Patent Description:
Plastics are synthetic polymers derived from fossil oil or renewable materials and largely resistant to biodegradation. Because of this resistance, plastics have a heavy environmental impact. Plastic pollution is such a serious problem, and worsening at rapid rate. Estimates state that by <NUM> the world's oceans will contain more plastic than fish. Solutions to the problem of the plastic degradation and/or recycling are thus urgently needed. However, hundreds of different plastics exist and different plastics require different treatment for degradation and/or recycling. Plastic products often contain more than one part comprising different plastic polymers, making it difficult to separate the different plastics for degradation and/or recycling and many products comprise mixes of plastic polymers and/or copolymers. Additionally, the mixed way in which plastics are collected makes recycling very challenging, as the various types are difficult to separate. Thus, a large quantality of plastic materials is neither degraded or recycled and thus ends up polluting the environment.

The use of biomass for the production of energy as well as the production of food, feed and fertilizers, has attracted and continues to attract attention and interest in the current global environmental situation. The growing desire of industries to move away from fossil fuels and into renewable energy has increased the priority given to the production of biomass from organic matter derived from vegetable organisms, animals, bacteria and fungi, amongst others.

Galleria mellonella, with the common name greater wax moth, is a member of the family Pyralidae, which is a pest of the honeybee. It feeds on beeswax in the wild, i.e., mainly on esters formed by esterification of fatty acids with fatty alcohols. The skilled person appreciates an approximate chemical formula for beeswax being C<NUM>H<NUM>COOC<NUM>H<NUM>. The main constituents of beeswax are palmitate, palmitoleate, and oleate esters of long-chain (<NUM>-<NUM> carbons) aliphatic alcohols. The principal consituents are triacontanyl palmitate CH<NUM>(CH<NUM>)<NUM>O-CO-(CH<NUM>)<NUM>CH<NUM> and cerotic acid CH<NUM>(CH<NUM>)<NUM>COOH, present in a ratio of approximately <NUM>:<NUM>.

While being considered as a pest in the wild, it has been more appreciated in laboratory environments. mellonella is well-accepted as an insect model for studies relating to pathogen-host interactions and studies relating to antimicrobial compounds. The insect provides several advantages such low cost of maintenance, fast life cycle, the possibility of using a large number of larvae and an innate immune system which evolutionarily conserved relative to mammals.

<CIT> discloses insects capable of degrading petroleum-based plastics. The insects can be snout moths and the petroleum-based plastic can be amongst other polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide or the polyacrylate polymethylmethacrylate. Peydaei Asal et al. , <NUM> discloses the biodegradation of polypropylene by Galleria mellonella.

In <NUM>, one group of researchers (Bombelli et al. ) discovered that G. mellonella was able to consume polyethylene (PE) by the observance of holes in a plastic bag containing larvae. In <NUM>, another group of scientists (Lou et al. ) have shown that G. mellonella is able to digest polystyrene (PS). This article teaches that larvae survival decreased when G. mellonella was feed polystyrene or polyethylene, compared to when G. mellonella was feed on beeswax or starved. Supplementing the plastic feed with G. mellonellas beeswax or bran, the survival rate of the larvae increased compared to when the feed was only polystyrene or polyethylene. As such, the study reports that G. mellonella exhibits a preference away from feeding on plastics.

Although effort has been made in the field of biomass production, there is a need for more methods for obtaining biomass. Would improved methods be provided, an even greater benefit for mankind would arise if such generation would be a result of degradation of unwanted waste materials.

It is an object of the present invention to at least partly reduce or overcome challenges in the prior art, and provide means for production of biomass via degradation of materials comprising at least one plastic polymer. The present inventors have surprisingly found that the production of biomass by digestion of various plastics only (without other feed supplement) can be achieved by the insects of the family Pyralidae while also increasing the pupation of said insects, whereby the survival and propagation of the biomass producing insects is improved and plastics are efficiently transformed to biomass.

In the first aspect, there is provided a method for producing biomass. Similarly, as discussed below in a fourth aspect there is provided a use of a feed for producing biomass. The method or a use comprises the steps of bringing at least one larva of the family Pyralidae into contact with a feed and allowing said at least one larva to feed on said polymer. Thereby biomass is produced. The feed comprises at least one plastic polymer, which polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile, and any mixes or copolymers thereof or from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

Thus, there is provided a method for producing biomass, the method comprising.

In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile. In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, , polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile. In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyacrylate; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyester; cotton; a mixture of polyester, synthetic polyamide and copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate). In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyester; and poly(ethylenevinylacetate). In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyester; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate).

Thus according to a fourth aspect , there is also provided a use of a feed for producing biomass, the use comprising.

For the avoidance of any doubt, all embodiments of said method according to the first aspect described herein are also applicable to said use of a feed according to the fourth aspect as disclosed herein, as apparent to a person of skill in the art.

An advantage of using a polymer from the lists of plastic polymers stated above is that the weight of the larvae is significantly increased compared to larvae feeding on natural feed. The term "natural feed" is intended to mean a feed of choice by the larvae when said larvae is in its natural environment. For example, natural feed may be wax-based feed for larva of the family Pyralidae For example, G. mellonella may feed on a wax-based feed, such as bees wax, i.e. mainly on esters formed by esterification of fatty acids with fatty alcohols. mellonella may additionally or alternatively feed on cast skins of bee larvae, pollen, propolis and honey. The skilled person is aware of what natural feed said larvae utilize in the natural environment.

