1
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Wang L, Chang R, Ren Z, Meng X, Li Y, Gao M. Mature compost promotes biodegradable plastic degradation and reduces greenhouse gas emission during food waste composting. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:172081. [PMID: 38554961 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172081] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Mature compost can promote the transformation of organic matter (OM) and reduce the emission of polluting gases during composting, which provides a viable approach to reduce the environmental impacts of biodegradable plastics (BPs). This study investigated the impact of mature compost on polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) degradation, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, and microbial community structure during composting under two treatments with mature compost (MC) and without (CK). Under MC, visible plastic rupture was advanced from day 14 to day 10, and a more pronounced rupture was observed at the end of composting. Compared with CK, the degradation rate of PBAT in MC was increased by 4.44 % during 21 days of composting. Thermobifida, Ureibacillus, and Bacillus, as indicator species under MC treatment, played an important role in PBAT decomposition. Mature compost reduced the total global warming potential (GWP) by 25.91 % via inhibiting the activity of bacteria related to the production of CH4 and N2O. Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa (FAPROTAX) further revealed that mature compost addition increased relative abundance of bacteria related to multiple carbon (C) cycle functions such as methylotrophy, hydrocarbon degradation and cellulolysis, inhibited nitrite denitrification and denitrification, thus alleviating the emission of GHGs. Overall, mature compost, as an effective additive, exhibits great potential to simultaneously mitigate BP and GHG secondary pollution in co-composting of food waste and PBAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ruixue Chang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhiping Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xin Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yanming Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Miao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources Collection and Preservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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2
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Martín-González D, de la Fuente Tagarro C, De Lucas A, Bordel S, Santos-Beneit F. Genetic Modifications in Bacteria for the Degradation of Synthetic Polymers: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5536. [PMID: 38791573 PMCID: PMC11121894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic polymers, commonly known as plastics, are currently present in all aspects of our lives. Although they are useful, they present the problem of what to do with them after their lifespan. There are currently mechanical and chemical methods to treat plastics, but these are methods that, among other disadvantages, can be expensive in terms of energy or produce polluting gases. A more environmentally friendly alternative is recycling, although this practice is not widespread. Based on the practice of the so-called circular economy, many studies are focused on the biodegradation of these polymers by enzymes. Using enzymes is a harmless method that can also generate substances with high added value. Novel and enhanced plastic-degrading enzymes have been obtained by modifying the amino acid sequence of existing ones, especially on their active site, using a wide variety of genetic approaches. Currently, many studies focus on the common aim of achieving strains with greater hydrolytic activity toward a different range of plastic polymers. Although in most cases the depolymerization rate is improved, more research is required to develop effective biodegradation strategies for plastic recycling or upcycling. This review focuses on a compilation and discussion of the most important research outcomes carried out on microbial biotechnology to degrade and recycle plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Martín-González
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Carlos de la Fuente Tagarro
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Andrea De Lucas
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Sergio Bordel
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Fernando Santos-Beneit
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
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3
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Ullah A, Yang H, Takemae K, Wang F, Lee S, Kim IS. Sustainable bioactive food packaging based on electrospun zein-polycaprolactone nanofibers integrated with aster yomena extract loaded halloysite nanotubes. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131375. [PMID: 38604424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Compostable zein-polycaprolactone (PZ) electrospun nanofiber integrated with different concentrations of Aster yomena extract loaded halloysite nanotubes (A. yomena-HNT) as bioactive nanofibrous food packaging is reported. SEM micrographs reveal heterogeneous nanofibers. A. yomena extract used in the study showed weak antioxidant activity with AAI and TEAC values of 0.229 and 0.346. In vitro, release profile over 7 days of A. yomena indicates a controlled, sustained, and prolonged release. The prepared nanofibers were effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The prepared composite nanofibers were rendered biocompatible and nontoxic when subjected to WST-1 and LDH assay after incubating with NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line. PZ-15 nanofiber packaging showed the best postharvest quality preservation in Black mulberry fruits after 4 days of storage at 25 °C and 85 % Rh. Moreover, the in vitro decomposition test reveals that the fabricated nanofibers decompose in the soil and do not pose as a threat to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azeem Ullah
- Nano Fusion Technology Research Group, Institute for Fiber Engineering (IFES), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, Tokida 3-15-1, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan.
| | - Hyukjoo Yang
- Nano Fusion Technology Research Group, Institute for Fiber Engineering (IFES), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, Tokida 3-15-1, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan; Department of Clothing and Textiles, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kazuki Takemae
- Nano Fusion Technology Research Group, Institute for Fiber Engineering (IFES), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, Tokida 3-15-1, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Feifei Wang
- Nano Fusion Technology Research Group, Institute for Fiber Engineering (IFES), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, Tokida 3-15-1, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Seungsin Lee
- Department of Clothing and Textiles, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ick Soo Kim
- Nano Fusion Technology Research Group, Institute for Fiber Engineering (IFES), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, Tokida 3-15-1, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan.
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4
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Groß M, Mail M, Wrigley O, Debastiani R, Scherer T, Amelung W, Braun M. Plastic Fruit Stickers in Industrial Composting─Surface and Structural Alterations Revealed by Electron Microscopy and Computed Tomography. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:7124-7132. [PMID: 38599582 PMCID: PMC11044595 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Often large quantities of plastics are found in compost, with price look-up stickers being a major but little-explored component in the contamination path. Stickers glued to fruit or vegetable peels usually remain attached to the organic material despite sorting processes in the composting plant. Here, we investigated the effects of industrial composting on the structural alterations of these stickers. Commercial polypropylene (PP) stickers on banana peels were added to a typical organic material mixture for processing in an industrial composting plant and successfully resampled after a prerotting (11 days) and main rotting step (25 days). Afterward, both composted and original stickers were analyzed for surface and structural changes via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and micro- and nano-X-ray computed tomography (CT) combined with deep learning approaches. The composting resulted in substantial surface changes and degradation in the form of microbial colonization, deformation, and occurrence of cracks in all stickers. Their pore volumes increased from 16.7% in the original sticker to 26.3% at the end of the compost process. In a similar way, the carbonyl index of the stickers increased. Micro-CT images additionally revealed structural changes in the form of large adhesions that penetrated the surface of the sticker. These changes were accompanied by delamination after 25 days of composting, thus overall hinting at the degradation of the stickers and the subsequent formation of smaller microplastic pieces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Groß
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Mail
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Olivia Wrigley
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Rafaela Debastiani
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Torsten Scherer
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Wulf Amelung
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Melanie Braun
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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5
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Jiang H, Wang Y, Sun J, Mao Y, Que S, Lin Y, Huang Y, Lei X. The aging behavior of degradable plastic polylactic acid under the interaction of environmental factors. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:163. [PMID: 38592574 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01932-5] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics leaching from aging biodegradable plastics pose potential environmental threats. This study used response surface methodology (RSM) to investigate the impact of temperature, light, and humidity on the aging characteristics of polylactic acid (PLA). Key evaluation metrics included the C/O ratio, functional groups, crystallinity, surface topography, and mechanical properties. Humidity was discovered to have the greatest effect on the ageing of PLA, followed by light and temperature. The interactions between temperature and light, as well as humidity and sunlight, significantly impact the aging of PLA. XPS analysis revealed PLA underwent aging due to the cleavage of the ester bond (O-C=O), resulting in the addition of C=O and C-O. The aging process of PLA was characterized by alterations in surface morphology and augmentation in crystallinity, resulting in a decline in both tensile strength and elongation. These findings might offer insights into the aging behavior of degradable plastics under diverse environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering, Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Yiqun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering, Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Jiaoxia Sun
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering, Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Yufeng Mao
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering, Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Sisi Que
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering, Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Yulian Lin
- Chongqing Water Resources and Electric Engineering College, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Yuanyuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China.
