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Deakin K, Savage G, Jones JS, Porter A, Muñoz-Pérez JP, Santillo D, Lewis C. Sea surface microplastics in the Galapagos: Grab samples reveal high concentrations of particles <200 μm in size. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171428. [PMID: 38438045 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in the oceans is increasing, yet most global sea surface data is collected using plankton nets which limits our knowledge of the smaller and more bioaccessible size fraction of microplastics (<5 mm). We sampled the biodiverse coastal waters of the Galapagos Island of San Cristobal, comparing two different microplastic sampling methodologies; 1 l whole seawater grab samples filtered to 1.2 μm and sea surface plankton tows with a net mesh size of 200 μm. Our data reveal high concentrations of microplastics in Galapagos coastal waters surrounding the urban area, averaging 11.5 ± 1.48 particles l-1, with a four-order of magnitude increase in microplastic abundance observed using grab sampling compared with 200 μm plankton nets. This increase was greater when including anthropogenic cellulose particles, averaging 19.8 ± 1.86 particles l-1. Microplastic and anthropogenic cellulose particles smaller than 200 μm comprised 44 % of the particles from grab samples, suggesting previous estimates of microplastic pollution based on plankton nets likely miss and therefore underestimate these smaller particles. The particle characteristics and distribution of these smaller particles points strongly to a local input of cellulosic fibres in addition to the microplastic particles transported longer distances via the Humbolt current found across the surface seawater of the Galapagos. Improving our understanding of particle characteristics and distributions to highlight likely local sources will facilitate the development of local mitigation and management plans to reduce the input and impacts of microplastics to marine species, not just in the Galapagos but globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Deakin
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Georgie Savage
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Jen S Jones
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK; Galapagos Conservation Trust, 7-14 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YR, UK
| | - Adam Porter
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Juan Pablo Muñoz-Pérez
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador; School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast UniSC, Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4RN, UK
| | - Ceri Lewis
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
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2
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Gracia C A, Neal WJ, Rangel-Buitrago N. Emerging from lockdown: Medical and sanitary waste on a Colombian beach during the first holiday season after COVID pandemic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 202:116355. [PMID: 38615518 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Gracia C
- Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - William J Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
| | - Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia.
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3
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Metcalf R, Fellows R, White HL, Quilliam RS. Persistence of 'wet wipes' in beach sand: An unrecognised reservoir for localised E. coli contamination. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116175. [PMID: 38422824 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The flushing of wet wipes down toilets leads to blockages of sewerage systems. This, together with unregulated sewage discharge, often results in increasing numbers of wet wipes washing up onto beaches. However, it is unclear how long wet wipes can persist on the beach and whether they pose a prolonged public health risk if contaminated by E. coli. In this mesocosm study, three types of wet wipes (plastic containing, and home and commercially compostable) colonised with E. coli were buried in beach sand and their degradation, tensile strength, and concentration of E. coli was quantified over 15 weeks. Wet wipes containing plastic remained largely intact for 15 weeks, whilst both compostable wet wipes fragmented and degraded. Importantly, E. coli persisted on all three wet wipe types, representing localised reservoirs of E. coli in the sand, which could present a human health risk at the beach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Metcalf
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Rosie Fellows
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Hannah L White
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Richard S Quilliam
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
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Weir EM, Kidd KA, Hamilton BM, Wu J, Servos MR, Bartlett AJ, Tetreault GR, Gillis PL. Microparticles in Wild and Caged Biota, Sediments, and Water Relative to Large Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant Discharges. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38450757 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Anthropogenically modified microparticles including microplastics are present in municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents; however, it is unclear whether biotic exposures are elevated downstream of these outfalls. In the fall of 2019, the present study examined whether microparticle levels in resident fish, environmental samples, and caged organisms were elevated near the Waterloo and Kitchener WWTP outfalls along the Grand River, Ontario, Canada. Wild rainbow darters (Etheostoma caeruleum) were collected from a total of 10 sites upstream and downstream of both WWTPs, along with surface water and sediment samples to assess spatial patterns over an approximately 70-km river stretch. Amphipods (Hyalella azteca), fluted-shell mussels (Lasmigona costata), and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were also caged upstream and downstream of one WWTP for 14 or 28 days. Whole amphipods, fish digestive tracts, and mussel tissues (hemolymph, digestive glands, gills) were digested with potassium hydroxide, whereas environmental samples were processed using filtration and density separation. Visual identification, measurement, and chemical confirmation (subset only) of microparticles were completed. Elevated abiotic microparticles were found at several upstream reference sites as well as at one or both wastewater-impacted sites. Microparticles in amphipods, all mussel tissues, and wild fish did not show patterns indicative of increased exposures downstream of effluent discharges. In contrast, elevated microparticle counts were found in trout caged directly downstream of the outfall. Across all samples, cellulose fibers (mainly blue and clear colors) were the most common. Overall, results suggest little influence of WWTP effluents on microparticles in biota but rather a ubiquitous presence across most sites that indicates the importance of other point and nonpoint sources to this system. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-15. © 2024 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada and The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie M Weir
