Optimization of fermentation conditions, purification and rheological properties of poly (γ-glutamic acid) produced by Bacillus subtilis 1006-3.

This study aimed to investigate the optimal fermentation condition, purification and rheological properties of extracellular polymers produced by Bacillus subtilis 1006-3. An optimum temperature of 30.2 °C, inoculation amount of 6.1%, and pH of 8.2 were determined via Response Surface Methodology. The result of amino acid analysis and gel electrophoresis indicated that the obtained polymer contained only glutamic acid, with a wide molecular weight range. This polymer was finally determined as γ-PGA by infrared spectroscopy. The γ-PGA solution displayed a behavior of pseudoplastic non-Newtonian fluid with shear thinning properties, which can be described by the Ostward-de Waele power law model. The apparent viscosity of γ-PGA solution increased with the increase in its concentration from 1% to 10%. The deviation in pH from neutral value, and the addition of NaCl or MgCl2 can reduce the apparent viscosity of γ-PGA solution, and it was more sensitive to Mg2+ than to Na+ addition. At the concentration of 4, 6, and 8%, γ-PGA solution showed predominantly viscous response in the range of 0.1-100 rad/s angular frequency (G″>G'). These results indicated the potential application of the γ-PGA as a thickening agent.