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Paper pulp is a lignocellulosic fibrous material used in the industrial production of paper and board products. In addition to cellulose and hemicellulose, paper pulp contains 1 to 20% lignin, depending on the raw materials and pulping process used. Lignin is a heterogenous aromatic polymer that is hydrophobic and more resistant to microbial degradation compared to the easily biodegradable cellulose and hemicellulose. In this study, the biodegradation of paper pulps containing varying amounts of lignin was examined in soil and marine environments using ISO testing methods. Lignin significantly reduced the mineralization of paper pulps to CO2 in both environmental conditions, and a strong inverse correlation between lignin content and the mineralization to CO2 was observed. A similar impact was observed with natural materials containing lignin, such as birch sawdust. Since the calculation of biodegradability in most ISO and EN standards is based solely on the concept of mineralization to CO2, materials containing lignin can receive poor values in these tests. The implications of this for standardized requirements of biodegradability and possible options to overcome testing deficiencies are discussed.

The composition of paper cups creates a challenge for the recycling industry, as the paperboard--plastic film composite is hard to separate. Therefore, paper cups are sent to landfills or waste incinerators. This study explores the combined use of red worms (Eisenia fetida) and Greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) in the biodegradation of paper cups. The study investigates the conditions and combinations that promote using Eisenia fetida and Galleria mellonella for degrading paper cups. The study considered the influence of environmental temperature, the presence of food waste, varying the number of Eisenia fetida worms, and the presence of a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent on the degradation process. To achieve the study objectives, the study followed a quantitative approach. The study monitored the degradation of paper cup cuts that were placed in jars containing different combinations of Eisenia fetida worms, Galleria mellonella larvae, food waste, bedding material, and Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agents. The study found that the best operating temperature is 30°C. The study found that using food waste improves the performance of Eisenia fetida worms and Galleria mellonella larvae significantly. The study found that adding a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent slightly enhances the degradation of the paper cup. Finally, a numerical model was obtained to simulate the paper cup degradation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood-based paper fibers are inherently biodegradable. In contact with moist soil and in compost, papermaking fibers are readily broken down by soil microbes. Resistance to biodegradation is needed, as paper is used for special applications such as mulching in agriculture and forestry, the coating of construction materials, and for packing and wrapping under conditions where packaging materials may be exposed to contact with moist soil or other type microbial active contamination. A preceding study showed that paper chemical crosslinking with glyoxal, citric acid (CA), or methylated 1,3-dimethylol-4,5-dihydroxyethylene urea (mDMDHEU) results in substantially improved paper wet strength and lower paper water absorbency. The present study examined the efficiency of chemical crosslinking treatments with CA and with mDMDHEU to decrease the biodegradation rate of laboratory paper sheets and a sack paper, both made of kraft fibers. The biodegradation was examined using a 48-h enzymatic degradation test and a 2-month soil burial test. The results indicate that chemical crosslinking is an effective non-biocidal method for making sulphate kraft paper more resistant to biodegradation. In some end-uses, improved resistance to biodegradation, along with improved paper wet performance, can enhance paper performance comparable to plastic films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many paper-related products are in daily use all over the world. Although paper is one of the most recycled materials in the European Union, no end-of-waste criteria have been defi ned. Typical paper and cardboard should be recycled, but paper materials with impurities, such as cooking oil, sand, or plastic, are much more problematic. In particular, paper contaminated with cooking oil or butter (e.g., pizza boxes) is diffi cult waste. Also baking parchment paper cannot be stored as waste paper after use. Composting could be a solution, but in many municipal solid waste collection systems, this waste types are collected with the mixed waste stream, what fi nally leads this material to landfi lling or incinerating processes. Parchment paper and pizza box cardboard contain a lot of cellulose and in landfi lls are a source of CO2 and CH4. Incineration of these materials also leads to CO2 emission. The aim of this study was to investigate the degradation of cooking-oil-contaminated paper in media with a low inorganic nitrogen content. Cardboard usually used for packaging purposes was used as pre-test material. Two types of paper usually used in the kitchen were used: pizza box cardboard and parchment paper highly contaminated with cooking oil. Two types of low inorganic nitrogen media were tested: mature municipal waste compost (MSWC) and leaf mold (LM). The decrease of mass of both paper sample types was correlated with process time. Both tested sample types: dry cellulose materials and paper with cooking oil added, were partly or completely decomposed after 6 weeks of bioprocessing in aerobic conditions without an additional dose of inorganic nitrogen. According to waste separation rules, wet paper or paper contaminated with cooking oil have to be stored with other wastes which are „not possible for further use”. This work show possibility to change these rules.

