Impact of Polystyrene Nanoplastics on the Biodegradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and its Associated Biofilm

Biodegradable polymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have been proposed as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. Their environmental biodegradation is influenced by complex microbial interactions, particularly within biofilms. The presence of nanoplastics in marine environments may interfere with these biodegradation processes. This study investigates the effect of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS NPs) on the biodegradation extent of PHA and its associated biofilm on a natural Wadden Sea inoculum.