Degradation of lignite model compounds by the action of white rot fungi

Three compounds modeled on the lignite structure were chosen for experimental degradation by different fungi strains. Culture conditions and extracellular enzyme activities were optimized. The growth curves of the strains were determined to study mycelium dry weight and protein content changes. Gas chromatography and infrared spectroscopy were used to detect changes of functional groups before and after the action of the fungi on the model compounds. Possible decomposition products and degradation mechanisms were proposed. The research findings show that C. Versicolor and Golden Mushroom can grow in presence of the model compounds. The optimum culture conditions were a pH of 6.0, a carbon-nitrogen ratio of five and a Tween-80 concentration of 0.1%. Newly produced substances were found by gas chromatography. Infrared analysis showed that the model compounds degraded under the action of the microorganisms.