Forefront Strategies for Biomass Valorization: From Deconstruction to Bioplastic Production.

Abstract

This Review highlights cutting-edge strategies for transforming agricultural residues into bioplastics, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. By focusing on the deconstruction and reassembly of nonedible agro-wastes, these methods address critical challenges such as resource competition, plastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Key techniques reviewed include biomass dissolution, hydrolysis, and thermomechanical processing, with particular emphasis on the use of greener solvents such as ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DES). These approaches demonstrate significant potential for minimizing waste, improving resource efficiency, and enabling circularity in bioplastic production. The Review also critically examines current limitations, including solvent toxicity, scalability, and economic feasibility, while identifying promising directions for future research. By integrating innovative deconstruction techniques with sustainable manufacturing practices, this work aims to unlock the full potential of agricultural residues, paving the way toward a zero-waste, biobased economy.