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Polyurethane waste valorization: A Two-Phase process using Ozonization and Rhodococcus pyridinivorans fermentation
Jose M Orts1, Emilia Naranjo1, Susana Pina1
1Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Facultad de Farmacia, University of Seville, St./Prof. García Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain.
Bioresource Technology
|November 14, 2024
Summary
Polyurethane waste is transformed into biofertilizing microorganisms using a novel chemical and biological process. This circular economy approach creates sustainable fertilizer from plastic waste, reducing landfill burden and chemical fertilizer use.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Polyurethane (PU) waste poses a significant environmental challenge due to its persistence in landfills.
- Conventional chemical fertilizers contribute to environmental pollution and resource depletion.
- There is a need for sustainable methods to manage plastic waste and improve agricultural practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a circular economy process for converting polyurethane waste into biofertilizing microorganisms.
- To characterize the chemical and biological transformations involved in the process.
- To assess the biofertilizing potential of the generated microorganisms.
Main Methods:
- Sequential chemical/biological treatment of polyurethane waste.
- Chemical phase: Depolymerization of PU using ozone to obtain an aqueous OLE (polyols, isocyanates, carboxylic acids).
- Biological phase: Fermentation of OLE using Rhodococcus pyridinivorans to produce biofertilizing biomass.
Main Results:
- Successful depolymerization of PU into bioavailable molecules in OLE.
- Generation of R. pyridinivorans biomass with significant biofertilizing properties.
- Demonstrated metabolic-proteomic activity, including enzyme synthesis for compound degradation.
- Microorganisms exhibited nitrogen fixation, phytohormone production, and siderophore synthesis.
Conclusions:
- The developed process effectively converts PU waste into valuable biofertilizing microorganisms.
- This circular economy approach offers a sustainable alternative for plastic waste management and fertilizer production.
- The process reduces environmental impact by diverting waste from landfills and decreasing reliance on chemical fertilizers.
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