• The PBAT/PLA coated paper shows high methane yield under AD condition. • Plastic film residues remain after the digestion of PBAT/PLA coated paper. • The decrease of hydrophobicity for PBAT/PLA bags is due to the formation of PLA monomers. • The bacterial community shows difference between PBAT/PLA coated paper and bags. • Methanoculleus is enriched on the plastic surface under mesophilic AD. Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) are two of biodegradable plastics with the highest production capacities in 2021. Bioplastic waste management can be easily integrated with organic waste management, especially when bioplastics are used as food packaging material, since they are potentially biodegradable. The aim of this study was to assess the biodegradability of biodegradable polymer-coated paper (BPCP) and bioplastic bags made from PBAT/PLA blend during mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) and to reveal the changes in the physicochemical properties of the bioplastics. BPCP obtained 155 NmL-CH 4 /g VS and 307.3 NmL-CH 4 /g VS under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, respectively, but left bioplastic film residues. The bioplastic bags did not exhibit significant biodegradation during the AD processes. 1H NMR results indicated that the ratio of PLA to PBAT decreased significantly after AD of the BPCP film and that PLA monomers were formed from the bioplastic bags, leading to a decrease in the hydrophobicity on the surfaces of the materials. Methanoculleus was found to be enriched on the bioplastic surface after mesophilic AD. From the perspective of coupling bioplastic waste management with the food waste management, the incorporation of BPCP into the AD reactor not only enhances system stability and methane production to a greater extent than biodegradable plastic bags but also raises concerns regarding the residual biofilm when utilizing the digestate for direct land applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuels are the cheapest source of energy, and the continuous decline of traditional sources of energy with the increasing population leads to looking for alternatives to reduce the consumption of traditional sources of energy. Bioethanol production from lignocellulosic wastes and cellulosic wastes is not a new approach for fuel production but a cheap and accessible way for the production of fuel. Bacillus is one of the major species that can act as a source of diversified enzymes. In this study, it was emphasized on screening and isolation of a novel, characterization, and best catalytic action on both celluloses and proteins in the presence of different carbon and nitrogen sources. It was observed the effective catalytic breakdown of cellulose with the crude enzyme to glucose allowed fur for fermentation with Saccharomyces, ultimately leading to the generation of alcohol. The study aims to isolate the microbes that can produce cellulases and enzymes and could be used for biodegradation to produce ethanol in the reaction. The maximum enzyme activity was achieved at 3.112 UI with optimized pH and temperature, and the maximum conversion of sugars into alcohol was about 70% in the newspaper, cartons, colored paper, and disposable paper cups. An essential observation was the decolorization of the origami craft paper within 24 hours. The study was involved in enhancing the maximum Enzyme activity of cellulases from different cellulosic raw materials. Hence, it was achieved by JCB strain, optimization of pH, temperature, and acids for the biodegradation. The presence of peaks at 3200 and 2900 was a confirmation of ethanol bonds in the biodegradation reaction mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based microfluidics provides a versatile platform for numerous applications, including diagnostics at the point of care, environmental detection, and food quality control. Utilizing paper as a substrate offers numerous benefits, including flexibility, biodegradability, low cost, and capillary-driven flow. Despite significant advancements in paper-based microfluidic devices, regulating fluid flow effectively within the paper channel remains a persistent challenge. In order to resolve this problem, our research proposes a method for manipulating fluid flow in the paper channel by altering the surface contact between the storage medium and the paper channel. According to the results, increasing the contact area between the reservoir and the paper surface decreases the flow velocity and increases the fluidic time delay. This is due to the increased diffusion area between the storage medium and the paper channel, which creates resistance to liquid flow. Therefore, the liquid takes longer to travel through the paper channel, resulting in a decrease in velocity relative to contact areas of 50% or 70%. We are confident that this method of flow control can enable lateral flow sensing devices with enhanced flow variation options for use in medical, environmental, or food quality applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our contribution is to evaluate the possibilities for the biochemical utilization of paper wastes. We tested aerobic and anaerobic degradation of paper waste sludges from a plant that processes recycled paper. Testing included the assessment of phytotoxicity. We can conclude that the concentration of paper sludges did not have toxic effects on the bacterial consortium of the anaerobic or aerobic conditions. However, the leachate of paper sludges and water from sludge dewatering had a slightly negative effect on the germination of cress (Lepidium sativum L.) and lettuce (Lepidium sativum L.) seeds where the germination ranged from 83.3% to 100% but the mass yield was higher.