- Chongqing Academy of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401121, China.
| | - Xiaoling Lei
- Key Laboratory of Hydraulic and Waterway Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China.
- Chongqing Academy of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401121, China.
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6
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Mayekar PC, Auras R. Accelerating Biodegradation: Enhancing Poly(lactic acid) Breakdown at Mesophilic Environmental Conditions with Biostimulants. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2300641. [PMID: 38206571 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has garnered interest due to its low environmental footprint and ability to replace conventional polymers and be disposed of in industrial composting environments. Although PLA is compostable when subjected to a suitable set of conditions, its broader acceptance in industrial composting facilities has been affected adversely due to longer degradation timeframes than the readily biodegradable organic waste fraction. PLA must be fully exposed to thermophilic conditions for prolonged periods to biodegrade, which has restricted its adoption and hindered its acceptance in industrial composting facilities, negating its home composting potential. Thus, enhancing PLA biodegradation is crucial to expand its acceptance. PLA's biodegradability is investigated in a compost matrix under mesophilic conditions at 37 °C for 180 days by biostimulating the compost environment with skim milk, gelatin, and ethyl lactate to enhance the different stages of PLA biodegradation. The evolved CO2, number average molecular weight (Mn), and crystallinity evolution are tracked. To achieve a Mn ≲ 10 kDa for PLA, the biodegradation rate is accelerated by 15% by adding skim milk, 25% by adding gelatin, and 22% by adding ethyl lactate. This work shows potential techniques to help biodegrade PLA in home composting setting by adding biostimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja C Mayekar
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Rafael Auras
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
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7
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Nhu TT, Boone L, Guillard V, Chatellard L, Reis M, Matos M, Dewulf J. Environmental sustainability assessment of biodegradable bio-based poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) from agro-residues: Production and end-of-life scenarios. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 356:120522. [PMID: 38493645 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120522] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
In the context of a circular bio-based economy, more public attention has been paid to the environmental sustainability of biodegradable bio-based plastics, particularly plastics produced using emerging biotechnologies, e.g. poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) or PHBV. However, this has not been thoroughly investigated in the literature. Therefore, this study aimed to address three aspects regarding the environmental impact of PHBV-based plastic: (i) the potential environmental benefits of scaling up pellet production from pilot to industrial scale and the environmental hotspots at each scale, (ii) the most favourable end-of-life (EOL) scenario for PHBV, and (iii) the environmental performance of PHBV compared to benchmark materials considering both the pellet production and EOL stages. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was implemented using Cumulative Exergy Extraction from the Natural Environment (CEENE) and Environmental Footprint (EF) methods. The results show that, firstly, when upscaling the PHBV pellet production from pilot to industrial scale, a significant environmental benefit can be achieved by reducing electricity and nutrient usage, together with the implementation of better practices such as recycling effluent for diluting feedstock. Moreover, from the circularity perspective, mechanical recycling might be the most favourable EOL scenario for short-life PHBV-based products, using the carbon neutrality approach, as the material remains recycled and hence environmental credits are achieved by substituting recyclates for virgin raw materials. Lastly, PHBV can be environmentally beneficial equal to or even to some extent greater than common bio- and fossil-based plastics produced with well-established technologies. Besides methodological choices, feedstock source and technology specifications (e.g. pure or mixed microbial cultures) were also identified as significant factors contributing to the variations in LCA of (bio)plastics; therefore, transparency in reporting these factors, along with consistency in implementing the methodologies, is crucial for conducting a meaningful comparative LCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trang T Nhu
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Lieselot Boone
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Valérie Guillard
- Department of IATE, University of Montpellier, place Pierre Viala 2, 34060 Montpellier, France
| | - Lucile Chatellard
- Department of IATE, University of Montpellier, place Pierre Viala 2, 34060 Montpellier, France
| | - Maria Reis
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Mariana Matos
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Jo Dewulf
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium
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8
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Zhang Y, Cao Y, Chen B, Dong G, Zhao Y, Zhang B. Marine biodegradation of plastic films by Alcanivorax under various ambient temperatures: Bacterial enrichment, morphology alteration, and release of degradation products. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170527. [PMID: 38286285 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170527] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The global ocean has been receiving massive amounts of plastic wastes. Marine biodegradation, influenced by global climate, naturally breaks down these wastes. In this study, we systematically compared the biodegradation performance of petroleum- and bio-based plastic films, i.e., low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polylactic acid (PLA), and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) under three ambient temperatures (4, 15, and 22 °C). We deployed the our previously isolated cold-tolerant plastic-degrading Alcanivorax to simulate the accelerated marine biodegradation process and evaluated the alteration of bacterial growth, plastic films, and released degradation products. Notably, we found that marine biodegradation of PHA films enriched more bacterial amounts, induced more conspicuous morphological damage, and released more microplastics (MPs) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) under all temperatures compared to LDPE and PLA. Particularly, MPs were released from film edges and cracks with a mean size of 2.8 μm under all temperatures. In addition, the degradation products released by biodegradation of PHA under 22 °C induced the highest acute toxicity to Vibrio fischeri. Our results highlighted that: (1) marine biodegradation of plastics would release millions of MPs per cm2 exposed surface area even in cold environments within 60 days; (2) different marine biodegradation scenarios of these plastics may raise disparate impacts and mitigation-related studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanmei Zhang
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Yiqi Cao
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada.
| | - Bing Chen
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Guihua Dong
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Baiyu Zhang
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada.
