Chemistry:Bio-based material

Short description: Material made from substances derived from living organisms

A bio-based material is a material intentionally made from substances derived from living (or once-living) organisms. These materials are sometimes referred to as biomaterials, but this word also has another meaning. Strictly the definition could include many common materials such as wood and leather, but it typically refers to modern materials that have undergone more extensive processing. Unprocessed materials may be called biotic material. Bio-based materials or biomaterials fall under the broader category of bioproducts or bio-based products which includes materials, chemicals and energy derived from renewable biological resources.

Bio-based materials are often biodegradable, but this is not always the case.

Examples include:

• • Wood: A bio-based material that can be used in packaging, clothing, and furniture
  • Leather: A bio-based material that can be derived from living organisms
  • Silk: A bio-based material that can be derived from living organisms
  • Wool: A bio-based material that can be derived from living organisms
  • Polylactic acid (PLA): A common bioplastic that is made from corn starch or sugar cane
  • Cellulose: A polysaccharide that is used as a biopolymer for natural packaging material
  • Chitosan: A bioplastic that has antimicrobial properties and can reduce food waste and food packaging waste
  • Renewable biomass: Common bio-based materials that include cereals, legumes, straw, bamboo, and wood flour