Synthesis of biodegradable polymers from renewable resources

Abstract

The vast majority of commodity materials are obtained from fossil fuels. However, many studies predict that all fossil resources will be depleted within a few centuries. Biomass represents an abundant carbon-neutral renewable resource for the production of materials. Using biomass for the production of new polymers can have both economic and environmental benefits. This review focuses on the use of biomass for the synthesis of biodegradable polymers. © 2012 The Royal Society of Chemistry.