Degradation of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Fibers with Thermoalkaliphilic Recombinant Esterase Enzyme-free and Immobilized on Chitosan-halloysite Beads

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) has become one of the most produced plastics. However, PET causes environmental problems. Among various methods, biodegradation aims to manage PET waste in a more environmentally friendly way. In this context, the esterase enzyme was obtained from recombinant E. coli. Then, the enzyme was immobilised on chitosan-halloysite beads to increase the stability of the enzyme and to maintain its activity and long-term use in its respective applications. Comparative experiments were conducted on the degradation of PET fibres with free and immobilised enzymes. As a result of this study, the potential of the esterase enzyme to degrade PET fibres was discovered In this study, recombinant esterase enzyme was used for the first time in PET treatment/recycling studies.