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• Water retention curves (WRCs) of municipal solid wastes (MSWs) • Hysteresis of WRCs of MSWs with decomposition. • Effects of decomposition and paper content on the WRCs. • Unsaturated hydraulic and gas conductivity of MSWs. This paper investigates the drying and wetting water retention curves (WRCs) of municipal solid wastes (MSWs) with different paper contents, dry unit weights and degrees of biodegradation (DOBs). Fresh synthetic samples were prepared based on the field composition of the MSWs at Mugga Lane Landfill, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia. The degraded samples were prepared in simulators with MSWs of different initial dry unit weights and decomposition periods with leachate recirculation. The water retention curves (WRCs) of the MSWs were determined using pressure plate tests, in both drying and wetting phases. The outflow from MSWs was analysed using Gardner's method to obtain the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity. The results indicate that the WRCs of the MSWs are greatly affected by the DOB, paper content and dry unit weight. When DOB < 30 %, as DOB increases, the air-entry pressure of MSWs with paper increases, and the residual moisture content decreases regardless of paper content. With DOB > 30 %, the air entry pressure and residual water content depend on the balance between organic matter and highly decomposed organic constituents. The paper content affects the WRCs of MSWs due to its water retention capacity and change in the particle size distribution with decomposition. The increase in the dry unit weight of MSWs significantly increases the air entry pressure and residual moisture content, similar to the borehole samples with combined effects of biodegradation and increase in stress level from literature. Hysteresis effects have been observed during the drying and wetting of MSWs. The hysteresis of WRCs increases with the paper content and DOB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the decomposition of toxic organics from pulp and paper mill effluent by the sequential application of ozonation and biodegradation was studied. Ozonation, as a pre-treatment, was executed to transform the initial pollutants into less toxic compounds (such as organic acids of low molecular weights). Biodegradation was executed during three days with acclimated microorganisms that were able to complete the decomposition of the initial organic mixture (raw wastewater) and to achieve a higher degree of mineralization (85–90%). Experiments were performed under three different conditions: (a) only ozonation of the initial contaminants, (b) only biodegradation of residual water without previous treatment by ozone and (c) ozonation followed by biodegradation performed by acclimated microorganisms. In the case of 72 h of biodegradation, the mineralization efficiency reached 85% and 89% after 30 and 60 min of ozonation, respectively. The no significant difference in this parameter coincided with the calculated generalized microorganisms' consortia specific growing rate μ m a x that was reduced from 2.08 × 10−3 h−1 to 6.05 × 10−4 h−1 when the ozonation time was longer. The identification of the organics composition by gas chromatography with mass detector (GC-MS) before and after treatments confirmed that the proposed combined process served as a more efficient alternative to secondary and tertiary treatments (mineralization degree between 60 and 80% in average) of the paper industry wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemija is the property of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Mineral paper, a synthetic paper‐like material primarily composed of ground calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and a small amount of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), has emerged as an important alternative to traditional paper and board due to the increasing demand for pulp and paper and the shortage of trees and fibrous material in many regions worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the impact of accelerated weathering and aerobic biodegradation on three different types of mineral papers. The specimens underwent 1000 h of accelerated weathering using a Gardner weathering device and were also buried in soil at a depth of 5 cm for 3 months with regular watering conditions for biodegradability testing. Physico‐chemical characterizations such as optical (whiteness), surface (roughness, contact angle, and paper topography), and chemical properties of the samples were studied before and after the artificial weathering and biodegradation tests. The results revealed a visible color change (darkening) in mineral papers, with an increase in HDPE content leading to a darker color after weathering and biological degradation. However, there were no significant differences in the color change between weathering and soil‐burial tests. The biodegradability test resulted in a decrease in ash content due to the demineralization process. All samples' surface roughness was reduced after weathering and biodegradation tests. The FT‐IR and EDS analyses confirmed the presence of calcium, carbon, and oxygen elements in all three samples, indicating a large amount of calcium carbonate in the mineral papers. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed the creation of micro holes and cracks on the surface of the samples after weathering and biodegradation. Overall, the soil‐burial test showed more degradation than the weathering test. Highlights: The influence of weathering and biodegradation of mineral papers were studiedAfter soil‐burial test, the ash content decreased due to the demineralizationAfter weathering, micro cracks were created on the surface of the samplesThe degradation of the soil‐burial test was more than the weathering testMineral papers most likely contain carbonate calcium and HDPE [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Environmental Protection is the property of Polish Academy of Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

