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Qiu Q, Li H, Sun X, Tian K, Gu J, Zhang F, Zhou D, Zhang X, Huo H. Integrating genomics, molecular docking, and protein expression to explore new perspectives on polystyrene biodegradation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135031. [PMID: 38943889 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Faced with the escalating challenge of global plastic pollution, this study specifically addresses the research gap in the biodegradation of polystyrene (PS). A PS-degrading bacterial strain was isolated from the gut of Tenebrio molitor, and genomics, molecular docking, and proteomics were employed to thoroughly investigate the biodegradation mechanisms of Pseudomonas putida H-01 against PS. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and contact angle analysis, significant morphological and structural changes in the PS films under the influence of the H-01 strain were observed. The study revealed several potential degradation genes and ten enzymes that were specifically upregulated in the PS degradation environment. Additionally, a novel protein with laccase-like activity, LacQ1, was purified from this strain for the first time, and its crucial role in the PS degradation process was confirmed. Through molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, the interactions between the enzymes and PS were detailed, elucidating the binding and catalytic mechanisms of the degradative enzymes with the substrate. These findings have deepened our understanding of PS degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Qiu
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Han Li
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xuejian Sun
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Kejian Tian
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jinming Gu
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Fenglin Zhang
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Dandan Zhou
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China; Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Xinwen Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Hainan Vocational University of Science and Technology, Haikou 571126, China.
| | - Hongliang Huo
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, No. 2555 Jingyue Avenue, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China; Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China.
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Deo L, Benjamin LK, Osborne JW. Critical review on unveiling the toxic and recalcitrant effects of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems and their degradation by microbes. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:896. [PMID: 39230754 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-13023-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Production of synthetic plastic obtained from fossil fuels are considered as a constantly growing problem and lack in the management of plastic waste has led to severe microplastic pollution in the aquatic ecosystem. Plastic particles less than 5mm are termed as microplastics (MPs), these are pervasive in water and soil, it can also withstand longer period of time with high durability. It can be broken down into smaller particles and can be adsorbed by various life-forms. Most marine organisms tend to consume plastic debris that can be accumulated easily into the vertebrates, invertebrates and planktonic entities. Often these plastic particles surpass the food chain, resulting in the damage of various organs and inhibiting the uptake of food due to the accumulation of microplastics. In this review, the physical and chemical properties of microplastics, as well as their effects on the environment and toxicity of their chemical constituents are discussed. In addition, the paper also sheds light on the potential of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae which play a pivotal role in the process of microplastics degradation. The mechanism of microbial degradation, the factors that affect degradation, and the current advancements in genetic and metabolic engineering of microbes to promote degradation are also summarized. The paper also provides information on the bacterial, algal and fungal degradation mechanism including the possible enzymes involved in microplastic degradation. It also investigates the difficulties, limitations, and potential developments that may occur in the field of microbial microplastic degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loknath Deo
- Department of Plant Pathology and Entomology, VIT-School of Agricultural Innovation and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lincy Kirubhadharsini Benjamin
- Department of Plant Pathology and Entomology, VIT-School of Agricultural Innovation and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jabez William Osborne
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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3
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Mohamed DFMS, Tarafdar A, Lee SY, Oh HB, Kwon JH. Assessment of biodegradation and toxicity of alternative plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate: Impacts on microbial biofilms, metabolism, and reactive oxygen species-mediated stress response. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 355:124217. [PMID: 38797346 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Although di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP) is being widely adopted as a non-phthalate plasticizer, existing research primarily focuses on human and rat toxicity. This leaves a significant gap in our understanding of their impact on microbial communities. This study assessed the biodegradation and toxicity of DOTP on microbes, focusing on its impact on biofilms and microbial metabolism using Rhodococcus ruber as a representative bacterial strain. DOTP is commonly found in mass fractions between 0.6 and 20% v/v in various soft plastic products. This study used polyvinyl chloride films (PVC) with varying DOTP concentrations (range 1-10% v/v) as a surface for analysis of biofilm growth. Cell viability and bacterial stress responses were tested using LIVE/DEAD™ BacLight™ Bacterial Viability Kit and by the detection of reactive oxygen species using CellROX™ Green Reagent, respectively. An increase in the volume of dead cells (in the plastisphere biofilm) was observed with increasing DOTP concentrations in experiments using PVC films, indicating the potential negative impact of DOTP on microbial communities. Even at a relatively low concentration of DOTP (1%), signs of stress in the microbes were noticed, while concentrations above 5% compromised their ability to survive. This research provides a new understanding of the environmental impacts of alternative plasticizers, prompting the need for additional research into their wider effects on both the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Fahad M S Mohamed