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9
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Clark R, Shaver MP. Depolymerization within a Circular Plastics System. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2617-2650. [PMID: 38386877 PMCID: PMC10941197 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The societal importance of plastics contrasts with the carelessness with which they are disposed. Their superlative properties lead to economic and environmental efficiency, but the linearity of plastics puts the climate, human health, and global ecosystems at risk. Recycling is fundamental to transitioning this linear model into a more sustainable, circular economy. Among recycling technologies, chemical depolymerization offers a route to virgin quality recycled plastics, especially when valorizing complex waste streams poorly served by mechanical methods. However, chemical depolymerization exists in a complex and interlinked system of end-of-life fates, with the complementarity of each approach key to environmental, economic, and societal sustainability. This review explores the recent progress made into the depolymerization of five commercial polymers: poly(ethylene terephthalate), polycarbonates, polyamides, aliphatic polyesters, and polyurethanes. Attention is paid not only to the catalytic technologies used to enhance depolymerization efficiencies but also to the interrelationship with other recycling technologies and to the systemic constraints imposed by a global economy. Novel polymers, designed for chemical depolymerization, are also concisely reviewed in terms of their underlying chemistry and potential for integration with current plastic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robbie
A. Clark
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
| | - Michael P. Shaver
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
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10
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Gao P, Alanazi S, Masato D. Crystallization of Polylactic Acid with Organic Nucleating Agents under Quiescent Conditions. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:320. [PMID: 38337210 DOI: 10.3390/polym16030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a versatile and sustainable polymer used in various applications. This research explores the use of orotic acid (OA) and ethylene bis-stearamide (EBS) as nucleating agents to enhance the quiescent crystallization of PLA within the temperature range of 80 °C to 140 °C. Different blends were produced via melt processing before analyzing via DSC, XRD, and SEM. Our results show that both nucleating agents significantly accelerated the crystallization process and reduced the incubation time and the crystallization half-time. The most promising results were obtained with 1% EBS at 110 °C, achieving the fastest crystallization. The XRD analysis showed that at 80 °C, the disordered α'phase predominated, while more stable α phases formed at 110 °C and 140 °C. Combining the 1% nucleating agent and 110 °C promotes densely packed crystalline lamellae. The nucleated PLA exhibited a well-organized spherulitic morphology in agreement with the Avrami modeling of DSC data. Higher nucleating agent concentrations yielded smaller, more evenly distributed crystalline domains. Utilizing OA or EBS in PLA processing could offer enhanced properties, improved processability, and cost-efficiency, making PLA more competitive in various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gao
- Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
- Department of Engineering and Design, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA
| | - Saeed Alanazi
- Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Davide Masato
- Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
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11
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Chong ZK, Hofmann A, Haye M, Wilson S, Sohoo I, Alassali A, Kuchta K. Lab-scale and full-scale industrial composting of biodegradable plastic blends for packaging. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2024; 2:101. [PMID: 38420136 PMCID: PMC10899788 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.14893.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background The acceptance of compostable plastic packaging in industrial composting plants is not universal despite available certification due to the persistence of plastic residues after composting. To better understand this discrepancy, this study compared the disintegration rates of two blends designed for rigid packaging (polylactic acid based) and soft packaging (polybutylene succinate based) in lab-scale composting tests and in an industrial composting plant. Methods A lab-scale composting test was conducted in triplicates according to ISO 20200 for 4, 8 and 12 weeks to check the disintegration potential of the blends. Duplicate test material were then exposed in the compost pile of an industrial composting plant for a duration of 3 weeks and compared with a supplementary lab-scale test of the same duration. Results The rigid packaging samples (1 mm thickness) retained on average 76.4%, 59.0% and 55.7% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, the average remaining mass was 98.3%, much higher compared to the average of 68.9% after 3 weeks in the supplementary lab-scale test. The soft packaging samples (109±9 µm sample thickness) retained on average 45.4%, 10.9% and 0.3% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, a high average remaining mass was also observed (93.9%). The supplementary lab-scale test showed similar remaining mass but higher fragmentation after 3 weeks. Conclusions The results show that the samples achieved significant disintegration in the lab-scale but not in the plant. The difference between the tests that might further contribute to the differing degradation rates is the composition and heterogeneity of the composting substrate. Therefore, the substrate composition and thermophilic composting duration of individual plants are important considerations to determine the suitability of treating compostable plastic in real-world conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Kai Chong
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Alexander Hofmann
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Marie Haye
- Department of Energy and Environmental Engineering (GEn), Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon, Villeurbanne, 69100, France
| | - Sharon Wilson
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ihsanullah Sohoo
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ayah Alassali
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kuchta
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
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12
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El-Dash HA, Yousef NE, Aboelazm AA, Awan ZA, Yahya G, El-Ganiny AM. Optimizing Eco-Friendly Degradation of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Using Environmental Strains of Malassezia Species and Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15452. [PMID: 37895132 PMCID: PMC10607177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, huge amounts of plastics are being introduced into the ecosystem, causing environmental pollution. Generally, plastic biodegradation in the ecosystem takes hundreds of years. Hence, the isolation of plastic-biodegrading microorganisms and finding optimum conditions for their action is crucial. The aim of the current study is to isolate plastic-biodegrading fungi and explore optimum conditions for their action. Soil samples were gathered from landfill sites; 18 isolates were able to grow on SDA. Only 10 isolates were able to the degrade polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymer. Four isolates displayed promising depolymerase activity. Molecular identification revealed that three isolates belong to genus Aspergillus, and one isolate was Malassezia sp. Three isolates showed superior PVC-biodegrading activity (Aspergillus-2, Aspergillus-3 and Malassezia) using weight reduction analysis and SEM. Two Aspergillus strains and Malassezia showed optimum growth at 40 °C, while the last strain grew better at 30 °C. Two Aspergillus isolates grew better at pH 8-9, and the other two isolates grow better at pH 4. Maximal depolymerase activity was monitored at 50 °C, and at slightly acidic pH in most isolates, FeCl3 significantly enhanced depolymerase activity in two Aspergillus isolates. In conclusion, the isolated fungi have promising potential to degrade PVC and can contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution in eco-friendly way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A. El-Dash
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
| | - Nehal E. Yousef
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
| | - Abeer A. Aboelazm
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha 13518, Egypt;
| | - Zuhier A. Awan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Galal Yahya
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Technical University of Kaiserslautern, Paul-Ehrlich Str. 24, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Amira M. El-Ganiny
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
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13
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Zhang S, Li Y, Jiang L, Han W, Zhao Y, Jiang X, Li J, Shi W, Zhang X. Organic fertilizer facilitates the soil microplastic surface degradation and enriches the diversity of bacterial biofilm. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132139. [PMID: 37517233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The land-use of organic fertilizers is considered as an important sustainable method for resource utilization, which may have an impact on the microplastic behaviors in the soil. Here, a 240-d dark culture experiment was conducted to reveal the degradation and biofilm characteristics of degradable and refractory granule microplastics in soil and soil-fertilizer systems. The results indicated that microplastics generally exhibited a weak weight loss as well as a specific etiolation on the surface after the culture, especially polyvinyl-chloride and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). Increase in carbon-oxygen functional groups and the changes of oxygen/carbon ratios were noticed, which implied that oxidation and degradation occurred on the surface of microplastics during the cultural process. The changes were more intense on the degradable PHA, and the fertilized-soil treatment than those of the refractory microplastics and the pure soil. Moreover, the addition of organic fertilizers enriched the community diversity of bacterial biofilm on multiple microplastic surfaces. In this regard, the animal fertilizers provided a stronger effect than the plant fertilizers. Overall, the soil, fertilizer and microplastic types affected the community structure and diversity of bacterial biofilm. The outcomes of this study would provide a theoretical basis for the utilization of organic matters for agricultural soil applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yanxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Linshu Jiang
- Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Wei Han
- Solid Waste and Chemicals Management Center, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xiaoman Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Wenzhuo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xuelian Zhang
- Beijing Soil and Fertilizer Extension Service Station, Beijing 100029, China
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14
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Sun X, Anoopkumar AN, Madhavan A, Binod P, Pandey A, Sindhu R, Awasthi MK. Degradation mechanism of microplastics and potential risks during sewage sludge co-composting: A comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122113. [PMID: 37379875 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122113] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) as a kind of emerging contaminants, widely exists in various kinds of medium, sewage sludge (SS) is no exception. In the sewage treatment process, a large number of microplastics will be deposited in SS. More seriously, microplastics in sewage sludge can migrate to other environmental media and threaten human health. Therefore, it is necessary to remove MPs from SS. Among the various restorations, aerobic composting is emerging as a green microplastic removal method. There are more and more reports of using aerobic compost to degrade microplastics. However, there are few reports on the degradation mechanism of MPs in aerobic composting, hindering the innovation of aerobic composting methods. Therefore, in this paper, the degradation mechanism of MPs in SS is discussed based on the environmental factors such as physical, chemical and biological factors in the composting process. In addition, this paper expounds the MPs in potential hazards, and combined with the problems in the present study were studied the outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwei Sun
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712 100, China
| | - A N Anoopkumar
- Centre for Research in Emerging Tropical Diseases (CRET-D), Department of Zoology, University of Calicut, Malappuram, Kerala, India
| | - Aravind Madhavan
- School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam, 690525, Kerala, India
| | - Parameswaran Binod
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Trivandrum, 695019, Kerala, India
| | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR- Indian Institute for Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), 31 MG Marg, Lucknow, 226 001, India; Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, Uttar Pradesh, India; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Raveendran Sindhu
- Department of Food Technology, TKM Institute of Technology, Kollam, 691505, Kerala, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712 100, China.
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15
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Astner AF, Gillmore AB, Yu Y, Flury M, DeBruyn JM, Schaeffer SM, Hayes DG. Formation, behavior, properties and impact of micro- and nanoplastics on agricultural soil ecosystems (A Review). NANOIMPACT 2023; 31:100474. [PMID: 37419450 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2023.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics (MPs and NPs, respectively) in agricultural soil ecosystems represent a pervasive global environmental concern, posing risks to soil biota, hence soil health and food security. This review provides a comprehensive and current summary of the literature on sources and properties of MNPs in agricultural ecosystems, methodology for the isolation and characterization of MNPs recovered from soil, MNP surrogate materials that mimic the size and properties of soil-borne MNPs, and transport of MNPs through the soil matrix. Furthermore, this review elucidates the impacts and risks of agricultural MNPs on crops and soil microorganisms and fauna. A significant source of MPs in soil is plasticulture, involving the use of mulch films and other plastic-based implements to provide several agronomic benefits for specialty crop production, while other sources of MPs include irrigation water and fertilizer. Long-term studies are needed to address current knowledge gaps of formation, soil surface and subsurface transport, and environmental impacts of MNPs, including for MNPs derived from biodegradable mulch films, which, although ultimately undergoing complete mineralization, will reside in soil for several months. Because of the complexity and variability of agricultural soil ecosystems and the difficulty in recovering MNPs from soil, a deeper understanding is needed for the fundamental relationships between MPs, NPs, soil biota and microbiota, including ecotoxicological effects of MNPs on earthworms, soil-dwelling invertebrates, and beneficial soil microorganisms, and soil geochemical attributes. In addition, the geometry, size distribution, fundamental and chemical properties, and concentration of MNPs contained in soils are required to develop surrogate MNP reference materials that can be used across laboratories for conducting fundamental laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton F Astner
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Alexis B Gillmore
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Yingxue Yu
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Markus Flury
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Sean M Schaeffer
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Douglas G Hayes
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America.
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16
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Cai Z, Li M, Zhu Z, Wang X, Huang Y, Li T, Gong H, Yan M. Biological Degradation of Plastics and Microplastics: A Recent Perspective on Associated Mechanisms and Influencing Factors. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1661. [PMID: 37512834 PMCID: PMC10386651 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic and microplastic pollution has caused a great deal of ecological problems because of its persistence and potential adverse effects on human health. The degradation of plastics through biological processes is of great significance for ecological health, therefore, the feasibility of plastic degradation by microorganisms has attracted a lot of attention. This study comprises a preliminary discussion on the biodegradation mechanism and the advantages and roles of different bacterial enzymes, such as PET hydrolase and PCL-cutinase, in the degradation of different polymers, such as PET and PCL, respectively. With a particular focus on their modes of action and potential enzymatic mechanisms, this review sums up studies on the biological degradation of plastics and microplastics related to mechanisms and influencing factors, along with their enzymes in enhancing the degradation of synthetic plastics in the process. In addition, biodegradation of plastic is also affected by plastic additives and plasticizers. Plasticizers and additives in the composition of plastics can cause harmful impacts. To further improve the degradation efficiency of polymers, various pretreatments to improve the efficiency of biodegradation, which can cause a significant reduction in toxic plastic pollution, were also preliminarily discussed here. The existing research and data show a large number of microorganisms involved in plastic biodegradation, though their specific mechanisms have not been thoroughly explored yet. Therefore, there is a significant potential for employing various bacterial strains for efficient degradation of plastics to improve human health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeming Cai
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Minqian Li
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Ziying Zhu
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Xiaocui Wang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Yuanyin Huang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Tianmu Li
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Han Gong
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Muting Yan
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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17
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Stojanović D, Ivanovska A, Barać N, Dimić-Misić K, Kostić M, Radojević V, Janaćković D, Uskoković P, Barceló E, Gane P. Biodegradable Cellulose/Polycaprolactone/Keratin/Calcium Carbonate Mulch Films Prepared in Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquid. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2729. [PMID: 37376374 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [BMIM][Cl] was used to prepare cellulose (CELL), cellulose/polycaprolactone (CELL/PCL), cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin (CELL/PCL/KER), and cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin/ground calcium carbonate (CELL/PCL/KER/GCC) biodegradable mulch films. Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) were used to verify the films' surface chemistry and morphology. Mulch film made of only cellulose regenerated from ionic liquid solution exhibited the highest tensile strength (75.3 ± 2.1 MPa) and modulus of elasticity of 944.4 ± 2.0 MPa. Among samples containing PCL, CELL/PCL/KER/GCC is characterized by the highest tensile strength (15.8 ± 0.4 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (687.5 ± 16.6 MPa). The film's breaking strain decreased for all samples containing PCL upon the addition of KER and KER/GCC. The melting temperature of pure PCL is 62.3 °C, whereas that of CELL/PCL film has a slight tendency for melting point depression (61.0 °C), which is a characteristic of partially miscible polymer blends. Furthermore, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed that the addition of KER or KER/GCC to CELL/PCL films resulted in an increment in melting temperature from 61.0 to 62.6 and 68.9 °C and an improvement in sample crystallinity by 2.2 and 3.0 times, respectively. The light transmittance of all studied samples was greater than 60%. The reported method for mulch film preparation is green and recyclable ([BMIM][Cl] can be recovered), and the inclusion of KER derived by extraction from waste chicken feathers enables conversion to organic biofertilizer. The findings of this study contribute to sustainable agriculture by providing nutrients that enhance the growth rate of plants, and hence food production, while reducing environmental pressure. The addition of GCC furthermore provides a source of Ca2+ for plant micronutrition and a supplementary control of soil pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dušica Stojanović
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Ivanovska
- Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy in Belgrade Ltd., University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nemanja Barać
- Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy in Belgrade Ltd., University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Dimić-Misić