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen A Kidd
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- School of Earth, Environment and Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bonnie M Hamilton
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jiabao Wu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark R Servos
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrienne J Bartlett
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gerald R Tetreault
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia L Gillis
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
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Kaushik A, Gupta P, Kumar A, Saha M, Varghese E, Shukla G, Suresh K, Gunthe SS. Identification and physico-chemical characterization of microplastics in marine aerosols over the northeast Arabian Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168705. [PMID: 38000750 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the atmosphere can undergo long-range transport from emission regions to pristine terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems. Due to their inherent toxic and hazardous characteristics, MPs pose serious risks to both human well-being and the equilibrium of ecosystem. The present study outlines the comprehensive characterization, spanning physical and chemical attributes of MPs associated with atmospheric aerosols. Total suspended particulates (TSPs) were collected on a quartz fibre filter by operating a high-volume sampler for 24 h during distinct years (March, 2016 and November, 2020) at a coastal location in the northeast Arabian Sea. Subsequent to the sampling, a series of techniques were applied including density separation. The assessment and scrutiny of the MPs was carried out using stereo-zoom microscopy with supplementary validation using advanced fluorescence microscopy for enhanced precision in identification. Our comparative assessment suggests peroxide treatment followed by density separation could be a robust procedure for the definitive identification and characterization of MPs in the atmosphere. Average total abundance of MPs was found to be 1.30 ± 0.14 n/m3 in 2016 and 1.46 ± 0.12 n/m3 in 2020 with fibres, fragments and films having similar relative contributions (41 %, 31 %, 28 % in 2016 and 40 %, 35 %, 25 % in 2020). Fibres were found to be dominant morphotype followed by fragments and films over the coastal region of the Arabian Sea. In order to unravel the detailed chemical nature of these MPs, spectral analysis using μ-FTIR was carried out. The outcome of the analysis showed prevailing polymers as polyvinyl chloride and polymethyl methacrylate (50545 %) as dominant polymers followed by polyester (15 %), styrene butyl methacrylate (11 %), and polyacetal (9 %). MPs present in the vicinity of the Arabian Sea have potential to supply nutrients and toxicants, consequently can contribute to the modulation of the surface water biogeochemical processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Kaushik
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India
| | - Priyansha Gupta
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Ashwini Kumar
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Emil Varghese
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Garima Shukla
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - K Suresh
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Physical Research Laboratory, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, India
| | - Sachin S Gunthe
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
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6
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Liu L, Wang Y, He Z, Cai Y, Meng K, Zhang KQ, Zhao H. Turning Waste into Treasure: The Full Technological Process and Product Performance Characterization of Flushable Wet Wipes Prepared from Corn Stalk. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:7189. [PMID: 38005119 PMCID: PMC10672815 DOI: 10.3390/ma16227189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
As a daily consumable, wet wipes are mostly synthetic fibers, which are incinerated or landfilled after use. The nanoplastics generated during this process will lead to environmental pollution. The application of flushable wet wipes, which are dispersible and fully degradable, is of great significance. The main raw material for flushable wipes is wood pulp, which has a long growth cycle and high cost. Corn is widely planted and has a short growth cycle. Currently most corn stalk is treated by incineration, which produces a lot of smoke that pollutes the environment. Therefore, using corn stalk as the raw material for flushable wet wipes, replacing wood pulp, is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. In this study, aiming at industrial production, we explored the full process of producing flushable wet wipes from corn stalk to pulp board, then to the final wipes. The corn stalk was treated using alkali and a bleaching agent to obtain corn stalk pulp, which was then made into pulp board through the nonwoven wet-laid process. The optimal parameters for the alkali treatment and bleaching were obtained. The properties of the corn stalk pulp board were compared with the commercial wood pulp board. Further, we mixed the corn stalk pulp with Lyocell fiber to prepare wet-laid webs, which were then bonded using a chemical binder poloxamer. Then, the evenness of the web, mechanical properties, absorption, and dispersibility of the flushable wipes were characterized. Results showed that the pulp obtained using the optimal treatment process has a high yield and better whiteness. The properties of the corn stalk pulp board are comparable with the commercial wood pulp board, which can therefore potentially be replaced by the corn stalk board prepared in our study. The prepared flushable wet wipes had good evenness and their water absorption rate was more than 600%. The mechanical strength in dry and wet states achieved 595.94 N/m and 179.00 N/m, respectively. Most importantly, the wet wipes can completely disperse under the standardized testing method. A good balance of dispersibility and wet strength of the wet wipes was achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Huijing Zhao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, No. 199 Ren’ai Road, Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China; (L.L.); (Y.W.); (Z.H.); (Y.C.); (K.M.); (K.-Q.Z.)