Another advantage is that the weight increase is the result of plastic polymer degradation by the larvae. As such, degradation of unwanted material (plastic polymer) provides for biomass production. This is further described in the appended examples.

The present inventor have surprisingly found that when larva are fed plastic polymer based feed, the biomass (such as biomass in the form a larvae, pupae or feces) produced is significantly increased compared to biomass produced when said larva are fed their natural wax-based food, such as beeswax. As demonstrated in the Example section of the present application, the change of food source to a food source comprising at least one plastic polymer leads to an increase of larval mass over time compared to the natural wax-based food source. It is considered that the present invention provides a method or a use for the production of biomass, which simultaneously addresses the problem of the increasing amount of plastic waste in the environment.

Surprisingly, the mass increase of larvae that are fed exclusively on plastic (e. said material consist of plastic(s)) is achieved without supplementing said plastic with any supplementary feed (also referred to herein as additional feed). A supplementary feed is intended to mean a suitable natural feed for said larvae,. Thus, advantageously, the production of biomass is achieved by said larvae without any requirement of addition of any supplement, such as feed supplement.

As said larvae are able to digest the herein disclosed plastic polymers, polymer mixes and copolymers, even without supplementing said plastic comprising material with any supplementary feed, the present invention provides advantages for plastic material degradation and recycling. Such advantage is for example that there is no need for the separation of different kinds of plastic materials when polymer mixes and/or copolymers. Another advantage is for example that there is no need to mix plastic materials subjected to degradation with a natural feed for said larvae, in order to achieve plastic digestion by said larvae. Furthermore, there is no need to mix plastic materials subjected to degradation with supplementary feed (which may be a natural feed for the species) for obtaining increased larval mass.

As used herein, the term "plastic" is intended to comprise both thermoset and thermoplastic materials as well as synthetic elastomers.

In one embodiment of said first or fourth aspect, the feed consists of said at least one plastic polymer, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. For avoidance of any doubt, when the feed consists of said at least one plastic polymer, there can be no supplementary feed added to the feed. Thus, said larvae feed only on plastic polymer(s). This is in line with the appended examples, wherein the feed is at least one plastic polymer, there is no supplementary feed available for the larvae.

A large number of plastic polymers is used by mankind often contain mixtures of polymers and/or copolymers, such as exemplified but not limited to the ones listed in the following embodiments. Thus, in one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polyether and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide and polyacrylate, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a polyether-polyurethane copolymer.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyacrylate, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In the packaging industry, it is common to use different plastic polymers for different part of a package. Packaging materials often contain mixtures of polymers and/or copolymers, such as exemplified but not limited to the ones listed in the following embodiment. In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

A large number of plastic polymers are used in the clothing industry and clothing materials often contain mixtures of polymers and/or copolymers, such as exemplified but not limited to the ones listed in the following embodiment. Thus, in one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In the transportation industry, there is a high demand on materials that can resist external forces. The materials often contain mixtures of polymers and/or copolymers, such as exemplified but not limited to the ones listed in the following embodiment. Thus, in one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In the building and construction industry, there is a high demand on long-lasting materials or materials that can resist external forces and materials with good insulation properties. The materials often contain mixtures of polymers and/or copolymers, such as exemplified but not limited to the ones listed in the following embodiment. Thus, in one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, polyurethane, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

A plastic material may often comprise more than one polymer. Commonly, a plastic material comprises mixes of polymers, or plastic copolymers. This is a problem for the waste industry because different plastics require different conditions and methods of treatment for degradation and/or recycling. As plastic products often contain many different plastic polymers (in the same or in different parts of the product) it is very challenging to sufficiently separate different plastics for efficient degradation and/or recycling. Additionally, the mixed way in which plastics are collected makes the recycling process very challenging due to mixed materials. This may lead to problems in degradation or recycling of the materials. Advantageously, the present disclosure provides a method or a use for degradation of a range of plastic-comprising materials. Many plastic materials consist of more than one type plastic polymer, either as a mixture, composite material or copolymer. Thus, it is considered advantageous that such plastic material may be fully digested. For example, it is envisioned that complete clothing items, whole or processed into fragments could be digested without the need to separate different polymers from each other. The method or use as disclosed herein may provide for effective degradation of many different plastic materials, as well as any mixes and/or copolymers thereof, while producing biomass.

In one embodiment, the at least one polymer is a mixture of at least two polymers. In one embodiment, the mixture of a least two different polymers, which polymers are independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and polyvinylidene chloride. In a related embodiment, the mixture of a least two polymers, which polymers are independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, and polyurethane. Optionally, the material may further comprise a polymer selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide and polyester, or any copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the at least one polymer is a mixture of at least two polymers. In one embodiment, the mixture of a least two different polymers, which polymers are independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and polyvinylidene chloride. In a related embodiment, the mixture of a least two polymers, which polymers are independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, and polyurethane. Optionally, the material may further comprise a polymer selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide and polyester, or any copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is a copolymer, which copolymer comprises at least two polymers, independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and polyvinylidene chloride, such as the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene.

In one embodiment, the polymer is a copolymer, which copolymer comprises at least two polymers, independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and polyvinylidene chloride.

In one embodiment, the copolymer comprises at least two polymers, independently selected from the group consisting of polyether, and polyurethane, and optionally wherein said copolymer further comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide and polyester, or any mixes thereof.

