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Yeo JCC, Muiruri JK, Fei X, Wang T, Zhang X, Xiao Y, Thitsartarn W, Tanoto H, He C, Li Z. Innovative biomaterials for food packaging: Unlocking the potential of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymers. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 163:213929. [PMID: 39024863 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213929] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolyesters show a good balance between sustainability and performance, making them a competitive alternative to conventional plastics for ecofriendly food packaging. With an emphasis on developments over the last decade (2014-2024), this review examines the revolutionary potential of PHAs as a sustainable food packaging material option. It also delves into the current state of commercial development, competitiveness, and the carbon footprint associated with PHA-based products. First, a critical examination of the challenges experienced by PHAs in terms of food packaging requirements is undertaken, followed by an assessment of contemporary strategies addressing permeability, mechanical properties, and processing considerations. The various PHA packaging end-of-life options, including a comprehensive overview of the environmental impact and potential solutions will also be discussed. Finally, conclusions and future perspectives are elucidated with a view of prospecting PHAs as future green materials, with a blend of performance and sustainability of food packaging solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayven Chee Chuan Yeo
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Joseph Kinyanjui Muiruri
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE(2)), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xunchang Fei
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 1 Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637141, Singapore
| | - Tong Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xikui Zhang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yihang Xiao
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Warintorn Thitsartarn
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Hendrix Tanoto
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Chaobin He
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117576, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Zibiao Li
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore; Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE(2)), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117576, Republic of Singapore.
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2
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Zhai X, Han J, Chang L, Zhao F, Zhang R, Wang W, Hou H. Effects of starch filling on physicochemical properties, functional activities, and release characteristics of PBAT-based biodegradable active films loaded with tea polyphenols. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134505. [PMID: 39106933 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
In this work, the modification of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) was combined with the development of active packaging films. PBAT, starch, plasticizer, and tea polyphenols (TP) were compounded and extrusion-blown into thermoplastic starch (TPS)/PBAT-TP active films. Effects of TPS contents on physicochemical properties, functional activities, biodegradability, and release kinetics of PBAT-based active films were explored. Starch interacted strongly with TP through hydrogen bonding and induced the formation of heterogeneous structures in the films. With the increase in TPS contents, surface hydrophilicity and water vapor permeability of the films increased, while mechanical properties decreased. Blending starch with PBAT greatly accelerated degradation behavior of the films, and the T30P70-TP film achieved complete degradation after 180 days. As TPS contents increased, swelling degree of the films increased and TP release were improved accordingly, resulting in significantly enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. This work demonstrated that filling starch into PBAT-based active films could achieve different antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the films by regulating film swelling and release behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosong Zhai
- Shandong Facility Horticulture Bioengineering Research Center, Jia Sixie College of Agriculture, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang 262700, China
| | - Jinhong Han
- Shandong Facility Horticulture Bioengineering Research Center, Jia Sixie College of Agriculture, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang 262700, China
| | - Liang Chang
- Shandong Facility Horticulture Bioengineering Research Center, Jia Sixie College of Agriculture, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang 262700, China
| | - Fei Zhao
- Shandong Facility Horticulture Bioengineering Research Center, Jia Sixie College of Agriculture, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang 262700, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Agricultural Science and Engineering School, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252000, China
| | - Wentao Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Engineering and Technology Center for Grain Processing of Shandong Province, Tai'an 271018, China.
| | - Hanxue Hou
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Engineering and Technology Center for Grain Processing of Shandong Province, Tai'an 271018, China.
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Apicella A, Malafeev KV, Scarfato P, Incarnato L. Generation of Microplastics from Biodegradable Packaging Films Based on PLA, PBS and Their Blend in Freshwater and Seawater. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2268. [PMID: 39204488 PMCID: PMC11360359 DOI: 10.3390/polym16162268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers and their blends have been advised as an eco-sustainable solution; however, the generation of microplastics (MPs) from their degradation in aquatic environments is still not fully grasped. In this study, we investigated the formation of bio-microplastics (BMPs) and the changes in the physicochemical properties of blown packaging films based on polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS) and a PBS/PLA 70/30 wt% blend after degradation in different aquatic media. The tests were carried out in two temperature/light conditions to simulate degradation in either warm water, under sunlight exposure (named Warm and Light-W&L), and cold deep water (named Cold and Dark-C&D). The pH changes in the aqueous environments were evaluated, while the formed BMPs were analyzed for their size and shape alongside with variations in polymer crystallinity, surface and mechanical properties. In W&L conditions, for all the films, the hydrolytic degradation led to the reorganization of the polymer crystalline phases, strong embrittlement and an increase in hydrophilicity. The PBS/PLA 70/30 blend exhibited increased resistance to degradation with respect to the neat PLA and PBS films. In C&D conditions, no microparticles were observed up to 12 weeks of degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paola Scarfato
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (A.A.); (K.V.M.); (L.I.)
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Tosakul T, Chanthot P, Pattamaprom C. High toughness and fast home-compost biodegradable packaging films derived from polylactic acid/thermoplastic starch/para-rubber ternary blends. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18603. [PMID: 39127810 PMCID: PMC11316775 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69508-y] [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: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This research aims to formulate biobased and biodegradable packaging films with high toughness and fast home-compost biodegradation using ternary blends of polylactic acid (PLA), Para rubber (NR), and thermoplastic starch (TPS) through blown-film extrusion. The TPS content in this work ranges from 5 to 20 wt%, while the PLA: NR ratio is fixed at 70:30. At this PLA: NR ratio, the blend with 10 wt% TPS (PNT10) exhibited the highest % elongation at break and tensile toughness. Peroxide radical initiator was investigated as a potential additive for improving the properties of the ternary blend. Our binary interaction study indicated that peroxide initiated grafting reactions of PLA-NR and NR-TPS pairs, while no grafting occurred between PLA and TPS. In ternary blends, the highest peroxide content (0.5 wt%) increased the % elongation at break up to 120%, with the tensile toughness reaching 7255 MJ/m3. The improved compatibility induced by peroxide addition was supported by enhanced dispersion of TPS in the PLA/NR matrices. Results from the room-temperature soil burial test indicated that the presence of TPS could significantly accelerate the home-compost degradation of PNT films compared to films produced from neat PLA and PLA/NR. This suggests its potential as both a cost reducer and a biodegradation accelerator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuchathum Tosakul
- Research Unit in Polymer Rheology and Processing, Department of Chemical Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat University, Klong Luang, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Peerapong Chanthot
- Research Unit in Polymer Rheology and Processing, Department of Chemical Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat University, Klong Luang, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Cattaleeya Pattamaprom
- Research Unit in Polymer Rheology and Processing, Department of Chemical Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat University, Klong Luang, Pathumthani, Thailand.
