Isolation of Polyhydroxyalkanoates from Microbial Biomass

Abstract

This paper provides a brief review of current situation in the downstream processes of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) representing a promising group of bio-based and biodegradable polymers that can replace petroleum based plastics and are produced by cultivation. Known isolation methods, such as extractions using chlorinated and non-chlorinated solvents, digestion approaches, cell disruption methods and SF extractions, are discussed together with economical and ecological aspects of the downstream process.