PBS makes its entrance into the family of biobased plastics

Poly(butylene succinate) PBS is a biodegradable synthetic aliphatic polyester whose properties are often favorably compared to LDPE or PP. It is one of the newest biopolymers, currently produced by combining succinic acid and 1,4- butanediol, both either petrol- or bio-based. The market for this biopolymer is still small, limited by capacity and price. However, it is expected to grow as demand for biodegradable plastics increases and also because of the versatility of potential applications —including a range of end applications via conventional melt processing techniques — stenming from its superior mechanical properties. New interesting areas of development are also now emerging via PBS’ blending and copolymerization with other thermoplastic polymers and/or monomers and through the formulations of composites and nanocomposites. The present chapter focuses on the production of the monomers, as well as the synthesis, processing and properties of PBS, its copolymers, composites and nanocomposites. The biodegradability, industrialization and applications of PBS are also discussed.