The present book chapter is aimed at providing an outlook about the
synthesis, properties and potential applications of bacterial Poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate)]
(PHB) and its copolymer with (R)-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBHV). Selected reports
were analyzed in order to provide strategies aimed at producing standard formulations
based on PHB and PHBHV by given emphasis on packaging applications. Modification
of PHB and PHBHV properties by using reinforcing agents and blends with
biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers has been reviewed. The strategies for
modulation and/or standardization of PHB and PHBHV, in composite formulations and
blends, were done by taking into account thermo-mechanical properties, dimensional
stability and melt flow index data. Odor control in the end-products by using additives
and potential methodologies to mitigate it as well as guidelines for the production of
odorless, standard and biodegradable PHB and PHBHV based products for packaging
were also provided.
Keywords: Application, Bacterial polyesters, Blends, Composites, Dimensional
stability, Market, Melt flow index data, Nanocomposites, Odor control, Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), Processing,
Standardization, Thermo-mechanical properties.
