Economical production of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) copolymers from biosolids and/or hemp stems

The objective of the research is to validate and enhance production of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymers from hemp stems, agricultural waste. Two interns will carry out the proposed work to upcycling hemp stems into the biopolymers with advanced biotechnologies of fermentation and PHA synthesis. The final biopolymers produced from hemp stems will be characterized for physical, chemical and mechanical features for manufacturing plastics. The successful outcomes of the research will facilitate market penetration of biodegradable plastics because of significant cost reduction in PHA production; in current market, feedstock (e.g., corn starch, potato) accounts for 50% of PHA production cost approximately. Advanced characteristics of the biopolymers can be widely used for a variety of petroleum-based plastics from single-use plastics to packaging films, helping Canada to achieve zero plastic waste in future. The proposed upcycling biotechnologies will also promote a circular bioeconomy for Canada to accomplish net zero emission.

Faculty Supervisor:

Tiz Mekonnen;Hyung Sool Lee

Student:

Partner:

CTK Bio Canada

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: