Modelling Analysis and Processability Optimization of PHA Bioplastics

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The global demand for biodegradable polymers is expected to increase to 550,000 metric tons by 2023 from the current 360,000 tons. The 3D printing plastics market is projected to reach USD 1,965.3 million by 2023 from the current 615.8 million. Similarly, the global injection molded plastics market is expected to reach 478.72 billion by 2025. Our industrial partner, Genecis, has developed polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) granules made from food waste that can be converted into biodegradable plastics. Traditional manufacturers use sugars from expensive feedstocks such as corn, sugar cane, or canola oil to make PHA polymers. In Genecis' case, organic food waste is used as the production feedstock meaning Genecis is paid to take organic food waste which is then converted to produce the same high-quality PHA polymers at a fraction of the cost, 40% cost reduction. Currently, there are no reports of commercial scale production of PHA from organic waste. The Gene-plastic PHA polymer has comparable functionality and mechanical/physical properties to comparable plastics. When discarded, Gene-plastic can biodegrade in aquatic and terrestrial environments in under a year. The proposed project focuses on the manufacturability, processability and biodegradability of parts made from the new bioplastic using injection molding and 3D printing processes, e.g. food packaging and disposable tableware. Through this project Genecis will identify a point of market penetration for its PHA and provide supporting data, cases studies and analyses to potential customers. The growth of Genecis means increased job creation and improved environmental footprint of Canadian businesses while creating a new value-added chain utilizing food waste. With the current global trend to use bioplastics and reduce plastic pollution, exporting opportunities and increased market share are promising.