Chapter 12 – Algae-Derived Polyester Blends and Composites

The synthesis of polyesters from renewable resources is a new strategy that has been developed because of limited fossil fuel resources, an increase in the cost of petrochemicals, and release of greenhouse gasses by using fossil fuels. Algal biomass is a very copious and low-priced renewable resource that can be transformed into novel biodegradable polyesters suitable for biomedical applications. Algal-polymer/polyester blends and composites show tunable biodegradability and biocompatibility; therefore, they are widely used in cartilage, bone, and cardiac and nerve tissue regeneration. For continuous and controlled delivery of drugs, algae-based polyester microspheres and microcapsules are explored to produce humoral and cellular immunity with efficient intracellular delivery.