New invention of Kazakh scientists: smart bacterium produces plastic

Unique plastic made of bacteria. The innovation by scientists from Almaty enables synthesizing a convenient material from the microorganism biomaterial called ‘Pseudomonas’. Scientists derived the bacterium from the roots of common chicory and studied its properties for eight months. The obtained plastic can be used as packaging for many goods. It is capable of long-term maintaining the freshness of fruits, vegetables and cereals. The main property of this plastic is its faster decomposition. The bioplastic is also perfect for the formation of artificial vessels.

“This natural polymer can be used in various industries, such as food, agriculture and medicine. It can also serve as food packaging and prolong the shelf life of food products. This bioplastic perfectly protects them from environmental impact and micro-organisms,” said Aida Kistaubayeva, Head, Biotechnology Department, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

“It can be used as a seed coating. Actually, that’s exactly what we offer. Such a coating will improve the quality of the seeds. They can be enriched with various nutrients that will contribute to the germination of seeds, as well as protect them in the early stages of development when they are affected by various environmental factors,” said Lyudmila Ignatova, Associate Professor, Biotechnology Department, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

Scientists say that in case the project receives the necessary state support, then in the next three years it will be possible to produce bioplastics commercially.