Biodegradation of cellulose acetate/poly(butylene succinate) membrane

Applying biodegradable polymers in membrane preparation for separation processes is expected to be helpful in solving waste disposal problem. In this study, biodegradable blend membranes of cellulose acetate (CA)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) were prepared and the microorganisms possessing the ability of degrading them were isolated from soil. The isolates were classified into two groups of bacteria and fungi. The membranes biodegradation after cultivation by the isolates in liquid media was further confirmed by weight loss measurement, Fourier transform infrared analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Findings revealed that CA degradation could be improved in the blend membrane structure. Moreover, strain BG106 and BG111 could degrade the membranes at the fastest rate among the other bacteria and fungi, respectively. To our knowledge, BG111 was found to belong to Alternaria sp. and this is the first report of its PBS degradation activity. Moreover, the PBS degradability of BG104 (B. Safensis), BG105 (Achromobacter insuavis) and BG106 (Brevibacterium halotolerans) strains was reported for the first time.