Poly (butylene adipate terephthalate) degradation products and their influence on plant progression and soil microbial diversity

Abstract The PBAT is a biodegradable, thermally and mechanically stable polymer that plays an important role in combating plastic pollution. In this project, we studied the influence on plant growth and intrinsic microbial miscellany during PBAT degradation. Chinese cabbage ( Brassica rapa ) grown in pots under controlled conditions was used as a test crop. PBAT was used in three quantities 0, 0.5, and 1 g, respectively. Every treatment was replicated thrice to minimize the error. Changes in growth parameters were recorded after 15, 30, 45, and 60 d. The PBAT degradation process was analyzed using the high-throughput sequencing technique. Three particle sizes < 0.1 mm (D 1 ), 0.1-0.2 mm (D 2 ), and 0.2-0.5 (D 3 ), and two additive proportions 0.05% (M 1 ) and 0.5% (M 2 ) were used. The results showed that smaller particle sizes and larger additive proportions enhanced the PBAT degradation and soil microbial communities. At the genus level, The PBAT degradation products had significantly inhibited the phylum proteobacteria and actinomycetes . The acid Bacillus abundance was recorded highest at low pH due to the formation of acidic intermediates while a decline in Nocardia spp. was also obvious at this condition. The effect of PBAT on the soil microbial community provides a way for the development of microplastic resources for their effective degradation, the assessment of the potential impact on soil ecosystems, the understanding of their degradation process, and the maintenance of overall soil health.