Decolorization of Methylene Blue Dye by Bacteria Isolates from Laundry Wastewater
Student: Omowonuola Temidayo Ayo-fadahunsi (Project, 2025)
Department of
Ekiti State University
Abstract
This study explores the microbial and enzymatic mechanisms involved in MB biodegradation, identifying bacterial (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Lysinibacillusfusiformis), fungal (Aspergillusniger, Trametesversicolor), and algal species capable of efficiently degrading MB. Enzymes such as laccases, peroxidases, and azoreductases play a crucial role in catalyzing MB decolorization and mineralization under optimized conditions, including pH, temperature, and oxygen levels. Additionally, advancements in microbial immobilization and bioaugmentation strategies have been investigated to enhance biodegradation efficiency in industrial wastewater treatment applications.The increasing contamination of aquatic environments with synthetic dyes poses a significant threat to ecosystems and public health. Methylene blue (MB), a widely used cationic dye in the textile, pharmaceutical, and medical industries, is persistent in wastewater due to its stable aromatic structure, making its removal challenging. Conventional dye removal methods, including chemical precipitation, adsorption, and advanced oxidation processes, often result in secondary pollution and high operational costs. As a sustainable alternative, biodegradation has emerged as an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach for MB removal, utilizing microorganisms and their enzymatic systems to break down dye molecules into non- toxic byproducts.The findings highlight the potential of biodegradation as a sustainable solution for MB removal, with advantages over conventional methods in terms of environmental impact, cost- effectiveness, and scalability. However, challenges such as microbial adaptation, toxicity of dye intermediates, and process optimization require further research. Future studies should focus on genetic engineering of microbial strains, nanotechnology-based enzyme enhancement, and integration with existing wastewater treatment systems to improve degradation rates and practical implementation.By promoting the application of biodegradation in wastewater treatment, industries can significantly reduce dye pollution, ensuring cleaner water resources and environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on eco-friendly remediation techniques, emphasizing the importance of biotechnological advancements in pollution control and wastewater management.
Keywords
For the full publication, please contact the author directly at: fadahunsiwonuola@gmail.com