Biopolymers – Application in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology

Abstract

In order to reduce the use of non-renewable resources and to minimize the environmen‐ tal pollution caused by synthetic materials, the quest for utilizing biomaterials is on a rise. Biopolymers in nature are produced by a range of microorganisms and plants. Biopoly‐ mers produced by microorganisms require specific nutrients and controlled environmen‐ tal conditions. This chapter discusses the recent developments and trends of biopolymers especially in the field of nanotechnology. A basic introduction regarding biopolymers is included at the beginning of the chapter. A detailed discussion on various characteriza‐ tion techniques used for characterizing biopolymers and various frequently used biopol‐ ymers is also included. Applications of biopolymers in various fields, especially in the field related to nanoscience and nanotechnology, is elaborated at the end of the chapter. Biopolymers together with nanotechnology have already found many applications in var‐ ious fields including water treatment, biomedical application, energy sector, and food in‐ dustry. This chapter is intended to give an overview on the importance of biopolymers in nanotechnology-based applications.