In one embodiment, the copolymer is a polyether-polyurethane copolymer, such as elastane.

In one embodiment, the copolymer further comprising an additional polymer.

In one embodiment, the copolymer further comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, synthetic polyamide and a polysaccharide such as cellulose, or any mixes thereof.

In one embodiment, the copolymer further comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polyethylene and cellulose.

In one embodiment, the polyester is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene terephthalate, polycaprolactone, and polyethylene adipate.

As used herein, the term "synthetic polyamide" refers to a polyamid which is made up of repeating units of the same kind. As such, a synthetic polyamide is different from for example a protein, which consists of different units and is obtained in a step-by-step type polymerization. A synthetic polymer, such as synthetic polyamide, may for example be obtained by step-growth polymerization. Examples of synthetic polyamides are for example nylons. In one embodiment, the synthetic polyamide is selected from the group consisting of PA <NUM>; PA <NUM>,<NUM>; PA <NUM> and PA <NUM>.

In one particular embodiment of the method according to the first aspect or use according to the fourth aspect, wherein said at least one larva is of the family Pyralidae, the method or use exhibits an increase in pupation in a population of said larva compared to when a corresponding population of larva is fed a wax-based feed. This is evident from <FIG>. <FIG> shows that a larger amount of larvae of G. mellonella successfully transform into pupae when feed on the plastic material polypropylene than when feed on wax, which is a natural feed of G. mellonella. <FIG> shows the difference in the amount of larvae of G. mellonella successfully transform into pupae when feed on a plastic polymer according to the invention, compared to when the feed is wax.

In one embodiment, said wax-based feed comprises esters formed by esterification of fatty acids with fatty alcohols. In one embodiment, said wax-based feed essentially consists of esters formed by esterification of fatty acids with fatty alcohols. In one embodiment, said wax-based feed is bees wax. In particular, said wax-based feed may comprise approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> % by weight of a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, cellulose, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the increase of pupation is quantified as the difference between the number of pupae versus dead larvae compared to the initial number of larvae in the population. Thus, the number of pupae versus dead larvae is compared in the population receiving the feed comprising or consisting of at least one plastic polymer with the corresponding population receiving the wax-based feed.

In one embodiment, said increase of pupation is after at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days. In particular, said increase of pupation is approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM>%, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %. Referring to Table <NUM>, the % increase in pupation is remarkable for the tested substrates. For polyamide, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For polyester, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For polyacrylate, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For cotton, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For polyethylene, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For a mixture of polyamide and a polyether-polyurethane copolymer, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. For a mixture of polyester, polyamide and a polyether-polyurethane copolymer, the % increase at day <NUM> is <NUM> %. In one embodiment, said increase of pupation is within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as around approximately <NUM> %. In one embodiment, said increase of pupation is within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> % such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least at least <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately at least <NUM> %,. In particular, said increase of pupation may be after at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days or longer such as at least <NUM> days or longer, such as approximately <NUM> days. In particular if the larvae are kept under conditions as described herein, such as the conditions as described in Example <NUM>.

In a second related aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for increasing pupation in a population of larva of the family Pyralidae. The method comprises bringing the population into contact with feed, wherein said feed comprises at least one polymer. The population is hereby allowed to feed on said feed. The polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. Alternatively, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyacrylate; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; polyester; cotton; a mixture of polyester, synthetic polyamide and copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate). In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; polyester; and poly(ethylenevinylacetate). In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyester; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate). The pupation is increased compared to when said feed is a wax-based feed for the family Pyralidae. The skilled person will appreciate that the comparison may be made in the same population of larvae at a different time or in a corresponding population as the same or a different time. In the case wherein the larvae of the family Pyralidae is G. mellonella, the natural feed may be a wax-based feed. Said wax-based feed may be bees wax, when said larvae are in their natural wildlife environment.

Thus, in the fifth aspect (related to said second aspect) there is also provided a use of a feed for increasing pupation in a population of larva of the family Pyralidae. The use comprises bringing the population into contact said feed, wherein said feed comprises at least one polymer. The population is hereby allowed to feed on said feed. The polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. Alternatively, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycolpolyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. Alternatively, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyacrylate; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; polyester; cotton; a mixture of polyester, synthetic polyamide and copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate). In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; a mixture of synthetic polyamide and a copolymer of polyether-polyurethane; polyethylene; polyester; and poly(ethylenevinylacetate). In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide; polyester; and poly(ethylene-vinylacetate). The pupation is increased compared to when said feed is a wax-based feed for the family Pyralidae. The skilled person will appreciate that the comparison may be made in the same population of larvae at a different time or in a corresponding population as the same or a different time. In the case wherein the larvae of the family Pyralidae is G. mellonella, the natural feed may be a wax-based feed. Said wax-based feed may be bees wax, when said larvae are in their natural wildlife environment.

All embodiments of said method described below are also applicable to the use of a feed, as apparent to a person of skill in the art.

Thus, in one embodiment of the second aspect as described herein, there is provided a method or use for increasing pupation in a population of larva of the family Pyralidae, the method or use comprising bringing said population into contact with feed and allowing the population to feed on said feed, wherein said feed comprises at least one polymer, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and
wherein said pupation is increased compared to when a corresponding population is fed a wax-based feed.

