PHB

polymer

PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate) is a biodegradable thermoplastic polyester produced naturally by certain bacteria or synthesized chemically, belonging to the polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family of biopolymers. It is used primarily in packaging, agricultural films, medical devices, and injection-molded consumer products where biodegradability and biocompatibility are valued; PHB offers an environmentally attractive alternative to conventional plastics in applications tolerant of lower impact resistance and higher processing costs. The material is notable for combining processability with compostability in industrial and marine environments, making it relevant for single-use items, medical sutures, and scaffolds where end-of-life disposal and biocompatibility are design drivers.

biodegradable packagingagricultural filmsmedical sutures and implantstissue engineering scaffoldsinjection-molded consumer goodscompostable disposables

Compliance & Regulations

?UL 94?Conflict Free?RoHS?REACH?TSCA?Prop 65
PropertyValueUnitConditionsSource
Compressive Strength(σc)
ksi
Elongation at Break(εf)
-
Flexural Strength (MOR)(σf)
ksi
Ultimate Tensile Strength(σUTS)
ksi
Young's Modulus(E)
ksi
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
PropertyValueUnitConditionsSource
Glass Transition Temperature(Tg)
°F
Melting Point / Solidus(Tm)
°F
Maximum Service Temperature(Tmax)
°F
Thermal Conductivity(k)
BTU/(hr·ft·°F)
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source

Regulatory Screening

Environmental

Safety & Biocompatibility

RoHS, REACH, and Prop 65 statuses are validated against official substance lists (ECHA SVHC Candidate List, OEHHA Prop 65, RoHS Annex II). Other regulations are estimated from composition and material classification. All screening is a starting point for due diligence — always verify with your supplier before making compliance decisions.
PHB — Properties & Data | MatWorld