Exploring the Potential of Manufacturing Bioplastics from Waste and Wastewater Sources: A Review

Ali Alshammari; Mustafa Alsalmi; Nayef Almetleqem; Nashi Alajmi

doi:10.51173/jt.v7i2.2676

Authors

Ali Alshammari Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Kuwait, Kuwait
Mustafa Alsalmi Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Nayef Almetleqem Ministry of Public Works, Kuwait, Kuwait
Nashi Alajmi Ministry of Public Works, Kuwait, Kuwait

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51173/jt.v7i2.2676

Keywords:

Bioplastic, Biodegradation, Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), Waste and Wastewater, Feast-Famine Method

Abstract

Plastic products are utilized as packaging materials with numerous features including durability, strength, and low density in comparison to paper and glass. However, the accumulation of plastic would be a considerable pollution issue negatively affecting the ecosystem. This is because of its high resistance to degradation. Several researchers endeavored to manage the accumulation of plastic by devising processes such as incineration, recycling, or reuse. However, the disposal of highly toxic compounds, including hydrocyanic and hydrochloric acids, during incineration is a main associated issue. Realizing these points, manufacturing bioplastics instead of using plastic oil appears to be a competent option. Specifically, polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is a well-known type of bioplastic that can be manufactured via fermentation using bacteria. In this review, the main basics of bioplastics are presented outlining the aspects of biodegradation as a sustainable industrial process compared to plastic. Specifically, this review intends to shape the synthesis of PHA from waste and wastewater sources. This includes the review of PHA structures, properties, industrial methods, and an intensive review of the feast-famine mechanism. Lastly, a critical evaluation of this industry, along with challenges and suggestions for improvements, is addressed.

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Author Biographies

Ali Alshammari, Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Kuwait, Kuwait

*Ali Alshammari* is a Senior Chemical Engineer at the Ministry of Electricity and Water and Renewable Energy in Kuwait. He earned his BEng in Chemical Engineering with First Class Honors from the University of Leeds in 2021 and went on to complete his MSc in Advanced Chemical Engineering with Merit and Honors from the University of Leeds in 2023. His research covers a range of topics, including thermal runaway chemistry, CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, and multiscale computational methods for CO2 hydrogenation through heterogeneous catalysts. Enhancing solar greenhouse efficiency through the integration of phase change materials: Thermal regulation and sustainable crop growth . In his current role, Ali works on reverse osmosis processes, focusing on water treatment and ensuring efficient and sustainable management of water resources.

Mustafa Alsalmi, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Nayef Almetleqem , Ministry of Public Works, Kuwait, Kuwait

A chemical engineer who graduated from university of Bradford in 2021 and masters in Advanced chemical engineering at University of Leeds 2023 . Currently working at Ministry of Public works in Kuwait.

Nashi Alajmi, Ministry of Public Works, Kuwait, Kuwait

Chemical engineer who works at Ministry of Public works in Kuwait . Obtained bachelor and masters from university of Leeds ( BEng Chemical engineering , MSc environmental engineering )

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