Sustainable bioplastics: Recent progress in the production of bio-building blocks for the bio-based next-generation polymer PEF

Today, bioplastics are recognised as sustainable alternatives and one of the solutions to the crisis of petro-based plastics. The next-generation polymer poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxlate) (PEF) has gained great popularity since it is associated with significant reduction of energy use and GHG emissions, as well as with superior barrier properties. This drop-in polymer is a promising 100% bio-based alternative to its petro-based counterpart poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). PEF can be effectively synthesised by polymerisation between 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and ethylene glycol (EG), which represent biomass-derived building blocks. These bio-building blocks are an important commodity and platform chemicals that can be used for a variety of applications, including the synthesis of PEF. This review covers recent progress in the production of novel bio-building blocks for the preparation of PEF. Among various synthesis methods, we reviewed the catalytic conversion of biomass-derived hydroxylmethylfurfural (HMF) into FDCA and the biological route from biomass feedstock into EG. In addition, we covered recent progress in the synthesis of HMF from biomass since a reliable supply of HMF is important for the synthesis of FDCA. Finally, research goals and challenges for future development of bio-building blocks production were proposed.