Methyl groups enhance key properties of PHA plastics

Subject : Science and technology

Concept :

A class of polyesters considered a promising alternative to common plastics have now been made more mechanically tough and thermally stable.
Researchers replaced the reactive hydrogens in the monomer of these materials —polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) plastics — and found that it enhanced PHA thermal and mechanical properties and enabled closed loop chemical recyclability.
The new approach (Science) could provide a route for increased use of sustainable PHA plastics.

About PHA Plastics

PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) plastic is a type of biodegradable plastic that is made from renewable resources, such as plant starches and oils. In contrast, traditional plastic is typically made from non-renewable resources, such as petroleum.
Plastics can also be produced from starch, a natural polymer. Microorganisms transform this natural polymer to lactic acid, which is chemically treated to produce a plastic, polylactide (PLA)- Another option for sustainable plastics-But this is an expensive method.
Biodegradable plastic products currently in the market are about two to 10 times more expensive than traditional plastics.
Unlike production of PLA and PHA made by fermentation, producing PLA through crops will involve competition for land needed to grow crops for human consumption.