Biopolymers

Cyanobacteria for PHA production

Together with research partners, Novis aims to advance basic research in the field of biodegradable plastics toward industrial application. The corresponding group of biodegradable plastics is called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and offers potential for replacing petrochemical materials in certain applications. PHAs are produced, among other things, by cyanobacteria species. These organisms are capable of photosynthesis and require little more than light and CO₂ to grow and produce PHAs. The absorbed CO₂ is then bound in the PHAs and either removed from the atmosphere or, if industrial exhaust gases are used, not released at all.

The challenges include scaling up cyanobacterial cultivation and optimizing the process with regard to energy consumption and nutrient medium composition, as well as productivity and shortening process times.

Material recycling of biopolymers

The production and disposal of conventional plastic is a global problem. To counter this, the use of bioplastics (including biosynthetic and/or biodegradable plastics) is increasing. However, because bioplastics are composed of countless compounds with different properties, their post-use fate also presents a challenge – one we can prepare for. We are collaborating with companies and universities across the EU. Together, we are identifying the quantity and composition of bioplastics in the residues of three sectors that produce large amounts of plastic waste: textiles, packaging, and agriculture. We are also investigating how bioplastic waste can be treated and recycled. This work draws on consumer feedback on the quality of the recycled end products, thus closing the loop on bioplastics use.