Biodegradation of Polyester Polyurethane by Embarria clematidis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Polyester urethanes (PUR) are prevalent industrial polymers contributing to global plastic pollution.
• Effective biodegradation strategies are crucial for mitigating environmental contamination caused by PUR waste.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of various fungal species in degrading polyester urethanes (PUR).
• To identify specific fungal strains capable of efficient PUR biodegradation and characterize the degradation process.

Main Methods:

• Screened 33 fungal species for their ability to degrade Impranil DLN (a PUR colloid).
• Utilized solid- and liquid-medium assays, Sturm test, FTIR spectroscopy, and GC-MS for biodegradation assessment.
• Enzyme activity assays (esterase, protease, urease) were performed on promising fungal candidates.

Main Results:

• Eleven fungal species exhibited significant PUR degradation capabilities.
• Embarria clematidis showed the highest degradation efficiency, confirmed by substantial CO2 production (0.85 g/L) and high supernatant clearance (88.84%).
• FTIR and GC-MS analyses confirmed ester linkage hydrolysis and identified specific degradation products, indicating partial depolymerization via esterases.

Conclusions:

• Embarria clematidis effectively degrades polyester urethanes through partial hydrolysis of ester linkages, primarily using cell-bound esterases.
• This fungus mineralizes PUR into carbon dioxide and water, presenting a viable biological solution for PUR waste management.
• Embarria clematidis holds potential for biochemical depolymerization of PUR, enabling monomer recycling and sustainable plastic management.