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Abhrajyoti Tarafdar
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; School of Food Science and Environmental Health, Technological University Dublin, City Campus, Grangegorman, Dublin, D07ADY7, Ireland
| | - So Yeon Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Bin Oh
- Department of Chemistry, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Romano I, Ventorino V, Schettino M, Magaraci G, Pepe O. Changes in Soil Microbial Communities Induced by Biodegradable and Polyethylene Mulch Residues Under Three Different Temperatures. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2024; 87:101. [PMID: 39083238 PMCID: PMC11291583 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-024-02420-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Mulching is a common method increasing crop yield and achieving out-of-season production; nevertheless, their removal poses a significant environmental danger. In this scenario, the use of biodegradable plastic mulches comes up as a solution to increase the sustainability of this practice, as they can be tilled in soil without risk for the environment. In this context, it is important to study the microbial response to this practice, considering their direct involvement in plastic biodegradation. This study evaluated the biodegradation of three commercial mulch residues: one conventional non-biodegradable mulch versus two biodegradable ones (white and black compostable Mater-Bi mulches). The experiment was conducted under three incubation temperatures (room temperature 20-25 °C, 30 °C, and 45 °C) for a 6-month trial using fallow agricultural soil. Soil without plastic mulch residues was used as a control. White mater-bi biodegradable mulch residues showed higher degradation rates up to 88.90% at 30 °C, and up to 69.15% at room temperature. Furthermore, incubation at 45 °C determines the absence of degradation for all types of mulch considered. Moreover, bacterial alpha diversity was primarily influenced by plastic type and temperature, while fungal populations were mainly affected by temperature. Beta diversity was impacted by all experimental variables. Predicted functional genes crucial for degrading complex substrates, including those encoding hydrolases, cutinases, cellobiosidases, and lipases, were derived from 16S rRNA gene sequencing data. Cluster analysis based on predicted enzyme-encoding gene abundance revealed two clusters, mainly linked to sampling time. Finally, core microbiome analysis identified dominant bacterial and fungal taxa in various soil-plastic ecosystems during degradation, pinpointing species potentially involved in plastic breakdown. The present study allows an assessment of how different temperatures affect the degradation of mulch residues in soil, providing important insights for different climatic growing zones. It also fills a gap in the literature by directly comparing the effects of biodegradable and polyethylene mulches on soil microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Romano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Ventorino
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Task Force On Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Schettino
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Magaraci
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Olimpia Pepe
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
- Task Force On Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
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Jebashalomi V, Emmanuel Charles P, Rajaram R. Microbial degradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polystyrene using Bacillus cereus (OR268710) isolated from plastic-polluted tropical coastal environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171580. [PMID: 38462004 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The study focused on marine bacteria, specifically Bacillus cereus, sourced from heavily polluted coastal areas in Tamil Nadu, aiming to assess their efficacy in degrading low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polystyrene over a 42-day period. When LDPE and polystyrene films were incubated with Bacillus cereus, they exhibited maximum weight losses of 4.13 ± 0.81 % and 14.13 ± 2.41 %, respectively. Notably, polystyrene exhibited a higher reduction rate (0.0036 day-1) and a shorter half-life (195.29 days). SEM images of the treated LDPE and polystyrene unveiled surface erosion with cracks. The energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis revealed elevated carbon content and the presence of oxygen in the treated LDPE and polystyrene films. The ATR-FTIR spectra exhibited distinctive peaks corresponding to functional groups, with observable peak shifts in the treated films. Notable increases were detected in carbonyl, internal double bond, and vinyl indices across all treated groups. Additionally, both treated LDPE and polystyrene showed reduced crystallinity. This research sheds light on Bacillus cereus (OR268710) biodegradation capabilities, emphasizing its potential for eco-friendly waste management in coastal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vethanayaham Jebashalomi
- Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620 024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Rajendran Rajaram
- Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620 024, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Shin N, Kim SH, Oh J, Kim S, Lee Y, Shin Y, Choi S, Bhatia SK, Kim YG, Yang YH. Reproducible Polybutylene Succinate (PBS)-Degrading Artificial Consortia by Introducing the Least Type of PBS-Degrading Strains. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:651. [PMID: 38475335 DOI: 10.3390/polym16050651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Polybutylene succinate (PBS) stands out as a promising biodegradable polymer, drawing attention for its potential as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics due to its biodegradability and reduced environmental impact. In this study, we aimed to enhance PBS degradation by examining artificial consortia composed of bacterial strains. Specifically, Terribacillus sp. JY49, Bacillus sp. JY35, and Bacillus sp. NR4 were assessed for their capabilities and synergistic effects in PBS degradation. When only two types of strains, Bacillus sp. JY35 and Bacillus sp. NR4, were co-cultured as a consortium, a notable increase in degradation activity toward PBS was observed compared to their activities alone. The consortium of Bacillus sp. JY35 and Bacillus sp. NR4 demonstrated a remarkable degradation yield of 76.5% in PBS after 10 days. The degradation of PBS by the consortium was validated and our findings underscore the potential for enhancing PBS degradation and the possibility of fast degradation by forming artificial consortia, leveraging the synergy between strains with limited PBS degradation activity. Furthermore, this study demonstrated that utilizing only two types of strains in the consortium facilitates easy control and provides reproducible results. This approach mitigates the risk of losing activity and reproducibility issues often associated with natural consortia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nara Shin
