Page 357 - Biodegradable Polyesters

References 335

can be manufactured by compression-molding and injection-molding methods.
Properties, such as strength and stiffness, are improved. These composites are
mainly used in biomedical and civil engineering applications. Polyester compos-
ites reinforced with natural fibers are manufactured by the ply-stacking method
followed by compression-molding or injection-molding techniques. The mechan-
ical properties of polyester composites reinforced with natural fibers, such as ten-
sile strength, impact strength, and stiffness, are usually satisfactory and suitable
for a range of applications. Polymer–polymer composites based on polyesters
are commonly manufactured by pultrusion, compression-molding, and injection-
molding methods. These composites are widely used in biomedical and packaging
applications.
Aliphatic polyesters have improved biodegradability properties when com-
pared to other polymers. PLA, PGA, PCL, and PBS are polyesters that are
extensively used to fabricate composite materials. Polyester-based biodegradable
composites offer ease of handling, dimensional stability, chemical resistance,
and good mechanical and functional properties. Composite materials made
from biodegradable polyesters entered the market predominantly in medical
fields, particularly in tissue engineering. The rate of biodegradation, mechanical
properties, and piezoelectric properties are the key properties required for
tissue engineering. In the past few decades, there a number of discoveries and
innovation have been made.
The biopolymer industries have a promising future, driven mainly by the
ecological benefits of using renewable resources. The focus of future research and
development in biodegradable composite materials will be to develop materials
with optimum mechanical and other functional properties, in conjunction with
a high level of biodegradability. This is highlighted by the current extensive use
of biodegradable composite materials for a wide range of applications, including
medical, automotive, industrial, construction, and food packaging applications.
From the eco-friendly perspective, the significance and utility of biodegradable
composite materials cannot be overstated. In this context, polyester-based
biodegradable composites will have an important role in the future material
developments.

References
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L.F. (2000) A suitable procedure to 4. Fombuena, V., Bernardi, L., Fenollar, O.,
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