Hemp extract as a multifunctional stabilizer for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) materials: Investigations into anti-aging properties and lifetime control

Tutek, Karol and Masek, Anna (2025) Hemp extract as a multifunctional stabilizer for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) materials: Investigations into anti-aging properties and lifetime control. EXPRESS POLYMER LETTERS, 19 (1). pp. 107-121. ISSN 1788-618X

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Abstract

Biodegradable biopolymers like polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) hold promise for sustainable packaging, but their inherent degradability reduces material stability. Synthetic stabilizers, though effective, raise environmental and potential toxicity concerns. This study explores a multifunctional natural anti-aging agent: a hemp extract rich in cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabichromene (CBC). PHB composites with varying hemp extract concentrations were prepared and subjected to thermooxidative and weathering aging. Characterization employed FTIR-ATR, carbonyl index, and spectrophotometry. Static mechanical properties, DSC, and surface free energy (SFE) were also assessed. Notably, the hemp extract exhibited stability under ambient conditions but showed migration with time and aging. The results suggest a plasticizing effect on PHB and highlight the contrasting roles of the extract: inhibiting thermooxidative aging while potentially accelerating aging under atmospheric conditions. This opens avenues for tailoring material durability, further evaluated by life cycle analysis (LCA). This work represents one of the first investigations into hemp extract as an anti-aging agent for eco-friendly polymers, expanding the knowledge base of natural multifunctional additives.

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