Optimization of Genecis' Polyhydroxyalkanoate Formulation through Adjustment of Hydroxybutyrate, Hydroxyvalerate Ratios

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Genecis Bioindustries is a biotechnology company that converts food waste into PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) biodegradable plastics and other high value materials. Since 2017, they have rapidly scaled operations from the laboratory bench-scale at University of Toronto to operating out of a 4,000 sq/ft functional pilot facility in Scarborough, Ontario. Recently, Genecis has completed an industrial-scale 1000 L fermentation validation at the National Research Council in Montreal, filed 2 patents, and established an in-house materials testing laboratory. Genecis has also completed food waste to PHA conversion technology, which involves using mixed organic feed stock with Genecis proprietary bacteria. This is significant as there is not commercialized technology in the world that can currently produce PHAs from non-union sugar sources like organic waste. This collaborative project with Lambton college will focus on the adjustment of %HV and its effect on material properties and processability. To achieve the overall goal of the project, a series of physical, mechanical, rheological, and chemical analyses to characterize the different grades of PHBVs (poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) will be conducted, as well as, multiple experiments to fine-tune the created higher %HV PHBVs and polymer manufacturing trials for PHBV composite product applications. The success of the project will lead to potentially, $850,000 immediate revenues, and an additional $6 million in recurring purchase orders. After the successful commercialization of results, it is estimated that sales of $300,000 plus $3 million in purchase orders in Canada as well as $1,500,000 with an additional $6 million in purchase orders internationally will occur over 2-3 years. With increased level of production, it is estimated to create new or supporting positions of up to 10 full time positions. Since, this polymer has a strong appeal in a worldwide single-plastic market, there is potential for sales to grow significantly more over time.