Pleurotus ostreatus, mineralizing and detoxifying agent for lignocellulosic waste from cigarette butts

Abstract

Introduction: Within the framework of the circular economy, the recovery of unusable and potentially toxic solid waste, through biotechnology, is essential. Objective: Determine the effectiveness in the mineralization and detoxification of cigarette butts using Pleurotus ostreatus to achieve a compostable substrate, free of substances contaminating the environment. Methodology: A widely distributed and adapted edible basidiomycete fungus (Pleurotus ostreatus) capable of developing in hostile environments was used. Mycelia of the fungus were inoculated on the substrate of cigarette butts in a ratio of 2:1, considering controlled environmental parameters of Tº and RH%, the most effective being 20ºC and 75%. Results: The development of mycelia was observed for 75 days, where the fungus reached its maximum growth, forming well-developed carpophores. The evaluations carried out were by SEM and EDS, before and after each treatment, the first evaluation after 35 days showed absolute colonization of the substrate. The elements with the highest mineralization were Chlorine and Sulfur. At 75 days, Titanium, Silicon, Chlorine, Sulfur and Aluminum. Discussion: Controlled environmental parameters are essential for the development of the basidiomycete and the available carbon source, the greatest growth factor. Conclusions: Fruiting bodies were evaluated to show bioaccumulation of chemical elements, resulting in; Silicon, Aluminum, Sulfur almost undetectable, Chlorine not detected.