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Sharma KK, Panwar H, Gupta KK. Isolation and characterization of bio-prospecting gut strains Bacillus safensis CGK192 and Bacillus australimaris CGK221 for plastic (HDPE) degradation. Biotechnol Lett 2024; 46:671-689. [PMID: 38705964 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-024-03486-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The present work reports the application of novel gut strains Bacillus safensis CGK192 (Accession No. OM658336) and Bacillus australimaris CGK221 (Accession No. OM658338) in the biological degradation of synthetic polymer i.e., high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The biodegradation assay based on polymer weight loss was conducted under laboratory conditions for a period of 90 days along with regular evaluation of bacterial biomass in terms of total protein content and viable cells (CFU/cm2). Notably, both strains achieved significant weight reduction for HDPE films without any physical or chemical pretreatment in comparison to control. Hydrophobicity and biosurfactant characterization were also done in order to assess strains ability to form bacterial biofilm over the polymer surface. The post-degradation characterization of HDPE was also performed to confirm degradation using analytical techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electronic microscopy (FE-SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Interestingly strain CGK221 was found to be more efficient in forming biofilm over polymer surface as indicated by lower half-life (i.e., 0.00032 day-1) and higher carbonyl index in comparison to strain CGK192. The findings reflect the ability of our strains to develop biofilm and introduce an oxygenic functional group into the polymer surface, thereby making it more susceptible to degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Kant Sharma
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Himalaya Panwar
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Kartikey Kumar Gupta
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India.
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Fernandes M, Salvador AF, Vicente AA. Biodegradation of PHB/PBAT films and isolation of novel PBAT biodegraders from soil microbiomes. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142696. [PMID: 38925517 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142696] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are important candidates for replacing petroleum-based plastics. This transition is urgent for the development of a biobased economy and to protect human health and natural ecosystems. PHAs are biobased and biodegradable polyesters that when blended with other polymers, such as poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), acquire remarkable improvements in their properties, which allow them to comply with the requirements of packaging applications. However, the biodegradation of such blends should be tested to evaluate the impact of those polymers in the environment. For instance, PBAT is a compostable aliphatic-aromatic copolyester, and its biodegradation in natural environments, such as soil, is poorly studied. In this work, we evaluated the biodegradation of a bilayer film composed of PHB and PBAT, by a soil microbiome. The bilayer film reached 47 ± 1 % mineralization in 180 days and PHB was no longer detected after this period. The increased crystallinity of the PBAT residue was a clear sign of biodegradation, indicating that the amorphous regions were preferentially biodegraded. Seven microorganisms were isolated, from which 4 were closely related to microorganisms already known as PHB degraders, but the other 3 species, closely related to Streptomyces coelicoflavus, Clonostachys rosea and Aspergillus insuetus, were found for the first time as PHB degraders. Most remarkably, two fungi closely related to Purpureocillium lilacinum and Aspergillus pseudodeflectus (99.83 % and 100 % identity by ITS sequencing) were isolated and identified as PBAT degraders. This is very interesting due to the rarity of isolating PBAT-degrading microorganisms. These results show that the bilayer film can be biodegraded in soil, at mesophilic temperatures, showing its potential to replace synthetic plastics in food packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Fernandes
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - Andreia F Salvador
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - António A Vicente
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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Kaur R, Chauhan I. Biodegradable plastics: mechanisms of degradation and generated bio microplastic impact on soil health. Biodegradation 2024:10.1007/s10532-024-10092-3. [PMID: 38985381 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-024-10092-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Conventional petroleum-derived polymers are valued for their versatility and are widely used, owing to their characteristics such as cost-effectiveness, diverse physical and chemical qualities, lower molecular weight, and easy processability for large-scale production. However, the extensive accumulation of such plastics leads to serious environmental issues. To combat this existing situation, an alternative lies in the production of bioplastics from natural and renewable sources such as plants, animals, microbes, etc. Bioplastics obtained from renewable sources are compostable and susceptible to degradation caused by microbes hydrolyzing to CO2, CH4, and biomass. Also, certain additives are reinforced into the bioplastic films to improve their physicochemical properties and degradation rate. However, on degradation, the bio-microplastic (BM) produced could have positive as well as negative impact on the soil health. This article thus focuses on the degradation of various fossil based as well as bio based biodegradable plastics such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polysaccharide derived bioplastics by mechanical, thermal, photodegradation and microbial approaches. The degradation mechanism of each approach has been discussed in detailed for different bioplastics. How the incorporation or reinforcement of various additives in the biodegradable plastics effects their degradation rates has also been discussed. In addition to that, the impact of generated bio-microplastic on physicochemical properties of soil such as pH, bulk density, carbon, nitrogen content etc. and biological properties such as on genome of native soil microbes and on plant nutritional health have been discussed in detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishpreet Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology Jalandhar, Punjab, 144008, India
| | - Indu Chauhan
- Department of Biotechnology, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology Jalandhar, Punjab, 144008, India.
