Bioconversion of Agricultural Wastes to Polyhydroxybutyrate by Azotobacter vinelandii

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential of different agricultural wastes like wheat bran, rice polishing and molasses for the synthesis of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) by Azotobacter vinelandii. The optimization of different carbon sources and various physical parameters was also performed. Highest yield of PHB was obtained by fermentation of 4% (w/v) wheat bran after 48 h of incubation with 4% (v/v) inoculum volume at pH 7.0 and 37 degrees C. Among different nitrogen sources tested, 0.2% peptone gave the better yield (285 mg/100 mL), while yeast extract decreased the amount of PHB. The outcomes of the present data indicate that agricultural wastes can be used for the production of polyhydroxybutyrate that will help in the solid waste management.