Natural origin biopolymer.
Poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (P(3HB)) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polyester belonging to the polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family, naturally synthesized by bacteria as an energy storage material. This thermoplastic biopolymer possesses high crystallinity, good mechanical strength, and excellent biodegradability, making it a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. P(3HB) is biocompatible and non-toxic, allowing its use in biomedical applications, while its hydrophobic nature and controlled degradation profile make it suitable for packaging, agriculture, and environmental applications.
Applications:
Biomedical & Tissue Engineering: Used in biodegradable implants, sutures, and scaffolds due to its biocompatibility and slow degradation under physiological conditions.
Drug Delivery Systems: Forms biodegradable nanoparticles and microparticles for controlled drug and gene delivery applications.
Sustainable Packaging: Serves as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics, offering biodegradability in marine and soil environments.
Agricultural Films & Coatings: Degrades naturally in soil, making it ideal for mulch films, seed coatings, and slow-release fertilizers.
3D Printing & Biopolymer Composites: Provides a renewable material option for additive manufacturing, allowing customized biodegradable structures.
Food & Beverage Industry: Used in food-safe coatings and films, offering moisture resistance and microbial safety while remaining environmentally friendly.