THE SYNTHESIS AND BIODEGRADATION OF POLYHYDROXYALKANOATES FROM BACTERIA

The natural occurrence of polyhydroxyalkanoates is discussed together with the nature of the synthetic cycle of these microbial storage mate rials and the enzymes involved in the regulation of their metabolism. A description of large scale PHB production and product recovery is gi ven. The biodegradable properties of these materials under varying cir cumstances of landfill and composting are discussed together with meth ods of assessing biodegradation. Future prospects for the use of PHB-b ased products are assessed.