Enhancing biodegradation of PBAT through bio-stimulation using Pseudozyma jejuensis for effective plastic waste reduction

• Published in: Chemosphere (Oxford) 2023-11, Vol.340, p.139867-139867, Article 139867
• Main Authors: Jang, Yewon, Kim, Minseo, Kim, Yeji, Yu, Jaeyoung, Kim, Sung-Kon, Han, Jeehoon, Kim, Yang-Hoon, Min, Jiho
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bio-stimulation; Biodegradation; Plastic waste; Polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate; Pseudozyma. jejuensis
• ISSN: 0045-6535; 1879-1298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139867

Polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) is a flexible and biodegradable material that finds applications in mulching film and the food packaging industry. In this study, we aimed to address the global plastic waste problem by developing an improved biodegradation system for PBAT. Our focus was on utilizing the biodegradation capabilities of Pseudozyma jejuensis, a microorganism known for its ability to decompose Polycaprolactam (PCL). Through bio-stimulation, we aimed to enhance the growth mechanism of P. jejuensis and optimize PBAT biodegradation. Our results demonstrated significant structural changes in the PBAT film, as revealed by FT-IR analysis. Moreover, FE-SEM imaging exhibited evident surface erosion and pitting, indicating physical alterations due to biodegradation. These findings provide strong evidence for the efficiency of our developed biodegradation system. To fully harness the potential of this system and enable its practical implementation, further research is warranted to optimize and scale up the process. Our work contributes to the ongoing efforts to combat the global plastic waste crisis, offering a valuable solution for the efficient biodegradation of PBAT. [Display omitted] •P. jejuensis efficiently biodegrades PBAT, a flexible and biodegradable material used in packaging.•Bio-stimulation promotes growth of P. jejuensis, accelerating PBAT biodegradation.•FT-IR analysis confirms structural changes, while FE-SEM imaging reveals erosion and pitting on PBAT surface.•Optimized PBAT biodegradation system addresses global plastic waste problem.