Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are a family of biobased, biodegradable polymers produced naturally by microorganisms through fermentation of sugars or lipids derived from renewable resources. These natural biopolymers serve as energy storage compounds within bacterial cells. These materials have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their potential to replace traditional petroleum-based plastics in various applications, ranging from packaging to medical materials. Because they can decompose in natural environments, including soil and marine ecosystems, within a matter of months under appropriate conditions. This makes it a promising material in the fight against plastic waste and pollution.
Fig. 1. The structure of PHA.
What We Offer
As a leading biobased company, Alfa Chemistry specializes in developing and manufacturing high-quality PHA materials tailored to meet various scientific research and industrial needs. Our product portfolio includes:
Scientific Grade PHA
Our research-grade PHA products are specifically designed for academic institutions, research labs, and R&D departments striving to explore new applications or enhance existing technology. These PHAs are produced under highly controlled conditions to ensure purity and consistency.
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Industrial Grade PHA
Our industrial grade PHA products are designed for large-scale applications, are ideal for applications in packaging, agriculture, consumer goods, and more. They include:
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Types of PHA
Different microorganisms produce PHA with a variety of molecular structures, monomer compositions, and molecular weights. Based on the number of carbon atoms, PHA can be categorized into short-chain-length PHA (scl-PHA), medium-chain-length PHA (mcl-PHA) and copolymers.
- scl-PHA: scl-PHA is made from hydroxyalkanoic acids with 3 to 5 carbon atoms. Common types include:
- Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB): One of the most studied PHAs, it is produced from glucose and has applications in packaging and medical devices.
- Poly(3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHV): Often produced in conjunction with PHB, it has greater flexibility and impact strength.
Fig. 2. The structure of PHV.
- mcl-PHA: It is made from hydroxyalkanoic acids with 6 to 14 carbon atoms. Examples include:
- Poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate) (PHO): Known for its elastomeric properties and flexibility, it is useful in producing flexible materials.
- Poly(3-hydroxydecanoate) (PHD): Similar properties to PHO but with a higher molecular weight.
- Copolymers: PHAs can also be synthesized as copolymers, combining different monomers from scl-PHA and mcl-PHA to tailor their properties. For example, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) combines the properties of both PHB and PHV, making it more flexible and tougher.
Fig. 3. The structure of PHBV.
Features of PHA
PHA materials offer numerous advantageous features that contribute to their growing popularity:
- Biodegradability: PHA is fully biodegradable in various environments, including marine, soil, and industrial composting conditions, helping to reduce plastic pollution.
- Renewable Sources: Since PHA is produced from renewable resources like plant sugars and oils, it supports the move towards sustainable production processes.
- Versatility: PHA polymers can be engineered to achieve a wide range of properties, from rigid plastics to flexible materials, making them adaptable to various applications.
- Non-toxic: PHA is non-toxic and safe for use in medical and food-contact applications, ensuring consumer safety.
Applications of PHA
The versatile nature of PHA allows it to be used across a multitude of industries, contributing to sustainability efforts worldwide. Key applications include:
- Packaging: PHA is increasingly used in the production of biodegradable packaging materials, reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-based plastics. From food packaging to protective films, PHA offers an eco-friendly solution.
- Medical and Healthcare: Due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability, PHA is used in the medical field for sutures, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds. This reduces the need for additional surgeries to remove non-degradable implants.
- Consumer Goods: PHA is gaining popularity in consumer products like disposable items. The use of PHA in these products supports the shift towards sustainable consumer behavior.
- Textiles: Innovations in PHA technology have led to its use in producing eco-friendly fibers and fabrics. The development of biodegradable textiles supports more sustainable fashion practices.
- 3D Printing: PHA can also be used in manufacturing filaments for 3D printing, providing an eco-friendly option for prototyping and production of customized parts.
Please kindly note that our products are for research use only.