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7
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McGoran AR, Clark PF, Smith BD, Morritt D. Macrolitter and mesolitter in the Thames Estuary: A temporal litter assessment and brand audit of submerged and riverbed debris. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122484. [PMID: 37659629 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Macroplastic is a growing concern for marine environments with estuaries providing a major pathway for pollution from land-based sources to the sea. In the Thames Estuary, plastic was abundant floating below the surface and on the riverbed, with an average catch per unit effort of 0.57 ± 0.42 and 2.75 ± 2.44 item per minute respectively. Whilst the abundance of litter differed between midwater and benthic zones, the types of products recovered did not. These were identified through visual examination and use of a unique citizen science engagement protocol, allowing for the item age, brand and countries of origin to be established. The majority of litter from the present study (n = 1335) was packaging (40%), some of which was over 30-years old and may have originated from landfill run off. Also abundant was sewage-related debris, the inputs of which was related to heavy or prolonged rainfall. Peaks in this material were recorded in September 2020 following the greatest volume of rain recorded in a single day and in June 2019 after the longest period of continuous rainfall. The Covid-19 pandemic did not influence the abundance or diversity of plastic recovered between December 2018 and September 2020. The durability of plastic ensures it has high potential for harm through entanglement, deoxygenation of sediment and ingestion. The retention in the environment also increases opportunities to fragment into micro- or nanoplastics and, therefore, it is important to monitor plastics at both a macro- and micro-scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra R McGoran
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 0HT, UK; School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK; The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK.
| | - Paul F Clark
- The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Brian D Smith
- The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - David Morritt
- School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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8
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Balcells M, Blanco M, Colmenero AI, Barría C, Santos-Bethencourt R, Nos D, López-Pérez C, Ribera-Altimir J, Sala-Coromina J, Garriga-Panisello M, Rojas A, Galimany E. Fishing for litter, accidental catch in bottom trawl nets along the Catalan coast, Northwestern Mediterranean. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 166:360-367. [PMID: 37210959 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The seafloor of the Mediterranean Sea accumulates marine litter (ML), an area where bottom trawlers operate and can accidentally catch the litter from the seafloor. This study aims to describe and quantify the ML caught by bottom trawlers along the Catalan coast (NW Mediterranean Sea) and estimate the potential of the bottom trawl fleet to extract ML from the area as a Fishing for Litter (FFL) initiative to tackle the ML issue. Marine litter was collected from commercial trawlers and was classified as metal, plastic, rubber, textile, wood, and other waste and weighed (kg) from 305 hauls performed during three years (2019-2021) from 9 different ports at 3 different depths. ML was present in 97 % of the hauls, with plastic being the most abundant material. The composition varied according to zone, port and depth, with the highest densities found in highly urbanized areas (13.75 ± 3.25 kg km-2), which mainly contained plastics (74.3 %). The port of Barcelona had the highest presence of plastics (23.62 ± 6.49 kg km-2), mainly wet wipes. Regarding depth, the continental shelf had the highest density of ML, with 12.24 ± 2.40 kg km-2. The potential ML removal (t year-1) was calculated using fishing effort (hours). It is estimated that the bottom trawlers may potentially remove 237 ± 36 t year-1 of ML in the Catalan coast. FFL initiatives should be part of a multidisciplinary approach to tackle marine litter, which must include prevention, monitoring, and cleaning actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Balcells
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Blanco
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ana I Colmenero
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Claudio Barría
- Unitat de Zoologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricardo Santos-Bethencourt
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - David Nos
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Cristina López-Pérez
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribera-Altimir
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joan Sala-Coromina
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mariona Garriga-Panisello
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alba Rojas
- Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eve Galimany
- Department of Marine Renewable Resources, Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institut Català de Recerca per a la Governança del Mar (ICATMAR), C. Dr. Roux 80, 08017 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Li Y, Lu Q, Xing Y, Liu K, Ling W, Yang J, Yang Q, Wu T, Zhang J, Pei Z, Gao Z, Li X, Yang F, Ma H, Liu K, Zhao D. Review of research on migration, distribution, biological effects, and analytical methods of microfibers in the environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 855:158922. [PMID: 36155038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been proven to be one of the critical environmental pollution issues. Moreover, microfibers, the most prominent form of microplastics in the environment, have likewise attracted the attention of various countries. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the production and use of fibers continue to increase yearly. As a result, a large number of microfibers are formed. If fiber products are not used or handled correctly, it will cause direct/indirect severe microfiber environmental pollution. Microfibers will be further broken into smaller fiber fragments when they enter the natural environment. Presently, researchers have conducted extensive research in the identification of microfibers, laying the foundation for further resourcefulness research. This work used bibliometric analysis to review the microfiber contamination researches systematically. First, the primary sources of microfibers and the influencing factors are analyzed. We aim to summarize the influence of the clothing fiber preparation and care processes on microfiber formation. Then, this work elaborated on the migration in/between water, atmosphere, and terrestrial environments. We also discussed the effects of microfiber on ecosystems. Finally, microfibers' current and foreseeable effective treatment, disposal, and resource utilization methods were explained. This paper will provide a structured reference for future microfiber research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Li
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China; School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qingbin Lu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Yi Xing
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Kai Liu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Wei Ling
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qizhen Yang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Tianqi Wu
- Human Resources Department, Yangquan Power Supply Company of State Grid Shanxi Electric Power Company, Yangquan 045000, Shanxi, China
| | - Jiafu Zhang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Zengxin Pei
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Ziyuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Iron and Steel Industry Environmental Protection, No. 33, Xitucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Hongjie Ma
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Kehan Liu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Ding Zhao
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
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10
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Wennman M, Hellberg M, Svagan AJ, Hedenqvist MS. Plastic-free chitosan and cellulose binder providing dry and wet strength to paper and nonwoven. CARBOHYDRATE POLYMER TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carpta.2022.100240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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11
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Kouvara K, Papatheodorou G, Kosmopoulou A, Giovos I, Charitou A, Filippides A, Kaberi H, Kalaitzi L, Kyrkitsos F, Koundouri P, Triantafyllou C, Gletsos M, Fakiris E, Geraga M. COVID-19-related litter pollution on Greek beaches and nearshore shallow water environments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114250. [PMID: 36274560 PMCID: PMC9561433 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in certain types of litter, many of which are expected to end up in the marine environment. The present study aimed to monitor the pandemic-related litter pollution along the Greek coastal environment. Overall, 59 beach and 83 underwater clean-ups were conducted. Litter was categorized as: PPE (face masks and gloves), COVID-19-related, single-use plastic (SUP) and takeaway items. PPE, dominated by face masks (86.21 %), accounted for 0.29 % of all litter. The average PPE density was 3.1 × 10-3 items m-2 and 2.59 items/ 100 m. COVID-19-related items represented 1.04 % of the total. Wet wipes showed higher densities (0.67 % of all litter) than in the pre-COVID era, while no increase in SUP and takeaway items was observed. Benthic PPE, dominated by gloves (83.95 %), represented 0.26 % of the total. The mean PPE density was 2.5 × 10-3 items m-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Kouvara
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - George Papatheodorou
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece.
| | | | - Ioannis Giovos
- iSea, Environmental Organization for the Preservation of the Aquatic Ecosystems, 54645 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasia Charitou
- iSea, Environmental Organization for the Preservation of the Aquatic Ecosystems, 54645 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Helen Kaberi
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | | | - Filippos Kyrkitsos
- Ecological Recycling Society, Νon-profit Οrganization, 10432 Athens, Greece
| | - Phoebe Koundouri
- Department of International and European Economic Studies, Athens University of Economics and Business, 10434, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Miltos Gletsos
- Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN), 10557 Athens, Greece
| | - Elias Fakiris
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Geraga
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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12
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Köklü R, Ateş A, Deveci EÜ, Sivri N. Generic foresight model in changing hygiene habits with the pandemic: use of wet wipes in next generations. JOURNAL OF MATERIAL CYCLES AND WASTE MANAGEMENT 2022; 25:74-85. [PMID: 36249571 PMCID: PMC9550595 DOI: 10.1007/s10163-022-01515-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The vast use of wet wipes has now become a habitude, particularly following the altered perception of cleanliness during the pandemic and the encouragement towards using WW (wet wipe) to ensure parent's and children's hygiene. This study primarily aims to create a projection of the WW waste that will emerge in Turkey as a result of the promoted consumption by children who are predicted to retain the WW usage practices of their parents. In line with this habit adopted by children, the number of daily WW usage which is currently around 210 million is expected to rise to over 250 million between the years 2040 and 2060, depending on how the children are guided by their parent's existing habits. In this study, related calculations were made with FT-IR spectroscopy, taking into account the functional bond structure and percentage distribution of polymers in WWs. In this way, it is detected that 360 T, 568 T, and 623 T polymer materials would be thrown into the environment per day in 2021, 2040 and 2060, respectively. The damage of chemicals in WW content, employed at various concentrations, to the ecosystem structure is predicted and measures to be taken are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Köklü
- Environmental Eng. Dept, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Asude Ateş
- Environmental Eng. Dept, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Ece Ümmü Deveci
- Environmental Eng. Dept, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Niğde, Turkey
| | - Nüket Sivri
- Environmental Eng. Dept, İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Scanning Electron Microscopy Study on the Biodeterioration of Natural Fiber Materials Compared to Disposable Hygiene and Sanitary Products. FERMENTATION-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fermentation8060287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Disposable personal care products are part of modern life, but these products could become a biological hazard in case of improper disposal. Therefore, our study compared the biodeterioration of plant-based woven materials (cotton, linen), animal materials (wool, leather), disposable hygiene products with cellulose fibers (sanitary pads, cosmetic pads), and chemical impregnated products (antimicrobial/sanitary wet wipes) using burial tests in two types of soils for 40 days. Weight loss (%) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that textiles are relatively quickly deteriorated compared to animal-based products, and the process is dependent on the soil type. According to SEM analysis, sanitary pads were the least deteriorated, followed by wet wipes and cosmetic pads (maximum weight loss 24.332% and 27.537%, respectively), and the process was influenced by the composition and structure of the product. These results were correlated with changes in the number of microbes and cellulolytic activity of soil near the samples, and eight isolates belong to Ascomycetes according to PCR analysis. This is the first report on the fate of disposable hygiene and sanitary products in soil, but further comprehensive research is required to reveal crucial insights about their potential hazards and to increase public awareness of the inappropriate disposal of these products.
