Conference Speakers

Andrew Cal, Ph.D.

Scientist, Mango Materials

Andrew Cal leads efforts to improve PHA production in microbial strains and to optimize the biological aspects of fermentation. He received his Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology from the University of Chicago studying the genetic architecture of gene expression. Andrew was a post-doctoral fellow at the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines and earned a B.S. in Plant Sciences from Cornell University. Dr. Cal’s varied research experience has focused on the identification and utilization of genetic variation controlling complex biological processes by combining statistical genomics and biotechnology. 

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Wednesday 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Bio-Innovation in Nonwovens III

Introduction of Circular, Biodegradable Polyhydroxyalkanoate for Fiber Applications

Improper disposal of plastics in the environment has become a major problem for natural ecosystems. Mango Materials biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymer offers a unique, circular solution to the problem of plastic waste and carbon pollution. This presentation will describe Mango Materials process to convert waste methane, produced by the degradation of organic material in landfills, farms, or waste water treatment facilities, into a family of bio-polymers known as PHAs. PHA is a carbon storage molecule for microorganisms and has been part of the natural carbon cycle for over 3 billion years. Over the last year, Mango Materials has developed PHA-based fibers to enable a biodegradable solution for the textile industry. Our progress in scale up and fiber development will be discussed. 

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