Microbial Degradation of Synthetic Polymers, Solvents and Surfactants

Screening of micoorganisms which can assimilate synthetic polymers, organic solvents and surfactants as a sole carbon and energy source evaluated the biodegradability of these compounds in nature. The studies on the metabolisms of these compounds showed their fates in nature, that is, the acceptability of metabolic products in ecosystems. The biodegradation studies lead to the molecular design of synthetic polymers, organic solvents and surfactants and the improved biological treatment system in future.