Spirited, Inc.: Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates from Bourbon Stillage.

1. Addressing the Current Issue or Problem. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), are a biobased form of 100% renewable, bio-based plastic that have the potential to replace petroleum-based plastic applications. The global polymers market is $750 Billion, growing at 5.4% CAGR, providing a large addressable market for future PHA manufacturing. PHA is increasing in terms of adoption in the US and globally, however, PHA's adoption has been limited because it is expensive and in short supply. Spirited Inc. (Spirited), in partnership with the University of Kentucky, seeks to produce our PHA from a waste (zero cost) feedstock and have other valuable byproducts (especially biogas) to help finance our biorefinery operations. Agricultural food and beverage waste, particularly wastewater from distilleries, is often discarded with minimal treatment, contributing to environmental pollution. This wastewater contains high organic loads that can impact water quality when released into waterways or municipal treatment systems. There is a growing need for alternative solutions to manage this waste while also reducing reliance on petroleum-based plastics.2. Basic Methods and Approaches. Our biorefinery system leverages bio-transformable organic matter, contained in wastewater from distilleries and other food and beverage producers, into PHAs and 100% renewable biogas. The system uses tailored microbes to convert thin stillage into acetate, then upgrades the acetate to PHA. The resulting product is extracted and purified for use. Simultaneously, anaerobic digestion of pressable solids from the wastewater will generate biogas, providing heat for the microbial process and a renewable energy source.3. Ultimate Goals and Societal Benefits. This project aims to establish an alternative method for converting agricultural waste into high value bioproducts. By producing PHAs, which can replace petroleum-based plastics in industries such as packaging, agriculture, and healthcare, the project supports circular economy principles. This project will provide lower-cost PHA that seeks to open new markets that today cannot afford to use PHA. Additionally, utilizing wastewater as a feedstock reduces pollution, improves water quality, and enhances the economic viability of renewable bioplastics and biogas. If successful, this project will significantly boost the supply of PHAs.