Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) by Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae

Plastic waste, particularly polythene, is a major environmental concern, with bioremediation emerging as a sustainable solution. This study evaluated the potential of Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae in degrading low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Fungal species were initially cultivated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) plates at 36°C for 5 days in the dark. Subsequently, they were transferred to a minimal salt medium supplemented with LDPE strips. The degradation efficiency was evaluated by measuring the weight loss of the LDPE samples and conducting scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The results revealed weight loss ranging from 1.50 to 10.22%, depending on the fungi and incubation period, whereas control samples without fungal exposure showed no change. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed fungal colonisation and physical degradation of the LDPE surface, displaying folds, grooves, and cracks. Results from this study showed that both fungi were able to break down the plastic, with A. oryzae showing more significant degradation. These findings highlight the potential of fungi as a biological solution to address the global plastic pollution issue.