Biotechnology A2 Product Design: Graphics

Biotechnology Altering genes in woods Reduction of lignin Biopol

Altering Genes in Wood Relates to wood for paper and board Greater demands each year Genetically modified trees (GM) Artificially inserting a gene from one plant into another In the UK GM Elm trees (resistant to Dutch Elm Disease)

Altering Genes in Wood Advantages – Quicker growing trees – Resistant to disease and insect attack – Reduced strength of lignin fibres Reduces the amount of chemicals needed in paper making

Reduction of lignin Plant cell wall material is composed of three important constituents: cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose. Lignin is particularly difficult to biodegrade

Biopol Brand name for the first biodegradable polymer, polyhydroxybutrate (PHB) Used in the packaging industry (blow moulded bottles, plastic wrap, coating for paper and board) Water resistant Carbohydrates, sugar & extracted polymer (renewable raw materials) Compostable

Biodegradeable Polymers Advantages – Normally fully degradeable – Reduction of time in landfill Disadvantages – Damages recycled plasticd when mixed – More expensive than other polymers – More energy is needed to produce