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, 00076 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mirjana Kostić
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Radojević
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Djordje Janaćković
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy in Belgrade Ltd., University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Petar Uskoković
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ernest Barceló
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, 00076 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Patrick Gane
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, 00076 Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Andanje MN, Mwangi JW, Mose BR, Carrara S. Biocompatible and Biodegradable 3D Printing from Bioplastics: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102355. [PMID: 37242930 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a lot of interest in developing and producing biodegradable polymers to address the current environmental problem caused by the continued usage of synthetic polymers derived from petroleum products. Bioplastics have been identified as a possible alternative to the use of conventional plastics since they are biodegradable and/or derived from renewable resources. Additive manufacturing, also referred to as 3D printing, is a field of growing interest and can contribute towards a sustainable and circular economy. The manufacturing technology also provides a wide material selection with design flexibility increasing its usage in the manufacture of parts from bioplastics. With this material flexibility, efforts have been directed towards developing 3D printing filaments from bioplastics such as Poly (lactic acid) to substitute the common fossil- based conventional plastic filaments such as Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. Plant biomass is now utilized in the development of biocomposite materials. A lot of literature presents work done toward improving the biodegradability of printing filaments. However, additive manufacture of biocomposites from plant biomass is faced with printing challenges such as warping, low agglomeration between layers and poor mechanical properties of the printed parts. The aim of this paper is to review the technology of 3D printing using bioplastics, study the materials that have been utilized in this technology and how challenges of working with biocomposites in additive manufacture have been addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurine Naliaka Andanje
- Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - James Wamai Mwangi
- Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Bruno Roberts Mose
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Sandro Carrara
- Institute of Electrical and Micro Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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19
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Liu Y, Zhang W, Chen M, Zhao X, Liu H, Ge M, Li N, Ning Z, Gao W, Fan C, Li Q. Molecular insights into effects of PBAT microplastics on latosol microbial diversity and DOM chemodiversity. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 450:131076. [PMID: 36848842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The impact of biodegradable microplastics on the microbial community and dissolved organic matter (DOM) in latosol has not been well reported. In this study, an incubation experiment at 25 ºC for 120 days using latosol amended with low (5%) and high (10%) concentrations of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) microplastics was carried out to explore the impacts of PBAT microplastics on soil microbial communities and DOM chemodiversity, and the intrinsic interactions between their shifts. The main bacterial and fungal phyla in soil, namely Chloroflexi, Actinobacteria, Chytridiomycota, and Rozellomycota showed a nonlinear relationship with PBAT concentration and played a pivotal role in shaping DOM chemodiversity. A higher decreased levels of lignin-like compounds and increased levels of protein-like and condensed aromatic compounds in the 5% treatment were observed than that in the 10% treatment. Furthermore, a higher increase relative abundance of CHO compounds in the 5% treatment than in the 10% treatment was ascribed to its higher oxidation degree. Co-occurrence network analysis suggested that bacteria formed more complex relationships with DOM molecules than fungi did, indicating their critical roles in DOM transformation. Our study has important implications for understanding the potential influence of biodegradable microplastics on carbon biogeochemical roles in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China
| | - Miao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China.
| | - Xiongwei Zhao
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Huiran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Meihong Ge
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Ning Li
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Ziyu Ning
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Wenlong Gao
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Changhua Fan
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
| | - Qinfen Li
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Tropical Region of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou 571101, China; Hainan Danzhou Tropical Agro-ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou 571737, China; Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Haikou 571101, China; National Long-term Experimental Station for Agriculture Green Development, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China; National Agricultural Experimental Station for Agricultural Environment, Danzhou 571737, Hainan, China
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20
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Fu S, Wu H, Zhu K, Zhao Z, Liang Z. The Unique Morphology of Coconut Petiole Fibers Facilitates the Fabrication of Plant Composites with High Impact Performance. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15092200. [PMID: 37177346 PMCID: PMC10180731 DOI: 10.3390/polym15092200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The present work explored alkali-treated coconut petiole fibers (ACPFs) characterization and the effect of fiber loadings on the mechanical properties of poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/ACPF composites for the first time. The physical, mechanical, and interfacial properties, as well as the morphology of the ACPFs were reported. It was found that ACPFs with a density of 0.92 g/cm3 have average tensile strength and tensile modulus equal to 355.77 MPa and 5212.36 MPa. The interfacial strength between ACPFs and PLA was high (14.06 MPa), attributed to the micro-sized holes on the fibers, as established from SEM micrographs. Then composites with varying fiber loadings were fabricated by melt-blending and compression molding. The mechanical (tensile, flexural, and impact) performance of composites was reported. Based on the high interfacial strength between fibers and PLA and the unique "spiral" structure of fibers, the composites reached a high impact strength of 8.2 kJ/m2 and flexural modulus of 6959.70 MPa at 50 wt.%, representing 150% and 50% improvement relative to pure PLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqiang Fu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Hongwu Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Kang Zhu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhouxiang Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhifang Liang
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
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21
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Idris SN, Amelia TSM, Bhubalan K, Lazim AMM, Zakwan NAMA, Jamaluddin MI, Santhanam R, Amirul AAA, Vigneswari S, Ramakrishna S. The degradation of single-use plastics and commercially viable bioplastics in the environment: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:115988. [PMID: 37105296 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have become an integral part of human life. Single-use plastics (SUPs) are disposable plastics designed to be used once then promptly discarded or recycled. This SUPs range from packaging and takeaway containers to disposable razors and hotel toiletries. Synthetic plastics, which are made of non-renewable petroleum and natural gas resources, require decades to perpetually disintegrate in nature thus contribute to plastic pollution worldwide, especially in marine environments. In response to these problems, bioplastics or bio-based and biodegradable polymers from renewable sources has been considered as an alternative. Understanding the mechanisms behind the degradation of conventional SUPs and biodegradability of their greener counterpart, bioplastics, is crucial for appropriate material selection in the future. This review aims to provide insights into the degradation or disintegration of conventional single-use plastics and the biodegradability of the different types of greener-counterparts, bioplastics, their mechanisms, and conditions. This review highlights on the biodegradation in the environments including composting systems. Here, the various types of alternative biodegradable polymers, such as bacterially biosynthesised bioplastics, natural fibre-reinforced plastics, starch-, cellulose-, lignin-, and soy-based polymers were explored. Review of past literature revealed that although bioplastics are relatively eco-friendly, their natural compositions and properties are inconsistent. Furthermore, the global plastic market for biodegradable plastics remains relatively small and require further research and commercialization efforts, especially considering the urgency of plastic and microplastic pollution as currently critical global issue. Biodegradable plastics have potential to replace conventional plastics as they show biodegradation ability under real environments, and thus intensive research on the various biodegradable plastics is needed to inform stakeholders and policy makers on the appropriate response to the gradually emerging biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti Norliyana Idris
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tan Suet May Amelia
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Kesaven Bhubalan
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Anim Maisara Mohd Lazim
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Muhammad Imran Jamaluddin
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Rameshkumar Santhanam
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Al-Ashraf Abdullah Amirul
- School of Biological Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia; Centre for Chemical Biology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia; Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Sevakumaran Vigneswari
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanotechnology and Sustainability, national University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore.
