Korea makes bio-plastics

Korean scientists have been studying a polymer used daily for plastics using biotechnology. New manufacturing methods promise to produce less toxic plastic.

The research team from KAIST, Seoul University and the Korean chemical company LG Chem have just published their findings in the journal 'Biotechnology and bioengineering', which can replace fossil fuels based on on chemical substances.

Bioplastics are expected to be more environmentally friendly than those made from fossil fuels.Photo: Getty Images

Scientists believe that the current technology could allow the production of environmentally friendly plastic products, resins that are biodegradable and less toxic.

Their research focuses on Polylactic Acid (PLA), a biopolymer that holds the key to producing plastics through nature and renewable sources.

Professor Sang Yup Lee, the lead researcher, said the polymer is the molecule found daily in the form of rubber and plastic. The types of polyester and polymers we use every day are mostly fossil oil products made through filters or chemical treatment.

The idea of ​​producing polymers from recyclable natural materials draws attention due to growing concerns about environmental issues and fossil resource depletion. PLA is a good choice for oil-based plastics, as it is both biodegradable and toxic to humans.

"By developing a plan to combine biological applications with enzyme applications, we have developed a high biological efficiency based on the production of PLA and isoforms with it, " Lee said. . This means that Ecoli's development is now the effect of producing artificial polymers, through a fermentation step . "

Global warming and other environmental issues urge research and sustainable development of processes based on renewable resources. The new strategy is useful for other scientific organizations to study the production of polymers by direct fermentation from renewable sources.