Objectives
To degrade enzymatically bisphenol A (BPA) that causes serious environmental concerns and is difficult to be degraded by chemical or physical methods.
Results
BPA (150 mg l−1) was completely degraded by chloroperoxidase (CPO)/H2O2 within 7 min at room temperature, atmospheric pressure with the enzyme at 6 μg CPO ml−1. The degradation products were identified by HPLC–MS, which suggested involvement of multiple steps. Enzymatic treatment followed by existing bioremediation technologies (activated sludge) enhanced removal of COD from 9 to 54 %. Using an ecotoxicity evaluation with Chlorella pyrenoidosa, the degradation products had a lower toxicity than BPA.
Conclusion
BPA can be degraded rapidly and efficiently under mild conditions with chloroperoxidase at 6 μg ml−1. The degradation products had a lower toxicity than BPA.