1. A2 Product Design: Graphics
Biotechnology
A2 Product Design: Graphics

2. Biotechnology
Altering genes in woods
Reduction of lignin
Biopol

3. Altering Genes in Wood Relates to wood for paper and board
Greater demands each year
Genetically modified trees (GM)
Artificially inserting a gene from one plant into another
In the UK GM Elm trees (resistant to Dutch Elm Disease)

4. Reduction of lignin
Plant cell wall material is composed of three important constituents: cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose.
Lignin is particularly difficult to biodegrade

5. Altering Genes in Wood Advantages Quicker growing trees
Resistant to disease and insect attack
Reduced strength of lignin fibers
Reduces the amount of chemicals needed in paper making
Increased growth rate
Disadvantages
Long term side effects unknown
‘escape’ of modified genes into natural ecosystems
Organisms adapt to modified trait
Rapid growth, more demand on the environment (water, nutrients etc)

6. Biopol
Brand name for the first biodegradable polymer, polyhydroxybutrate (PHB)
Used in the packaging industry (blow moulded bottles, plastic wrap, coating for paper and board)
Water resistant
Carbohydrates, sugar & extracted polymer (renewable raw materials)
Compostable

7. Biodegradable Polymers
Advantages
Normally fully degradable
Reduction of time in landfill
Disadvantages
Damages recycled plastic when mixed
More expensive than other polymers
More energy is needed to produce