Plastics, academia

Abstract Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) initially received serious attention as a possible substitute for petrochemical-based plastics because of the anticipated shortage in the supply of petroleum. Since then, PHA has remained as an interesting material to both the academia and indusby. Now, we know more about this microbial storage polyester and have developed efficient fermentation systems for the large-scale production of PHA. Besides sugars, plant oils will become one of the important feedstock for the industrial-scale production of PHA. In addition, PHA will find new apphcations in various areas. This chapter summarizes the future prospects and the importance of developing a sustainable production system for PHA. 

In addition to specific polymers, subject entries on equipment, processing and compounding techniques, synthesis, and quality control test methods are included. Rubber and plastic compounders, polymer processing engineers, product development specialists, as well as students will likely find this volume useful. The author has tried to use industry descriptions of terms for the most part, as opposed to oligarchical definitions. References to specific trade names and polymer producers is not an endorsement of products on the part of the author or the publisher. Likewise, the omission of specific product and company name references should not be viewed as a lack of endorsement. This volume is intended as a general aid to industry and academia and not an exhaustive review of the industrial press and scientific literature. 

I thank all the current and former students in my research group at Sussex and my many collaborators, both in academia and in industry. I am grateful to the EPSRC, Royal Society, Nuffield Foundation, Society for Chemical Industry, and the British Council for their generous financial support, and to the following industrial sponsors Courtaulds Research, Zeneca Resins, ICI, Cabot Plastics, the New Oji Paper Co., Synthetic Chemicals Ltd., and the Defence Research Agency. Finally I thank the referees of this manuscript for their insightful comments. 

The detailed coverage in this book, coupled with the many references to recent work, will ensure that it is welcomed as a reference by synthetic chemists in, for example, the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, plastic and detergent industries. Researchers and their students in academia will also find it a valuable addition to their bookshelves. 

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