Japanese researchers found a bacteria that breaks down PET plastics

Japanese researchers reported in a new issue of Science in the United States that they found a bacteria that could consume PET plastic bottles at around 29 degrees Celsius for six weeks, and it is expected to develop biodegradable methods in the future. Help solve the problem of plastic waste pollution.

To find the bacteria, the researchers collected 250 samples contaminated with PET, including sediment, soil, and wastewater from plastic bottle collection points. They screened the microbes that lived on these samples and eventually found a group of microbes that could decompose PET plastic films, one of which would allow PET to degrade. Tests have shown that the bacteria use enzymes to decompose PET plastics to produce an intermediate chemical. This chemical is then absorbed by the cells and further broken down by other enzymes in the cells, providing the bacteria with carbon and oxygen to help them grow. Although previous studies have found fungi that can grow on PET plastics, this is the first time scientists have discovered bacteria that can eat PET. Some experts say the bacteria can be used to "kill" a growing number of plastics that damage the earth.

Biodegradation of plastics using bacteria and the like has the advantages of low energy consumption and environmental friendliness. Japanese researchers believe that if the above bacteria can be used to further enhance the activity and stability of their synthetase, it is expected to develop a more ideal PET plastic degradation method.