Asian Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Environmental Sciences Paper

ISOLATION OF MICROBIAL PIGMENT, PRODIGIOSIN FROM SERRATIA MARSCESCENS AND ITS POTENTIAL APPLICATION AS PRINTING INK

K. KANCHANA DEVI, D.R. DARJILY, R. SHANMUGAPRIYA AND S. PRIYA

Abstract

This study sought to produce ecofriendly ink from a microbial source to minimize the use of synthetic inks which are non-degradable. Serratia marscescens was isolated from a soil sample and used to produce red coloured pigment called Prodigiosin. Optimization parameter was done to maximize the pigment production. Purification of the pigment was performed by means of Column Chromatography and Thin Layer Chromatography. Ecofriendly and biodegradable ink was produced using prodigiosin may serve as an excellent alternative to synthetic inks and it’s also known for its stability, colour, brightness and longevity.