Microbial production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) from novel sources: A Review

Abstract

The synthetic polymers find a lot of applications in the industry and are an important material in daily life. The unique properties of these make them irreplaceable in various applications. But the increasing environmental threat and depletion of fossil fuels required for their production there is an enormous requirement of suitable alternatives. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) could make for more than appropriate replacement for the conventional plastics. PHAs being similar to conventional plastics with respect to properties are biodegradable in nature. PHA is produced by microorganisms when subjected to stressful conditions under the abundance of essential substrates. The microorganisms store the carbon source of nutrition into PHA as a source of energy in the form of water insoluble granules. However, bio based plastic production is more expensive than petrochemical plastics. Therefore, the uses of innovative new ways of PHA production including cheaper carbon sources, efficient process design, etc. are being sought after. In this review we will be looking at various C-sources and the respective microorganisms that can be used for PHA production and help in cost reduction. We would also look at the challenges that PHA pose and some ways in which we could overcome them.