The Potential of Lignolytic Trichoderma Isolates in LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) Plastic Biodegradation

Plastic is experiencing buildup in the environment. Biodegradation process can be used as an alternative for LDPE plastic degradation because the process is environmentally friendly. Some fungi of the genus Trichoderma are known to have a role in plastic biodegradation. This study aims to find out how the potential of that lignolytic Trichoderma spp. isolates in LDPE biodegradation. Five isolates were screened by growing on MSMB (mineral salt medium broth) emulsified LDPE powder, with 35 days incubation at 30 degrees C and shaking at 80 rpm. TL1, TL4, and TL5 are the three most potential isolates, indicated by the growth marked by increasing colony size on screening media. They were then tested for biodegradability by growing the isolates in MSMA (mineral salt medium agar) which then inoculated by 4 sheets of sterile LDPE 1x3 cm(2) above the colony surface, incubated for 5, 15, 25 and 35 days. The degredability assessment is done by measuring the weight loss of LDPE sheets after biodegradation treatment. The obtained degradability percentage of TL1, TL4, and TL5 are 4.87%, 7.12%, and 7,51% respectively. The visual micrograph of LDPE film by SEM showed the appearance of damage and unevenness on the surface of the post-degradation film.