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Depolymerisation of waste- and bio-based polyesters by an activated sludge hydrolase.

Lukas Chalwatzis1, Cedric Vander Cruyssen2, Ilaria Mazzini2

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Summary

Researchers studied enzymatic hydrolysis of novel polyesters (REPolymers) using a thermostable hydrolase. The enzyme efficiently broke down these polymers, yielding key products and demonstrating potential for plastic recycling.

Keywords:
Aliphatic polyestersAromatic polyestersEnzyme discoveryEnzyme-based recyclingPolyester hydrolasePolymer synthesis

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Area of Science:

  • Polymer Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Environmental Science

Background:

  • Novel polyesters (REPolymers) were synthesized using terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, glutaric acid, and decanediol, incorporating PET building blocks and bio-based monomers.
  • Enzymatic recycling offers a sustainable alternative for plastic waste management.
  • Understanding polyester structure-degradation relationships is crucial for developing effective recycling strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the enzymatic hydrolysis of four novel REPolymers with varying structures.
  • To assess the potential of a novel hydrolase from Rhizobacter sp. (Rhb) for biodegradation and enzymatic recycling of these polyesters.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of hydrolysis and identify degradation products.

Main Methods:

  • Synthesis of four novel polyesters (REPolymers).
  • Identification and characterization of a thermostable hydrolase (Rhb) from Rhizobacter sp.
  • Enzymatic hydrolysis experiments analyzed using mass spectrometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detection (HPLC-DAD).
  • Mechanistic study of hydrolysis on REPolymers ranging from 5 to 34 kDa.

Main Results:

  • The hydrolase (Rhb) exhibited homology to Ideonella sakaiensis PETase but with enhanced thermostability and activity.
  • Mono-(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalic acid (MHET) was identified as the primary hydrolysis product.
  • Detection of longer PET oligomers and aliphatic dimers indicated endo-wise cleavage of both aromatic and aliphatic ester bonds.
  • Consistent accumulation of dimers across different REPolymers was observed, suggesting specific degradation patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Polyester structure significantly influences enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency and product distribution.
  • The novel hydrolase (Rhb) shows promise for the enzymatic recycling of novel polyesters.
  • Findings support the development of advanced waste/bio-based polymers and innovative recycling technologies.