Conversion of Hydrocarbons to Biosurfactants

Alkanes accumulate either as byproducts or wastes from different industrial processes, including oil and gas, and present a direct threat to neighbouring ecosystems when released. On the other hand, alkanes provide a potential raw material for bioconversion, as optimum productivity from carbon based resources is important for sustainable bioprocessing. This work explores the potential of Ps aeruginosa 2Bf to use environmental pollutants such as hydrocarbons for the synthesis of commercial products via bioprocesses. The alkane potential to induce biosurfactant production, the optimisation of using alkanes as sole carbon and energy source, through optimising the mixing & aeration conditions, media conditions as well as provision of alkanes, in a stirred tank batch reactor system, are investigated. This work introduces a research and business orientation to those who may be interested in the hydrocarbon biotechnology and other industrial areas where biosurfactants unique properties such as biodegradability and effectiveness at extreme temperature, pH and salinity, are sought e.g. mineral processing, food and beverage, agriculture, pharmaceutical and environmental bioremediation.