Research and development of PHA

Bacterial plastics

Already in 1926 it was discovered that some bacteria produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polymeric substances that function as energy reserves for these microorganisms. PHA has also been recognized as an excellent natural plastic, with properties comparable to polypropylene. This bacterial plastic has gained more recent interest because it is biodegradable and renewable.

Commercial production of PHA has been accomplished using a costly process with pure cultures of bacteria. This type of production has so far limited the economic viability of bacterial plastics.

Wastewater – A resource

At AnoxKaldnes, a novel concept is being developed for the production of PHA in biological wastewater treatment plants. Instead of using a pure culture of PHA producing bacteria, the complex bacterial flora in a wastewater treatment plant is being employed. The process configuration and conditions are used to favor the enrichment of PHA producers. In this way, the wastewater can be transformed into an important raw material for society. The waste treatment plant is transformed from a waste sludge generation plant into a plastic production plant. This research and development at AnoxKaldnes is directed towards the maximization of PHA yield and the control of PHA quality.