Biodegradable Polymers

Report Highlights

The global biodegradable polymer market is expected to have its largest growth over the next 5 years, dominated by packaging and usage in fibers. The global biodegradable polymer market is estimated at 932 million pounds in 2011 and is expected to increase at a 22.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to reach nearly 2.6 billion pounds in 2016.

SCOPE OF REPORT

Although the term “biodegradable polymers” is well known, there are few truly universal standards in place, nor is the fate of these materials in composting mediums clear in many instances.  In addition, the major drivers for growth in North America stem from mandated legislation. Some such mandates are in place, but, so far, many have not been promulgated.

The controversy within the industry as to which materials should be considered biodegradable continues unabated.  Several materials in question include polyolefin-based compositions containing starch and polymers containing aromatic groups that microorganisms have difficulty utilizing in their metabolism.

Part of the current debate revolves around defining an acceptable period of time for biodegradation to be completed.  Almost all carbon-based materials biodegrade, given an acceptable period of time.

This report includes polymers that producers market as fully biodegradable.  Most define a fully biodegradable polymer as a polymer that is completely converted by microorganisms to carbon dioxide, water, and humus. 

In the case of anaerobic biodegradation, carbon dioxide, methane, and humus are the degradation products.  However, many within the industry insist on a time period for degradation such that the terms biodegradability and composting are not synonymous. The issues concerning biodegradable versus compostable resins is discussed in detail.

Polymers derived from renewable resources (non-petroleum-based) are not covered unless they are considered biodegradable since many polymers derived from renewable resources are not biodegradable. 

This report covers the chemical types of biodegradable polymers along with their properties, production, producers, and applications.  The companies involved will be detailed in terms of their products, including trade names, and their impact on the market.  Definitions and standards, market drivers, biodegradation testing, environmental issues, composting, and relevant technologies will also be discussed.

An examination of global consumption is provided along with considerable information regarding North American, Western European, and Asian products, technologies, markets, and companies.

ANALYST’S CREDENTIALS 

Research analyst Mel Schlechter has more than 40 years of experience in the chemical industry and specializes in plastics market research.  He has been with BCC Research for more than a decade and holds a B.S. in chemistry, an M.S. in organic chemistry, and an M.B.A. in marketing.