Bio-based polycarbonates: progress and prospects

Bio-based polycarbonates represent a class of superior-performance polymers prepared from sustainable resources with excellent mechanical properties, thermal stability, and optical transparency, which offer a promising alternative to conventional petroleum-based polycarbonates. This paper provides a comprehensive review of bio-based polycarbonates, covering topics including monomer sources, synthesis methods, structure–property relationships, application areas, and emerging development trends. Two typical types of bio-based polycarbonates represented by poly(isosorbide carbonate)s and poly(limonene carbonate)s are highlighted. Moreover, the effects of catalyst types, reaction conditions, and modification methods on their molecular weights and properties are discussed. Finally, the review addresses the challenges faced by bio-based polycarbonates and provides insights into their prospective directions.