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Hyun Kim
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinok Oh
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Suwon Kim
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeda Lee
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuni Shin
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Suhye Choi
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Shashi Kant Bhatia
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
- Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Application, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Gon Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
- Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Application, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
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7
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Athulya PA, Waychal Y, Rodriguez-Seijo A, Devalla S, Doss CGP, Chandrasekaran N. Microplastic interactions in the agroecosystems: methodological advances and limitations in quantifying microplastics from agricultural soil. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:85. [PMID: 38367078 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-023-01800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
The instantaneous growth of the world population is intensifying the pressure on the agricultural sector. On the other hand, the critical climate changes and increasing load of pollutants in the soil are imposing formidable challenges on agroecosystems, affecting productivity and quality of the crops. Microplastics are among the most prevalent pollutants that have already invaded all terrestrial and aquatic zones. The increasing microplastic concentration in soil critically impacts crop plants growth and yield. The current review elaborates on the behaviors of microplastics in soil and their impact on soil quality and plant growth. The study shows that microplastics alter the soil's biophysical properties, including water-holding capacity, bulk density, aeration, texture, and microbial composition. In addition, microplastics interact with multiple pollutants, such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, making them more bioavailable to crop plants. The study also provides a detailed insight into the current techniques available for the isolation and identification of soil microplastics, providing solutions to some of the critical challenges faced and highlighting the research gaps. In our study, we have taken a holistic, comprehensive approach by analysing and comparing various interconnected aspects to provide a deeper understanding of all research perspectives on microplastics in agroecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yojana Waychal
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Andres Rodriguez-Seijo
- Departamento de Bioloxía Vexetal e Ciencias do Solo, Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Ciencias de Ourense, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas S/N, 32004, Ourense, Spain
- Instituto de Agroecoloxía e Alimentación (IAA), Universidade de Vigo-Campus Auga, 32004, Ourense, Spain
| | - Sandhya Devalla
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH, Scotland, UK
| | - C George Priya Doss
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Natarajan Chandrasekaran
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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He Y, Deng X, Jiang L, Hao L, Shi Y, Lyu M, Zhang L, Wang S. Current advances, challenges and strategies for enhancing the biodegradation of plastic waste. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167850. [PMID: 37844647 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to its highly recalcitrant nature, the growing accumulation of plastic waste is becoming an urgent global problem. Biodegradation is one of the best possible approaches for the treatment of plastic waste in an environmentally friendly manner, but our current knowledge on the underlying mechanisms, as well as strategies for the development and enhancement of plastic biodegradation are still limited. This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of current research on plastic waste biodegradation, focusing on enhancement strategies with ongoing research significance, including the mining of highly efficient plastic-degrading microorganisms/enzymes, utilization of synergistic additives, novel pretreatment approaches, modification via molecular engineering, and construction of bacterial/enzyme consortia systems. Studying these strategies can (i) enrich the high-performance microbial/enzymes toolbox for plastic degradation, (ii) provide methods for recycling and upgrading plastics, as well as (iii) enable further molecular modification and functional optimization of plastic-degrading enzymes to realize economically viable biodegradation of plastics. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review to discuss in detail strategies to enhance biodegradation of plastics. Finally, some recommendations for future research on plastic biodegradation are listed, hoping to provide the best direction for tackling the plastic waste dilemma in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehui He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine, Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Xilong Deng
- College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Lijuan Hao
- College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Yong Shi
- College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Mingsheng Lyu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine, Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine, Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China.
| | - Shujun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine, Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; College of Marine Food and Bioengineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China.
