Advancements, applications, and challenges of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) in packaging as biodegradable bioplastics

Abstract

The rising environmental concerns associated with petroleum-based plastics have driven the search for biodegradable alternatives, particularly for short-term and dispos- able applications. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a class of biopolymers and bioplastics, derived from renewable resources, offer promising features for sustainable packaging. However, PHAs often face technical challenges limiting their practical applications in packaging. Recent advancements in biomanufacturing processes have aimed to address the limitations, such as thermal stability, selective biodegradability, barrier properties, and mechanical and physical properties, through diverse approaches including new production processes, diversified feedstocks, and fermentation technologies. This chap- ter explores the structural diversity and types of PHAs, their environmental degradation behaviors, and the perspectives on their application within the packaging industry, particularly in alignment with regulatory standards and sustainability goals.