Types of Biobased Nanomaterials

The global transition from the use of fossil-based materials to more sustainable, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly materials has significantly reduced environmental pollution. Biobased nanomaterials (NMs) have recently attracted the interest of many researchers due to their availability, low cost, and sustainability. Hence, they have become an alternative to fossil-based materials. This chapter presents the sources and types of biobased nanomaterials based on their physical and chemical compositions. The features and structures of each type of material are discussed. Compared to their bulk counterparts, biobased nanomaterials have unique, nano-specific characteristics, such as a high specific surface area that increases reactivity or a high aspect ratio that gives them strength and stiffness. The functions and applications of each type are explained in detail.