Polymer bacterial poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) or P3HB is a biomass created by bacteria, algae and other microorganisms and could be used to replace fossil-based plastics.
The problem with P3HB is that it’s exepensive to produce and the production volumes are limited. The possible applications are thus limited.
However, Colorado State University Scientists found a different way to produce this biomass.
Instead of using a biological process (algae and bacteria) they use a much cheaper chemical process. They use a chemical called Succinate which is an ester form of succinic acid. Succinic acid is produced through the fermentation of sugars.
This process is faster, offers larger-scale applications and cost-effective production. The Scientists have applied for a patent for this technology
To make a long story short, they found a way to replace a biological process by a chemical process. A good example of a transition from biotech to chemtech.
RELATED ARTICLES
- What are Bioplastics and Biopolymers?
- Bioplastics Brands
- Bioplastics Awards
- What is the Difference Between Biodegradable, Compostable and OXO Degradable?
- The History and Most Important Innovations of Bioplastics
- What are Drop-In Bioplastics?
- History of Cellophane
- The History of Elephant Grass Bioplastics
- Bioplastics Companies
- Top Bioplastics Producers
- Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA)
- What is Bio-BDO?
- McDonalds and the Polystyrene Connections
- The Future of Polystyrene
- Bioplastic Feedstock 1st, 2nd and 3rd Generations
- Palm Oil and The Bioplastics Industry