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Chang YC, Venkateswar Reddy M, Suzuki H, Terayama T, Mawatari Y, Seki C, Sarkar O. Characterization of Ralstonia insidiosa C1 isolated from Alpine regions: Capability in polyhydroxyalkanoates degradation and production. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134348. [PMID: 38653138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134348] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
This study ventures into the exploration of potential poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) degradation in alpine environments. PHB-degrading bacteria were identified in both campus soil, representing a residential area, and Mt. Kurodake soil, an alpine region in Hokkaido, Japan. Next-generation sequencing analysis indicated that the campus soil exhibited higher microbial diversity, while Ralstonia insidiosa C1, isolated from Mt. Kurodake soil, displayed the highest proficiency in PHB degradation. R. insidiosa C1 efficiently degraded up to 3% (w/v) of PHB and various films composed of other biopolymers at 14 °C. This bacterium synthesized homopolymers using substrates such as 3-hydroxybutyric acid, sugars, and acetic acid, while also produced copolymers using a mixture of fatty acids. The analysis results confirmed that the biopolymer synthesized by strain C1 using glucose was PHB, with physical properties comparable to commercial products. The unique capabilities of R. insidiosa C1, encompassing both the production and degradation of bioplastics, highlight its potential to establish a novel material circulation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Cheol Chang
- Course of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Division of Sustainable and Environmental Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Hokkaido 050-8585, Japan; Department of Sciences and Informatics, Course of Chemical and Biological Systems, Muroran Institute of Technology, 27-1 Mizumoto, Muroran 050-8585, Japan.
| | - M Venkateswar Reddy
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA
| | - Hinako Suzuki
- Department of Sciences and Informatics, Course of Chemical and Biological Systems, Muroran Institute of Technology, 27-1 Mizumoto, Muroran 050-8585, Japan
| | - Takumi Terayama
- Course of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Division of Sustainable and Environmental Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Hokkaido 050-8585, Japan
| | - Yasuteru Mawatari
- Course of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Division of Sustainable and Environmental Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Hokkaido 050-8585, Japan; Department of Sciences and Informatics, Course of Chemical and Biological Systems, Muroran Institute of Technology, 27-1 Mizumoto, Muroran 050-8585, Japan
| | - Chigusa Seki
- Course of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Division of Sustainable and Environmental Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Hokkaido 050-8585, Japan; Department of Sciences and Informatics, Course of Chemical and Biological Systems, Muroran Institute of Technology, 27-1 Mizumoto, Muroran 050-8585, Japan
| | - Omprakash Sarkar
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
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Talekar S, Barrow CJ, Nguyen HC, Zolfagharian A, Zare S, Farjana SH, Macreadie PI, Ashraf M, Trevathan-Tackett SM. Using waste biomass to produce 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures for coastal ecosystem restoration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 925:171728. [PMID: 38492597 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171728] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The loss of ecosystem functions and services caused by rapidly declining coastal marine ecosystems, including corals and bivalve reefs and wetlands, around the world has sparked significant interest in interdisciplinary methods to restore these ecologically and socially important ecosystems. In recent years, 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures that mimic natural life stages or habitat have emerged as a promising method for coastal marine restoration. The effectiveness of this method relies on the availability of low-cost biodegradable printing polymers and the development of 3D-printed biomimetic structures that efficiently support the growth of plant and sessile animal species without harming the surrounding ecosystem. In this context, we present the potential and pathway for utilizing low-cost biodegradable biopolymers from waste biomass as printing materials to fabricate 3D-printed biodegradable artificial structures for restoring coastal marine ecosystems. Various waste biomass sources can be used to produce inexpensive biopolymers, particularly those with the higher mechanical rigidity required for 3D-printed artificial structures intended to restore marine ecosystems. Advancements in 3D printing methods, as well as biopolymer modifications and blending to address challenges like biopolymer solubility, rheology, chemical composition, crystallinity, plasticity, and heat stability, have enabled the fabrication of robust structures. The ability of 3D-printed structures to support species colonization and protection was found to be greatly influenced by their biopolymer type, surface topography, structure design, and complexity. Considering limited studies on biodegradability and the effect of biodegradation products on marine ecosystems, we highlight the need for investigating the biodegradability of biopolymers in marine conditions as well as the ecotoxicity of the degraded products. Finally, we present the challenges, considerations, and future perspectives for designing tunable biomimetic 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures from waste biomass biopolymers for large-scale coastal marine restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Talekar
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Green Chemistry in Manufacturing, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Colin J Barrow
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Green Chemistry in Manufacturing, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia.
| | - Hoang Chinh Nguyen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Ali Zolfagharian
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Shahab Zare
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | | | - Peter I Macreadie
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Mahmud Ashraf
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Stacey M Trevathan-Tackett
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
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Rahmati F, Sethi D, Shu W, Asgari Lajayer B, Mosaferi M, Thomson A, Price GW. Advances in microbial exoenzymes bioengineering for improvement of bioplastics degradation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141749. [PMID: 38521099 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141749] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a major global concern, posing numerous challenges for the environment and wildlife. Most conventional ways of plastics degradation are inefficient and cause great damage to ecosystems. The development of biodegradable plastics offers a promising solution for waste management. These plastics are designed to break down under various conditions, opening up new possibilities to mitigate the negative impact of traditional plastics. Microbes, including bacteria and fungi, play a crucial role in the degradation of bioplastics by producing and secreting extracellular enzymes, such as cutinase, lipases, and proteases. However, these microbial enzymes are sensitive to extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature and acidity, affecting their functions and stability. To address these challenges, scientists have employed protein engineering and immobilization techniques to enhance enzyme stability and predict protein structures. Strategies such as improving enzyme and substrate interaction, increasing enzyme thermostability, reinforcing the bonding between the active site of the enzyme and substrate, and refining enzyme activity are being utilized to boost enzyme immobilization and functionality. Recently, bioengineering through gene cloning and expression in potential microorganisms, has revolutionized the biodegradation of bioplastics. This review aimed to discuss the most recent protein engineering strategies for modifying bioplastic-degrading enzymes in terms of stability and functionality, including enzyme thermostability enhancement, reinforcing the substrate binding to the enzyme active site, refining with other enzymes, and improvement of enzyme surface and substrate action. Additionally, discovered bioplastic-degrading exoenzymes by metagenomics techniques were emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Rahmati
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Qom 37185364, Iran
| | - Debadatta Sethi
- Sugarcane Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Nayagarh, India
| | - Weixi Shu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Mosaferi
- Health and Environment Research Center, Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Allan Thomson
- Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation., 173 Dr. Bernie MacDonald Dr., Bible Hill, Truro, NS, B6L 2H5, Canada
| | - G W Price
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada.
