Degradation of cellulose-based bioplastic by Stenotrophomonas acidaminiphila TMF using response surface methodology

Abstract

In the present study, the Stenotrophomonas acidaminiphila TMF strain was screened for its ability to biodegrade bioplastic prepared from the cellulose of Parthenium hysterophorus. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using a Rotatory Central Composite Design (RCCD) was performed to optimize the biodegradation conditions. After optimization, 85.7 % biodegradation was achieved in 45 days, representing an overall 1.3-fold increment, at a temperature of 35 °C, pH 7.4, 45 days of incubation, and 70 rpm of agitation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) results showed that microorganisms made the bioplastic film surface rough and porous. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed changes in functional group peaks due to bioplastic breakdown. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) indicated slightly lower thermal stability of the degraded film at high temperatures. In antibacterial studies, Bacillus subtilis and E. coli exhibited zones of clearance 13 mm and 11 mm, respectively. Bioplastic films were used for the preparation of food packaging containers and decorative items. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd