In recent years, we have assisted the remarkable growth in the use of functional polyesters. This book gathers novel research works dealing with the manufacturing and characterization of polyesters that have been functionalized by synthesis, copolymerization, additives (at micro- and nanoscale), surface modification, among other methodologies, to tailor desired properties in terms of mechanical, chemical, thermal, and barrier properties, biodegradation, and biocompatibility. Thus, Advances in Manufacturing and Characterization of Functional Polyesters will serve to guide a diverse audience of polymer scientists and engineers and provides an update of the “state-of-the-art” knowledge on functional polyesters.

The development of biobased polyesters from renewable resources has become increasingly important due to the need for more sustainable materials. Ricinus communis oil, which contains a high percentage of the unsaturated fatty acid ricinoleic acid, is a promising candidate for the synthesis of biobased polyesters. This plant-based oil has many advantages such as being non-toxic, biodegradable, and readily available. In this study, P.Rajalakshmi focused on the physicochemical and biological synthesis of biobased polyesters using ricinoleic acid from Ricinus communis oil as a feedstock. The synthesis of polyesters was achieved via polyesterification, which involves the reaction of the carboxyl group of the ricinoleic acid with the hydroxyl group of a polyol. The resulting biobased polyesters were characterized using various analytical techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The results of the study showed that biobased polyesters synthesized from Ricinus communis oil had good thermal stability and mechanical properties, making them suitable for a wide range of applications such as in the production of fibers, films, and coatings. Additionally, the use of renewable resources for the synthesis of biobased polyesters reduces the reliance on non-renewable resources and promotes the use of sustainable materials. Overall, this study highlights the potential of Ricinus communis oil as a feedstock for the synthesis of biobased polyesters, which can contribute to the development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly polymeric materials. The use of green chemistry principles in the synthesis of biobased polyesters from renewable resources represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future.

Polyesters and polyamides remain the most used group of synthetic fibres. This authoritative book reviews methods of their production, ways of improving their functionality and their wide range of applications. The first part of the book describes raw materials and manufacturing processes, including environmental issues. Part two considers ways of improving the functionality of polyester and polyamide fibres, including blending, weaving, coloration and other finishing techniques as well as new techniques such as nanotechnology. The final part of the book reviews the range of uses of these important fibres, from apparel and sportswear to automotive, medical and civil engineering applications. With its distinguished editors and international team of contributors, Polyesters and polyamides is a standard reference for all those using this important group of fibres. Reviews the chemical and physical properties of each fibre and their manufacture Analyses how the functionality of polyester and polyamides can be improved Provides examples of how the fibres are used in applications

Systems Metabolic Engineering is changing the way microbial cell factories are designed and optimized for industrial production. Integrating systems biology and biotechnology with new concepts from synthetic biology enables the global analysis and engineering of microorganisms and bioprocesses at super efficiency and versatility otherwise not accessible. Without doubt, systems metabolic engineering is a major driver towards bio-based production of chemicals, materials and fuels from renewables and thus one of the core technologies of global green growth. In this book, Christoph Wittmann and Sang-Yup Lee have assembled the world leaders on systems metabolic engineering and cover the full story – from genomes and networks via discovery and design to industrial implementation practises. This book is a comprehensive resource for students and researchers from academia and industry interested in systems metabolic engineering. It provides us with the fundaments to targeted engineering of microbial cells for sustainable bio-production and stimulates those who are interested to enter this exiting research field.

As a biopolymer, lignin is unusual because of its heterogeneity and lack of a defined primary structure. Its most commonly noted function is the support through strengthening of wood (xylem cells) in trees. This book presents current research in the study of lignin, including the biotechnological applications of lignin; the isolation of lignin from alkaline pulping liquors; biobleaching of paper pulp with lignin degrading enzymes; lingin and funal pathogenesis; plastic mouldable lignin and lignin valorisation into polyurethanes.