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Ekrem Parlak M, Irmak Sahin O, Neslihan Dundar A, Türker Saricaoglu F, Smaoui S, Goksen G, Koirala P, Al-Asmari F, Prakash Nirmal N. Natural colorant incorporated biopolymers-based pH-sensing films for indicating the food product quality and safety. Food Chem 2024; 439:138160. [PMID: 38086233 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.138160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The current synthetic plastic-based packaging creates environmental hazards that impact climate change. Hence, the topic of the current research in food packaging is biodegradable packaging and its development. In addition, new smart packaging solutions are being developed to monitor the quality of packaged foods, with dual functions as food preservation and quality indicators. In the creation of intelligent and active food packaging, many natural colorants have been employed effectively as pH indicators and active substances, respectively. This review provides an overview of biodegradable polymers and natural colorants that are being extensively studied for pH-indicating packaging. A comprehensive discussion has been provided on the current status of the development of intelligent packaging systems for food, different incorporation techniques, and technical challenges in the development of such green packaging. Finally, the food industry and environmental protection might be revolutionized by pH-sensing biodegradable packaging enabling real-time detection of food product quality and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmud Ekrem Parlak
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Bursa Technical University, 16310 Yıldırım/BURSA, Turkey
| | - Oya Irmak Sahin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yalova University, 76200 Yalova, Turkey
| | - Ayse Neslihan Dundar
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Bursa Technical University, 16310 Yıldırım/BURSA, Turkey
| | - Furkan Türker Saricaoglu
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Bursa Technical University, 16310 Yıldırım/BURSA, Turkey
| | - Slim Smaoui
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Engineering Enzymes (LMBEE), Center of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS), University of Sfax, Road of Sidi Mansour Km 6, P.O. Box 1177, 3018 Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Gulden Goksen
- Department of Food Technology, Vocational School of Technical Sciences at Mersin Tarsus Organized Industrial Zone, Tarsus University, 33100 Mersin, Turkey
| | - Pankaj Koirala
- Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University, 999 Phutthamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Fahad Al-Asmari
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Food Sciences, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 400, Al-Ahsa, 31982 Al-Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nilesh Prakash Nirmal
- Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University, 999 Phutthamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand.
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12
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Salam LB. Metagenomic investigations into the microbial consortia, degradation pathways, and enzyme systems involved in the biodegradation of plastics in a tropical lentic pond sediment. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:172. [PMID: 38630153 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03972-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The exploitation of exciting features of plastics for diverse applications has resulted in significant plastic waste generation, which negatively impacts environmental compartments, metabolic processes, and the well-being of aquatic ecosystems biota. A shotgun metagenomic approach was deployed to investigate the microbial consortia, degradation pathways, and enzyme systems involved in the degradation of plastics in a tropical lentic pond sediment (APS). Functional annotation of the APS proteome (ORFs) using the PlasticDB database revealed annotation of 1015 proteins of enzymes such as depolymerase, esterase, lipase, hydrolase, nitrobenzylesterase, chitinase, carboxylesterase, polyesterase, oxidoreductase, polyamidase, PETase, MHETase, laccase, alkane monooxygenase, among others involved in the depolymerization of the plastic polymers. It also revealed that polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and nylon have the highest number of annotated enzymes. Further annotation using the KEGG GhostKOALA revealed that except for terephthalate, all the other degradation products of the plastic polymers depolymerization such as glyoxylate, adipate, succinate, 1,4-butanediol, ethylene glycol, lactate, and acetaldehyde were further metabolized to intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Taxonomic characterization of the annotated proteins using the AAI Profiler and BLASTP revealed that Pseudomonadota members dominate most plastic types, followed by Actinomycetota and Acidobacteriota. The study reveals novel plastic degraders from diverse phyla hitherto not reported to be involved in plastic degradation. This suggests that plastic pollution in aquatic environments is prevalent with well-adapted degrading communities and could be the silver lining in mitigating the impacts of plastic pollution in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lateef B Salam
- Microbiology Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Nigeria.
