Bioplastics and Biocomposites: A Practical Introduction

We rely upon plastics for a great many functions in everyday life, from the cases of consumer electronics to disposable cutlery, plastics are versatile and convenient. However, with the supply of fossil fuels from which fossil-based plastics are derived becoming smaller and more expensive the need for alternatives is becoming increasingly apparent. Policy makers, environmentalists and consumers are increasing pressure on plastics manufacturers to look for greener alternatives to fossil-based plastics.

Bioplastics are materials that are derived wholly or partially from biomass feedstocks, making them renewable, whilst maintaining the desirable properties of fossil-based plastics. Many, although not all, bioplastics are also more readily degradable than conventional plastics, a property increasingly desired by consumers. A variety of different bioplastics have already been developed and the field continues to grow.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse subjects relating to bioplastics, including materials science, manufacture and processing and social and environmental impacts. It provides a valuable introduction both for those studying plastics at a graduate level and those starting to work in the field.

David Grewell received a BS, MS and PhD in Welding Engineering from The Ohio State University with minors in biomedical engineering and polymer processing in 1989, 2002 and 2005, respectively. He holds 14 patents and has published 50 journal, nearly 100 refereed conference papers, two books and has been an invited lecture to 7 international conferences. He is a Society Fellow within the Society of Plastic Engineers. His interests include bio-fuels, bio-materials, joining of plastics, micro-fabrication and laser processing of materials. He is currently at Iowa State University as a Professor in the department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and has courtesy appointments with the Material Science and Engineering Department as well as at Erlangen University in Germany