Biodegradation of cotton-elastane textile material by antarctic Bacillus spp.: Effect of biostimulation

Abstract

The accumulation of textile waste, especially that composed of blends of natural and synthetic fibers, poses an environmental challenge due to its limited degradation under natural conditions. This study evaluated the biore-mediation potential of bacteria of the genus Bacillus , isolated from Antarctic ecosystems, for the degradation of denim-type textile material (98% cotton and 2% elastane). Two strains ( Bacillus albus and Bacillus wiedmannii ) were used in a biostimulated system with molasses as a carbon source, incubated at room temperature for 240 days. Degradation was assessed through mass loss, visual analysis, and temporal monitoring. The results showed a progressive reduction in the textile material in the inoculated treatments, reaching values exceeding 80% mass loss, in contrast to the abiotic control. The process exhibited three distinct phases: adaptation, active degradation, and stabilization, associated with the system’s dynamics and substrate availability. It was observed that the cellulose fraction was preferentially degraded, while the presence of synthetic components limited total degradation. The addition of molasses may have promoted microbial activity in the system. Overall, the results demonstrate the potential of Antarctic bacteria of the genus Bacillus in bioaugmentation and biostimulation processes for the partial degradation of textile waste, contributing to the development of sustainable strategies within the framework of the circular economy.