Abstract:
The disposal of discarded vulcanized natural rubber waste has posed significant environmental challenges. This study aimed to explore the degradation of vulcanized natural rubber using enriched bacterial consortia isolated from soil. This study investigates the effects of glucose, calcium ions, and surfactants as stimulants on the biodegradation of vulcanized rubber using a bacterial consortium in MSM media. The highest weight loss observed was 38.84% after four weeks of incubation. SEM analysis revealed the presence of significant cracks and holes on the surface of vulcanized natural rubber. Moreover, TGA demonstrated a decrease in the thermal stability of the vulcanized rubber samples treated with the facilitated bacterial consortium. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed significant thermal degradation characterized by an onset temperature of 345.2°C and a 65.01% total mass loss. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed large surface cracks and calcium deposits, indicating enhanced degradation. The presence of these stimulants facilitated microbial activity, leading to a marked reduction in thermal stability and more extensive breakdown of the rubber matrix. These findings demonstrate the potential of these to disrupt the structural integrity of vulcanized rubber, promoting biodegradation. These findings pave a way for utilizing rubber-degrading microorganisms present in soil and contribute to the establishment of a biodegradation method for disposing of vulcanized rubber waste.
