Special Issues

Development and Application of Biodegradable Plastics

Submission Deadline: 31 December 2025 View: 656 Submit to Special Issue

Guest Editors

Prof. Dr Kuok Ho Daniel Tang

Email: danielkhtang@arizona.edu

Affiliation: The Department of Environmental Science, The University of Arizona (UA), Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA

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Summary

The swift buildup of plastic waste poses a significant environmental issue, as traditional plastics linger in ecosystems for hundreds of years. Biodegradable plastics present a potentially effective solution since they decompose into natural substances, lessening long-term environmental harm. Nevertheless, there are still hurdles to overcome concerning their degradation efficiency, material characteristics, and widespread application.

This special issue aims to advance research on biodegradable plastics, focusing on their development, properties, environmental impact, and real-world applications. It seeks contributions from material science, environmental engineering, industrial applications, and policy perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of biodegradable plastics.

Suggested themes include:
· Novel biodegradable polymer development: Innovations in biopolymer synthesis and characterization.
· Degradation mechanisms and environmental fate: Studies on biodegradation processes under different environmental conditions.
· Applications in industry and consumer goods: Case studies on packaging, agriculture, and medical uses.
· Life cycle assessment and sustainability: Evaluations of environmental and economic impacts.
· Policy and regulation: Strategies for promoting biodegradable plastics through regulations and incentives.

By fostering interdisciplinary research, this special issue aims to accelerate the transition to sustainable plastic alternatives, addressing both scientific and societal challenges.


Keywords

Biodegradable plastics; environmental impact; life cycle assessment; plastic waste management; policy; polymer degradation; sustainable materials

Published Papers


  • Open Access

    ARTICLE

    Direct Production of Sorbitol-Plasticized Bioplastic Film from Gracilaria sp.

    Ahmad Faldo, Labanta Marbun, Hezekiah Lemuel Putra Zebua, Fateha Fateha, Rossy Choerun Nissa, Yurin Karunia Apsha Albaina Iasya, Riri Uswatun Annifah, Amrul Amrul, Yeyen Nurhamiyah
    Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 743-755, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.069981
    (This article belongs to the Special Issue: Development and Application of Biodegradable Plastics)
    Abstract Conventional bioplastic production from seaweed often relies on extraction processes that are costly, time-consuming, and yield limited product. This study presents a direct fabrication method using Gracilaria sp., a red seaweed rich in polysaccharides, to produce bioplastic films without the need for extraction. Sorbitol was incorporated as a plasticizer at concentrations of 0%–10% (w/w) to modify film characteristics. Thermal analysis revealed improved stability at moderate sorbitol levels (5%–7%), while excessive plasticizer slightly reduced thermal resistance. Mechanical testing showed that sorbitol increased film flexibility and elongation at break, though tensile strength and stiffness declined. Tear strength followed More >

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