Metabolix, Inc.

James J Barber

Joseph Pugach

Luhua Zhong

Edward M Muller

Robert S Whitehouse

Sean K Daughtry

Methods of forming intermediates from PHAs are disclosed.

Methods of making intermediates from polyhydroxyalkanoates

In some embodiments, this invention relates to a method that includes contacting a PHA with an aprotic catalyst to form an ester. The ester has only one monomer unit from the PHA. In certain embodiments, this invention relates to a method that includes treating a PHA-containing non-lyophilized biomass to form an ester, and removing at least some of the ester from the biomass.

Methods of forming intermediates from PHAs are disclosed. In general, the methods include forming a pyrrolidone from a PHA, such as poly 4-hydroxybutyrate or a 4-hydroxybutyrate containing polymer. The methods can include, for example, treating (e.g., heating) the PHA to form a pyrrolidone. The methods can include, for example, treating a biomass containing the PHA to form a pyrrolidone. The methods can include, for example, heating the PHA to a temperature of at most about 90&#xb0; C. to form a pyrrolidone, wherein the percent yield of the pyrrolidone is at least about 50%.

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Winchester, MA, United States of America

James J Barber