Comparative in situ biodegradation studies of polyhydroxybutyrate film composites

Abstract

Application of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) to plastic industry has expanded over the last decades due to its attracting features over petro-based plastic, and therefore, its waste accumulation in nature is inevitable. In the present study, a total of four bacterial strains, viz., MK3, PN12, PW1, and Lna3, were formulated into a consortium and subsequently used as biological tool for degradation of biopolymers. The consortium was tested through λ shifts under in vitro conditions for utilization of PHB as sole carbon source. Talc-based bioformulations of consortium were used for the degradation of PHB film composites under in situ conditions. After 9 months of incubation, the recovered samples were monitored through Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Analytical data, viz., changes in λ shifts (212-219 nm), FT-IR spectra, and SEM micrographs, revealed the biodegradation potential of developed consortium against PHB film composites, i.e., higher degradation of copolymer films was found over blend films. The used consortium had enhanced the rate of natural degradation and can be further used as a natural tool to maintain and restore global environmental safety.

The Positive Fate of Biochar Addition to Soil in the Degradation of PHBV-Silver Nanoparticle Composites

“…Polyhydroxybutyrate- co -valerate (PHBV) has attracted attention due to its biodegradability and biocompatibility . Such kinds of biopolymers are produced by a wide variety of microorganisms and plants .…”

“…8 Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate (PHBV) has attracted attention due to its biodegradability and biocompatibility. 9 Such kinds of biopolymers are produced by a wide variety of microorganisms and plants. 10 Although PHBV is considered an ecofriendly material, there are few reports on the total life cycle of biopolymer nanocomposites 11 When it comes to AgNP-loaded polymers, there is great concern about the possible detrimental environmental health effects due to acute or chronic exposure to them, especially when applied to commercial and large-scale products.…”