Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements and commercialization opportunities in the field of bio-based polymers, highlighting the potential of non-food biomass as a sustainable resource for producing high-performance materials [4][7][10]. Summary by Sections Economic Viability of Bio-based Polymers - The economic feasibility of bio-based polymers varies, with some materials being economically viable while others are not. The development of bio-based materials from biomass is a key focus area for research and development [7][10]. - The history of polylactic acid (PLA) pricing illustrates the significant potential for converting biomass into bio-based materials [7]. Research Directions and Achievements - The Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Bio-based Polymer Materials focuses on three main research areas: efficient conversion of non-food biomass, design and synthesis of high-quality bio-based polymers, and high-quality processing and application technologies [10]. - Key research topics include cellulose conversion to sugars, furan dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and its polyesters, biodegradable polymers, and bio-based additives [10][11]. Cellulose Conversion - The conversion of cellulose to glucose is challenging but essential for utilizing non-food biomass. The research team has developed a catalyst that achieves over 85% glucose yield from cellulose, which is currently the highest reported [15][16]. - This process enables the further development of important products such as ethanol and lactic acid [16]. Furan Dicarboxylic Acid (FDCA) and Its Polyesters - FDCA is a promising bio-based platform compound with advantages over traditional petroleum-based counterparts, including sustainability and enhanced properties [17][19]. - The research team has pioneered a non-food biomass route for FDCA production, which is more sustainable and efficient than traditional methods. They have successfully scaled up production to a pilot level [21][25]. Biodegradable Polymers - Biodegradable polymers are seen as a solution to plastic pollution, but they often face challenges such as slow degradation rates. The research team is focusing on developing marine biodegradable materials [26][30]. - They have successfully created a low-cost oxalic acid-based polymer that demonstrates effective degradation in various environments [31]. Bio-based Additives - There is a significant lack of bio-based additives for polymer modification. The global compatibilizer market is growing rapidly, with a focus on developing high-grafting-rate reactive compatibilizers [32][34]. - The team has developed a bio-based compatibilizer with superior performance compared to traditional products, and a production line has been established [35]. Future Directions - The article concludes that the bio-based polymer sector has seen rapid development over the past two decades, with some materials already commercialized. The potential for bio-based polymers to replace fossil-based materials is significant [35].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the economic feasibility of bio-based polymers, the challenges they face, and the industrialization opportunities in this field, highlighting recent advancements and research directions from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering [2][5][6]. Summary by Sections Economic Feasibility of Bio-based Polymers - Bio-based materials can theoretically replace petroleum, coal, and natural gas resources using biomass generated through photosynthesis, with various chemical and microbial methods available for conversion [3][5]. - The price development of polylactic acid (PLA) indicates significant potential for converting biomass into bio-based materials [5]. Research Directions and Achievements - The Zhejiang Key Laboratory focuses on three main research areas: efficient conversion of non-food biomass, design and synthesis of high-quality bio-based polymers, and high-quality processing applications of bio-based materials [5][8]. - The laboratory has made progress in four key areas: cellulose conversion to sugars, furan dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and its polyesters, biodegradable polymers, and bio-based additives [8][9]. Cellulose Conversion - The conversion of cellulose to glucose is challenging but essential for developing non-food bio-based materials. The team has achieved a glucose yield of over 85% and a cellulose conversion rate of 100% using a novel enzyme-like catalyst [9][13][10]. Furan Dicarboxylic Acid (FDCA) and Its Polyesters - FDCA is a promising bio-based platform compound with advantages over traditional petroleum-based counterparts, such as better rigidity and sustainability [15][17]. - The team has pioneered a non-food route for FDCA production, which is more sustainable and efficient, and has initiated pilot-scale production [20][21]. Biodegradable Polymers - The team is addressing the slow degradation rates of existing biodegradable polymers by developing a new oxalic acid-based polyester that can degrade in marine environments [24][27]. Bio-based Additives - There is a significant market for bio-based compatibilizers, with the global market projected to reach 64.82 billion yuan in 2024. The team has developed a bio-based compatibilizer with a grafting rate of up to 1.5%, outperforming traditional options [28][31][29]. Conclusion - The bio-based polymer sector has seen rapid development over the past 20 years, with some materials already commercialized. The industry is expected to continue growing, providing effective alternatives to fossil-based polymers [31].