With white pollution caused by petroleum plastics becoming an environmental issue of global concern, biodegradable plastics have become a research hotspot, and biodegradable materials made from plants have been attracting attention. Based on previous studies, this paper studied the biodegradability of thermoplastic cyanoethylated waste paper (CWP) by microbial experiment, and preliminarily explored the degradation mechanism. The results showed that: (1) the biodegradability of CWP was better than that of waste paper, and the higher the degree of modification, the better the biodegradability of CWP; under the action of Trichoderma reesei, the degradation rate of CWP containing 20.79% nitrogen was about 24% after 144 h (hours) of degradation; (2) The degradation rate of CWP was about 45% after 144 hours degradation by microbial complex bacteria, which was mainly due to the synergistic effect of cellulose degrading enzymes secreted by microbial degrading bacteria, which greatly improved the degradation rate of CWP. (3) The improvement of biodegradability of CWP was mainly due to the change of the morphology of the fibers by cyanoethylation reaction, which increased the contact surface and destroyed the crystal structure of the waste paper fibers. The increase of the amorphous region and the distance between the crystal planes was more conducive to the cellulase entering into the CWP, thus improving the degradation rate. (4) Structural analysis of CWP before and after degradation showed that microbial degradation bacteria destroyed C≡N bond and formed hydrocarbon bond, and further destroyed the crystal structure of CWP without changing the crystal form of the fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the phytoremediation performance of water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes L.) for physicochemical pollutants elimination from paper mill effluent (PME). For this, pot (glass aquarium) experiments were conducted using 0% (BWW: borewell water), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% treatments of PME under natural day/light regime. Results of the experiments showed that the highest removal of pH (10.75%), electrical conductivity (EC: 63.82%), total dissolved solids (TDS: 71.20%) biological oxygen demand (BOD: 85.03%), chemical oxygen demand (COD: 80.46%), total Kjeldahl's nitrogen (TKN: 93.03%), phosphorus (P: 85.56%), sodium (Na: 91.89%), potassium (K: 84.04%), calcium (Ca: 84.75%), and magnesium (Mg: 83.62%), most probable number (MPN: 77.63%), and standard plate count (SPC: 74.43%) was noted in 75% treatment of PME after treatment by P. stratiotes. PCA showed the best vector length for TKN, Na, and Ca. The maximum plant growth parameters including, total fresh biomass (81.30 ± 0.28 g), chlorophyll content (3.67 ± 0.05 mg g−1 f.wt), and relative growth rate (0.0051 gg−1 d−1) was also measured in 75% PME treatment after phytoremediation experiments. The findings of this study make useful insight into the biological management of PME through plant‐based pollutant eradication while leftover biomass may be used as a feedstock for low‐cost bioenergy production. Practitioner points: Biological treatment of paper mill effluent using water lettuce is presented.Best reduction of physicochemical and microbiological pollutants was attained in 75% treatment.Maximum production of chlorophyll, plant biomass, and highest growth rate was also observed in 75% treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp and paper industry have historically been one of the world's largest consumers of freshwater resources and producers of wastewater discharges. More than 250 chemicals have been identified in effluents including chlorine-based organic and other toxic compounds. Some of these are resistant to biological degradation such as color-related compounds. The goal of this study was to analyze the real wastewater from the paper mill and to suggest a photocatalytic treatment method in order to reduce the organic pollutants load. The efficiency of the commonly used treatment photocatalytic processes (photo-TiO2 and photo-Fenton reagent) on the treatment of real paper mill effluent was investigated. Additionally, the performance of TiO2 photocatalytic reactions with and without the addition of hydrogen peroxide was also examined. For the experiment, a 500 mL pyrex UV reactor and a 125-W high-pressure mercury lamp, surrounded by pyrex filter blocking wavelengths below 290 nm were used. The approach has been applied for the treatment of effluents produced from a papermaking industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kraft lignin (KL), is the major pollutant in pulp and paper effluent and due to its heterogeneous structure, it is resistant to the depolymerization process. It has drawn much attention from the researcher due to its challenging degradation process. In this study, a KL-degrading bacterium was isolated and screened from paper mill sludge. This bacterium was identified as ligninolytic Bacillus aryabhattai using biochemical and 16SrRNA gene analysis. B. aryabhattai showed maximum activities of lignin peroxidase-LiP (0.74 IU mL−1) and manganese peroxidase-MnP (9.2 IU mL−1) on the 4th day, and 5th day, respectively. A total 84% of KL (500 mg L−1) reduction was observed after 14 days. The KL bio-degradation was confirmed based on changes in chemical stracture of KL and new metabolites identification using FTIR and GC–MS, respectively. The study concluded that B. aryabhattai maybe becomes a potential biological agent in KL biodegradation and treatment of other lignin-containing industrial effluents.

