Division of Cellulose and Renewable Materials – Enzymatic Upgrading of Biopolymers Towards Multipurpose Functional Materials
Structural cell wall polysaccharides such as cellulose, chitin, and hemicelluloses constitute the main renewable resource from biomass for the production of multipurpose bio-based materials and products. Most of the current processes for the fractionation and modification of these structural biopolymers utilize harsh chemicals, induce partial degradation, and do not fully utilize the full component range of the starting feedstock. A sustainable approach to the utilization of renewable biomass resources involves the use of biocatalysis (i.e. carbohydrate-active enzymes), which are able to catalyze reactions in aqueous solvents and mild conditions. However, most biocatalysts used in bio-based economies deconstruct structural polysaccharides for use as commodity chemicals and fuels. In this symposium, we would like to invite contributions on the use of biocatalysts for the functionalization of structural polysaccharides to create high-value and sustainable bioproducts that maximize the efficient use of renewable bioresources. Potential areas of interest include the use of oxidases, lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases, laccases, transaminases, loosenins, expansins, and other auxiliary enzymes for applications in structural materials, food, and pharma products.
Abstract submission deadline: October 2, 2023
Sponsored by UPM
