The biosynthesis and characterization of a new biodegradable plastic, poly(3-hydroxy-2-methylbutyrate) [P(3H2MB)], which is a member of the bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family whose members include an α-methylated monomer unit, were investigated. Biosynthesized P(3H2MB) exhibited the highest melting temperature (197 °C) among the biosynthesized PHAs and improved thermal resistance. It also exhibited improved crystallization behavior and mechanical flexibility nearly equal to those of isotactic polypropylene (iPP). The superior physical properties of P(3H2MB) have the potential to open new avenues for the production of high-performance biodegradable plastics for replacing petroleum-based bulk commodity plastics.
- Sho Furutate
- Junichi Kamoi
- Takeharu Tsuge
