Multistage Conversion of Eucheuma cottonii Residues into Third Generation L-Lactic Acid

The COVID-19 pandemic increased single-use plastic demand, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives like polylactic acid (PLA) from biodegradable sources. This study explores using Eucheuma cottonii residues for L-Lactic acid (L-LA) production, achieving significant yields through ultrason...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Chong, Soo Ling
Format: Thesis
Published: Curtin University 2024
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/95439
Description
Summary:The COVID-19 pandemic increased single-use plastic demand, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives like polylactic acid (PLA) from biodegradable sources. This study explores using Eucheuma cottonii residues for L-Lactic acid (L-LA) production, achieving significant yields through ultrasonic-assisted molten salts hydrates pretreatment. Optimal conditions for L-LA extraction were identified, and exergy analysis across biorefinery scenarios showed the integrated plant had high efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating the potential of macroalgae-based biorefineries for eco-friendly bioplastic production.