The environmental problems caused by petroleum-based plastic and plastic waste have led to an increasing demand for biobased and biodegradable plastics, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). These polyesters are synthesized from carbon sources, e.g. sugar and plant oils, by various bacteria. This book highlights the potential of plant oils, especially palm oil, as a feedstock for PHA production. In addition, new PHA applications are discussed and the sustainability of PHA production from plant oils is critically examined.
Author(s): Kumar Sudesh (auth.)
Series: SpringerBriefs in Microbiology
Edition: 1
Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
Year: 2013
Language: English
Pages: 130
Tags: Microbiology; Applied Microbiology; Environmental Engineering/Biotechnology; Sustainable Development; Polymer Sciences
Front Matter....Pages i-viii
Introduction....Pages 1-2
Bio-Based and Biodegradable Polymers....Pages 3-36
Plant Oils and Agricultural By-Products as Carbon Feedstock for PHA Production....Pages 37-46
Is Palm Oil Produced in a Sustainable Manner?....Pages 47-62
Jatropha Oil as a Potential Carbon Source for PHA Production....Pages 63-77
Potential Applications of PHA....Pages 79-100
Summary and Future Outlook....Pages 101-102
Back Matter....Pages 103-130