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9
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Fiandra EF, Shaw L, Starck M, McGurk CJ, Mahon CS. Designing biodegradable alternatives to commodity polymers. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8085-8105. [PMID: 37885416 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00556a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The development and widespread adoption of commodity polymers changed societal landscapes on a global scale. Without the everyday materials used in packaging, textiles, construction and medicine, our lives would be unrecognisable. Through decades of use, however, the environmental impact of waste plastics has become grimly apparent, leading to sustained pressure from environmentalists, consumers and scientists to deliver replacement materials. The need to reduce the environmental impact of commodity polymers is beyond question, yet the reality of replacing these ubiquitous materials with sustainable alternatives is complex. In this tutorial review, we will explore the concepts of sustainable design and biodegradability, as applied to the design of synthetic polymers intended for use at scale. We will provide an overview of the potential biodegradation pathways available to polymers in different environments, and highlight the importance of considering these pathways when designing new materials. We will identify gaps in our collective understanding of the production, use and fate of biodegradable polymers: from identifying appropriate feedstock materials, to considering changes needed to production and recycling practices, and to improving our understanding of the environmental fate of the materials we produce. We will discuss the current standard methods for the determination of biodegradability, where lengthy experimental timescales often frustrate the development of new materials, and highlight the need to develop better tools and models to assess the degradation rate of polymers in different environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuella F Fiandra
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - Lloyd Shaw
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - Matthieu Starck
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | | | - Clare S Mahon
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
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10
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Zhang Y, Xu Z, Lu M, Ma X, Chen S, Wang Y, Shen W, Li P, Jin M. High titer (>200 g/L) lactic acid production from undetoxified pretreated corn stover. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 388:129729. [PMID: 37690486 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Lignocellulosic biomass is a reliable feedstock for lactic acid fermentation, low product titers hamper the scale production of cellulosic lactic acid. In this study, a Densifying Lignocellulosic biomass with Chemicals (sulfuric acid) pretreatment based cellulosic lactic acid biorefinery system was developed and demonstrated from multi-dimensions of producing bacteria, fermentation modes, corn stover solid loadings, fermentation vessels, and product purification. Results suggested that several lactic acid bacteria exhibited high fermentation activity in high solid loading corn stover hydrolysates. Remarkably, simultaneous saccharification co-fermentation performed in 100-mL flasks enabled 210.1 g/L lactic acid from 40% solid loading corn stover hydrolysate. When simultaneous saccharification co-fermentation was performed in 3-L bioreactors, 157.4 g/L lactic acid was obtained from 35% solid loading corn stover hydrolysate. These obtained lactic acid titers are the highest reports until now when lignocellulosic biomasses are used as substrates, making it efficient for scale production of cellulosic lactic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Zhaoxian Xu
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Minrui Lu
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Xingwang Ma
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Sitong Chen
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Yanchen Wang
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Wenyuan Shen
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Pingping Li
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Mingjie Jin
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; Biorefinery Research Institution, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China.
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11
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Chamanee G, Sewwandi M, Wijesekara H, Vithanage M. Global perspective on microplastics in landfill leachate; Occurrence, abundance, characteristics, and environmental impact. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 171:10-25. [PMID: 37634255 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Plastic wastes deposited in landfills eventually break down and degrade into microplastics by physical, chemical, and biological forces. Though microplastics in leachate pose significant threats to the environment, the leachate generated from landfills has not received much attention as a possible source of environmental microplastics. A descriptive and systematic investigationof the global distribution of microplastics in landfill leachate does not exist to date. Therefore, this attempt is to provide a concise scientometric review of the studies on the presence of microplastics in landfill leachate. The present review revealed that the global trend in research on microplastics in leachate has increased exponentially after 2018 and China is the leading country. Different geographical regions have reported different microplastic abundances with the highest of 291.0 ± 91.0 items/L from a landfill in Shanghai. The use of novel sampling techniques to detect small microplastics (20-100 µm) has led to the high abundance of microplastics in landfill leachate in Shanghai. Due to its widespread usage, polyethylene is the most typically encountered polymer type in landfill leachate around the world. However, it is quite challengingto compare the results among studies due to the use of different size categories and extraction techniques. The removal of microplastics by the current leachate treatment facilities is still mostly unexplored, thus it is crucial to develop novel technologies to treat the microplastics in landfill leachate. Further investigations on the transport of microplastics in landfill leachate are urgently required to have a better understanding of potential human exposure and health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Chamanee
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Madushika Sewwandi
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India; Institute of Agriculture, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
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