Industrial Biotechnology

This important new book covers recent advancements, innovations, and technologies in industrial biotechnology, specifically addressing the application of various biomolecules in industrial production and in cleaning and environmental remediation sectors. The goal of industrial biotechnology is to develop new techniques and technologies to transform renewable raw materials into chemicals, materials, and fuels by the substitution of fossil fuels. With the increase in the worlds population and the resultant growing energy demand, the need for more energy can be successfully met with the advancements in industrial biotechnology. Currently across the globe significant research has been undertaken in the production of cleaner fuels, materials, and semi-synthetic chemicals, with environmental benefits. Developing countries have huge agricultural resources that could be utilized for production of value-added byproducts for the sustainable development of bio-based economy. The book opens with the chapter on the production of exopolysaccharides from halophilic microorganisms, a polymer that is normally very useful in various production sectors of the food, pharmaceutical, and petroleum industries. The book goes on to cover: The production of antimicrobial compounds from alkaliphilic bacteria Thermophilic actinomycetes Food, agro, and pharmaceutical potential and biotechnological applications of biosurfactants, halophiles, cyclodextrin glycosyl transferease, fungal chitinase, proteases, yeasts and yeast products Also covered in the book are the environmental aspects of industrial biotechnology such as the genetic enhancement for biofuel production, the production of biodegradable thermoplastics, advancements in the synthesis of bio-oil, ecofriendly treatment of agro-based lignocelluloses, and anaerobic bio reactors for hydrocarbon remediation. The international roster of chapter authors have been chosen for their renowned expertise and contribution to the various fields of industrial biotechnology. This book is suitable to chemists, biotechnologists from research institutes, academia, and students as well as for industry professionals