Publication

Abstract : Cellulase free xylanase has been isolated from microorganisms and tested for bleaching activity, giving rise to a new approach in biobleaching. In this aspect, the present study aims to check the tolerance of Trichoderma harzianum species, a biological controlling agent, in the production of xylanase enzyme. The strains were isolated from the environmental samples taken from pulp and paper industry effluent at Srivari paper boards, Gobi, Tamilnadu, India. The organisms were subjected to growth at various pH conditions. The resistant strain, T-1 to a different pH was further isolated and grown on selective xylan-agar medium. The isolated strain was characterized as Trichoderma harzianum MTCC 10730. Maximum growth of the organism was found at 48 h under submerged condition in medium enriched with xylan. The organism produces an extra cellular xylanase that had a low molecular weight and optimal working temperatures. Enzyme assays were carried out optimizing the pH, temperature and carbon sources for the enzyme production. Further proposed studies include the bleaching activity of the enzyme and comparison of the industrial application with the commercially available enzymes. These trials may also be carried out in paper processing industry and the bleaching sequences may be analyzed for the efficacy of bleaching and pre bleaching. © Global Science Publications.