Recent Understanding on Biodegradation and Abiotic Degradation of Plastics: A Reviewv
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/bioprocessing.v4n1.69Keywords:
Plastic, Biodegradation, Microbial, Waste managementAbstract
The global plastic litter has turned into an environmental problem of grave concern founded on its persistence and adverse impacts on the ecosystem. Addressing this issue requires effective degradation strategies that can complement or replace current waste management practices. This review presents an update of the current advances on biodegradation of plastics with an overview of the various plastics, their properties, and typical applications. This review also describes conventional abiotic degradation mechanisms (thermal, photodegradation, hydrolytic, and mechanical) and their advantages and limitations. The role of microbes as effective biodegradation agents with emphasis on individual strains and specific plastic types is explored. The bioprocess of plastic biodegradation is outlined to indicate how microbial action breaks down synthetic polymers into harmless products in the environment. A comparison of biodegradation with other non-biological degradation processes is also included, their impact on the environment, operational feasibility, and potential for future application. In conclusion, microbial biodegradation has been proved to be a viable, eco-friendly option that can be an integral part of the solution for the global plastics pollution issue.
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