Surprisingly, the present inventor has found that when a population of larva of the family Pyralidae is contacted with a feed comprises at least one polymer as outlined above; the pupation amount is increased in the population. This is in contrast to the prior art (Lou et al) which teaches decreased survival when larvae are feed polystyrene or polyethylene, with a slight increase in survival when wax-based feed is added to polystyrene or polyethylene diet.

This effect is highly advantageous since it provides for generation of more biomass, and at the same time, degradation of more polymers, such as plastic polymers. According to the present disclosure, the feed may comprise at least <NUM> plastic polymer, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers. In one embodiment, the feed consists of at least one plastic polymer, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

According to the present disclosure, the feed may consist of at least <NUM> plastic polymer, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> plastic polymers.

According to the present disclosure, the feed may consist of at least <NUM> type of plastic polymer, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers, such as at least <NUM> types of plastic polymers.

Due to the utility of a population of larva of the family Pyralidae and the results presented in the appended examples, the present inventor envisions that the feed may be a pure polymer, or a mixture of a few or many different polymers. As apparent to a person of skill in the art, the effect of increased pupation is plausible for both pure polymers, as well as any mixes or copolymers.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, cellulose and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide and polyacrylate, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyamide, cellulose or a mixture of polyamide and a polyether-polyurethane copolymer.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyurethane, and polyacrylate, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyamide, polyacrylate, polyester, and polyether, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polyether is a polysaccharide. Both synthetic and naturally derived polysaccharides are available, as appreciated by the skilled person. In one embodiment, said polysaccharide is a synthetic polysaccharide.

In one embodiment, said polysaccharide is a natural derived polysaccharide. In one embodiment, the polysaccharide is cellulose. In one embodiment, the cellulose is cotton.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyurethane, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene and polyurethane, and any mixes or copolymers thereof.

In one embodiment, the polymer is a synthetic polymer.

As discussed above for the first aspect, and as equally true for the second, the third, the fourth, or fifth aspect, a synthetic polyamide is made up of repeating units of the same kind. As such, is different from for example a protein, which consists of different unit and is obtained in a step-by-step type polymerization. A synthetic polymer may for example be obtained by step-growth polymerization. Examples of synthetic polyamides are for example nylons. The skilled person is aware of other types of synthetic polyamides. In one embodiment, the synthetic polyamide is selected from the group consisting of PA <NUM>, PA <NUM>,<NUM>, PA <NUM> and PA <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the wax-based feed comprises approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> %, such as approximately at maximum <NUM> % by weight of a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyether, polyglycol, polysaccharide, cellulose, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, the wax-based feed is beeswax. Beeswax is a natural product, and as such, may differ in exact composition. However, in one embodiment the beeswax mainly comprises palmitate, palmitoleate, and oleate esters of long-chain aliphatic alcohols.

In one embodiment, the increase of pupation is quantified as the difference between the number of pupae versus dead larvae compared to the initial number of larvae in said population. In this way, the increase of pupation is to be understood as that the number of larvae that form pupas is higher, and thus the survival of larvae that enter the next developmental stage is increased. Larvae thar do not enter the developmental stage of pupation die instead.

Increased pupation may be observed already after four days in the population. In one embodiment, the increase of pupation is after at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days.

In one embodiment, the increase of pupation is approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM>%, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %, such as approximately at least <NUM> %.

In one embodiment, the increase of pupation is within the range of <NUM> to <NUM> %, such as within the range of <NUM> to <NUM> %, such as within the range of <NUM> to <NUM> %, such as within the range of <NUM> to <NUM> %, such as around <NUM> %. In one embodiment, said increase of pupation is within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %, such as within the range of from approximately <NUM> to approximately <NUM> %. In particular, said increase of pupation may be after at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days, such as at least <NUM> days or longer. In particular if the larvae are kept under conditions as described herein.

The biomass produced by the methods or uses disclosed herein is useful for many purposes, of which some are mentioned below. In one embodiment, the biomass comprises pupae of the family Pyralidae, and/or larvae of the family Pyralidae, and/or feces of said larvae, which may be extracted from the biomass. In one embodiment, the biomass comprises pupae of the family Pyralidae. Pupae may be used to maintain a population of larvae that can produce biomass by degradation of at least one plastic polymer. In one embodiment, the biomass comprises larvae of the family Pyralidae. The larvae may comprise nutrients in the form of lipids and/ or proteins. In one embodiment, the biomass comprises feces of said larvae of the family Pyralidae. Feces of the larvae may serve useful as fertilizer. In one embodiment, the biomass further comprises polyethylene glycol.

In one embodiment, the biomass is harvested after at least <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as 21days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days, such as <NUM> days. As apparent for a person of skill in the art, the harvesting may be chosen so that harvester obtains as much as possible of his or hers preferred form of biomass.

In an embodiment of the method or use according any of the aspects as disclosed herein, there is provided a method or use of a feed for producing biomass, wherein the method or use is a continuous method or use. The method or use comprises the steps of:.

It will be understood that that when the steps a) to e) are repeated, the B' population in step e) is used as the population B in step a). It is envisioned the steps a) to e) may be repeated hundreds or thousands of times, such as indefinitely.

To clarify, step b) of bringing the population into contact with a feed as defined in the first or second aspect is meant to be understood to encompass allowing the population of larvae to ingest said feed. Thus, step b) may be phrased as bringing said population into contact with a feed as defined in with the first or second aspect and allowing the population to feed on said feed.

