Biopolymers and Bioplastics

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are natural polyesters synthesized by various microorganisms, often through the fermentation of sugars or lipids. In microbial systems, PHAs function as an energy reserve and carbon storage. This family of polymers includes over 150 different monomers, enabling the creation of materials with a wide range of properties. PHAs are fully biodegradable and serve as a key component in the production of bioplastics.
These materials can exhibit thermoplastic or elastomeric characteristics, with melting points typically ranging between 40°C and 180°C, depending on their specific composition and structure.