An Overview of Biodegradable Polymers and Biodegradation of Polymers

Abstract

It is now widely recognized that, along with the importance of synthetic polymers possessing long-term stability, there is also a need for polymers that break down in a controlled manner. Biodegradable macromolecules can be tailored specifically for controlled degradation under the inherent environmental stress in biological systems either unaided or by enzyme-assisted mechanisms. Medical applications of these materials have led to significant developments, such as the controlled release of drugs, fertilizers and pesticides, absorbable surgical implants, skin grafts and bone plates. Many studies of the mechanisms of biodegradation of synthetic polymers were motivated by this and will be initially discussed. Recent interest in polymer waste management of packaging materials has and incentive to the research and will be discussed in a later section.