Biodegradation of exploded cotton stalk by Bacillus sp

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microbiology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cotton stalk is a lignocellulosic biomass with potential applications.
• Efficient degradation of cotton stalk is crucial for its valorization.
• Alkalophilic bacteria offer unique enzymatic capabilities for biomass breakdown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the degradation potential of alkalophilic Bacillus NT-19 on cotton stalk components.
• To compare the efficacy of Bacillus NT-19 with known white-rot fungi.
• To analyze the impact of bacterial degradation on cotton fiber structure.

Main Methods:

• Incubation of cotton stalk (bast, branch, stem) with Bacillus NT-19 for 14 days.
• Measurement of weight loss in different cotton stalk parts.
• Analysis of non-cellulose component degradation.
• Assessment of changes in fiber crystallinity and middle lamella structure.

Main Results:

• Bacillus NT-19 achieved significant weight losses: 24% in bast, 20% in branch, and 14% in stem.
• The bacterium preferentially degraded non-cellulosic components over cellulose.
• A reduction of 8% in the relative degree of crystallinity of bast fibers was observed.
• Partial removal of the middle lamella from the fiber bundle was confirmed.

Conclusions:

• Alkalophilic Bacillus NT-19 demonstrates potent capabilities for degrading cotton stalk biomass.
• The bacterium's preferential degradation of non-cellulosics and impact on fiber structure are significant findings.
• Bacillus NT-19 presents a promising microbial agent for cotton stalk processing and potential biofuel production.