Abstract
This is the first report of bisphenol A release from polycarbonate during biodegradation by marine microorganisms. Bisphenol A is a monomer in polycarbonate and an endocrine disruptor toxic for marine organisms. Biodegradation of polycarbonate is poorly documented. Here, we have tested the possible release of bisphenol A and metabolites during biodegradation of polycarbonate by marine microorganisms. Polycarbonate degradation was carried out in vitro using a mixed marine microbial consortium isolated from the Bay of Bengal, India, 1 year under controlled laboratory conditions. The degradation was monitored by elemental analysis (EA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and gas chromatography—mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The organic soluble metabolites were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). We found that bisphenol A was released. The amount of bisphenol A released during 1 year is higher than the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) values reported for marine organisms. We also identified the following bisphenol A metabolites: 4-hydroxyacetophenone, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. Polycarbonate biodegradation was evidenced by gravimetric weight loss and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The reduction of methyl and carbonyl indices suggests oxidation and hydrolysis of the polymer, respectively. 2D NMR showed an aromatic C–C cleavage.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