In one embodiment, the method or use does not require external addition of larvae.

In one embodiment, the population of larvae B' is approximately ± <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B, such as ± approximately <NUM> % of B.

In one embodiment, the amount A is approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B, such as approximately <NUM> % of B.

Without been bound by theory, it is considered that the continuous method or use of a feed may be beneficial as it does not require addition of external larvae, instead the larvae that hatch within the system are sufficient to allow for the system to be continuously self contained. Such a method or use would require minimal operation and supervision except of the addition of feed as well as the harvesting of biomass. Within the system an amount A of the total larvae B, would be allowed to develop into pupae, transform to insects and lay eggs, which when hatch to larvae and make up the total amount B'. The B' amount is sufficient to repopulate the system as well as allow for the harvesting a subset thereof as biomass. Thus, each cycle of steps a)-e) would lead to a new opportunity for harvesting biomass.

The present inventor has found it plausible that the inventive concepts as disclosed herein extends to the use of related species for the production of biomass by plastic digestion. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the methods according to the first aspect, may rely of the use of an alternative larva, such as a larva of the family Crambidae, or a larva of the order of Coleoptera, such as the of the family Tenebrionidae. or a larva of the genus Plodia, such as a larva of the species Plodia interpunctella It is reasonable to expect that this is fruitful due to members of Coleoptera have been shown to digest polystyrene and polyethylene, members of the genus Plodia have been shown to degrade polyethylene and the family Crambidae is closely related with Pyralidae.

In one embodiment, when the at least one larva is of the family Pyralidae, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is selected from the group consisting of Aglossa pinguinalis, Cadra cautella, Dioryctria abietella, Crambus lathoniellus, Aphomia sociella, Ephestia elutella, Plodia interpunctella, Paralipsa gularis, Zophodia grossulariella, Ephestia kuehniella, Evergestis forficalis, Ostrinia nubilalis, Pyralis farinalis, Acentria ephemerella, Achroia grisella and Galleria mellonella.

In one embodiment, when the at least one larva is of the family Pyralidae, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is a member of the genus Galleria. In one embodiment said member of the genus Galleria is selected from the group consisting of Galleria austrina, Galleria cerea, Galleria cerealis, Galleria cereana, Galleria cerella, Galleria crombruggheela, Galleria obliquella, Galleria mellonella.

In one embodiment, when the at least one larva is of the family Pyralidae, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is Achroia grisella.

In one specifically preferred embodiment, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is at least one larva of the species Galleria mellonella.

In one embodiment, the method or use of a feed according to any one of the aspects as disclosed herein, is performed in a closed system. A closed system means that the method is performed or use is in a room or a closed container or the like, from which any larvae or pupae or moths may not escape. Advantageously, in a closed system conditions such as light, temperature or humidity, may be kept constant, or may be changed upon users own preference. Thus said conditions are controlled which allows for control of the life cycles of the insects as well as of the biomass production process.

In one embodiment, the larvae are brought into contact with said feed in a container. The container may be made up of for example glass, metals, metal alloys, composites, or treated wood, and any mixes thereof.

In one particular embodiment, the method or use of a feed comprises placing the larva in the container at a density of <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM>, such as <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM>, such as <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM> or such as <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM>, such as <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM>, such as <NUM> - <NUM> larvae per cm<NUM>. As apparent for a person of skill in the art, higher density may be preferable for industrial purposes in order to provide higher production of biomass per area unit. However, high density is often avoided as it can contribute to cannibalism of the larvae. In one embodiment, the larvae exhibit no significant cannibalism, such as no cannibalism at all or less than <NUM> %, such as less than <NUM> %, such as less than <NUM> %, such as less than <NUM> % cannibalism.

The larva of the family Pyralidae and/or Tenebrionidae may survive in a variety of conditions. For example, the life cycle of G. mellonella comprises a larval stage that transforms within <NUM>-<NUM> weeks into pupae and finally into moth. The larvae are fairly large in size, the last instar larva is <NUM> long and <NUM>, or even up to <NUM>-<NUM>, in weight and can survive at various temperatures, such as <NUM>-<NUM>. The larvae prefer temperatures in the range of <NUM>-<NUM>. It is considered that the maintaining conditions beneficial to growth and metamorphosis may be advantageous for production of biomass. In one embodiment, the method is performed or use of a feed is at a temperature of from <NUM> to <NUM>, such as from <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably of from <NUM> to <NUM>, most preferably of from <NUM> to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the method is performed or use is at a humidity of from <NUM> % to <NUM> %. In one preferred embodiment, the humidity is maintained at approximately <NUM> +/- <NUM>%, such as at approximately <NUM> +/- <NUM>%.

Without being bound by any theory, it is considered that starvation of larva prior to providing the larva will plastic polymer based feed may lead to more efficient consumption, and thus degradation, of plastic polymers as disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the larva is subjected to starvation prior to adding any feed. In one embodiment, the starvation is for <NUM> to <NUM> days, such as for <NUM> to <NUM>, such as for <NUM> to <NUM> days, such as for <NUM> days.

In third aspect, there is provided use of at least one polymer for production of biomass. The biomass comprises at least one member of the family Pyralidae. The at least one polymer may be selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. Thus, there is provided a use of at least one plastic polymer for production of biomass, wherein said biomass comprises at least one member of the family Pyralidae and wherein said at least one polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, and any mixes or copolymers thereof. In this context, the polymer is digested by members of the family Pyralidae leading to increase in mass of said members and allows for harvesting at least a subset of the members as biomass.