Background and Objectives: The use of endophytic fungi for management of phenol residue in paper and pulp industries has been shown as cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. In this study, isolation of endophytic fungi from roots, stems, and leaves of Hibiscus sabdariffa was conducted. Additionally, the isolated fungi were examined for their ability to degrade phenol and its derivatives in paper and pulp industrial samples, using different growth conditions. Materials and Methods: Out of 35 isolated endophyitc fungi, 31 were examined for their phenol biodegradation capacity using Czapek Dox broth medium containing Catechol and Resorcinol as a sole carbon source at final concentrations of 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8%. Results: A total of 35 fungal species belonging to 18 fungal genera were isolated and identified from different parts of H. sabdariffa plants. All strains have the capability for degrading phenol and their derivatives with variable extents. The optimum condition of degrading phenol in paper and pulp effluent samples by Fusarium poae11r7 were at pH 3-5, temperature at 28-35°C, good agitation speed at no agitation and 100 rpm. Conclusion: All endophytic fungal species can utilize phenol and its derivatives as a carbon source and be the potential to degrade phenol in industrial contaminants.

Paper has been increasingly used in recent years as a substrate in the structure of sensors to determine diverse biological and pharmaceutical molecules and ions. Potentiometric sensors built with paper offer certain improvements since they are cost–effective, portable, biodegradable, eco–friendly, disposable and easy to manufacture. Paper is also an ideal substrate to be used, considering that it is flexible, lightweight, mechanically–resistant, a good medium for immobilization and trapping, and that it can be easily chemically and physically modified for customized applications, it can adsorb and transport liquid via capillary forces, can close the electrical circuit between electrodes when wet, it can be produced in diverse geometrical dimensions and porosities. Due to these characteristics, paper–based potentiometric sensors are more eco–friendly, suitable to be used in resource–limited areas, can be used in remote locations or on–site settings with low–cost analytical instrumentation. To our knowledge, the most recent advancements in the field have not been collectively reviewed, and this is of high importance considering the rapid developments made in paper–based potentiometric sensors lately. In these review, we covered paper–based potentiometric devices developed in the very recent years, detailed their structures, and compared their certain performance parameters including detection limit, linear concentration range, response time and applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Natural fillers were utilized for manufacturing horticultural packaging products. Five types of pots produced from waste paper with wheat and rye bran additions were compared with commercially available containers. The aim was to examine the influence of soil type on the degradation rate and kinetics. Pots were degraded in three soil types: agriculture, forest and sandy soils and were monitored after 2, 4 and 8 weeks. NIR spectroscopy was used for non-destructive evaluation of the chemical composition of the investigated papers in addition to typically used standard methods. All tested configurations of papers might be used for manufacturing of plantable bio-containers that will slowly disintegrate during their use. The addition of cereal bran improves mechanical properties of the paper and extends the lifespan of pots. The rate and extent of decomposition depends mainly on the degradation time and type of soil. Paper pots in all tested configurations degraded most quickly in agricultural and forest soils, each stimulating growth of microorganisms responsible for the decomposition of paper. The obtained results allow selection of products with optimal composition for specific applications and to design the packaging containers degradation time in various in-field scenarios. The manufacturing approach proposed increases the positive footprint of packaging products by designing "eco-effective" solutions according to the Cradle to Cradle design framework.Graphical abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the effect of acidity on the morphology of archeological paper, especially in the presence of colors and whether natural pigments play a role in the process of degradation.Design/methodology/approach The morphological changes in the cellulosic fibers of the manuscripts because of acidity were investigated using environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). Ten historical samples were collected from different manuscripts suffering from acidity. X-ray diffraction was used to identify the inks and pigments that were used in some samples. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared microscopy was used to identify the binding medium.Findings The results confirmed that carbon ink, ultramarine, cinnabar and gold pigments were applied to some manuscripts with Arabic gum. As for ESEM investigation, the results proved that acidity badly affected the integrity of the cellulosic fibers resulting in their embrittlement. The micrographs showed differences in fiber degradation according to pH value. The presence of inks and pigments increased the degradation extent resulting from acidity.Originality/value This paper addresses a specific need to study the behavior of degradation in paper manuscripts, thus helping the conservators find solutions to the phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a significant surge in the mass of generated waste with varying morphological composition has been observed. Packaging made of both plastic and paper has an increasing share in the municipal solid waste stream. The multiplicity of packaging means that proper methods and installations are needed to appropriately manage the waste generated from it. A special type of packaging waste is made of paper and cardboard and it is considered as biodegradable waste. It can be processed in both mechanical (material) and biological treatment processes. Thanks to the microorganisms involved in biological treatment processes, the organic matter present in waste should be decomposed (biodegradable). The main aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics of the biodegradation process of selected packaging waste made of paper and cardboard in various research environments. The waste used for the analysis differed primarily in grammage. The dynamics of the decomposition rate of the examined waste was analyzed for materials placed in 4 different research environments. The analysis showed significant differences in the rate of biodegradation of the tested waste. Differences were also found in the rate of material decomposition in individual research environments. Materials with low grammage such as paper towels and sandwich paper wrapper were the fastest to biodegrade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The use of endophytic fungi for management of phenol residue in paper and pulp industries has been shown as cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. In this study, isolation of endophytic fungi from roots, stems, and leaves of Hibiscus sabdariffa was conducted. Additionally, the isolated fungi were examined for their ability to degrade phenol and its derivatives in paper and pulp industrial samples, using different growth conditions. Materials and Methods: Out of 35 isolated endophyitc fungi, 31 were examined for their phenol biodegradation capacity using Czapek Dox broth medium containing Catechol and Resorcinol as a sole carbon source at final concentrations of 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8%. Results: A total of 35 fungal species belonging to 18 fungal genera were isolated and identified from different parts of H. sabdariffa plants. All strains have the capability for degrading phenol and their derivatives with variable extents. The optimum condition of degrading phenol in paper and pulp effluent samples by Fusarium poae11r7 were at pH 3-5, temperature at 28-35°C, good agitation speed at no agitation and 100 rpm. Conclusion: All endophytic fungal species can utilize phenol and its derivatives as a carbon source and be the potential to degrade phenol in industrial contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi damage valuable documents mechanically, chemically and aesthetically because they form hyphae, excrete pigments and organic acids, generating particular local conditions that modify the physical-chemical properties of the different documentary supports. The aims of this research were to determine the fungal genera associated with the paper documents biodeterioration and to demonstrate the biofilm formation and the damages. Sampling was done from documents with signs of biodeterioration using sterile cotton swabs. After serial dilutions from the samples, plates with Extract Malt Agar were inoculated and incubated at 30 °C for 7 days. Additional little fragments of the damage zone from each analyzed document were observed using stereomicroscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To evaluate the biodeterioration potential risk the strains were grown on cellulose, the acids production and pigments secretion were evaluated too. The genera Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium and Scopulariopsis were predominant. Isolated strains excreted acids into the culture medium; most of them grew well on cellulose and a few excreted pigments. The formation of a mature biofilm and the production of extracellular polymeric substances by fungi, as well as a dense biofouling mainly formed by dust mites, were evidenced by the SEM and ESEM observations. Also the observations showed that these strains were able to attach to paper fibre causing damage on them. The observation under optical microscopy of dead insect found inside the book showed fungal adhesion on the insect body and SEM support that this adhesion was formed by Aspergillus sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to isolate and characterize a strain which could utilize catechol as sole source of carbon and energy. The strain Achromobacter xylosoxidans 15DKVB was isolated from paper and pulp industrial effluent contaminated site of Harihar. In the present study 38 bacterial strains isolated were investigated for their ability to degrade catechol in MBM at different concentrations ranging from 100 mg/L to 2000 mg/L. The taxonomic position of strain 15DKVB was studied by sequencing of 16SrRNA gene with a GenBank accession number HQ448950. The maximum-likelihood algorithm showed that, strain 15DKVB formed a coherent