Enzymatic degradation of aliphatic polyesters using microbial lipase for biodegradable plastic waste management
A biotechnology solution using lipase B enzyme to depolymerize aliphatic polyesters into monomers, enabling enzymatic degradation of biodegradable plastic waste. This approach reduces landfill contamination and offers a sustainable method for managing polymer residues without introducing additional pollutants.
Overview
This research proposes an enzymatic method for degrading aliphatic polyesters using lipase B derived from microorganisms. The approach aims to nearly complete depolymerization of certain aliphatic polyesters into their constituent monomers, offering a biological pathway for managing biodegradable plastic waste. By replacing traditional mechanical or chemical recycling methods with enzymatic degradation, the technology reduces contamination risks associated with plastic disposal in landfills and supports circular economy objectives for polymer materials.
The solution is particularly relevant for industries producing or using biodegradable plastics who need sustainable end-of-life management strategies. The enzymatic process works on hydrophobic polymer surfaces, making it applicable to a wide range of aliphatic polyester-based products and packaging materials.
Technical specifications
Core technology:
- Uses lipase B enzyme from microbial sources to catalyze depolymerization of aliphatic polyesters
- Targets conversion of polymer chains back to monomer building blocks
- Achieves high degradation rates suitable for industrial-scale waste management
Research capabilities supporting the project:
- Manufacturing and processing of plastics
- Thermal, rheological, mechanical, spectroscopic, microstructural, and chemical characterization of biomaterials
- Additive manufacturing expertise
- Surface engineering of polymeric and composite materials
Validation approach:
- Testing degradation rates using real materials supplied by industry partners
- Physicochemical and microscopy techniques to validate formulation results
- Laboratory assessment of biodegradable and compostable behavior
Technology readiness level
The project is in early-to-mid stage research and development. The first formulation stage is expected to be completed within 12 months, with proof-of-concept validation on real materials and evaluation of biodegradable and compostable behavior anticipated approximately one year after that. Future validation will require additional physicochemical and microscopy characterization to corroborate degradation rates and identify optimal formulations for industrial application.
About Tecnológico de Monterrey
Tecnológico de Monterrey is a leading private, multi-campus research university in Mexico, recognized for entrepreneurship and industry collaboration. Its Monterrey headquarters anchors an urban innovation district with open lab space, prototyping, and shared testing facilities that welcome corporate collaborators. An integrated health system supports clinical research and translation, while structured internships and challenge-driven partnerships connect companies with faculty and student talent year-round. Research is supported by competitive federal funding through Mexico’s national science and technology council, along with industry contracts and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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