Microbial Bioremediation Technology for Conversion of Microfiber Waste to Value-Added Products
摘要
Microfibers have emerged as a pressing environmental concern due to their ubiquitous presence, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. Microfibers are defined by a maximum size of less than 5 mm. Aquatic studies predominantly report microfiber abundance exceeding 50%, while annual global microfiber production, estimated at nine million tons, comprises 60% synthetic and 25% natural or non-synthetic fibers. Synthetic fibers account for 14% of global plastic production and can contribute to the formation of synthetic microfibers through processes of fragmentation and degradation. Global consumption of synthetic textiles has surged by about 65% over the past decade with China being the dominant producer, contributing nearly 70% of the total production. In 2022, global fiber production hit a record high of 116 million tons, with projections suggesting it could rise to 147 million tons by 2030 if current trends persist. The rapid expansion of the synthetic textile industry, particularly in Asia, has increased environmental concerns, with studies showing that more than 35% of microplastics are in the oceans. Textile degradation, laundry effluent, and disposable fiber production constitute the primary sources of microfibers. Due to their small diameter, they are more prone to be ingested by organisms that can induce, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and death even at minimal exposures via air and water sources. Microbial metabolic pathways, through a cascade of biochemical reactions, play a significant role in the biodegradation of synthetic microfibers. Microorganisms initiate microplastic degradation by secreting extracellular enzymes that adhere to the plastic surface and hydrolyze into shorter polymer chains. These intermediate products are subsequently ingested and metabolized by bacteria as a carbon source, ultimately yielding carbon dioxide. Notably, several bacterial strains, fungal species, and algae types have been identified with the capacity to degrade synthetic polymers. In conjunction with microbial communities, abiotic factors contribute to the conversion of microplastic waste into beneficial compounds such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, methane, water, monomers, dimers, and oligomers. This chapter explores the potential of microorganisms to effectively degrade microfibers and microplastics using the bioremediation principle for sustainable production and generate a novel approach for the future to cultivate more enhanced products.