Microbial cellulose: biosynthesis and textile applications

Abstract Microbial cellulose is formed by an ultrafine nanofibrils network that is characterized by high tensile strength and a capacity to absorb water. Its structural, physicochemical and mechanical properties are exploited in several fields including wound dressings for skin tissue repair. Microbial cellulose can be produced by several bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia, Agrobacterium, Achromobacter, Rhizobium, Aerobacter, Azotobacter, Sarcina and Gluconacetobacter. The latter is grown in controlled submerged culture conditions in bioreactors, either static or agitated, to produce cellulose. However, to achieve industrial production and applications, it is necessary to optimize the manufacturing processes and to study the variables that affect yields and costs. In this regard, the culture medium constitutes one-third of the total cost, making it necessary to use alternative low-cost carbon and nitrogen sources in culture media without affecting yield and productivity. Moreover, some culture strategies have been developed such as a solid-state culture and carbon sources from agricultural wastes.