Use of copper-functionalized cotton waste in combined chemical and biological processes for production of valuable chemical compounds.

Cotton textiles modified with copper compounds have a documented mechanism of antimicrobial action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was pronounced interest in finding new solutions for textile engineering, using modifiers and bioactive methods of functionalization, including introducing copper nanoparticles and complexes into textile products ( e.g. masks, special clothing, surface coverings, or tents). However, copper can be toxic, depending on its form and concentration. Functionalized waste may present a risk to the environment if not managed correctly. Here, we present a model for managing copper-modified cotton textile waste. The process includes pressure and temperature-assisted hydrolysis and use of the hydrolysates as a source of sugars for cultivating yeast and lactic acid bacteria biomass as valuable chemical compounds.