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22
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Li C, Li Z, Cui Q, Hassan A, Zhang K, Lu X, Zhang Y. Effect of different additions of low-density polyethylene and microplastics polyadipate/butylene terephthalate on soil bacterial community structure. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:55649-55661. [PMID: 36897451 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26159-2] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The stress produced from biodegradable plastics on soil ecosystem is a rising global concern. However, effects of such microplastics (MPs) on soil ecology are still debatable. In this study, the biodegradable microplastic PBAT (polyadipate/butylene terephthalate) was used as the target object, compared with the traditional microplastic LDPE (low-density polyethylene). A pot experiment and was high-throughput sequencing analysis used to determine the effect of different additions of MPs on soil bacterial community structure and the correlation between soil bacterial community structure and chemical properties was investigated. Compared with LDPE, the results showed that EC, TN, TP, NH4+-N, and NO3--N changed obviously with the increasing of PBAT addition (p < 0.05), but pH changed little and the community richness was significantly higher in soils with low PBAT addition than that with higher PBAT addition. PBAT is beneficial to soil nitrogen fixation, but it will significantly reduce the soil P content and affect the nitrification and denitrification reaction. It suggested that addition of PBAT MPs and its addition amount result in changes in soil fertility, community abundance, and structure and composition of bacterial communities in soil samples, while the presence of PBAT MPs might affect soil carbon-nitrogen cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengtao Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Zhenhui Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Qian Cui
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Areeb Hassan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Macao Environmental Research Institute, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Xueqiang Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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23
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Cecchini L, Mariani S, Ronzan M, Mondini A, Pugno NM, Mazzolai B. 4D Printing of Humidity-Driven Seed Inspired Soft Robots. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205146. [PMID: 36725304 PMCID: PMC10037692 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Geraniaceae seeds represent a role model in soft robotics thanks to their ability to move autonomously across and into the soil driven by humidity changes. The secret behind their mobility and adaptivity is embodied in the hierarchical structures and anatomical features of the biological hygroscopic tissues, geometrically designed to be selectively responsive to environmental humidity. Following a bioinspired approach, the internal structure and biomechanics of Pelargonium appendiculatum (L.f.) Willd seeds are investigated to develop a model for the design of a soft robot. The authors exploit the re-shaping ability of 4D printed materials to fabricate a seed-like soft robot, according to the natural specifications and model, and using biodegradable and hygroscopic polymers. The robot mimics the movement and performances of the natural seed, reaching a torque value of ≈30 µN m, an extensional force of ≈2.5 mN and it is capable to lift ≈100 times its own weight. Driven by environmental humidity changes, the artificial seed is able to explore a sample soil, adapting its morphology to interact with soil roughness and cracks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cecchini
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics LaboratoryIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genova16163Italy
- Laboratory for BioinspiredBionicNanoMeta Materials and MechanicsDepartment of CivilEnvironmental and Mechanical EngineeringUniversity di TrentoVia Mesiano 77Trento38123Italy
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics LaboratoryIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genova16163Italy
| | - Marilena Ronzan
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics LaboratoryIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genova16163Italy
| | - Alessio Mondini
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics LaboratoryIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genova16163Italy
| | - Nicola M. Pugno
- Laboratory for BioinspiredBionicNanoMeta Materials and MechanicsDepartment of CivilEnvironmental and Mechanical EngineeringUniversity di TrentoVia Mesiano 77Trento38123Italy
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonMile End RoadLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Barbara Mazzolai
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics LaboratoryIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genova16163Italy
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24
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Richert A, Kalwasińska A, Jankiewicz U, Brzezinska MS. Effect of birch tar embedded in polylactide on its biodegradation. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 239:124226. [PMID: 36996957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
The plasticized film was made of polylactide and birch tar, which was used in a concentration of 1, 5 and 10 % by weight. Tar was added to the polymer to obtain materials with antimicrobial properties. The main purpose of this work is to characterize and biodegradation of this film after the end of its use. Therefore, the following analyzes were performed: enzymatic activity of microorganisms in the presence of polylactide (PLA) film containing birch tar (BT), biodegradation process in compost, barrier changes and structural properties of the film before and after biodegradation and bioaugmentation. Biological oxygen demand BOD21, water vapor permeability (Pv), oxygen permeability (Po), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and enzymatic activity of microorganisms were assessed. Microorganism strains Bacillus toyonensis AK2 and Bacillus albus AK3 were isolated and identified, which constituted an effective consortium increasing the susceptibility of polylactide polymer material with tar to biodegradation in compost. Analyses with the use of the above-mentioned strains had an impact on the change of physicochemical properties, e.g. the presence of biofilm on the surface of the analyzed films and the reduction of the barrier properties of the film, which translates into the recorded susceptibility to biodegradation of these materials. The analyzed films can be used in the packaging industry, and after use, subjected to intentional biodegradation processes, including bioaugmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Richert
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Veterinary Science, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 11, 87-100 Torun, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Kalwasińska
- Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 11, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Urszula Jankiewicz
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Swiontek Brzezinska
- Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 11, 87-100 Torun, Poland
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25
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Krishnan RY, Manikandan S, Subbaiya R, Karmegam N, Kim W, Govarthanan M. Recent approaches and advanced wastewater treatment technologies for mitigating emerging microplastics contamination - A critical review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159681. [PMID: 36302412 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as an emerging pollutant due to their irrefutable prevalence in air, soil, and particularly, the aquatic ecosystem. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are seen as the last line of defense which creates a barrier between microplastics and the environment. These microplastics are discharged in large quantities into aquatic bodies due to their insufficient containment during water treatment. As a result, WWTPs are regarded as point sources of microplastics release into the environment. Assessing the prevalence and behavior of microplastics in WWTPs is therefore critical for their control. The removal efficiency of microplastics was 65 %, 0.2-14 %, and 0.2-2 % after the successful primary, secondary and tertiary treatment phases in WWTPs. In this review, other than conventional treatment methods, advanced treatment methods have also been discussed. For the removal of microplastics in the size range 20-190 μm, advanced treatment methods like membrane bioreactors, rapid sand filtration, electrocoagulation and photocatalytic degradation was found to be effective and these methods helps in increasing the removal efficiency to >99 %. Bioremediation based approaches has found that sea grasses, lugworm and blue mussels has the ability to mitigate microplastics by acting as a natural trap to the microplastics pollutants and could act as candidate species for possible incorporation in WWTPs. Also, there is a need for controlling the use and unchecked release of microplastics into the environment through laws and regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhakrishnan Yedhu Krishnan
- Department of Food Technology, Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirappally, Kottayam 686 518, Kerala, India
| | - Sivasubramanian Manikandan
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha Nagar, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105. Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramasamy Subbaiya
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, The Copperbelt University, Riverside, Jambo Drive, P O Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Natchimuthu Karmegam
- PG and Research Department of Botany, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Salem 636 007, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Woong Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.
