Integrated production of biodegradable plastic, sugar and ethanol.

Authors :: Nonato, R. V.
Mantelatto, P. E.
Rossell, C. E. V.
Source :: Applied Microbiology & Biotechnology; 10/15/2001, Vol. 57 Issue 1/2, p1-5, 5p, 1 Diagram, 1 Chart
Publication Year :: 2001
Abstract: Poly 3-hydroxybutyric acid (PHB) and related copolymers can be advantageously produced when integrated into a sugarcane mill. In this favorable scenario, the energy necessary for the production process is provided by biomass. Carbon dioxide emissions to the environment are photosynthetically assimilated by the sugarcane crop and wastes are recycled to the cane fields. The polymer can be produced at low cost considering the availability of a low-price carbon source and energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]