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13
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Mayekar PC, Auras R. Accelerating Biodegradation: Enhancing Poly(lactic acid) Breakdown at Mesophilic Environmental Conditions with Biostimulants. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2300641. [PMID: 38206571 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has garnered interest due to its low environmental footprint and ability to replace conventional polymers and be disposed of in industrial composting environments. Although PLA is compostable when subjected to a suitable set of conditions, its broader acceptance in industrial composting facilities has been affected adversely due to longer degradation timeframes than the readily biodegradable organic waste fraction. PLA must be fully exposed to thermophilic conditions for prolonged periods to biodegrade, which has restricted its adoption and hindered its acceptance in industrial composting facilities, negating its home composting potential. Thus, enhancing PLA biodegradation is crucial to expand its acceptance. PLA's biodegradability is investigated in a compost matrix under mesophilic conditions at 37 °C for 180 days by biostimulating the compost environment with skim milk, gelatin, and ethyl lactate to enhance the different stages of PLA biodegradation. The evolved CO2, number average molecular weight (Mn), and crystallinity evolution are tracked. To achieve a Mn ≲ 10 kDa for PLA, the biodegradation rate is accelerated by 15% by adding skim milk, 25% by adding gelatin, and 22% by adding ethyl lactate. This work shows potential techniques to help biodegrade PLA in home composting setting by adding biostimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja C Mayekar
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Rafael Auras
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
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14
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Mayekar PC, Auras R. Speeding it up: dual effects of biostimulants and iron on the biodegradation of poly(lactic acid) at mesophilic conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024; 26:530-539. [PMID: 38345085 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00534h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution presents a growing concern, and various solutions have been proposed to address it. One such solution involves the development of new plastics that match the properties of traditional polymers while exhibiting enhanced biodegradability when disposed of in a suitable environment. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biobased, compostable polymer known for its low environmental impact and ability to break down into harmless components within a specified timeframe. However, its degradation in industrial composting facilities poses challenges, and it cannot degrade in home composting. In this study, we investigated the biodegradability of PLA within a biostimulated compost matrix at mesophilic conditions (37 °C) over 180 days. The compost environment was enhanced with Fe3O4 nanopowder, skim milk, gelatin, and ethyl lactate, individually and in combination, to target different stages of the PLA biodegradation process. We monitored key indicators, CO2 evolution, number average molecular weight, and crystallinity, to assess the impact of the various biostimulants and iron. The results demonstrated that the most effective treatment for degrading PLA at mesophilic conditions was adding gelatin and Fe3O4. Gelatin accelerated PLA biodegradation by 25%, Fe3O4 by 17%, and a combination of gelatin and Fe3O4 by 30%. The effect of skim milk and ethyl lactate is also reported. This research introduces novel pathways to enhance PLA biodegradation in home composting scenarios, offering promising solutions to address the plastic pollution challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja C Mayekar
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA.
| | - Rafael Auras
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA.
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15
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Thapa BS, Pandit S, Mishra RK, Joshi S, Idris AM, Tusher TR. Emergence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and advances in the remediation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170142. [PMID: 38242458 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170142] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
A group of fluorinated organic molecules known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been commonly produced and circulated in the environment. PFAS, owing to multiple strong CF bonds, exhibit exceptional stability and possess a high level of resistance against biological or chemical degradation. Recently, PFAS have been identified to cause numerous hazardous effects on the biotic ecosystem. As a result, extensive efforts have been made in recent years to develop effective methods to remove PFAS. Adsorption, filtration, heat treatment, chemical oxidation/reduction, and soil washing are a few of the physicochemical techniques that have shown their ability to remove PFAS from contaminated matrixes. However these methods also carry significant drawbacks, including the fact that they are expensive, energy-intensive, unsuitable for in-situ treatment, and requirement to be carried under dormant conditions. The metabolic products released upon PFAS degradation are largely unknown, despite the fact that thermal disintegration methods are widely used. In contrast to physical and chemical methods, biological degradation of PFAS has been regarded as efficient method. However, PFAS are difficult to instantly and completely metabolize through biological methods due to the limitations of biocatalytic mechanisms. Nevertheless, cost, easy-to-operate and environmentally safe are some of the advantages over its counterpart. The present review comprehensively discusses the occurrence of PFAS, the state-of-the science of remediation technologies and approaches applied, and the remediation challenges. The article also focuses on the future research directions toward the development of effective methods for PFAS-contaminated site in-situ treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhim Sen Thapa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA
| | - Soumya Pandit
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, UP, India
| | - Rahul Kumar Mishra
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, UP, India
| | - Sanket Joshi
- Amity Institute of Microbial Technology, Amity University Rajasthan, Kant Kalwar, NH 11C, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303002, India
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tanmoy Roy Tusher
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA; Department of Environmental Science and Resource Management, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Tangail 1902, Bangladesh.
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16
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Luan Q, Hu H, Ouyang X, Jiang X, Lin C, Zhu H, Shi T, Zhao YL, Wang J, Zhu J. New modifications of PBAT by a small amount of oxalic acid: Fast crystallization and enhanced degradation in all natural environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133475. [PMID: 38219588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics are often mistakenly thought to be capable of degrading in any environment, but their slow degradation rate in the natural environment is still unsatisfactory. We synthetized a novel series of poly(butylene oxalate-co-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBOAT) with unchanged melting point (135 °C), high elastic modulus (140 - 219 MPa) and elongation at break (478 - 769%). Fast isothermal crystallization with a semi-crystallization time < 20 s was demonstrated by the PBOAT. In N2 and air atmospheres, the PBOAT maintained the Td,5% higher than 329 °C. They also had good thermal stability at melt processing temperature for more than 20 min. PBOAT exhibited faster hydrolysis and seawater degradation, even under natural soil burial without light, but still kept stable under low humidity conditions during the storage and the shelf-life. Moreover, the hydrolysis mechanisms were clarified based on Fukui function analysis and DFT calculation, indicating that the hydrolysis of PBOAT would be more straightforward. The mechanism of soil burial is also elucidated through detailed characterization of the structure changes. The PBOAT offered a fresh approach to the development of high-performing, naturally degradable materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyang Luan
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Han Hu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
| | - Xingyu Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyu Jiang
- Cambridge A level Center, Zhenhai High School of Zhejiang, No.32 Gulou East Road, Zhenhai, Ningbo 315200, China
| | - Chen Lin
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Hanxu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ting Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yi-Lei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jinggang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
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17
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Vakati SR, Vanderlaan G, Gacura MD, Ji X, Chen L, Piovesan D. Synthesis of Poly-Lactic Acid by Ring Open Polymerization from Beer Spent Grain for Drug Delivery. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:483. [PMID: 38399861 PMCID: PMC10892441 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Poly-lactic acid (PLA) is a synthetic polymer that has gained popularity as a scaffold due to well-established manufacturing processes, predictable biomaterial properties, and sustained therapeutic release rates. However, its drawbacks include weak mechanical parameters and reduced medicinal delivery efficacy after PLA degradation. The development of synthetic polymers that can release antibiotics and other medicines remains a top research priority. This study proposes a novel approach to produce PLA by converting Brewer's spent grain (BSG) into lactic acid by bacterial fermentation followed by lactide ring polymerization with a metal catalyst. The elution properties of the PLA polymer are evaluated using modified Kirby-Bauer assays involving the antimicrobial chemotherapeutical, trimethoprim (TMP). Molded PLA polymer disks are impregnated with a known killing concentration of TMP, and the PLA is evaluated as a drug vehicle against TMP-sensitive Escherichia coli. This approach provides a practical means of assessing the polymer's ability to release antimicrobials, which could be beneficial in exploring new drug-eluting synthetic polymer strategies. Overall, this study highlights the potential of using BSG waste materials to produce valuable biomaterials of medical value with the promise of expanded versatility of synthetic PLA polymers in the field of drug-impregnated tissue grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snehal R. Vakati
- Department of Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA; (S.R.V.); (X.J.); (L.C.)