| | - Muthusamy Govarthanan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea; Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
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26
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Atreya M, Desousa S, Kauzya J, Williams E, Hayes A, Dikshit K, Nielson J, Palmgren A, Khorchidian S, Liu S, Gopalakrishnan A, Bihar E, Bruns CJ, Bardgett R, Quinton JN, Davies J, Neff JC, Whiting GL. A Transient Printed Soil Decomposition Sensor Based on a Biopolymer Composite Conductor. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205785. [PMID: 36507571 PMCID: PMC9929122 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Soil health is one of the key factors in determining the sustainability of global agricultural systems and the stability of natural ecosystems. Microbial decomposition activity plays an important role in soil health; and gaining spatiotemporal insights into this attribute is critical for understanding soil function as well as for managing soils to ensure agricultural supply, stem biodiversity loss, and mitigate climate change. Here, a novel in situ electronic soil decomposition sensor that relies on the degradation of a printed conductive composite trace utilizing the biopolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) as a binder is presented. This material responds selectively to microbially active environments with a continuously varying resistive signal that can be readily instrumented with low-cost electronics to enable wide spatial distribution. In soil, a correlation between sensor response and intensity of microbial decomposition activity is observed and quantified by comparison with respiration rates over 14 days, showing that devices respond predictably to both static conditions and perturbations in general decomposition activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhur Atreya
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Stacie Desousa
- Environmental StudiesUniversity of Colorado Boulder4001 Discovery Drive, 397 UCBBoulderCO80303‐0397USA
| | - John‐Baptist Kauzya
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Evan Williams
- Department of ElectricalComputerand Energy EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Dr, 425 UCBBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Austin Hayes
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Karan Dikshit
- Materials Science and Engineering ProgramUniversity of Colorado Boulder4001 Discovery Dr, 613 UCBBoulderCO80303USA
| | - Jenna Nielson
- Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Dr, 596 UCBBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Abigail Palmgren
- Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Dr, 596 UCBBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Sara Khorchidian
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Shangshi Liu
- Department of Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of ManchesterWilliamson BuildingManchesterM13 9PYUK
| | - Anupam Gopalakrishnan
- Materials Science and Engineering ProgramUniversity of Colorado Boulder4001 Discovery Dr, 613 UCBBoulderCO80303USA
| | - Eloise Bihar
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Carson J. Bruns
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
| | - Richard Bardgett
- Department of Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of ManchesterWilliamson BuildingManchesterM13 9PYUK
| | - John N. Quinton
- Lancaster Environment CentreLancaster UniversityUniversityLibrary Ave, BailriggLancasterLA1 4YQUK
| | - Jessica Davies
- Lancaster Environment CentreLancaster UniversityUniversityLibrary Ave, BailriggLancasterLA1 4YQUK
| | - Jason C. Neff
- Environmental StudiesUniversity of Colorado Boulder4001 Discovery Drive, 397 UCBBoulderCO80303‐0397USA
| | - Gregory L. Whiting
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Colorado Boulder1111 Engineering Drive, UCB 427BoulderCO80309‐0427USA
- Materials Science and Engineering ProgramUniversity of Colorado Boulder4001 Discovery Dr, 613 UCBBoulderCO80303USA
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27
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Kadac-Czapska K, Knez E, Gierszewska M, Olewnik-Kruszkowska E, Grembecka M. Microplastics Derived from Food Packaging Waste-Their Origin and Health Risks. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:674. [PMID: 36676406 PMCID: PMC9866676 DOI: 10.3390/ma16020674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are commonly used for packaging in the food industry. The most popular thermoplastic materials that have found such applications are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), and polystyrene (PS). Unfortunately, most plastic packaging is disposable. As a consequence, significant amounts of waste are generated, entering the environment, and undergoing degradation processes. They can occur under the influence of mechanical forces, temperature, light, chemical, and biological factors. These factors can present synergistic or antagonistic effects. As a result of their action, microplastics are formed, which can undergo further fragmentation and decomposition into small-molecule compounds. During the degradation process, various additives used at the plastics' processing stage can also be released. Both microplastics and additives can negatively affect human and animal health. Determination of the negative consequences of microplastics on the environment and health is not possible without knowing the course of degradation processes of packaging waste and their products. In this article, we present the sources of microplastics, the causes and places of their formation, the transport of such particles, the degradation of plastics most often used in the production of packaging for food storage, the factors affecting the said process, and its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Eliza Knez
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Gierszewska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Ewa Olewnik-Kruszkowska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grembecka
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
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28
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Vermoesen E, Cordeels E, Schaubroeck D, Brosens G, Bodé S, Boeckx P, Van Vlierberghe S. Photo-crosslinkable biodegradable polymer coating to control fertilizer release. Eur Polym J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.111835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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29
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Zaborowska M, Bernat K. The development of recycling methods for bio-based materials - A challenge in the implementation of a circular economy: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:68-80. [PMID: 35765777 PMCID: PMC9925894 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x221105432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on the characteristics of the most widely used biopolymers that contain starch, polylactic acid, cellulose and/or polybutylene succinate. Because worldwide production of bio-based materials has grown dynamically, their waste is increasingly found in the existing waste treatment plants. The development of recycling methods for bio-based materials remains a challenge in the implementation of a circular economy. This article summarizes the recycling methods for bio-based materials, which, in the hierarchy of waste management, is much more desirable than landfilling. Several methods of recycling are available for the end-of-life management of bio-based products, which include mechanical (reuse of waste as a valuable raw material for further processing), chemical (feedstock recycling) and organic (anaerobic digestion or composting) ones. The use of chemical or mechanical recycling is less favourable, more costly and requires the improvement of systems for separation of bio-based materials from the rest of the waste stream. Organic recycling can be a sustainable alternative to those two methods. In organic recycling, bio-based materials can be biologically treated under aerobic or anaerobic conditions, depending on the characteristics of the materials. The choice of the recycling method to be implemented depends on the economic situation and on the properties of the bio-based products and their susceptibility to degradation. Thus, it is necessary to label the products to indicate which method of recycling is most appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Zaborowska
- Magdalena Zaborowska, Department of
Environmental Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in
Olsztyn, Sloneczna 45G, Olsztyn 10-709, Poland.
