James P Nakas

Title: Innovations of James P Nakas in Biodegradable Plastics

Introduction

James P Nakas is an accomplished inventor based in Lafayette, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of biodegradable materials, particularly through his innovative methods for producing polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) from biodiesel-glycerol. His work addresses the growing need for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.

Latest Patents

James P Nakas holds a patent for "Methods for producing polyhydroxyalkanoates from biodiesel-glycerol." This patent outlines methods for creating biodegradable PHAs with specific geometries, molecular masses, and mechanical properties. The process utilizes glycerol, a byproduct of the biodiesel industry, as a primary carbon source. Microorganisms capable of converting carbon to PHA are employed to ferment biodiesel-glycerol into poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) or other PHA variants. The resulting biomass can be harvested, and crude PHA can be extracted and purified, yielding a product with desirable properties for various applications.

Career Highlights

James P Nakas is affiliated with the SUNY Research Foundation, where he continues to advance research in biodegradable materials. His innovative approaches have positioned him as a key figure in the development of sustainable plastics, contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

Collaborations

James has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Chengjun Zhu and Joseph A Perrotta, to further enhance the research and development of biodegradable materials.

Conclusion

James P Nakas's work in producing biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates from biodiesel-glycerol represents a significant advancement in sustainable materials. His contributions are vital in addressing environmental challenges associated with plastic waste.