In one embodiment, wherein the at least one larvae is of the family Pyralidae, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is selected from the group consisting of Aglossa pinguinalis, Cadra cautella, Dioryctria abietella, Crambus lathoniellus, Aphomia sociella, Ephestia elutella, Plodia interpunctella, Paralipsa gularis, Zophodia grossulariella, Ephestia kuehniella, Evergestis forficalis, Ostrinia nubilalis, Pyralis farinalis, Acentria ephemerella, Achroia grisella and Galleria mellonella.

In one embodiment, when the at least one larvae is of the family Pyralidae, the at least one larva of the family Pyralidae is a member of the genus Galleria, which member is selected from the group consisting of Galleria austrina, Galleria cerea, Galleria cerealis, Galleria cereana, Galleria cerella, Galleria crombruggheela, Galleria obliquella, Galleria mellonella.

In one embodiment of the method or use of a feed according to any one of the aspects as disclosed herein or of the use according to third aspect as disclosed herein, said polymer may be selected from any one of the below listed groups. The skilled person will appreciate that said groups are equally relevant for the any of said aspects and are not repeated in connection of each of the aspects only for the sake of brevity.

In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyester. In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, and polyester. In one embodiment said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting polyurethane, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester.

In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof;.

In another embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and copolymers of polyether-polyurethane, polyacrylonitrile and polyethylene, and any mixes thereof;.

In another embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and copolymers of polyacrylonitrile and copolymers of polyethylene, and any mixes thereof;.

In another embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and copolymers of polyacrylonitrile, and any mixes thereof;.

In another embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and copolymers of polyacrylonitrile and copolymers of polyethylene;.

In another embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylate, synthetic polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, and any mixes or copolymers thereof, and copolymers of polyacrylonitrile;.

In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate). In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and polyurethane. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, and synthetic polyamide. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyacrylate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. In one embodiment, said polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), polyurethane, synthetic polyamide, polyacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester.

While the invention has been described with reference to various exemplary aspects and embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to any particular embodiment contemplated, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. The invention will be further illustrated by the following non-limiting Examples.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on polypropylene (PP) or beeswax (natural substrate of G. mellonella) and the effect on pupation of different feeding substrates was examined. The calculations were carried out as follows, wherein nb stands for number, and x is given in %: <MAT>.

PP (<NUM> %) used was from a three-layer surgical face mask (all three layers were used, including non-woven and melt-blown layers), type IIR, manufactured by ESound Med.

The wax used was beeswax from honey provider Asbal.

The larvae were purchased from Vivara (Sweden), at the <NUM>-7th instar, with an average mass of <NUM>.

To avoid any interference the received larvae were starved for two days before the beginning of the differentiate feeding in order to be able to properly appreciate the effect of the newly feed substrate.

<NUM> larvae were placed in square-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>,<NUM>, and the relative humidity was in the range <NUM> to <NUM>%.

All the experiments were performed in duplicates and the results are presented as mean values of the two replicative experiments.

After <NUM> hours the first deaths among larval population appeared, whereas the first pupae were observed after <NUM> days of experimentation (<FIG>). The whole transformation process took more than <NUM> weeks and can be divided into <NUM> phases:.

At the end of the experiment, in the vessels that contained wax substrate there was an average of <NUM>,<NUM>% of pupae more than dead larvae, whereas in the vessels that contained PP substrate, there was an average of <NUM>,<NUM>% more of pupae than dead larvae, that is almost <NUM>% difference between the beeswax and PP substrates.

As can be seen in <FIG>, an increased pupation for the population of larvae feeding on polypropylene compared to the population of larvae feeding on wax is seen for all tested polymers from the <NUM>th day onwards. At the end of the experiment, after <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % for the population feed on polypropylene, versus <NUM> % for the population feed on wax.

It can be noted that the relative humidity was in the range <NUM> to <NUM>%. If the humidity would have been controlled at a favorable range, the present inventor expects that the performance of both populations is expected to be better.

Thus, it was surprisingly found in this experiment that the utilization of polypropylene as feeding substrate is more efficient than the utilization of beeswax for the transformation of larvae into pupae, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for this species. Utilization of polypropylene is very unexpected, especially since polypropylene is certainly more difficult to digest than many other plastic materials, and is highly resistant to chemical degradation. Without being bound by any theory, one reason may be that it lacks functional groups to which a digesting entity (such as for example an enzyme) may bind partially or in whole in order to come into contact with the material to be degraded.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on different polymers and their mixes, and copolymers, as well as on beeswax. The effect on pupation of different feeding substrates was examined, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for those insects. The calculations were carried out as follows, wherein nb stands for number, and x is given in %: <MAT>.

The following materials were used as feed (also referred to as substrate in the calculations above):.

Polyamide (PAm) used was from a sweater manufactured by IPEM (Marseille).

Polyester (PEster) was from a pyjama manufactured by Lindex.

Polyacrylate (PAcryl) was coming from a hat manufactured by H&M.

Cotton was from a sweater manufactured by Benetton.

Polyethylene (PE) was from a diper packaging manufactured by Libero.

