An update on the use of unconventional substrates for biosurfactant production and their new applications.

Makkar, R S and Cameotra, Swaranjit Singh (2002) An update on the use of unconventional substrates for biosurfactant production and their new applications. Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 58 (4). pp. 428-34. ISSN 0175-7598

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Abstract

Biosurfactants are valuable microbial amphiphilic molecules with effective surface-active and biological properties applicable to several industries and processes. Microbes synthesize them, especially during growth on water-immiscible substrates, providing an alternative to chemically prepared conventional surfactants. Because of their structural diversity (i.e., glycolipids, lipopeptides, fatty acids, etc.), low toxicity, and biodegradability, these molecules could be widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food processes as emulsifiers, humectants, preservatives, and detergents. Moreover, they are ecologically safe and can be applied in bioremediation and waste treatments. They can be produced from various substrates, mainly renewable resources such as vegetable oils, distillery and dairy wastes, which are economical but have not been reported in detail. In this review, we report advances made in using renewable substrates for biosurfactant production and their newer applications.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Copyright of this article belongs to Springer Science.
Subjects:	Q Science > QR Microbiology
Depositing User:	Dr. K.P.S.Sengar
Date Deposited:	05 Jan 2012 15:14
Last Modified:	29 Mar 2012 06:26
URI:	http://crdd.osdd.net/open/id/eprint/272

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