Advances in Bacterial Cellulose : Towards Sustainable Production and Emerging Applications

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in bacterial cellulose (BC) research, covering strain engineering and modelling, sustainable production, multifaceted applications, and assessments of its environmental and economic viability. This book seeks to connect academic research with practical application by exploring the distinctive properties and potential applications of BC. In this book, readers will find topics such as engineering BC by synthetic biology, the environmentally friendly synthesis of BC from waste materials, its various uses in systems with several phases, textiles, biomedical engineering, and materials science. The book also examines the capabilities of BC as bioinks for 3D printing and additive manufacturing, as well as its incorporation into nanocomposites and electrical, optoelectronic, and energy devices. Furthermore, the book addresses the critical aspects of BC's toxicity, life cycle assessment, and techno-economic analysis, providing a thorough understanding of its feasibility against plant cellulose. Edited and written by experts in the field, this book sets out to solve the ongoing challenge of unlocking the full potential of BC, a biodegradable, renewable, and versatile biopolymer, by providing a comprehensive and authoritative resource for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers. By compiling cutting-edge research and expert insights, this book aims to accelerate the transition of BC from the laboratory to real-world applications, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. The book is intended for academics, researchers, and industry professionals working in the fields of biotechnology, materials science, biomedical engineering, and sustainable development, as well as policymakers and stakeholders interested in the development of innovative, eco-friendly products and technologies.