Plant biopolyester cutin:: a tough way to its chemical synthesis

The chemical synthesis of an aliphatic biopolyester identical to the natural cutin which constitutes the major component of the cuticle of fruits and leaves of higher plants is for the first time achieved and reported. Potential applications of this new material is of great interest because its physical properties, non-toxicity, biodegradability, and availability of raw material. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.