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14
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Zhu X, Zhang J, Zhu L, Wang R, Gan S, Xue J, Liu X, Li H, Xue Q. Multifunctional recycled wet wipe with negatively charged coating for durable separation of oil/water emulsion via interface charge demulsification. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.119984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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15
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Shruti VC, Pérez-Guevara F, Kutralam-Muniasamy G. Wet wipes contribution to microfiber contamination under COVID-19 era: An important but overlooked problem. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 5:100267. [PMID: 38620870 PMCID: PMC8411576 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Wet wipes for disinfection, sanitizing, and medical purposes, like personal protective equipment, have witnessed an upsurge in production and use as a result of COVID-19 outbreak. They are a potential source of microfibers and have recently been found in COVID-19 plastic litter survey campaigns conducted in a few marine environments around the world. This mini-review highlights wet wipes as a one of the key debris items contributing to the growing COVID-19-related microplastic pollution, and there are significant gaps in our understanding of microfiber release under different environmental conditions, morphological, and chemical degradation signatures, necessitating a comprehensive study of disinfectant wipes. Thus, we urge microplastic researchers to investigate the environmental implications of wet wipes in order to keep the total estimate of the plastic problem up to date and manage the associated environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- V C Shruti
- Instituto de Geologíía, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Del. Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
- Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
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16
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Lee J, Jeong S, Chae KJ. Discharge of microplastics fibres from wet wipes in aquatic and solid environments under different release conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 784:147144. [PMID: 33905932 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study warns regarding the possibility of microplastics (MPs) release from wet wipes and further in the environment and examines the potential associated risks. The exposure of humans to MPs during cleaning, and their discharge into wastewater treatment processes through flushing in toilets/basins was simulated by rubbing wet wipes on hands and immersing them in water, respectively. Wet wipes can be stored in a waste bin and subsequently disposed of through waste treatment or directly disposed in aquatic environments. The released MPs were identified and quantified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The released MPs were in the fibre form, and their major component was polyester. A higher number of MP fibres (693-1066 p/sheet) was released when the wet wipe was exposed to the aquatic environment compared to rubbing the wet wipe on hands or solid materials (180-106 p/sheet) or both. In particular, wet wipes in the wet state released the highest number (1966 p/sheet) of MP fibres. Unexpectedly, the least number of MP fibres was released by rubbing them on the hands/solid (180-200 p/sheet). Most fibres (>90%) were more than 100 μm, and those above 300 μm accounted for more than 40%-60% of the total number of detected MP fibres. This implies that long MP fibres released into the environment could disrupt the health of the aquatic ecosystem owing to their bioaccumulation, retention time, intestinal toxicity, and the transfer of persistent organic matter to aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, South Korea; Department of Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea
| | - Sanghyun Jeong
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea.
| | - Kyu-Jung Chae
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, South Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Krause A, Häfner F, Augustin F, Udert KM. Qualitative Risk Analysis for Contents of Dry Toilets Used to Produce Novel Recycling Fertilizers. CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND SUSTAINABILITY 2021; 1:1107-1146. [PMID: 34888571 PMCID: PMC8280996 DOI: 10.1007/s43615-021-00068-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Human excreta are a sustainable, economical source of nutrients, and can be used to produce recycling fertilizer for horticulture by collecting and processing the contents of dry toilets. Herein, we discuss the key categories of risk associated with the main groups of materials commonly found in dry toilets. The study was part of the development of a German product standard for marketable and quality-assured recycling fertilizers from human excreta for use in horticulture. Particular attention is paid to ensuring that the fertilizer is epidemiologically and environmentally harmless and that the quality of the recycling fertilizer is adequate in terms of low pollution and nutrient availability. In sum, the risk of transmissible human pathogens lies within the human excreta, particularly feces; plant materials added during composting are of particular phytosanitary relevance; pharmaceutical residues in excrements and chemical additives are potential sources of pollutants; non-biodegradable contaminants can cause pollution and injury; and the horticultural risks involve mainly the ammonia emission potential and in some cases the salinity effects of urine. These risks can be reduced significantly (i) with education of users around proper operation of dry toilets and the consequences of adding inappropriate waste, (ii) with facilitation of proper use with general waste bins and clear instructions, and importantly (iii) by using modern sanitization and cleaning processes and testing for harmful substances under the guidance of local laws and regulations, ensuring safe and high-quality fertilizers. In conclusion, the benefits of using dry toilet contents to produce fertilizers for use in horticulture are unquestionable. Our analysis highlights the need to support recycling optimization and awareness for the purpose of a sustainable circular economy and to minimize the risk of harm to humans and the environment overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Krause
- Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) e.V., program area ‘Next-Generation Horticultural Systems’ (HORTSYS), Großbeeren, Germany
| | - Franziska Häfner
- Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) e.V., program area ‘Next-Generation Horticultural Systems’ (HORTSYS), Großbeeren, Germany
| | | | - Kai M. Udert
- ETH Zürich, Institute of Environmental Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
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18
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Li X, Liu J, Lu Y, Hou T, Zhou J, Wang A, Zhang X, Yang B. Centrifugally spun starch/polyvinyl alcohol ultrafine fibrous membrane as environmentally‐friendly disposable nonwoven. J Appl Polym Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/app.51169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xianglong Li
