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Synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoate from palm oil and some new applications

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Abstract

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is a potential substitute for some petrochemical-based plastics. This biodegradable plastic is derived from microbial fermentation using various carbon substrates. Since carbon source has been identified as one of the major cost-absorbing factors in PHA production, cheap and renewable substrates are currently being investigated as substitutes for existing sugar-based feedstock. Plant oils have been found to result in high-yield PHA production. Malaysia, being the world’s second largest producer of palm oil, is able to ensure continuous supply of palm oil products for sustainable PHA production. The biosynthesis and characterization of various types of PHA using palm oil products have been described in detail in this review. Besides, by-products and waste stream from palm oil industry have also demonstrated promising results as carbon sources for PHA biosynthesis. Some new applications in cosmetic and wastewater treatment show the diversity of PHA usage. With proper management practices and efficient milling processes, it may be possible to supply enough palm oil-based raw materials for human consumption and other biotechnological applications such as production of PHA in a sustainable manner.

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Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge research grants provided by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Academy of Sciences, Malaysia and Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Malaysia (MOSTI). K.B and N.S acknowledges National Science Fellowship awarded by MOSTI and J.C, Y.K.K and H.K. acknowledges USM Fellowship for financial support. We are grateful to Acidchem Int. Ltd. and Unitata Ltd. for their generous supply of palm oil products.

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  1. Ecobiomaterial Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia

    Kumar Sudesh, Kesaven Bhubalan, Jo-Ann Chuah, Yik-Kang Kek, Hanisah Kamilah, Nanthini Sridewi & Yan-Fen Lee

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  1. Kumar Sudesh
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  2. Kesaven Bhubalan
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Correspondence to Kumar Sudesh.

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Sudesh, K., Bhubalan, K., Chuah, JA. et al. Synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoate from palm oil and some new applications. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 89, 1373–1386 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-011-3098-5

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