Description:
Abstract
USC researchers have developed an approach to convert polyethylenes into valuable compounds. This method involves aerobic, catalytic digestion of polyethylenes obtained from post-consumer and oceanic waste streams. The resulting carboxylic diacids serve as a carbon source for the fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Through genetic engineering, strains of A. nidulans can produce fungal secondary metabolites, including asperbenzaldehyde, citreoviridin, and mutilin. This innovative hybrid approach expands the range of products that can be obtained from polyethylenes, enabling more efficient upcycling of these materials.
Benefit
- Rapid conversion of polyethylenes into structurally complex and pharmacologically active compounds
- Integration of chemical and biological techniques
- Enhances sustainable upcycling potential
Market Application
With plastic production set to reach 1.1 billion tons annually by 2040 and only 9% currently being recycled, there is a pressing need to develop recycling approaches for polyethylenes. Chemical methods have limitations, and while catalytic approaches show promise, they require energy-intensive conditions. Biological systems offer potential solutions, as demonstrated by the progress made in PET degradation and upcycling. However, there is still a gap in biological upcycling approaches for polyolefins like LDPE and HDPE, providing room for further development in this market.
- Sustainable material development
- Pharmaceuticals
- Chemical industry
Publications
Conversion of Polyethylenes into Fungal Secondary Metabolites, Rabot et al., 2022.
Other
Stage of Development
- Proof of principle demonstrated
- Available for licensing