PAm/polyether-polyurethane copolymer: <NUM>:<NUM>, was from a bath cloth manufactured by Medalist;
PEster/PAm/polyether-polyurethane copolymer: <NUM>:<NUM>:<NUM>, was from an undercloth manufactured by Man Underwear.

Paraffin-based wax was from a protection for Bel's group cheese.

To avoid any interference the received larvae were starved for two days before the beginning of the differentiate feeding.

<NUM> larvae were placed in round-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>,<NUM>, and the relative humidity was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>,<NUM>%. All the experiments were performed in duplicates and the results are presented as mean values of the two replicative experiments.

After <NUM> hours the first dead larvae and pupae among larval population appeared (<FIG>). The whole transformation process took more than <NUM> weeks and can be divided into <NUM> phases:.

In this experiment, the density of larvae was higher than in Example <NUM> (<NUM> vs. <NUM>). High larvae density may be avoided due to an increased risk of cannibalism of said larvae. In this experiment, no cannibalism was observed.

At the end of the experiment the difference of the percentage of pupae versus dead comparing to the results in wax is in the range from <NUM>% for PAcrylate sample to <NUM>% for PEster. The results for the individual materials is shown in Table <NUM>. As can be seen in the table, there is little variation between day <NUM> and day <NUM>.

As can be seen in <FIG>, the effect of increased pupation for larvae feeding on the plastic-comprising polymers when compared to the larvae feeding on wax, is seen for all tested polymers from the <NUM>th day onwards.

For polyamide (PAm, filled circles), larvae perform better (i.e. the curve is always above zero for this polymer) at all times throughout the experiment compared to larvae fed wax. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For cotton (filled squares), larvae initially perform at the same level as for wax, better at all times throughout the experiment. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For polyethylene (PE, cross), larvae initially perform worse than wax, but after <NUM> days and throughout the experiment, an increase is seen. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For polyester (PEster, filled triangles), larvae perform better at all times throughout the experiment. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For the mixture of polyamide and elastane (PAm/polyether-polyurethane copolymer, circles on dotted line), larvae initially perform worse than wax, but after <NUM> days and throughout the experiment, an increase is seen. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For polyacrylate (PAcryl, filled diamonds), larvae initially perform worse or more or less equal to wax, but after <NUM> days and throughout the experiment, an increase is seen. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For the mixture of polyester, polyamide and elastane (PEster/PAm/polyether-polyurethane copolymer, triangles on dotted line), larvae initially perform better than wax, than worse but close to equal to wax. After <NUM> days and throughout the experiment an increase is seen. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

Thus, it was surprisingly found in this experiment that the utilization of different polymers, their mixes and copolymers as feeding substrate is more efficient than the utilization of beeswax for the transformation of larvae into pupae, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on different polymers, their mixes, and copolymers, and on wax. The effect on pupation of different feeding substrates was examined, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrate for those insects. The calculations were carried out as outlined in Example <NUM>.

The larvae were purchased from Herpers Choise (Sweden), at the <NUM>-7th instar, with an average mass of <NUM>. To avoid any interference the received larvae were starved for two days before the beginning of the differentiate feeding.

<NUM> larvae were placed in square-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM>,<NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature was maintained at <NUM>,<NUM> +/- <NUM>,<NUM> degrees C.

In all the experiments where the larvae were fed with the polymeric materials the pupation rate is higher than in the experiment conducted with wax.

As can be seen in <FIG>, pupation of larvae feeding on the plastic-comprising polymers when compared to that of the larvae feeding on wax, is increased for all tested polymers from the second day onwards.

For poly(ethylene-vinylacetate) (EVA, triangles), larvae perform better (i.e. the curve is always above zero for this polymer) at all times throughout the experiment compared to larvae fed wax. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is between <NUM> and <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene), (nitrile, empty circles), larvae perform better (i.e. the curve is always above zero for this polymer) at all times throughout the experiment compared to larvae fed wax. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For PVC (filled circles), larvae initially perform at the same level as for wax, and then perform better from the first day onwards throughout the experiment. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

For PVC/PEster (cross), larvae initially perform at the same level as for wax, and then perform better from the second day onwards throughout the experiment. The largest increment in the graph is seen after <NUM> to <NUM> days. After <NUM> days, the increase of pupation is <NUM>,<NUM> % compared to wax-based feed.

Thus, it was surprisingly found that the utilization of different types of polymers, their mixes, and copolymers as feeding substrate is more efficient than the utilization of wax for the transformation of larvae into pupae, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PUR) and wax and the effect of different feeding substrates on larval mass evolution was examined, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

The calculations performed were carried out as follows: <MAT> where m(l) stands for average mass of one larva at time t, m0(l) stand for the average initial mass of larva for each respective experiment.

PP used was from a chocolate packaging, and
PUR was from a kitchen dishwashing sponge.

To avoid any interference the received larvae were starved for two days before being subjected to the different feed in order to be able to properly appreciate the effect of the newly feed substrate.

<NUM> larvae were placed in round-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM> ° C, and the relative humidity was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>%.

All the experiments were performed in triplicates and the results are presented as mean values of the three replicative experiments.

The experiment lasted for <NUM> days. During the first <NUM> days there was an adaptation period of larvae towards the new substrates. The mass evolution was lower with PP substrate comparing to wax during this period (<FIG>). However, after this adaptation period, the mass of the larvae fed the synthetic substrates increased compared to mass of larvae fed wax, the difference being of <NUM>% for PP and <NUM>% for PUR at the end of the experiment, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

Thus, this experiment establishes that PP and PUR are valuable feeding substrates for studied insects and that feeding the larvae said polymers increases growth and mass of the larvae.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on different polymers, their mixes, and/or copolymers, and on wax and the effect of different feeding substrates on larval mass evolution examined. The calculations were carried out as outlined in Example <NUM>.

