Name: PHB stands for Poly-β-hydroxybutanoate, which is part of the group PHA (Poly-β-hydroxyalkanoate).
Properties: It is a recently developed biopolymer, which has similar properties to polypropylene, with the important exception that it is biodegradeable.
Synthesis: PHB is produced from microorganisms, such as Alcaligenes Eutrophus. The selected microorganism is placed in a suitable medium and fed the appropriate nutrients for it to multiply. When the desired amount has been reached, a nutrient (for example, nitrogen) is removed and the organism would cease to reproduce and begin forming the polymer. Around 30%-80% of the microorganism's dry weight can be harvested as the polymer.
Potential Usage: PHB is especially significant where biodegradeability is of concern. For example, it has great potential to be manufactured into medical supplies, nappies, plastic bottles and plastic packaging.