Current advancements in the bio-based production of polyamides

Abstract

Polyamides, also known as nylons, are important industrial polymers with repeating amide bonds. With the growing concern about climate change, technologies that can establish the foundation for a transition toward a carbon-neutral chemical industry are attracting considerable attention. This article provides an overview of the current advancements in the bio-based production of polyamide monomers using metabolically engineered microorganisms and the bio-based polyamides synthesized using those monomers are reviewed. Furthermore, the synthesis of bio-based polyamides using monomers obtained from the chemical conversion of natural oils is discussed. Finally, studies and the current status of biodegradation and recycling of polyamides are described to provide insights into the potential future roles of bio-based polyamides in the green chemical industry and sustainable society.