Polymers Synthetized Directly from Biomass

4 Polymers Synthetized Directly from Biomass 21.3.4.1 Polysaccharides 

Cellulose and starch are the most commonly used polysaccharides in materials applications. Polysaccharides of marine origin—chitin and chitosan—are also often used for forming composites. Since cellulose has been thoroughly discussed in previous sections, here it will be omitted. 

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The selection of an appropriate polymer matrix for nanocomposites is especially crucial in terms of the design and development of medical implants and products. Biodegradable polymer matrices can be either of natural or synthetic origin. As shown in Fig. 21.24. Natural, biobased polymers can be dived into three groups directty produced by genetically modified organisms, synthesized from biobased monomers or directly from biomass. Polymers synthesized from biobased monomers are often regarded as synthetic [36,39,40]. 

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