strength, elongation, and flexibility. Additionally, Spirulina
species can synthesize biopolymers such as PHA and PHB under photoautotrophic conditions.
In bioplastic composites, Spirulina can also be used as a filler or reinforcing fiber, enhancing
the mechanical properties of the resulting bioplastics (A and G, 2024).
2.5.1 Bioplastics binders
Microalgae, renowned for their high protein content, hold considerable potential as biopolymer
materials. Nonetheless, the production of functional bioplastics from microalgae without the
use of binders presents substantial challenges. Binders like glycerol and gelatin are crucial as
they significantly enhance the physical and mechanical properties of the bioplastic.
Glycerol’s moisture-retaining properties properties prevent the bioplastic from drying out,
while its compatibility with other components ensures a uniform, stable mixture. Glycerol also
contributes to biodegradability and improves processing characteristics, facilitating efficient
production (Dianursanti et al., 2018). Gelatin enhances moldability, plasticizing properties,
and overall mechanical strength. Its natural, biodegradable nature further boosts the final
product's environmental friendliness. Gelatin’s compatibility with PHB ensures a cohesive
bioplastic material, enhancing ease of shaping and molding (Adetunji and Erasmus, 2024).