Journal of Bioremediation & Biodegradation
Open Access

Abstract

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are a new class of bioplastics that are produced by microbial bacteria as they ferment a variety of organic substrates ranging from naturally occurring oils to food wastes. Depending on the starting feedstock and the bacterial fermentation process, the chemical structure of PHA changes, thereby leading to a large variation in product performance. A number of companies around the globe have recently emerged with their plans targeting â�?�?Novel Manufacturing Processesâ�? to â�?�?Commercial Applicationsâ�?. The differentiating feature of PHA that sets this class apart from the rest is the â�?�?Biodgradability in Waters as well as under Ambient Conditionsâ�?, thus addressing Sustainability and Land-Ocean pollution issues confronting the society. This presentation will cover the latest on PHA technology and the current state-of-the-commercialization efforts.

Biography

Dr. Yash P. Khanna has over 40 years of highly diversified industrial experience. His career is credited with over 120 research publications, 25 U.S. patents, Society of Plastics Engineer’s International “Engineering/Technology” Award (2001) and North American Thermal Analysis Society’s Fellowship (1988) and its highest honor, the International Mettler Award (1997). His industrial affiliations include Chief Technology Officer at Applied Minerals (2013-2015), Senior Technology Fellow / Director of Technology at Imerys (2005-2009), a $5B minerals company and Manager of Reinforced Engineering Thermoplastics Program at Rayonier (20012004), a $3B forest products company. The great majority of his career was at Honeywell (1975-2001) formerly AlliedSignal, a $40B conglomerate company at its Corporate Research & Technology Center as a Research Group Leader / Senior Principal Scientist. During 1990-2001, he also held positions as Business Unit Liaison to Specialty Films and key technologist for Packaging Resins, where scientific fundamentals formed the basis of new product / process development as well as technology marketing in North America and Europe. These significant business contributions were recognized through 5 Special Recognition awards and 3 business awards (“Growth,” “Sale of the Year,” and “Save of the Year”). Now at InnoPlast Solutions, Dr. Khanna’s technology driven business experience is playing a key role in offering “Value-Driven” conferences and courses.