Recent advances in poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT): structure, modification strategies, degradation, and sustainable applications

Abstract

Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), a biodegradable copolyester, integrates the pliability of aliphatic chains with the rigidity and durability of aromatic components, emerging as a compelling substitute for traditional petroleum-derived plastics. This review summarizes the advances in the structure, physicochemical properties, and degradation behavior of PBAT, with particular emphasis on modification strategies through blending and composite design. Blending PBAT with biodegradable polymers, as well as natural macromolecules, has been widely explored to improve its mechanical properties, processability, and barrier performance without sacrificing its inherent full biodegradable characteristic. The incorporation of inorganic fillers and nanomaterials further enhances the thermal stability and functional performance of PBAT-based composites. PBAT exhibits effective biodegradation in soil, composting, and aquatic environments, contributing to the reduction of plastic pollution. Owing to these advantages, PBAT has attracted increasing attention in applications ranging from agricultural mulching films, packaging materials, biomedical scaffolds, to textile fibers. Nevertheless, challenges including high production costs, strict degradation conditions, and the potential formation of microplastics during degradation still threaten the ecological environment. Future research should focus on developing catalytic synthesis routes, optimizing copolymer compositions and blends, and advancing enzyme-assisted and chemical recycling to promote closed-loop material utilization. The practical applications of PBAT are expected to be further expanded by these efforts, thereby supporting the transition toward a more sustainable and circular polymer economy.