Properties of PHB[edit]
Water insoluble and relatively resistant to hydrolytic degradation. This differentiates PHB from most other currently available biodegradable plastics, which are either water soluble or moisture sensitive.
Good oxygen permeability.
Good ultra-violet resistance but poor resistance to acids and bases.
Soluble in chloroform and other chlorinated hydrocarbons.[9]
Biocompatible and hence is suitable for medical applications.
Melting point 175°C., and glass transition temperature 2°C.
Tensile strength 40 MPa, close to that of polypropylene.
Sinks in water (while polypropylene floats), facilitating its anaerobic biodegradation in sediments.
Nontoxic.
Less 'sticky' when melted, making it a potentially good material for clothing in the future