Microbial mechanisms and applications of polyurethane biodegradation

Abstract This comprehensive review examines the current state and future prospects of microbial polyurethane (PU) biodegradation as a sustainable waste management strategy. We systematically analyse bacterial and fungal species with demonstrated PU-degrading capabilities. The review elucidates key enzymatic mechanisms, including colonization-dependent biofilm formation and targeted hydrolysis of ester and urethane bonds by cutinases, esterases, and novel urethanases. Critical analysis of degradation assessment methods reveals thermogravimetric analysis and chromatographic techniques as primary evaluation tools, while omics approaches have revolutionized understanding of microbial community dynamics and metabolic pathways. Despite promising laboratory results, industrial implementation faces significant challenges including slow degradation kinetics, environmental sensitivity, and regulatory uncertainties. Emerging solutions through genetic engineering demonstrate 2.3-fold improvements in degradation efficiency, while nanobiocatalysts offer 82% activity retention across multiple cycles. The integration of chemical pretreatments with biological processes and the development of synthetic microbial consortia represents promising strategies to enhance polyurethane biodegradation. This review highlights critical research gaps and outlines future directions for developing economically viable, large-scale bioremediation systems. Key areas for advancement include the discovery of novel PU-degrading microorganisms, enzyme engineering to improve degradation efficiency, and the implementation of sustainable microbial strategies within waste management frameworks to mitigate global PU pollution.