11 September 2026
Introduction
In this edition highlighting researchers who use UNLOCK’s platforms, we spoke with Weishen Zeng, a researcher whose work focuses on the biological recycling of biodegradable plastic waste through anaerobic fermentation. Their research investigates how biodegradable plastics can be converted into valuable carboxylic acids, such as volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which can be further used as platform chemicals. By combining anaerobic fermentation, microbial community analysis and advanced analytical technologies, the research demonstrates how UNLOCK’s different platforms can work together to support multiple stages of a research project. The experiments were conducted using the UNLOCK Modular Bioreactor, Biodiscovery and FAIR Data Platforms.
Could you briefly describe the focus of your thesis research?
My research focuses on the biological recycling of biodegradable plastic waste through anaerobic fermentation. I investigate how biodegradable plastics can be converted into valuable carboxylic acids, such as volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which can be further used as platform chemicals.
What were the key goals or research questions you aimed to explore?
The main goal is to understand how biodegradable plastics, including TPS (thermoplastic starch), PBSA (polybutylene succinate-co-adipate), PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate), and PCL (polycaprolactone), can be converted into carboxylates through open-culture anaerobic fermentation. I am particularly interested in how plastic-derived carbon can be directed towards VFA production rather than methane, how the process can be better controlled, and how these complex fermentation processes can be monitored in real time.
What methods or technologies did you use as part of your project?
I used open-culture anaerobic fermentation with mixed microbial communities, in both batch and continuous bioreactor systems. The fermentation processes were monitored using analytical methods such as GC, HPLC, and NMR, together with microbial community analysis, including 16S rRNA sequencing and metagenomics. We also developed an H-NMR approach for real-time monitoring of VFA production.
What were the most significant results or key findings of your study?
Our research showed that biodegradable plastics and their monomers, such as 1,4-butanediol and adipic acid, can be used as feedstocks for VFA production. We also identified key microbial communities potentially involved in the conversion process and their possible roles in VFA production.
Which UNLOCK platforms or tools did you use during your research?
I used three UNLOCK platforms throughout my research. I conducted my anaerobic fermentation experiments using the Modular Bioreactor Platform, which allowed me to control the experimental conditions and automatically monitor and control temperature, pH, gas supply, as well as other process parameters. The biological samples collected from the reactors were analysed through the Biodiscovery Platform, including 16S rRNA sequencing and metagenomics. I also used the FAIR Data Platform for initial processing and analysis of the microbial data. Together, these platforms allowed me to connect the workflow from bioreactor experiments and process monitoring to microbial community analysis and data processing.
How did UNLOCK facilities support or enhance your work?
UNLOCK supported my research by allowing me to study the fermentation process at both the process and microbial levels. The Modular Bioreactor Platform allowed me to better control and monitor the fermentation conditions and follow changes in process performance over time. The Biodiscovery Platform enabled me to characterise the microbial communities involved in the process. The FAIR Data Platform then helped me process and analyse the microbial data, allowing me to identify changes in community composition and relate them to process performance. Together, these platforms helped me better understand how microbial communities influence the fermentation process.
Were there any specific technical challenges or discoveries you encountered while using the platform?
A major challenge was maintaining a closed anaerobic fermentation system and mass balance. This required some practical adjustments to the reactor setup, such as modifying the headplates and improving how they were secured. Another challenge was analysing complex biological samples, especially when DNA concentrations were low. Fortunately, I received strong technical support from the UNLOCK technicians throughout the process. We worked together to troubleshoot challenges and adjust the experimental and analytical methods.
What did you find most valuable about working with UNLOCK?
For me, the most valuable aspect was the combination of advanced infrastructure, automation, and interdisciplinary expertise. It allowed me to connect microbiology, bioprocess engineering, and analytical technologies within the same research environment.
Has your experience with the platforms influenced your current or future research direction?
It did not change my research direction, but it increased my interest in it. Working with the advanced infrastructure and analytical technologies at UNLOCK showed me new possibilities for understanding the potential of microorganisms and using them to develop better solutions to environmental challenges.
Do you have any advice or tips for future students or researchers planning to work with UNLOCK?
I would recommend getting involved early and discussing your research needs with the technical experts. Combining different facilities and analytical approaches can provide much more insight than using a single technique.