| | - Gary Vanderlaan
- Department of Biology, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA (M.D.G.)
| | - Matthew D. Gacura
- Department of Biology, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA (M.D.G.)
| | - Xiaoxu Ji
- Department of Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA; (S.R.V.); (X.J.); (L.C.)
| | - Longyan Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA; (S.R.V.); (X.J.); (L.C.)
| | - Davide Piovesan
- Department of Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541, USA; (S.R.V.); (X.J.); (L.C.)
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18
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Anwajler B, Witek-Krowiak A. Three-Dimensional Printing of Multifunctional Composites: Fabrication, Applications, and Biodegradability Assessment. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:7531. [PMID: 38138674 PMCID: PMC10744785 DOI: 10.3390/ma16247531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Additive manufacturing, with its wide range of printable materials, and ability to minimize material usage, reduce labor costs, and minimize waste, has sparked a growing enthusiasm among researchers for the production of advanced multifunctional composites. This review evaluates recent reports on polymer composites used in 3D printing, and their printing techniques, with special emphasis on composites containing different types of additives (inorganic and biomass-derived) that support the structure of the prints. Possible applications for additive 3D printing have also been identified. The biodegradation potential of polymeric biocomposites was analyzed and possible pathways for testing in different environments (aqueous, soil, and compost) were identified, including different methods for evaluating the degree of degradation of samples. Guidelines for future research to ensure environmental safety were also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Anwajler
- Department of Energy Conversion Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 27 Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego Street, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Witek-Krowiak
- Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Faculty of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 27 Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego Street, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland;
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19
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Degli-Innocenti F, Breton T, Chinaglia S, Esposito E, Pecchiari M, Pennacchio A, Pischedda A, Tosin M. Microorganisms that produce enzymes active on biodegradable polyesters are ubiquitous. Biodegradation 2023; 34:489-518. [PMID: 37354274 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10031-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradability standards measure ultimate biodegradation of polymers by exposing the material under test to a natural microbial inoculum. Available tests developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) use inoculums sampled from different environments e.g. soil, marine sediments, seawater. Understanding whether each inoculum is to be considered as microbially unique or not can be relevant for the interpretation of tests results. In this review, we address this question by consideration of the following: (i) the chemical nature of biodegradable plastics (virtually all biodegradable plastics are polyesters) (ii) the diffusion of ester bonds in nature both in simple molecules and in polymers (ubiquitous); (iii) the diffusion of decomposers capable of producing enzymes, called esterases, which accelerate the hydrolysis of esters, including polyesters (ubiquitous); (iv) the evidence showing that synthetic polyesters can be depolymerized by esterases (large and growing); (v) the evidence showing that these esterases are ubiquitous (growing and confirmed by bioinformatics studies). By combining the relevant available facts it can be concluded that if a certain polyester shows ultimate biodegradation when exposed to a natural inoculum, it can be considered biodegradable and need not be retested using other inoculums. Obviously, if the polymer does not show ultimate biodegradation it must be considered recalcitrant, until proven otherwise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony Breton
- Novamont S.p.A., via Fauser 8, 28100, Novara, Italy
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20
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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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21
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Lamparelli EP, Marino M, Szychlinska MA, Della Rocca N, Ciardulli MC, Scala P, D’Auria R, Testa A, Viggiano A, Cappello F, Meccariello R, Della Porta G, Santoro A. The Other Side of Plastics: Bioplastic-Based Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery Systems in the Brain. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2549. [PMID: 38004530 PMCID: PMC10674524 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15112549] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastics have changed human lives, finding a broad range of applications from packaging to medical devices. However, plastics can degrade into microscopic forms known as micro- and nanoplastics, which have raised concerns about their accumulation in the environment but mainly about the potential risk to human health. Recently, biodegradable plastic materials have been introduced on the market. These polymers are biodegradable but also bioresorbable and, indeed, are fundamental tools for drug formulations, thanks to their transient ability to pass through biological barriers and concentrate in specific tissues. However, this "other side" of bioplastics raises concerns about their toxic potential, in the form of micro- and nanoparticles, due to easier and faster tissue accumulation, with unknown long-term biological effects. This review aims to provide an update on bioplastic-based particles by analyzing the advantages and drawbacks of their potential use as components of innovative formulations for brain diseases. However, a critical analysis of the literature indicates the need for further studies to assess the safety of bioplastic micro- and nanoparticles despite they appear as promising tools for several nanomedicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin Pavel Lamparelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Marianna Marino
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Marta Anna Szychlinska
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University of Enna, Cittadella Universitaria, 94100 Enna, Italy;
| | - Natalia Della Rocca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Maria Camilla Ciardulli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Pasqualina Scala
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Raffaella D’Auria
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonino Testa
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Andrea Viggiano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
| | - Francesco Cappello
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
- Euro-Mediterranean Institute of Science and Technology (IEMEST), 90139 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement and Wellbeing Sciences, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giovanna Della Porta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
- Research Centre for Biomaterials BIONAM, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Antonietta Santoro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.P.L.); (M.M.); (N.D.R.); (M.C.C.); (P.S.); (R.D.); (A.V.); (A.S.)
