Assessing the Impact of Water, Algae, Alcohol, and Oil-Based Inks on the Biodegradability of Cellulose in Filter Paper

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of several ink types on the biodegradability of cellulose. Paper is one of the main components of cellulosic waste, which is a major environmental problem worldwide. The effects of several ink types, such as alcohol-based, water-based, algae-based, and oil-based inks, on the degradation of cellulose were studied. Given the abundance of cellulose in many everyday commodities, cellulose breakdown is essential for waste management and environmental sustainability. A new cellulase-producing fungus discovered in Burke County was used in the study to evaluate how filter paper treated with various inks degraded. Different types of inks showed different levels of degradation based on visual observations; oil- and alcohol-based inks showed negligible degradation, whereas water and algae-based inks showed significant degradation. The qualitative observations were verified by quantifying enzyme activity and substrate degradation through spectrophotometer experiments. According to statistical analysis, inks based on water and algae degraded cellulose at higher rates than control samples, while inks based on oil and alcohol degraded at lower rates. The study shows how various ink types affect the environmental impact of cellulose biodegradability and highlights the possibilities of water- and algae-based inks as sustainable substitutes. To further understand the precise mechanisms behind ink impacts on cellulose degradation and to optimize ink formulations for increased environmental sustainability, more research is necessary.