Microbial degradation of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) in compost

The microbial degradation of tensile test pieces made of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB)] or copolymers with 10% [P(3HB-co-10%3HV)] and 20% [P(3HB-co-20%3HV)] 3-hydroxyvaleric acid was studied in small household compost heaps. Degradation was measured through loss of weight (surface erosion) and changes in molecular weight and mechanical strength. It was concluded, on the basis of weight loss and loss of mechanical properties, that P(3HB) and P(3HB-co-3HV) plastics were degraded in compost by the action of microorganisms. No decrease in Mw could be detected during the degradation process. The P(3HB-co-20% 3HV) copolymer was degraded much faster than the homopolymer and P(3HB-co-10% 3HV). One hundred nine microbial strains capable of degrading the polymers in vitro were isolated from the samples used in the biodegradation studies, as well as from two other composts, and identified. They consisted of 61 Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., Acidovorax facilis), 10 Gram-positive bacteria (mainly Bacillus megaterium), 35 Streptomyces strains, and 3 molds.