Use available evidence to gather and present data from secondary sources and analyse progress in the development and use of a named biopolymer.

The first 200 words of this essay...

Biopolymers

"Use available evidence to gather and present data from secondary sources and analyse progress in the development and use of a named biopolymer. This analysis should name the specific enzyme(s) used or organism used to synthesise the material and an evaluation of the use or potential use of the polymer produced related to its properties."

1. Introduction

a) Polymers

A polymer is a generic term used to describe a substantially long molecule. This long molecule consists of structural units and repeating units strung together through chemical bonds. The process of converting these units to a polymer is called polymerization. These units are called monomers, which are typically small molecules of low molecular weight.1

Over 99% of all plastics are made from non-renewable natural resources, which are finite, for example, oil, coal or natural gas.3 Waste management is a major problem for plastics because they produce large amounts of waste, which can be bad for the environment.

b) Biopolymers

A biopolymer is a naturally occurring polymer generated using natural resources like plants and micro-organisms. Biopolymers are polymers that are generated from renewable natural sources, are often biodegradable,