Overview

This book introduces engineering students and practitioners to biopolymers, which are polymers derived partially or entirely from biobased (renewable) raw materials, and/or are biodegradable. Biopolymers have unique properties such as biocompatibility, making them valuable in diverse industries. Both natural and synthetic biopolymers have been widely used across various fields, including for biomedical, food, and environmental applications. The book explains the fundamentals of biopolymer engineering and how biosynthetic and biochemical pathways enable the design and manufacturing of biopolymers. It then describes their properties and applications in the food industry, biomedicine and environmental engineering. The book can serve as a textbook for engineering students, including those in bioengineering, materials science and engineering, and biochemical engineering, and as a reference for professionals who are looking to refresh their knowledge in the field.