Development of a novel process for sustainable production of bio-based polymers from agricultural waste

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The global demand for sustainable materials has intensified the search for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petrochemical-based polymers. This thesis presents the development of a novel process for the sustainable production of bio-based polymers from agricultural waste. The utilization of agricultural waste as a feedstock for polymer production offers a promising avenue to reduce environmental impact, promote circular economy principles, and mitigate waste management challenges. The focus of this research is to investigate the feasibility and scalability of converting agricultural waste into bio-based polymers through an innovative process that aligns with the principles of green chemistry and sustainable engineering. Chapter one provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and key definitions. The literature review in chapter two covers ten key areas related to bio-based polymers, agricultural waste utilization, polymer production processes, sustainability considerations, and current research advancements in the field. Chapter three details the research methodology, including the experimental setup, data collection methods, analytical techniques, process optimization strategies, and sustainability assessments. Chapter four presents a comprehensive discussion of the findings obtained from the experimental work, process optimization studies, material characterization analyses, and life cycle assessments. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed process for converting agricultural waste into high-quality bio-based polymers with desirable properties. The discussion also addresses the environmental implications, economic feasibility, scalability potential, and comparative advantages of the developed process in comparison to conventional polymer production methods. In conclusion, this thesis highlights the significance of developing sustainable processes for bio-based polymer production from agricultural waste as a means to address environmental challenges, promote resource efficiency, and contribute to the transition towards a circular economy. The innovative process presented in this research offers a promising solution to utilize agricultural waste streams effectively, reduce reliance on fossil resources, and minimize the carbon footprint associated with polymer production. The potential societal, economic, and environmental benefits of implementing such sustainable practices underscore the importance of further research and development in the field of bio-based polymers.