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Jing Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Advanced Textile Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Yishen Lu
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Teng Hou
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Jing Zhou
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Antuo Wang
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Xianggui Zhang
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
| | - Bin Yang
- National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology, Department of Nonwovens Materials and Engineering, College of Textile Science and Engineering (International Institute of Silk), Zhejiang Sci‐Tech University Hangzhou China
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19
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Reduced dispersibility of flushable wet wipes after wet storage. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7942. [PMID: 33846398 PMCID: PMC8042014 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86971-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific publications and newsfeeds recently focused on flushable wet wipes and their role in sewage system blockages. It is stated that although products are marked as flushable, they do not disintegrate after being disposed of via the toilet. In this work it is shown that wetlaid hydroentangled wet wipes lose their initially good dispersive properties during their storage in wet condition. As a consequence, we are suggesting to add tests after defined times of wet storage when assessing the flushability of wet wipes. Loss of dispersibility is found for both, wet wipes from industrial pilot production and wipes produced on laboratory pilot facilities. We found it quite surprising that the wet wipes’ dispersibility is deteriorating after storage in exactly the same liquid they are dispersed in, i.e. water. This is probably why the effect of wet storage has not been investigated earlier. It is demonstrated that the deteriorating dispersibility of these wipes is linked to the used type of short cellulosic fibres — only wipes containing unbleached softwood pulp as short fibre component were preserving good dispersibility during wet storage. Possible mechanisms that might be responsible are discussed, e.g. long term fiber swelling causing a tightening of the fiber network, or surface interdiffusion.
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20
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Primpke S, Christiansen SH, Cowger W, De Frond H, Deshpande A, Fischer M, Holland EB, Meyns M, O'Donnell BA, Ossmann BE, Pittroff M, Sarau G, Scholz-Böttcher BM, Wiggin KJ. Critical Assessment of Analytical Methods for the Harmonized and Cost-Efficient Analysis of Microplastics. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 74:1012-1047. [PMID: 32249594 DOI: 10.1177/0003702820921465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are of major concerns for society and is currently in the focus of legislators and administrations. A small number of measures to reduce or remove primary sources of microplastics to the environment are currently coming into effect. At the moment, they have not yet tackled important topics such as food safety. However, recent developments such as the 2018 bill in California are requesting the analysis of microplastics in drinking water by standardized operational protocols. Administrations and analytical labs are facing an emerging field of methods for sampling, extraction, and analysis of microplastics, which complicate the establishment of standardized operational protocols. In this review, the state of the currently applied identification and quantification tools for microplastics are evaluated providing a harmonized guideline for future standardized operational protocols to cover these types of bills. The main focus is on the naked eye detection, general optical microscopy, the application of dye staining, flow cytometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-Ir) and microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and microscopy, thermal degradation by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC-MS) as well as thermo-extraction and desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TED-GC-MS). Additional techniques are highlighted as well as the combined application of the analytical techniques suggested. An outlook is given on the emerging aspect of nanoplastic analysis. In all cases, the methods were screened for limitations, field work abilities and, if possible, estimated costs and summarized into a recommendation for a workflow covering the demands of society, legislation, and administration in cost efficient but still detailed manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Silke H Christiansen
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
- Physics Department, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Win Cowger
- University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Hannah De Frond
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashok Deshpande
- NOAA Fisheries, James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory at Sandy Hook, Highlands, NJ, USA
| | - Marten Fischer
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Erika B Holland
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Michaela Meyns
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Bridget A O'Donnell
- HORIBA Instruments Incorporated, A HORIBA Scientific Company, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Barbara E Ossmann
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
- Food Chemistry Unit, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy-Emil Fischer Center, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marco Pittroff
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (German Water Centre), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - George Sarau
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara M Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Kara J Wiggin
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
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21
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McCoy KA, Hodgson DJ, Clark PF, Morritt D. The effects of wet wipe pollution on the Asian clam, Corbicula fluminea (Mollusca: Bivalvia) in the River Thames, London. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 264:114577. [PMID: 32380401 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate "flushable" and "non-flushable" wet wipes as a source of plastic pollution in the River Thames at Hammersmith, London and the impacts they have on the invasive Asian clam, Corbicula fluminea, in this watercourse. Surveys were conducted to assess whether the density of wet wipes along the foreshore upstream of Hammersmith Bridge affected the distribution of C. fluminea. High densities of wet wipes were associated with low numbers of clams and vice versa. The maximum wet wipe density recorded was 143 wipes m-2 and maximum clam density 151 individuals m-2. Clams adjacent to the wet wipe reefs were found to contain synthetic polymers including polypropylene (57%), polyethylene (9%), polyallomer (8%), nylon (8%) and polyester (3%). Some of these polymers may have originated from the wet wipe reefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A McCoy
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK; Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK.
