Production and characterization of polyhydroxyalkanoates films produced by Cupriviadus necator from agro-industrial residues

• Published in: Matéria 2022, Vol.27 (2)
• Main Authors: Malafaia, Carolina Barbosa, Reis, Naiara Priscila Silva, Soares, Paulo Antônio Galindo, Souza, Marthyna Pessoa de, Bastos, Maria do Socorro Rocha, Houllou, Laureen Michelle, Albuquerque, Priscilla Barbosa Sales de
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNOLOGY; MATERIALS SCIENCE, MULTIDISCIPLINARY; METALLURGY & METALLURGICAL ENGINEERING
• ISSN: 1517-7076; 1517-7076
• DOI: 10.1590/S1517-707620220002.1322

ABSTRACT 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.