Novel Approach in Biodegradation of Synthetic Thermoplastic Polymers: An Overview
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 10/12/2022
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Summary
This review explores how microorganisms like fungi and bacteria can break down plastic waste, which is a major environmental problem. Plastic bags and packaging materials take thousands of years to decompose naturally, but certain fungi produce special enzymes that can degrade plastics more quickly. The research suggests that using biodegradable plastics and microbial degradation could be promising solutions to reduce plastic pollution in soil and marine environments.
Background
Synthetic polymers, particularly polyethylene, accumulate in the environment causing significant pollution and ecological threats. Global plastic production reaches approximately 140 million tons annually, with the majority of plastics being non-biodegradable and persisting for thousands of years in environmental ecosystems.
Objective
This review examines the biodegradation mechanisms of synthetic thermoplastic polymers, focusing on microbial degradation by bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes. The study aims to understand the biochemical processes and enzymatic activities involved in polymer chain cleavage and mineralization.
Results
Fungi, particularly Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Xylaria species, demonstrate significant biodegradation capacity, with Xylaria degrading 25% of 20 µm LDPE thickness in 50 days. Key degradative enzymes include lipases, esterases, cellulases, amylases, and proteases that cleave polymer chains into oligomers and monomers for microbial utilization.
Conclusion
Biodegradation via microbial and enzymatic activities represents a sustainable approach to managing plastic waste accumulation. Future strategies should focus on developing and utilizing biodegradable polymers in packaging, agriculture, and medical applications while implementing efficient waste management systems.
- Published in:Polymers (Basel),
- Study Type:Review,
- Source: 10.3390/polym14204271, PMID: 36297849