| | - D J Hodgson
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK; Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - P F Clark
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - D Morritt
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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22
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Ó Briain O, Marques Mendes AR, McCarron S, Healy MG, Morrison L. The role of wet wipes and sanitary towels as a source of white microplastic fibres in the marine environment. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 182:116021. [PMID: 32591164 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Understanding source elements of the ocean plastic crisis is key to effective pollution reduction management and policy. The ubiquity of microplastic (MP) fibres in the oceans is considered to derive primarily from clothing fibres released in grey water. Microplastic fibres degraded from widely flushed personal care textile products (wet wipes and sanitary towels) have not been clearly identified in aquatic systems to date. Unregulated personal hygiene and sanitary product labelling fails to identify textile materials. This study demonstrated that white MP fibres in sediments adjacent to a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) are comparable with white fibres from sewage-related waste and commercially available consumer sanitary products. Commercially available non-flushable wipes are manufactured from either polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), or a combination of PET and cellulose. Fifty percent of brands labelled flushable that were tested were comprised of a mixture of PET and cellulose and the remainder of cellulose alone. Sanitary towels are made from PP, PE, or a combination of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PP. The accumulation of large quantities of washed-up sewage-related macro-debris (including wet wipes and sanitary towels) intermingled with seaweed biomass adjacent to the WWTP was associated with a combined sewer overflow. Microplastic fibres extracted from this waste were similar to those extracted from intertidal sediments in close proximity to the WWTP over a ten-month period. In comparison, fibres extracted from locations spatially removed from the WWTP were primarily comprised of ABS, PP and polystyrene. The results confirm that wet wipes and sanitary towels flushed down toilets are an underestimated source of white MP fibres in the environment. Given the global distribution and projected growth of the non-woven textile industry, there is a need for increased public awareness of MP pollution in the marine environment from the inappropriate disposal of sanitary products down the toilet, instead of diversion to alternative land-based waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisín Ó Briain
- Earth and Ocean Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, H91TK33, Ireland; Department of Geography, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Ana R Marques Mendes
- Earth and Ocean Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, H91TK33, Ireland
| | - Stephen McCarron
- Department of Geography, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Mark G Healy
- Civil Engineering and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, H91HX31, Ireland
| | - Liam Morrison
- Earth and Ocean Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, H91TK33, Ireland.
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23
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Yun T, Cheng P, Qian F, Cheng Y, Lu J, Lv Y, Wang H. Balancing the decomposable behavior and wet tensile mechanical property of cellulose-based wet wipe substrates by the aqueous adhesive. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:1898-1907. [PMID: 32800954 PMCID: PMC7422816 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
With the current global outbreak of novel coronaviruses, the fabrication of decomposable wet wipe with sufficient wet strength to meet daily use is promising but still challenging, especially when renewable cellulose was employed. In this work, a decomposable cellulose-based wet wipe substrate is demonstrated by introducing a synthetic N-vinyl pyrrolidone-glycidyl methacrylate (NVP-GMA) adhesive on the cellulose surface. Experimental results reveal that the NVP-GMA adhesive not only significantly facilitates the chemical bonding between cellulose fibers in the wet state, but also increase the surface wettability and water retention. The as-fabricated cellulose-based wet wipe substrate displays a superb water retention capacity of 1.9 times, an excellent water absorption capacity (completely wetted with 0° water contact angle), and a perfect wet tensile index of 3.32 N.m.g−1. It is far better than state-of-the-art wet toilet wipe on the market (non-woven). The prepared renewable and degradable cellulose-based substrate with excellent mechanical strength has potential application prospects in diverse commercially available products such as sanitary and medical wet wipes. A decomposable wet wipe substrate was prepared from the bio-based materials. Synthetic adhesive enhanced the wet strength of the cellulose sheet. Enhancement of cellulose-based material was achieved under aqueous conditions. As-prepared cellulose substrate balanced the dispersibility and wet strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongtong Yun
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Peng Cheng
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Fang Qian
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yi Cheng
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Jie Lu
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yanna Lv
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China.
| | - Haisong Wang
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, Liaoning, PR China.
