Isolation and characterisation of locally isolated Gluconacetobacter xylinus BCZM sp with nanocellulose producing potentials

Abstract

Recently, attention has been given to nanocellulose produced by bacteria due to its unique properties and environmentally friendly nature when compared with plant cellulose. Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) producing isolate was successfully isolated from rotten fruits via dilution and spread plates method. Based on the biochemical characterisation and molecular analysis of the 16S rDNA gene, the isolate was identified as Gluconacetobacter xylinus BCMZ sp. Nanocellulose productivity was confirmed by the formation of the white gelatinous layer between air/liquid surfaces when the culture was cultivated under a stationary condition at 30°C. Successful purification of nanocellulose was achieved using alkaline treatment method. The Fourier transformed infrared spectrum showed a characteristics band signature of pure nanocellulose, by displaying strong absorption peaks at 3335.36 and 2901.40 cm-1 representing carbonyl and carbon-hydrogen bonding, respectively. Morphological characteristics of the BNC were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Elemental analysis of BNC was determined by energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) analysis. The isolates BCZM showed significant nanocellulose production ability with a high degree of purity when compared with plant nanocellulose. BNC purification using 1 M NaOH solution is effective and eco-friendly with no indication of recalcitrant formation as commonly found in plant nanocellulose purification steps.