Improvement in environmental performance of poly(β-hydroxybutyrate)-co-(β-hydroxyvalerate) composites through process modifications

As interest grows in developing materials with low environmental impact, research on bio-based composites is gaining attention in the composites industry. Bio-based composites are polymer matrix composites reinforced with natural fibers. This study uses life cycle assessment methods to examine the environmental impact of and improvements to production processes for bio-based composites made of a renewable polymer matrix, poly(β-hydroxybutyrate)-co-(β-hydroxyvalerate), and natural fiber fabric. Investigated production improvements include targeting reduced thermal energy use, biomass reuse as a fuel source, and design alterations such as reduced waste and fiber replacement. The greatest reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and weighted impact score were found to be possible through incineration of excess biomass and the use of alternate fiber types. The application of thermal energy recycling mechanisms had little influence on the examined environmental impacts.