Enzymatic Polymerization as a Green Approach to Synthesizing Bio-Based Polyesters

Abstract

Given the fossil fuel crisis and the steady consumption of finite resources, the use of green polymers is becoming necessary. However, the term “green” describes materials that present green properties (such as biological origin and/or biodegradability) and are produced via sustainable processes conducted under mild conditions and not requiring the use of chemical catalysts, toxic solvents or reagents. Truly green materials must combine these characteristics; consequently, enzymatically synthesized bio-based and/or biodegradable polymers can be characterized as truly green. The present review focuses on the most promising, commercially available aliphatic and alipharomatic polyesters that can be synthesized enzymatically. In particular, the recent developments in the enzymatic polymerization of PLA and PBS and alipharomatic furan-based polyesters (e.g., PBF) are herein analyzed. Based on this analysis, it can be concluded that important steps have been taken toward synthesizing sustainably green polymers. Still, it is necessary to evaluate the applied methods regarding their capability to be used on an industrial scale.