Analysis by scanning electron microscopy of polyethylene terephthalate and nylon biodegradation abilities of Bacillus sp. strains isolated from soil

Abstract

Plastic pollution, the aggregation of synthetic plastic products in the environment generates serious problems for wildlife, habitats and the human population. Plastic accumulates at ocean, creating areas called the seventh continent, a mass of plastic garbage. Plastic wastes are disposed of by recycling, burying and incineration. However, these also have disadvantages. They are developing bioplastics as new solutions to plastic problems. Other alternative solutions may be microorganisms. Compared to other conventional technologies, it is extremely inexpensive and efficient in terms of cost and simplicity because it is based on the capabilities of microorganisms. In this study, we have reported the degradation abilities of B. subtilis and B. cereus strains on polyethylene terephthalate (PET, water bottle) and nylon (plastic bag). In the nylon medium with Bacillus subtilis ET18 and Bacillus cereus ET30 was observed red pigment formation. All bacteria showed biofilm formation in the presence of nylon. The surface morphology changes of the PET and nylon were determined by light microscope and SEM. The bacteria used in this study were found to biodegrade nylon more easily than PET. The activities of lipase, protease and α-amylase were determined. Among the enzymes, lipase was detected in the presence of both PET and nylon.