cluster with the clade that comprised type strains of Achromobacter genus. The optimal temperature and pH for biodegradation of catechol by strain 15DKVB were 37 °C and pH 7.5 respectively. Among the carbon and nitrogen sources tested, glucose (83.4%) and yeast extract (99.6%) showed highest catechol degradation. Interestingly the strain 15DKVB was able to degrade catechol completely up to 1600 mg/L within 198 h. Immobilization experiment demonstrated that freely suspended cells could degrade 500 mg/L catechol within 60 h of incubation, whereas, the same cell population in alginate-immobilized flask, amended with 500 mg/L catechol was degraded in 42 h. Our results evidently depict that physicochemical parameters of Harihar industrial effluents does not comply with national standards set by ISI to discharge the effluents into irrigation waters. The isolated strain 15DKVB could be a good alternative for the bioremediation of catechol contaminated paper and pulp industrial effluent water and soil. These findings may open new bioremediation applications for the degradation of catechol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of anaerobic digestion is mounting worldwide because of its economic and environmental benefits. As a concern, the rate and extent of the anaerobic digestion of pulp and paper mill sludge was tested using the biochemical methane potential (BMP) with different food/microorganisms (F/M) ratio. The study was evaluated at five different F/M ratios (i.e. 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5). In addition to that reaction kinetics and the influence of biodegradability were also evaluated for the biomethane potential of substrates. The highest cumulative methane yield was obtained in F/M ratio 2.0 with 3.4 L followed by F/M ratio 1.5 and 2.5 with 3.3 L and 2.9 L, respectively. The maximum methane production rate 3.66 L CH 4 was perceived as per kinetics. The biomass activity may be affected due to the high substrate concentration during BMP test of lower F/M ratios. On the other hand, F/M ratio greater than 2.0, methane yield was decreased due to increased volatile fatty acid production reduces the reactor pH and inhibits methanogens activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage fine sieved fraction (FSF) is a heterogeneous substrate consisting of mainly toilet paper fibers sequestered from municipal raw sewage by a fine screen. In earlier studies, a maximum biodegradation of 62% and 57% of the sewage FSF was found under thermophilic (55 °C) and mesophilic (35 °C) conditions, respectively. In order to research this limited biodegradability of sewage FSF, this study investigates the biodegradation of different types of cellulosic fibers-based hygiene papers including virgin fibers based toilet paper (VTP), recycled fiber based toilet paper (RTP), virgin pulp for paper production (VPPP) as a raw material, as well as microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a kind of fiberless reference material. The anaerobic biodegradation or digestibility tests were conducted under thermophilic and mesophilic conditions. Results of the experiments showed different biomethane potential (BMP) values for each tested cellulose fiber-based substrate, which might be associated with the physical characteristics of the fibers, type of pulping, presence of lignin encrusted fibers, and/or the presence of additive chemicals and refractory compounds. Higher hydrolysis rates (K h ), higher specific methane production rates (SMPR) and shorter required incubation times to achieve 90% of the BMP (t 90% CH 4 ), were achieved under thermophilic conditions for all examined substrates compared to the mesophilic ones. Furthermore, the biodegradability of all employed cellulose fiber-based substrates was in the same range, 38–45%, under both conditions and less than the observed FSF biodegradability, i.e. 57–62%. MCC achieved the highest BMP and biodegradability, 86–91%, among all cellulosic substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to establish an appropriate mixture ratio of fly ash (F) to optimized cow dung-waste paper mixtures (CP) to develop a high-quality vermicompost using earthworms (Eisenia fetida). Fly ash was mixed with cow dung-waste paper mixtures at ratios of (F:CP) 1:1,1:2,1:3,2:1, and 3:1 or CP alone and composted for 14 wk. Olsen P, inorganic N (NO3, NO2, and NH4), C:N ratio, ash content, microbial biomass C, and humification parameters were measured together with scanning electron micrograph images to determine compost maturity. Based on C:N ratio, the extent of vermidegradation of the waste mixtures followed the decreasing order (F:CP) of 1:3 > 1:2 > 1:1 > CP alone >2:1 > 3:1. Similarly, Olsen P was significantly higher (P < 0.05) where earthworms were added. The mean percentage increase in extractable P was in the order CP alone > 1:2 > 1:3 > 1:1 > 2:1 > 3:1, with earthworm addition almost doubling P release across the 1:1, 1:2, and CP alone treatments. Fly ash incorporation enhanced conversion of organic N to the plant-available inorganic forms, with the 1:3 treatment resulting in the highest conversion. Scanning electron micrograph images confirmed the extent of vermidegradation reflected by the various humification parameters determined. Fly ash incorporation at the 1:2 ratio proved to be the most appropriate because it allows processing of more fly ash while giving a vermicompost with desirable