- Research Centre for Biomaterials BIONAM, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
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22
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Brožová K, Halfar J, Čabanová K, Motyka O, Drabinová S, Hanus P, Heviánková S. The first evidence of microplastic occurrence in mine water: The largest black coal mining area in the Czech Republic. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120538. [PMID: 37666150 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120538] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is creating new challenges for water supply worldwide, making the search for new sources of water vital. As mine water could serve as a potential source, this study investigated the presence of microplastics in water from terminated deep mines in the largest coal basin in the Czech Republic, as well as in water from nearby shallow wells. The particles found were analyzed for size, polymer composition, color and morphology using the ImageJ tool, infrared spectroscopy with Fourier transform (FTIR) and an optical stereomicroscope with a digital camera. Microplastics were detected in all tested sites. Their range accounted for 2.5-17.5 items/L for mine water samples and 2.5-20 items/L for well samples, with fibers being the dominant type. The average width of particles from mine water and wells amounted to 58 µm; 71 µm, length to 655 µm; 501 µm and area to 22,067 µm2; 28,613 µm2, respectively. Blue color was prevalent, among materials, in both cases, plastic coated paper was found dominant to Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyester (PES), Tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoro (Propyl Vinyl Ether) - Copolymer (TFE-PPVE), and polypropylene (PP). The research provides the first evidence of microplastics' presence in underground waters from deep mines and shallow wells in the same area. The data suggest that it is almost impossible to find underground water sources free of microplastic contamination. In this context, atmospheric contamination from mine ventilation and infiltration through terminated mines were identified as potential sources, while infiltration through soil and rock formations is unlikely given the geological composition. The results of this study can serve as a relevant basis for further research on microplastics in mine waters. Additionally, the conclusions can advance the development in remediation technologies of microplastics from deep underground waters and their implementation in practice, particularly in light of upcoming legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateřina Brožová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
| | - Jan Halfar
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia.
| | - Kristina Čabanová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia; Centre for Advanced Innovation Technologies, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
| | - Oldřich Motyka
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia; Nanotechnology Centre, CEET, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
| | - Silvie Drabinová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
| | - Pavel Hanus
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
| | - Silvie Heviánková
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava-Poruba, 708 00, Czechia
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23
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Yang C, Zhao Y, Long B, Wang F, Li F, Xie D. Biodegradable mulch films improve yield of winter potatoes through effects on soil properties and nutrients. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115402. [PMID: 37634481 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115402] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable mulch films are recognized as a promising substitute of polyethylene (PE) films to alleviate the "white pollution". Biodegradable mulch films with optimum degradation rates increase crop yield even compared to PE films. However, the mechanisms underlying this yield-increasing effect remains elusive. In this study, three biodegradable film treatments (BFM1, BFM2 and BFM3) and one PE film treatment (PFM) were used to evaluate their effects on soil and winter potatoes, and a partial least squares path model (PLS-PM) was constructed to investigate their relationships. The degradation rates of films under different treatments were ranked as BFM3 > BFM2 >BFM1 > PFM, and presented distinctive effects on soil properties and nutrients, structure of soil bacterial community, and yield traits of winter potatoes. The PLS-PM showed that mulch treatments affected potato yield through effects on soil properties (soil water and temperature) and soil nutrients (TOC, DOC, TN and NO3--N). The disintegration of the biodegradable films decreased soil water content and temperature, and reduced the loss of soil nutrients in the topsoil at the later growth stage of winter potatoes compared to PE films. Additionally, the elevated content of soil TN and NO3--N under treatment BFM1 may play a key role in its yield-increasing effect on potatoes compared to treatments PFM and BFM2. Thus, biodegradable mulch films with proper degradation rates regulate soil TN and NO3--N through their effects on soil water and temperature, and subsequently improve the yield of winter potatoes compared to PE mulch films.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Yang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Bibo Long
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Feiyan Wang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Fayong Li
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Dong Xie
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China.
