Biodegradable Materials: A Key to Sustainable Design
Definition
Bio-materials
A biomaterial is any material that is produced by or originates from biological organisms, such as plants, animals, bacteria, or fungi.
They are often:
- Renewable (sourced from plants, animals, or microbes)
- Biodegradable (able to break down naturally over time)
- Biocompatible (able to interact with living organisms without harm)
How Biodegradable Materials Break Down
- Broken down by microorganisms into natural, harmless by-products like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass.
- The rate of decomposition depends on factors like temperature, moisture, and oxygen availability.
Types of Biomaterials
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
- Source: Corn starch / sugarcane
- Examples: Compostable packaging, 3D printing
Collagen
- Source: Animal tissue
- Examples: Wound dressings, implants
Mycelium
- Source: Fungi
- Examples: Packaging, insulation, furniture
Seaweed-based polymers
- Source: Algae
- Examples: Edible film, sachets, wrapping
Bioplastics
- Source: Various bio-based feedstocks
- Examples: Bottles, bags, utensils
