CHAPTER 5: Nanocomposites of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)

A strong research interest in developing biodegradable nanocomposites and innovative process technologies is crucial to the development of sustainable materials for niche applications. Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) nanocomposites are considered to be the next generation of smart biomaterials with diverse industrial applications, due to their biodegradability and compatibility. Intercalating PHAs with nanofillers results in materials with a higher aspect ratio and extendable surface area, which enhances their strength and stiffness without compromising toughness, leads to improved gas barrier properties, low thermal expansion coefficients etc. These altered properties expand their applications, surpassing those of neat PHA and its conventional microcomposites.