Application of fungal microorganisms for the degradation “in vitro” of synthetic polymers

Authors

Guerrero Cabrera, José Paulo

Cabello Torres, Rita Jaqueline

Valdiviezo Gonzales, Lorgio Gilberto

Garzon Flores, Alcides

Reynoso Quispe, Patricia

Abstract

The present study evaluated the application of 6 fungal microorganisms in the degradation of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) both in pellet form. The fungal microorganisms evaluated were: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus nigger, Fusarium culmorum, Penicillium italicum, Pycnoporus sanguineus, isolated from random and infected samples in leaves, fruits, agricultural soil and vegetables. Likewise, Pleurotus ostreatus provided by the Universidad Nacional Agraría La Molina (UNALM). The degradative capacity of the fungi was evaluated in two stages. The first was carried out in an incubator for a period of 46 days and 26°C using an artisanal culture medium (Potato Dextrose Agar, PDA). The highest degradation percentages were achieved with Fusarium culmorum with 2.85% in HDPE and 1.83% in LDPE, followed by Pycnoporus sanguineus with 2.16% in HDPE and 1.73% in LDPE. These results were confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (MEB), observing the development of hyphae, micelle formation, as well as cracks and striations on the surface of the plastic. In a second stage, both fungi and polymers were evaluated for a period of 4 months, observing a higher percentage of mass reduction with Fusarium culmorum with values of 6.24% for HDPE and 7.81% for LDPE. The biodegradation of both polymers was evidenced, and further research is needed to improve efficiency by optimizing parameters such as time, temperature and culture medium.