The biodegradation of Chitotec Polymer® is a multi-step process facilitated by microorganisms like bacteria and fungi present in the environment. These microorganisms secrete enzymes that break down the chitosan and polymer components of Chitotec into simpler, non-toxic substances.

Depolymerization: Various microorganisms, including bacteria like Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Streptomyces, and fungi like Aspergillus and Trichoderma, possess the ability to degrade chitosan. They produce enzymes such as chitosanases, lysozymes, and chitobiases. Chitosanases, for example, cleave the glycosidic bonds between the glucosamine units in chitosan, breaking it down into smaller units like oligomers and monomers.

Hydrolysis: Other enzymes, specific to the polymer components in Chitotec (e.g., esterases if ester bonds are present), further break down the oligomers and monomers derived from chitosan, as well as the polymer components themselves, through hydrolysis. This process utilizes water to break chemical bonds, resulting in simpler organic molecules.

Mineralization: In the final stage, the simpler organic molecules are completely metabolized by microorganisms. This mineralization process results in the formation of inorganic compounds like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, along with potential byproducts like nitrates and phosphates. These end products can be reintegrated into the natural environment, enriching the soil.

Several factors can affect the biodegradation rate:

• Environmental conditions: Temperature, humidity, and the presence of oxygen play a crucial role. Warmer temperatures and humid environments generally accelerate biodegradation.
• Microbial activity: The type and abundance of microorganisms in the environment influence the breakdown process.
• Composition of the Chitotec Polymer®: The specific formulation and processing of the material can affect its biodegradability.

•Streptomyces spp.: Streptomyces griseus, Streptomyces lividans, Streptomyces roseolus, Streptomyces coelicolor.
•Bacillus spp.: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus.
•Pseudomonas spp.: Some species of Pseudomonas produce chitosanases.
•Aeromonas spp.: Aeromonas hydrophila.
•Cellulomonas spp.: These bacteria are also known to degrade chitosan.
•Klebsiella spp.: Some species like Klebsiella pneumoniae can degrade chitosan.

These facilities are designed for rapid and complete composting, with controlled temperature, humidity, aeration, and microbial activity. This ensures efficient breakdown of Chitotec Polymer®, typically within a few months.