We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Production and characterization of polyhydroxyalkanoates films produced by Cupriviadus necator from agro-industrial residues
Summary
This study evaluated the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a biodegradable plastic alternative, by the bacterium Cupriavidus necator using agro-industrial residues including residual glycerol and whey cheese. The resulting biopolymer was characterized and formed into films with mechanical properties suitable for packaging applications as a petroleum-based plastic substitute.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are a viable alternative to replacing traditional plastics, harmful to nature. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production of PHA by Cupriviadus necator using agro-industrial residues, its physicochemical characterization, and of the membranes produced. Cell growth and PHA production were compared in three carbon sources: residual glycerol, whey cheese with and without a mineral solution. After cultivation, the biopolymer was extracted and characterized by FTIR and 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Membranes containing 5.0% of PHA had their physicochemical properties measured for mechanical properties, color, and water vapor permeability. The results demonstrated that the yield of PHA.g-1 of biomass was higher for cultivation using residual. Yet the PHA.L-1 was higher in cultures with whey cheese. The NMR and FTIR result allowed to characterize the molecular structure of PHA produced. It was calculated 8 carbon atoms in the methylene main chain and a maximum of 13 carbons (Poly-3-hydroxytridecanoato) in the polymer side chain. The membranes showed a strong whiteness tendency as well as a high opacity, expected low water vapor permeability, and rigidity. In conclusion, mechanical properties indicated that the formed PHA membranes could be applicable to plastic packaging in substitution for petroleum derivatives.