Preliminary Study On Biodegradation Of Polyethylene By Pseudomonas Aeruginosa

Background: Plastics, particularly polyethylene, have become indispensable due to their versatility and durability, but their persistence poses a significant environmental challenge. Conventional plastic waste management techniques, such as incineration and landfilling, have adverse ecological impacts. Microbial degradation, particularly using Pseudomonas spp., offers an environmentally sustainable solution. Pseudomonas spp. are known for their metabolic versatility, ability to thrive in nutrient-deficient environments, and potential to degrade various plastic polymers. This study aimed to evaluate the biodegradability of polyethylene by Pseudomonas aeruginosa under laboratory conditions. Materials and Methods: Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films were prepared as circular fragments (18 mm diameter, 20 mg weight) and sterilized. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was cultured in Luria Bertani broth and inoculated into Bushnell Haas (BH) broth supplemented with LDPE as the sole carbon source. The experimental setup included bacterial cultures and control samples without bacterial inoculation. Incubation was carried out at 37°C with constant shaking for 30 days. Biodegradation was assessed by measuring weight loss of LDPE films, bacterial growth (OD600 and CFU/mL. Results: The results demonstrated significant bacterial growth, with an initial adaptation phase followed by active biodegradation and a plateau. LDPE weight loss in the treatment setup reached approximately 6% after 30 days, compared to negligible weight loss in the control. The findings highlighted the ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to degrade polyethylene, likely through enzymatic mechanisms. Conclusion: This study confirms the potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa for polyethylene biodegradation, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic waste management methods. Further optimization of microbial systems is essential for real-world applications in mitigating plastic pollution.