Research progress on biodegradation process and mechanism of organophosphate esters flame retardants/plasticizers

Abstract:

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) flame retardants/plasticizers have potential adverse effects on human health and are widely detected in various environmental media. To effectively control the pollution of OPEs, green and efficient biodegradation methods have become the research hotspot. The purpose of this paper is to elucidate the biodegradation process and mechanism of OPEs, mainly focusing on the biodegradation pathways and intermediate products of TBP and TPHP. In general, hydrolysis, hydroxylation, and methoxylation are the major biodegradation pathways of OPEs. Cytochrome P450 plays a key role in the process of degradation. Most of the degradation bacteria can mineralize OPEs into inorganic phosphates and other small molecular compounds which are harmless to the environment.