Date of Publication

4-10-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Eng'g & Mgt w/ Specialization in Mechatronics & Robotics Eng'g

Subject Categories

Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering | Engineering

College

Gokongwei College of Engineering

Department/Unit

Manufacturing Engineering and Management

Thesis Advisor

Homer Co
Dr. Esperanza Cabrera

Defense Panel Chair

Joseph Rey Sta. Agueda

Defense Panel Member

Dr. Andres Philip Mayol
Dr. Ryan Rhay Vicerra

Abstract (English)

The excessive use and improper disposal of plastics pose a severe threat to the environment, with Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) being particularly persistent due to its slow degradation. This study investigated the enhanced biodegradation of LDPE using Pseudomonas putida (P. putida) combined with Nano Barium Titanate (NBT), where it aimed to determine the NBT concentration for the growth of P. putida and the degradation rates of LDPE by P. putida in the presence and absence of NBT. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed key spectral changes, including peaks at 1644.53 cm⁻¹ (C=O stretching), 1377.38 cm⁻¹ (C-H bending), and 1048.48 cm⁻¹ (C-O stretching), indicating improved polymer breakdown. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images, further analyzed using MATLAB, confirmed the increased surface deterioration in LDPE samples treated with NBT-infused P. putida compared to the bacterium alone. The mean degradation rate of 0.000381%, derived from the SEM readings, highlighted the significant impact of NBT in accelerating LDPE decomposition in conjunction with bacterial activity. These findings suggest that incorporating NBT enhances the rate of biodegradation capability of P. putida, presenting a promising approach for mitigating plastic pollution.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

None

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Polyethylene; Nanostructured materials

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Embargo Period

4-10-2026

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