4. Conclusions
The microbiological conversion of glycerol into PHB is an interesting
alternative to obtain added value products using this by
product of the biodiesel industry. The PHB production using B.
megaterium could be improved when pH and oxygen saturation
are controlled in the fermentation conditions. Using simulation
programs, the PHB total production costs were estimated at an
industrial scale with both substrates (glycerol and glucose). PHB
production using glycerol showed a 10–20% lower production cost
compared with glucose. The crude glycerol generated in the biodiesel
production can be valorized in 166.2% through the production
of PHB.