<NUM> larvae were placed in round-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>,<NUM>, and the relative humidity was maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>%. All the experiments were performed in duplicates and the results are presented as mean values of the two replicative experiments.

Depending on the substrate the experiment lasted for <NUM> to <NUM> days. The individual time point for the end of the experiment is due that that most larvae died of pupated at this point. The obtained results show that there is a need for an adaptation period of <NUM>-<NUM> days for some substrates, e.g., Cotton/polyester/ polyether-polyurethane copolymer: <NUM>:<NUM>:<NUM>, whereas other substrates are directly surperforming comparing to wax, e.g., PAcrylate (<FIG>). This indicates that the larvae require a period to adapt to a subset of plastic polymer based feeds, while other plastic polymer feeds are immediately efficiently utilized as an energy source for the larvae.

By the end of the experiment all the tested substrates show significant surperformance compared to wax. The mass of larvae fed on the tested plastic polymer feed substrates in significantly increase compared to the mass of larvae fed the wax-based feed, which is the natural feeding substrates for these insect larvae. The data showing the increase in larval mass is summarized in Table <NUM> below:.

Thus, the data indicates that the biomass (as measured by the mass of larvae) increases in the range of from <NUM>% (as shown for PEster) to more than <NUM>% (as shown for PAm/polyether-polyurethane copolymer: <NUM>:<NUM>), compared to wax. This is considered a significant increase in the biomass production of the system.

In summary, this experiment establishes that different polymers, their mixes, and copolymers are valuable feeding substrates for studied insects and lead to an increased larval mass compared to natural feed of said insects. It is envisioned that the increase in larval mass may be useful for production of biomass.

In this example the larvae of G. mellonella were grown on different polymers, their mixes and copolymers, and on wax. The effect of different feeding substrates on larval mass evolution was examined, knowing that wax is the natural feeding substrates for said insects. The calculations were carried out as outlined in Example <NUM>.

The experiment lasted for <NUM> days. The results are shown in <FIG>. Two development phases were observed:
The first phase lasted for <NUM>-<NUM> days and corresponds to an adaptation period for the insects, wherein no significant difference between the mass evolution of insects fed with wax and insects fed with different polymeric materials is observed.

In the second phase, when the adaptation is finished, the mass increase of insects fed with polymeric materials is significantly higher in comparison to that of insects fed with wax. After <NUM> days of experimentation, the mass increase was <NUM>% for EVA and PVC/PEster and <NUM>% for PVC. Thus, the mass increase was in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> % for said polymers after <NUM> days.

Thus, it was surprisingly found that the utilization of different types of polymers, their mixes and copolymers, such as PVC, poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene), EVA and PVC/Pester, are valuable feeding substrates for the studied insects that lead to an increased larval mass compared to natural feed of said insects. It was concluded that valuable feeding substrates for the studied insects comprise copolymers of polyacrylonitrile and polyethylene. It was thus demonstrated that G. mellonella is able to digest a large variety of plastic polymer materials such as pure polymers, polymer mixes and copolymers. It is considered that the increase in larval mass may be useful for production of biomass.

In this example the larvae of T. molitor are grown on different polymers, their mixes, and copolymers, and on wheat bran. The effect on pupation of different feeding substrates is examined, knowing that wheat bran is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

To avoid any interference the received larvae are starved for two days before the beginning of the differentiate feeding.

<NUM> larvae are placed in round-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> +/-<NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature is maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>, and the relative humidity is maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>%.

All the experiments are performed in duplicates and the results are presented as mean values of the two replicative experiments.

It is expected that larvae need an adaptation period of several days to adjust to the new diets, after this period the pupation rate is expected to be higher in the larval populations fed on the polymers, their mixes, and copolymers that the pupation rate on their natural substrate.

Thus, this experiment is expected to establish that the utilisation of the polymers, their mixes, and copolymers as feeding substrate is more efficient than the utilisation of wheat bran for the transformation of larvae into pupae, knowing that wheat bran is a natural feeding substrates for those insects.

In this example the larvae of T. molitor are grown on different polymers, their mixes, and copolymers, and on wheat bran. The effect of different feeding substrates on larval mass evolution is examined, knowing that wheat bran is the natural feeding substrates for those insects.

<NUM> larvae are placed in round-bottom glass vessels to reach the density of <NUM> +/- <NUM> larvae per square cm. The temperature is maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>, and the relative humidity is maintained at <NUM> +/- <NUM>%.

It is expected that larvae need an adaptation period of several days to adjust to the new diets, after this adaptation period the larvae are expected to perform at least as well on the synthetic substrates as on wheat bran.

Claim 1:
Use of a feed for producing biomass, the use comprising
bringing at least one larva of the family Pyralidae into contact with a feed, wherein said feed comprises at least one plastic polymer, wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylate, polyglycol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyvinylidene chloride, synthetic polyamide, polypropylene terephthalate and polyether, poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), polyacrylonitrile, and any mixes or copolymers thereof,
allowing said at least one larva to feed on said polymer, thereby producing biomass.