Biodegradation of polyethylene by indigenous fungi from waste recycling site, South West, Nigeria

Abstract Background Indiscriminate disposal of polyethylene materials has become a regular practice among developing nations Africa, especially in Nigeria. This resulted environmental pollution; hence, this study investigates the microbial degradation obtained from dumpsite South West, Nigeria, under static vitro condition. Soil samples were analysed for mineral composition and physicochemical characteristics. The fungal isolates screened using minimal salt medium containing as sole source carbon nitrogen their ability to degrade polyethylene. Gravimetric analysis Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) used monitor biodegradation Results Aspergillus flavus , A. nidulans Penicillium chrysogenum Mucor mucedo Eurotium repens fumigatus Rhizopus stolonifer enumerated. Mean count ranged 1.37 × 10 7 8.2 8 SFU/g. Individual weight loss was observed strip cultured with P. (1%), E. (1%) (2%). changes FTIR spectra sample inoculated confirm significant role fungi degradation. Hence, its usage treatment environment is cheap eco-friendly alternative. Conclusion notatum play roles which necessitates incorporating products waste management foster cleaner environment.