maturity and nutritional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to historical documents, the identity of a nation or ethnic group in each period is determined. Maintain these documents according to their structural nature that was so vulnerable to deterioration of the utmost importance. What factors should be considered Identify damaging agents and attempts to reduce it. Biological degradation is the main cause of damage to paper documents. To solve this problem, various methods were used. The most common method is using chemical antiseptic such as thymol, para chloro benzene dioxide, ethylene oxide etc. But what this study will examine the effects of abuse on the structure of these materials is cellulose paper such as ethylene oxide, indicating improper methods to remove the erosion and provide a convenient method, including freezing in order to reduce these damages. In this paper, 673 paper samples were studied, of the type of documents, which were identified first by the chemical laboratory method and then based on the information obtained from the results of tests with laboratory devices (FTIR, pH-meter). as well as by other methods. Aging, acidity and the effect of disinfectants on the structure of documents and fibers have been analyzed. In this research, which was tested on 673 paper samples, the type of dough was first identified by chemical laboratory method and then with the information obtained from the test results by laboratory devices (pH, FTIR meter) as well as methods. Aging, acidity and the effect of disinfectants on the structure of documents and fibers have been analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In continuation of previously reported results, the ionic liquid 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-5-ene-1-ium acetate was also found to be a powerful non-derivatizing solvent for cellulosic waste such as paper and cardboard. The ionic liquid could dissolve all the present bio-polymers (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) in high concentrations, resulting in solutions with visco-elastic properties that were suitable for dry-jet wet fiber spinning. The cellulosic raw materials were refined gradually to identify the influence of residual components on the spinnability of the respective solution. Polymer degradation and losses in the spinning process could be avoided nearly entirely. With the exception of virtually unrefined cardboard, all the samples showed excellent spinnability, resulting in fibers with high tensile strength. Prototype textiles were produced to validate the quality of the fibers and demonstrate the possibility of using residual lignin in cardboard as a natural dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of polydimethylsiloxane-based paper transparentizing agent was prepared via a combined method. The performance of the transparentizing agent was investigated systematically by adding and dipping, with use of the surface sizing device of a paper machine. Optimum performance was found at 30% concentration of the transparentizing agent and 30 to 45 °C of dipping temperature. Under the optimal conditions, the transparentizing t agent achieved a rapid penetration in the base paper and filled in the pores of the paper, to be further effectively adsorbed and retained on the fiber surface. The transparency of test paper reached as high as 76±0.97 %, which was 37± 1.4% higher than that of the control. However, the addition of transparentizing agent reduced the mechanical strength of paper slightly. The as-prepared transparentizing agent was found to exhibit excellent application stability and biodegradability when applied in the paper machine, When used as plastic film, the transparent paper would lose its strength completely after eight weeks. The resulting transparent paper can be used to develop paper-based film and other related plant based transparent/ translucent paper, which has great potential in replacing plastic products and eliminating white pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We characterised fibres and papers of microfibrillated silk from Bombyx mori produced by mechanical and enzymatic process. Milling increased the specific surface area of fibres from 1.5 to 8.5 m2/g and that enzymatic pre-treatment increased it further to 16.5 m2/g. These fibrils produced a uniform, significantly strong (tenacity 55 Nm/g) and stiff (Young's modulus > 2 GPa) papers. Enzymatic pre-treatment did not reduce molecular weight and tensile strength of papers but significantly improved fibrillation. Silk remained highly crystalline throughout the fibrillation process. Protease biodegradation was more rapid after fibrillation. Biodegradation was impacted by structural change due to enzymatic pre-treatment during the fibrillation. Biodegraded silk had much higher thermal degradation temperature. The unique combination of high strength, slow yet predicable degradation and controllable wicking properties make the materials ideally suited to biomedical and healthcare applications. [Display omitted] • Milling pre-treatment was vital for opening up the fibre structure and increasing surface area. • Tensile properties of papers were not impacted by reduction in molecular weight due to enzyme pre-treatment. • Biodegradation of MFS was significantly more than native silk fibres but less than regenerated silk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]