Engineered microorganisms for converting OCC screen rejects into high-value biochemicals

Overview

Engineered microorganisms are being developed to upcycle OCC (Old Corrugated Containers) screen rejects through biological conversion. By engineering microbial strains, the carbon content in waste plastics and adhesives can be transformed into a range of high-value biochemical products. Potential outputs include microbial biomass for fertilizers, industrial enzymes, and other medicinal compounds. The process is intended to address waste management challenges while enabling more sustainable biochemical production.

Technical specifications

Key features of the technology include:

• Utilization of waste plastics and adhesives from OCC screen rejects as a low-cost carbon feedstock.
• Development of engineered microbial strains capable of thriving on mixed waste streams.
• Conversion of feedstock into diverse products such as fuels, lubricants, and proteins.
• Iterative genome modification and growth challenges to optimize microbial strain capabilities.

The work uses proprietary microbial engineering techniques to enhance microbial growth and conversion efficiency, with the goal of making industrial-scale upcycling of waste streams feasible and efficient.

Technology readiness level

Currently at Technology Readiness Level 2, the effort is in ongoing research and development. The initial phase focuses on demonstrating robust microbial growth on OCC screen rejects, with subsequent work directed toward measurable biochemical conversion. Progress is expected within a 12-month timeframe as the program advances from growth demonstration toward conversion performance.