Non-sterilized fermentative production of polymer-grade L-lactic acid by a newly isolated thermophilic strain Bacillus sp. 2-6.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The demand for lactic acid has been increasing considerably because of its use as a monomer for the synthesis of polylactic acid (PLA), which is a promising and environment-friendly alternative to plastics derived from petrochemicals. Optically pure L-lactic acid is essential for polymerization of PLA. The high fermentation cost of L-lactic acid is another limitation for PLA polymers to compete with conventional plastics.

Methodology/principal findings

A Bacillus sp. strain 2-6 for production of L-lactic acid was isolated at 55 degrees C from soil samples. Its thermophilic characteristic made it a good lactic acid producer because optically pure L-lactic acid could be produced by this strain under open condition without sterilization. In 5-liter batch fermentation

SUBMITTER: Qin J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2632756 | biostudies-literature | 2009

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature