Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a polymer produced by some bacteria and it is highly pure when compared to plant cellulose. Its structure and properties are unique, which makes it a material of a large commercial interest due to its broad potential of applications. The biosynthesis of BC may be carried out in two ways either static or agitated culture. Static culture usually generates BC membranes whereas agitated tends to produce spherical shapes. The production in agitated culture often enables an increase of yield for cellulose production. However, it provides a material with lower mechanical properties compared to static culture. The processing parameters and the phenomena governing the formation of BC in agitated cultivation have not fully established. A greater understanding of the phenomena and parameters inherent in the production of BC in agitated culture is necessary to achieve a technological progress. Some limitations concerning molecular weight control and BC structure made in agitated culture can improve with a better understanding of the culture conditions and the biosynthesis evolution. The ex-situ or in-situ insertion of additives may be performed to increase some specific properties of BC over agitated culture. Thus, the principal objective of this work is to discuss and provide a broad literature review on the techniques of BC production by agitated culture.
Morphological Investigation of Bacterial Cellulose/Cassava Starch Nanocomposites Produced by In-situ Process in Agitated Culture
