Methodologies to Obtain Bio-based Electroactive Polymers

Electroactive polymers exhibit remarkable characteristics for potential applications in everyday products. Some can store energy, others conduct electricity, and some deform when subjected to an electric field—or vice versa—enabling their use as energy harvesters, sensors, actuators, and more. These valuable properties have facilitated their adoption in mass-produced products. In a world increasingly concerned with pollution and resource scarcity, bio-based polymers must be prioritized as key components of such products. Among these, natural polymers demonstrate intrinsic electroactivity, such as the piezoelectric effect, though raw materials often require specific processing to optimize this property. Additionally, the presence of hydrophilic or charged groups, combined with biocompatibility, makes them ideal for devices requiring ionic conduction. Furthermore, sustainable chemical modifications can significantly enhance their conductive, capacitive, and sensing capabilities. Advances in bio-refineries also enable the synthesis of traditional electron-conductive polymers from renewable sources, further enhancing the sustainability of existing systems. This chapter will explore these topics in detail, highlighting the potential of electroactive bio-based polymers in sustainable technological applications.