Polymers, Biodegradable

Abstract The article contains sections titled: 1. Glossary and Abbreviations 2. Introduction 3. Biodegradability and Toxicology 3.1. Mechanism of Biodegradation 3.2. Toxicity of Biodegradable Polymers 3.3. Standards for Biodegradable Polymers 3.3.1. Controlled Composting Test 3.3.2. Standard Assessment of Biodegradable Polymers 4. Biodegradable Polymers: Synthesis, Properties, and Suppliers 4.1. Raw Materials 4.2. Starch 4.3. Poly(lactic acid) (Polylactide, PLA) 4.4. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) 4.5. Synthetic Polyesters 4.5.1. Aliphatic Polyesters 4.5.2. Aliphatic/Aromatic Polyesters 4.6. Other Synthetic Polymers 4.7. Compounds 4.7.1. Compounds of Starch and Biodegradable Polyesters 4.7.2. Compounds of PLA and Biodegradable Polyesters 4.8. Cellulose Derivatives 5. Processing and Additives 5.1. Introduction 5.2. Extrusion 5.3. Blown‐Film Extrusion 5.4. Cast‐Film Extrusion 5.5. Modification of Biodegradable Films 5.6. Extrusion Coating 5.7. Sheet Extrusion and Thermoforming 5.8. Injection Molding 5.9. Blow Molding 6. Market Overview and Growth Drivers 7. Value of Biodegradability—Life‐Cycle Assessment (LCA) 8. Applications 8.1. Organic Waste Bags 8.2. Shopping (Carrier) Bags 8.3. Mulch Film 8.4. Horticulture 8.5. Packaging 8.5.1. Food Packaging 8.5.2. Nonfood Packaging 9. Production Capacity 10. Outlook 11. References