Biodegradation of Polypropylene due to Bacterial Colonization

Biodegradation of Polypropylene due to Bacterial Colonization Plastic debris has been an environmental problem for nearly a century; though, recent literature shows certain bacterial strains have degradation abilities. However, little research has been done on a community of bacteria found on the plastics within Rochester. Here, we isolated three strains of bacteria, Citrobacter freundii, Stenotrophomonas, Pseudomonas, found in the Rochester, NY area from polypropylene and tested their biodegradation ability when combined. By isolating these different strains of bacteria from both a local pond and tributary allows us to observe the effect of the local bacterial community on polypropylene degradation within the environment. Degradation is taking place as seen by slight oxidation being observed through FTIR, biofilm has also been observed on the incubated samples possibly meaning that there is interaction. This research allows for better understanding of how particular bacterial strains that are local to the Rochester area can be used to degrade polypropylene within the environment.