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Assessing the Biodegradation of Vulcanised Rubber Particles by Fungi Using Genetic, Molecular and Surface Analysis
R Andler1, V D'Afonseca2, J Pino1
1Escuela de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Centro de Biotecnología de los Recursos Naturales (Cenbio), Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
|November 4, 2021
Summary
Fungi like Trametes versicolor and Pleurotus ostreatus can biodegrade vulcanised rubber, a challenging waste. These organisms show enhanced enzyme activity, offering potential for sustainable rubber recycling solutions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Millions of tonnes of tyre waste pose a significant recycling challenge due to vulcanised rubber's resistance to biodegradation.
- Microbial biotransformation offers a sustainable alternative for degrading polymers and aromatic compounds in rubber waste.
- Vulcanised rubber's cross-linked structure and hydrophobic nature impede microbial degradation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biodegradation capabilities of ten fungal strains on vulcanised rubber particles.
- To analyze the impact of fungal treatment on rubber mass loss and surface structure.
- To explore the genetic basis and enzymatic activity related to rubber biodegradation in selected fungal species.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of 10 fungal strains on vulcanised rubber particles in solid media for 4 weeks.
- Analysis of fungal growth, mass loss of rubber particles, and surface structure using FTIR and SEM-EDS.
- Genomic analysis and measurement of laccase and peroxidase activity in Trametes versicolor and Pleurotus ostreatus.
Main Results:
- Trametes versicolor and Pleurotus ostreatus achieved biodegradation percentages of 7.5% and 6.1%, respectively.
- FTIR and SEM-EDS confirmed modifications in functional groups and elemental composition (C, O, S, Si, Zn) on the rubber surface.
- Both fungi exhibited significantly higher laccase and peroxidase activity (2.8-3.3 times) in the presence of rubber particles.
Conclusions:
- Trametes versicolor and Pleurotus ostreatus demonstrate potential for vulcanised rubber biodegradation.
- Enzymatic activity, particularly laccases and manganese peroxidases, plays a crucial role in rubber degradation.
- Integrative analysis combining biodegradation assays with genetic and bioinformatics tools can advance sustainable rubber waste management.
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