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24
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G Engler L, Farias NC, S Crespo J, Gately NM, Major I, Pezzoli R, Devine DM. Designing Sustainable Polymer Blends: Tailoring Mechanical Properties and Degradation Behaviour in PHB/PLA/PCL Blends in a Seawater Environment. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2874. [PMID: 37447519 DOI: 10.3390/polym15132874] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polyesters are a popular choice for both packaging and medical device manufacture owing to their ability to break down into harmless components once they have completed their function. However, commonly used polyesters such as poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and polycaprolactone (PCL), while readily available and have a relatively low price compared to other biodegradable polyesters, do not meet the degradation profiles required for many applications. As such, this study aimed to determine if the mechanical and degradation properties of biodegradable polymers could be tailored by blending different polymers. The seawater degradation mechanisms were evaluated, revealing surface erosion and bulk degradation in the blends. The extent of degradation was found to be dependent on the specific chemical composition of the polymer and the blend ratio, with degradation occurring via hydrolytic, enzymatic, oxidative, or physical pathways. PLA presents the highest tensile strength (67 MPa); the addition of PHB and PCL increased the flexibility of the samples; however, the tensile strength reduced to 25.5 and 18 MPa for the blends 30/50/20 and 50/25/25, respectively. Additionally, PCL presented weight loss of up to 10 wt.% and PHB of up to 6 wt.%; the seawater degradation in the blends occurs by bulk and surface erosion. The blending process facilitated the flexibility of the blends, enabling their use in diverse industrial applications such as medical devices and packaging. The proposed methodology produced biodegradable blends with tailored properties within a seawater environment. Additionally, further tests that fully track the biodegradation process should be put in place; incorporating compatibilizers might promote the miscibility of different polymers, improving their mechanical properties and biodegradability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo G Engler
- PRISM Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
- Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of Caxias do Sul, Francisco Getúlio Vargas Street, 1130, Caxias do Sul 95070-560, Brazil
| | - Naiara C Farias
- PRISM Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
| | - Janaina S Crespo
- PRISM Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
- Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of Caxias do Sul, Francisco Getúlio Vargas Street, 1130, Caxias do Sul 95070-560, Brazil
| | - Noel M Gately
- Applied Polymer Technologies Gateway, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
| | - Ian Major
- PRISM Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
| | - Romina Pezzoli
- Applied Polymer Technologies Gateway, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
| | - Declan M Devine
- PRISM Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone Campus, University Road, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland
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25
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Wang Q, Zhang Y, Chen H, Chen S, Wang Y. Effects of humic acids on the adsorption of Pb(II) ions onto biofilm-developed microplastics in aqueous ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 882:163466. [PMID: 37088385 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as emerging contaminants can behave as carriers for heavy metals in the water environments. Although the adsorption performance of heavy metals on MPs has been widely investigated, the effects of humic acids (HA) on the adsorption have seldom been explored. The authors were compared the Pb(II) adsorption onto biofilm-developed polyvinyl chloride (Bio-PVC) MPs with Pb(II) adsorption onto virgin PVC MPs (V-PVC), and explored the relationship between surface characteristics and the adsorption properties in the coexistence of HA. Our results showed that due to a larger specific surface area and more oxygen containing groups, Bio-PVC had a larger adsorption capability with a value of 3.57 mg/g than original ones (1.85 mg/g) due to its huge specific surface area and more oxygen containing groups. Microbial community analysis showed that the predominate bacteria in biofilms as Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. Notably, the Pb(II) adsorption onto the V-PVC surfaces was increased, but the adsorption capacities of Pb(II) on Bio-PVC were suppressed with increasing HA. With the co-existence of HA, the increasing complexation and electrostatic attraction had attributed to the increased Pb(II) adsorption ability on V-PVC. Except for its competitive ability, HA has a shield effect which decreases the sorption sites on Bio-PVC. Overall, our findings provide a better understanding of the HA effect on the adsorption mechanism of heavy metals onto MPs in aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Huijuan Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Sulin Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China.
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26
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Bher A, Cho Y, Auras R. Boosting Degradation of Biodegradable Polymers. Macromol Rapid Commun 2023; 44:e2200769. [PMID: 36648129 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202200769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of polymers in composting conditions is an alternative end-of-life (EoL) scenario for contaminated materials collected through the municipal solid waste management system, mainly when mechanical or chemical methods cannot be used to recycle them. Compostability certification requirements are time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, approaches to accelerate the biodegradation of these polymers in simulated composting conditions can facilitate and speed up the evaluation and selection of potential compostable polymer alternatives and inform faster methods to biodegrade these polymers in real composting. This review highlights recent trends, challenges, and future strategies to accelerate biodegradation by modifying the polymer properties/structure and the compost environment. Both abiotic and biotic methods show potential for accelerating the biodegradation of biodegradable polymers. Abiotic methods, such as the incorporation of additives, reduction of molecular weight, reduction of size and reactive blending, are potentially the most straightforward, providing a level of technology that allows for easy adoption and adaptability. Novel methods, including the concept of self-immolative and triggering the scission of polymer chains in specific conditions, are increasingly sought. In terms of biotic methods, dispersion/encapsulation of enzymes during the processing step, biostimulation of the environment, and bioaugmentation with specific microbial strains during the biodegradation process are promising to accelerate biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anibal Bher
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yujung Cho
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Rafael Auras
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
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27
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Paul-Pont I, Ghiglione JF, Gastaldi E, Ter Halle A, Huvet A, Bruzaud S, Lagarde F, Galgani F, Duflos G, George M, Fabre P. Discussion about suitable applications for biodegradable plastics regarding their sources, uses and end of life. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 157:242-248. [PMID: 36577275 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This opinion paper offers a scientific view on the current debate of the place of biodegradable plastics as part of the solution to deal with the growing plastic pollution in the world's soil, aquatic, and marine compartments. Based on the current scientific literature, we focus on the current limits to prove plastic biodegradability and to assess the toxicity of commercially used biobased and biodegradable plastics in natural environments. We also discuss the relevance of biodegradable plastics for selected applications with respect to their use and end of life. In particular, we underlined that there is no universal biodegradability of plastics in any ecosystem, that considering the environment as a waste treatment system is not acceptable, and that the use of compostable plastics requires adaptation of existing organic waste collection and treatment channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ika Paul-Pont
- Univ Brest, Ifremer, CNRS, IRD, LEMAR, F-29280, Plouzané, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France.
| | - Jean-François Ghiglione
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne (LOMIC), UMR 7621, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls, Banyuls sur mer, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuelle Gastaldi
- INRAE, Univ Montpellier, IATE, Montpellier, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Alexandra Ter Halle
- IMRCP, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Arnaud Huvet
- Univ Brest, Ifremer, CNRS, IRD, LEMAR, F-29280, Plouzané, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- Institut de Recherche Dupuy de Lôme (IRDL), Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, Lorient, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, F-72085 Le Mans, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - François Galgani
- IFREMER/ RMPF, Tahiti, Polynésie Française; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Guillaume Duflos
- ANSES - Laboratoire de Sécurité des Aliments, Boulevard du Bassin Napoléon, F-62200, Boulogne-sur-Mer, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Matthieu George
- Laboratoire Charles Coulomb (L2C), UMR 5221 CNRS-UM, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
| | - Pascale Fabre
- Laboratoire Charles Coulomb (L2C), UMR 5221 CNRS-UM, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France; GDR 2050 Polymères et Océans, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, France
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