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Grbić J, Helm P, Athey S, Rochman CM. Microplastics entering northwestern Lake Ontario are diverse and linked to urban sources. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 174:115623. [PMID: 32088386 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.115623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The sources of microplastics and other anthropogenic particles in freshwater are not well understood. The Greater Toronto Area, Canada's most populous urban area, offers a great study area for understanding the sources and pathways for microplastics to enter freshwater ecosystems. Here, we quantified and characterized microplastics and other anthropogenic particles from Lake Ontario surface waters and source waters (including stormwater runoff, agricultural runoff, and treated wastewater effluent) to better understand sources to the Great Lakes. Anthropogenic particle concentrations in lake samples were 0.8 particles L-1. In source waters, average concentrations were relatively higher in stormwater and wastewater, with 15.4 particles L-1 and 13.3 particles L-1, respectively, compared to 0.9 particles L-1 on average in agricultural runoff. Source waters revealed distinct signatures related to the morphologies of anthropogenic particles, e.g., fibers in wastewater. In addition, many upstream watershed characteristics were found to be significant predictors of anthropogenic particle concentration. Proximity to urban areas were positively correlated to anthropogenic particle concentrations. Future studies should focus on local source-apportionment to inform management and prevent further contamination of microplastics to freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Grbić
- University of Toronto, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, St. George Campus, 25 Willcocks St, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3B2, Canada
| | - Paul Helm
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Branch, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, School of the Environment, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samantha Athey
- University of Toronto, Department of Earth Sciences, St. George Campus, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- University of Toronto, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, St. George Campus, 25 Willcocks St, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3B2, Canada.
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25
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Durukan S, Karadagli F. Physical characteristics, fiber compositions, and tensile properties of nonwoven wipes and toilet papers in relevance to what is flushable. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 697:134135. [PMID: 31476492 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Numerous products, such as moist wipes, are marketed worldwide as "flushable." Recent studies indicate that wipes cause operational problems (e.g., pipe blockages) in sewer systems. This study investigates potential reasons for why wipes are problematic in sewer operations. Physical characteristics, fiber compositions, and tensile properties of non-flushable wipes, flushable wipes, and toilet papers (TPs) were assessed. Flushables, non-flushables, and TPs, respectively, had sheet masses of 1.5, 1.5, 0.5 g; surface areas of 250, 300, and 120 cm2 per sheet; thicknesses of 360, 370, and 160 μm; and volumes of 9.2, 11, 1.9 cm3 per sheet. While TPs were made of only plant-based fibers, wipes contained plant-based, and regenerated-cellulose (RC) fibers at various ratios, including up to 100% RC fibers. For tensile strength, the maximum force to break a specimen (Fmax) averaged 3 N for dry TPs, and 0.26 N for wet TPs. In contrast, the average Fmax values were 7 N for dry flushables and 5.9 N for their wet sheets. In wet states, TPs lost their strength by an average of 91%, but flushable wipes had variable changes: some wipes gained wet strength by 25%, some lost as much as 90%, and the average effect was a reduction by 29%. Thus, nonwoven wipes retain their strength and structure when wet, presumably because they contain RC fibers, which are known for their high wet strength. Accordingly, using synthetic fibers in flushable wipes seems to be the key reason for why the wipes cause operational problems in sewer systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Durukan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Sakarya University, Esentepe, 54187, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Fatih Karadagli
- Department of Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Sakarya University, Esentepe, 54187, Sakarya, Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan D. Richardson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29205, United States
| | - Susana Y. Kimura
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
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Deng C, Gong RH, Huang C, Zhang X, Jin XY. Tensile Strength and Dispersibility of Pulp/Danufil Wet-Laid Hydroentangled Nonwovens. MATERIALS 2019; 12:ma12233931. [PMID: 31783630 PMCID: PMC6926622 DOI: 10.3390/ma12233931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wet-laid hydroentangled nonwovens are widely used for disposable products, but these products generally do not have good dispersibility and can block sewage systems after being discarded into toilets. In this study, both pulp fibers and Danufil fibers are selected as we hypothesize that the high wet strength and striated surface of Danufil fibers would allow us to produce nonwovens with better dispersibility while having enough mechanical properties. The wet strength and dispersibility of nonwovens are systematically studied by investigating the influence of the fiber blend ratio, fiber length, and water jet pressure. The results indicate that the percent dispersion could be as high as 81.3% when the wet strength is higher than 4.8 N, which has been improved greatly comparing the percent dispersion of 67.6% reported before.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Deng
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textiles, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; (C.H.); (X.Z.)
- Correspondence: (C.D.); (X.-Y.J.); Tel.: +86-021-6779-2794 (C.D.); +86-021-6779-2787 (X.-Y.J.)
| | - R. Hugh Gong
- Textile Technology, School of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Chen Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textiles, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; (C.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xing Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textiles, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; (C.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xiang-Yu Jin
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textiles, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; (C.H.); (X.Z.)
- Correspondence: (C.D.); (X.-Y.J.); Tel.: +86-021-6779-2794 (C.D.); +86-021-6779-2787 (X.-Y.J.)
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