Biome Bioplastics is leading pioneering research into a bacteria that could level the playing field for bio-plastics.

The UK’s Technology Strategy Board is supporting a feasibility project led by Biome Bioplastics to isolate a chemical from lignin to replace the oil-derived equivalent currently used in polyester.

Lignin is a complex hydrocarbon that helps to provide structural support in plants. As a waste product of the pulp and paper industry, it is a potentially abundant feedstock that could provide the building blocks for a new generation of cost-competitive, sustainable bioplastics.

While bioplastics are often based on natural materials, some oil-based chemicals are widely used in their manufacture to lend mechanical strength, tear resistance and durability. Deriving these chemicals from a plentiful, natural source, such as lignin would significantly reduce costs, expand functionality and increase bioplastic performance.

Biome Bioplastics has partnered with the University of Warwick’s Centre for Biotechnology and Biorefining, which is pioneering academic research into lignin degrading bacteria. The partnership aims to develop methods to control the lignin breakdown process to determine whether these chemicals can be extracted in commercial quantities.

The Technology Strategy Board, which says industrial biotechnology can help the chemical industry move away from a dependency on fossil resources, has awarded a £150,000 research grant to the Biome Technologies-led consortium.

“The environmental and social concerns surrounding the use of fossil fuels and food crops make lignin a compelling target as a source of chemicals”, explains Professor Tim Bugg, Director of the Centre. “Often considered a waste product, it may provide a sustainable source of building blocks for aromatic chemicals that can be used in bioplastics”.

If the initial feasibility assessment is successful, building on this work, Biome Bioplastics will explore the possibilities for deriving a wide selection of bio-based aromatic chemicals from lignin, further reducing cost and expanding bioplastic functionality.

The total value to the UK of using industrial biotechnology is estimated to be between £4bn and £12bn by 2025.