De residuos a biopolímeros: fermentación anaeróbica como ruta sostenible para la producción de polihidroxialcanoatos

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are biopolymers gaining relevance due to their biodegradability and potential to replace conventional plastics, making them a promising solution to mitigate plastic pollution. The production of PHA from volatile fatty acids (VFA), generated through anaerobic waste treatment, offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional production routes. This article examines the anaerobic treatment of various waste substrates, such as glycerol, palm oil, fruit and vegetable bagasse, whey, and molasses, aiming to produce VFA. These substrates are evaluated based on their availability, low cost, and compatibility with sustainable biotechnological processes. Furthermore, the advantages and limitations of each substrate are discussed, along with the optimal operational conditions to maximize waste conversion into VFA. The research holds significant implications for the development of integrated biorefinery systems and waste valorization in the PHA industry.