Synthesis of Various Products from Different Feed Stocks–an Insight Into Application of Biotechnology

Abstract

Synthesis of various products in energy efficient manner with minimum environmental foot print is important area of research in chemical engineering. Chemical pathways are energy intensive and many of the reactions are high temperature reactions. Many compounds like ethanol, amino acids, and acetic acids can be synthesized by biological methods. Biochemical reactions are low temperature reactions under mild conditions. Use of waste material as feedstock for production of useful compounds serves the purpose of reducing environmental footprints also. Enzyme catalyzed reactions are more specific in nature. Enzyme works like catalyst in these reactions. Immobilization of enzymes increases the production and facilitates efficient use of enzyme material. Biotechnology is becoming one of the most sought-after branches of engineering. Sugars, oils, protein, lignocelluloses are few feed stocks which can provide a wealth of products.. Rapid increase in the population of developing countries is the cause of growing demand of food, chemicals and fertilizers. The increase in demand for hydrocarbon-based compound is obvious result of rise in food, fertilizer and petrochemical products. Biological pathways for these chemicals have advantages such as low carbon dioxide emissions, less temperature requirement and low production cost. The use of waste feedstock is one more attribute which renders further economy to the process. Agricultural biotechnology is gaining more and more importance in the era of increasing demand for food. Ethical aspects need to be considered while applying advanced technology, especially in biotechnology. Genetic engineering has many advantages over the conventional biotechnology but also it involves risks. The advantages are increased crop production, enhanced crop protection, improvements in food processing, improved nutritional value and environmental benefits. The current review aims at carrying out review in the field of synthesis of chemicals by biological pathways, their advantages and disadvantages.