Optimizing Tenebrio Molitor Feeding Strategy to Induce Physical Degradation of Tires: A Novel Approach for Sustainable Waste Management

Due to the increased usage of tires, the accumulation of worn tires has become a significant environmental concern and necessitates environmentally friendly waste management strategies. Conventional methods, such as tire incineration or improper disposal, contribute to environmental degradation. It is reported that organisms, such as Tenebrio molitor larvae, can degrade a wide range of polymers. This study explores the promising potential of Tenebrio molitor larvae in addressing this concern. Through a series of experiments, Tenebrio molitor larvae were fed with cut-worn tires to facilitate degradation. The larvae exhibited remarkable capabilities, surviving and thriving on tires as a sole carbon source for 24 days, with a maximum tire consumption of 0.2519 g observed. A significant 58.27% increase in larval mass was observed when a diet comprising 25% tires and 75% oat brans was provided. Analytical techniques, including FTIR, TGA, and SEM, successfully demonstrated the larvae's efficient consumption of tire materials. These findings highlight the potential of Tenebrio molitor larvae as an eco-friendly solution for tire disposal, offering insights into sustainable waste management practices.