Poster Title : Sustainable PLFs for home, beauty, and personal care products
Authors : Neha Yadav(1), Christopher Fidge, Paul Price, Andrew Dove
Affiliation : University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
Abstract :
Polymers in liquid formulations (PLFs) are integral components of numerous consumer and industrial products, including adhesives, agricultural solutions, household care, lubricants, personal care items and cosmetics, and water treatment solutions. These formulation polymers play a critical role in delivering technical performance, functionality, and a multitude of other applications for many fast-moving consumer goods.
The PLF industry currently relies on fossil-derived feedstocks, but rising costs, competition with other industries, and increasing environmental pressures pose significant challenges for the PLF industry. Furthermore, the current methods of production, use, and disposal of PLFs are unsustainable. Transitioning to natural polymers or those derived from bio-based feedstocks presents a viable solution. However, as we move away from non-degradable and fossil-derived polymers, it is essential to ensure that their replacements are genuinely sustainable. This requires a thorough assessment of resource use, biodegradability, biocompatibility and their performance in formulations.
Herein, our current research is focused on the synthesis of bio-derived monomers and polymers that are known to biodegrade through hydrolysis. We aim to gain a deeper understanding of how to control their performance and degradability, with the goal of developing these polymers as additives in beauty and personal care products. These bio-based alternatives have the potential to replace petroleum-based, non-degradable PLFs currently in use.