Researchers at KAIST have created a microbial platform using E. coli to produce key monomers for nylon 6 and nylon 6,6. By utilizing glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel production, the team aims to replace traditional petrochemical processes that generate significant carbon emissions. The process uses a modular system where different bacterial strains handle upstream and downstream production. While current yields for some monomers remain low, the use of AI-designed enzymes and staggered inoculation shows a viable path toward sustainable, bio-based polymer manufacturing.
