Nanocomposites with Biodegradable Polymers : Synthesis, Properties, and Future Perspectives

Polymers are used in practically every facet of daily life. Most polymers come from fossil fuels and are not biodegradable, causing long-term environmental hazards. Biodegradable polymers provide an alternative, environmentally friendly class of materials. Composites of such polymers have high potential within a wide spectrum of applications.

Bio-nanocomposites combine the enhanced properties of commercial polymer nanocomposites with the low environmental impact of biodegradable material, making them a topic of great current interest. Because of their tremendous role in reducing dependency on commercial non-biodegradable polymers, and their environmentally-friendly nature, bio-nanocomposites need to be studied in greater detail. In this book, recent advancements in their development are brought together in a single text, to provide researchers with a thorough insight into the various systems, and to open up future perspectives. Although the commercial applications of these bio-nanocomposites are in their infancy, these materials have a huge commercial potential. In setting out the next generation of advances in nanocomposite technology, this book opens the way for further developments in the field. Describing the subject as a whole, from a basic introduction to the more specific systems and advancements, this book can be used both as a professional reference and for teaching purposes.