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30
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Motloung MP, Mofokeng TG, Ray SS. Effects of urea loading on soil biodegradation properties of melt‐processed polycaprolactone‐based composites for potential application in agriculture. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.53505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mpho Phillip Motloung
- Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI‐CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Pretoria South Africa
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Johannesburg Johannesburg South Africa
| | - Tladi Gideon Mofokeng
- Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI‐CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Pretoria South Africa
| | - Suprakas Sinha Ray
- Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI‐CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Pretoria South Africa
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Johannesburg Johannesburg South Africa
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31
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Li X, Lin Y, Liu M, Meng L, Li C. A review of research and application of polylactic acid composites. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.53477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrui Li
- Key Laboratory of Wood Materials Science and Engineering, School of Materials Science and Engineering Beihua University Jilin China
| | - Yu Lin
- Key Laboratory of Wood Materials Science and Engineering, School of Materials Science and Engineering Beihua University Jilin China
| | - Mingli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Wood Materials Science and Engineering, School of Materials Science and Engineering Beihua University Jilin China
| | - Lipeng Meng
- Forestry Resource Utilization Institute Jilin Forestry Scientific Research Institute Jilin China
| | - Chunfeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Wood Materials Science and Engineering, School of Materials Science and Engineering Beihua University Jilin China
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32
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Mouhoubi R, Lasschuijt M, Ramon Carrasco S, Gojzewski H, Wurm FR. End-of-life biodegradation? how to assess the composting of polyesters in the lab and the field. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 154:36-48. [PMID: 36209717 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aerobic composting of biodegradable plastics can be a promising solution to the growing issue of waste accumulation. Therefore, this article offers a review of papers investigating the biodegradability of polyesters (PLA, PHB, PBS and PCL) in home- and industrial composting. Not only the thermal and biodegradation properties are discussed, but also a comparison is made between the different polyesters under the same composting conditions. From this review, it becomes clear that composting shows promise for polyester waste management. However, although several methods for assessing the composting properties of polyester have been developed, the fact that they rarely follow the same standards does not allow for a comparative analysis that would clearly define composting as the most viable solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakine Mouhoubi
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry Group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiteit Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Merel Lasschuijt
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry Group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiteit Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Salma Ramon Carrasco
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry Group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiteit Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Hubert Gojzewski
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry Group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiteit Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Frederik R Wurm
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry Group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiteit Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
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33
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Mironov VV, Trofimchuk ES, Zagustina NA, Ivanova OA, Vanteeva AV, Bochkova EA, Ostrikova VV, Zhang S. Solid-Phase Biodegradation of Polylactides (Review). APPL BIOCHEM MICRO+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0003683822060102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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34
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Ramezani Dana H, Ebrahimi F. Synthesis, properties, and applications of polylactic
acid‐based
polymers. POLYM ENG SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pen.26193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Ramezani Dana
- Mechanics, Surfaces and Materials Processing (MSMP) – EA 7350 Arts et Metiers Institute of Technology Aix‐en‐Provence France
- Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) Texas A&M University College Station Texas USA
| | - Farnoosh Ebrahimi
- PRISM Polymer, Recycling, Industrial, Sustainability and Manufacturing Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone Ireland
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35
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Wang K, Han T, Chen X, Rushimisha IE, Liu Y, Yang S, Miao X, Li X, Weng L, Li Y. Insights into behavior and mechanism of tetracycline adsorption on virgin and soil-exposed microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 440:129770. [PMID: 35988493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as vectors of pollutants, have attracted extensive attention because of their environmental effects. However, the adsorption behavior and antibiotic mechanism of environmentally exposed MPs is limited. Here, the adsorption of tetracycline (TC) onto virgin and soil-exposed polylactic acid (PLA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) MPs showed that the adsorption capacity of MPs for TC increased after soil exposure, and PLA showed the strongest increase. Soil exposure increased the time to reach equilibrium, and the adsorption rate was controlled by both intraparticle diffusion and membrane diffusion. The isothermal adsorption results of soil-exposed PE and PLA indicated that TC adsorbed on heterogeneous surfaces was affected by the physicochemical adsorption process. The equilibrium absorption capacity of MPs for TC increased by 88% (PLA), 26% (PVC) and 15% (PE) after soil exposure. Soil dissolved organic matter promoted the desorption of TC from MPs, and TC speciation changed with pH. Soil-exposed MPs have the potential to promote TC degradation in solution without the addition of biological inhibitors. Moreover, density functional theory calculations verified that PE and PVC adsorbed TC through physical interactions, while hydrogen bonds were formed on PLA with TC. These results clarified the behavior and mechanisms of TC adsorption on virgin and soil-exposed MPs, which can help in the risk assessment of concomitant pollution of MPs and antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Ting Han
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Iranzi Emile Rushimisha
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Yonghong Liu
- College of Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Side Yang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Xinyu Miao
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China.
| | - Liping Weng
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Original Agro-Environmental Pollution Prevention and Control, MARA/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment and Agro-Product Safety, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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36
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Bher A, Mayekar PC, Auras RA, Schvezov CE. Biodegradation of Biodegradable Polymers in Mesophilic Aerobic Environments. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12165. [PMID: 36293023 PMCID: PMC9603655 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Finding alternatives to diminish plastic pollution has become one of the main challenges of modern life. A few alternatives have gained potential for a shift toward a more circular and sustainable relationship with plastics. Biodegradable polymers derived from bio- and fossil-based sources have emerged as one feasible alternative to overcome inconveniences associated with the use and disposal of non-biodegradable polymers. The biodegradation process depends on the environment's factors, microorganisms and associated enzymes, and the polymer properties, resulting in a plethora of parameters that create a complex process whereby biodegradation times and rates can vary immensely. This review aims to provide a background and a comprehensive, systematic, and critical overview of this complex process with a special focus on the mesophilic range. Activity toward depolymerization by extracellular enzymes, biofilm effect on the dynamic of the degradation process, CO2 evolution evaluating the extent of biodegradation, and metabolic pathways are discussed. Remarks and perspectives for potential future research are provided with a focus on the current knowledge gaps if the goal is to minimize the persistence of plastics across environments. Innovative approaches such as the addition of specific compounds to trigger depolymerization under particular conditions, biostimulation, bioaugmentation, and the addition of natural and/or modified enzymes are state-of-the-art methods that need faster development. Furthermore, methods must be connected to standards and techniques that fully track the biodegradation process. More transdisciplinary research within areas of polymer chemistry/processing and microbiology/biochemistry is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anibal Bher
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Instituto de Materiales de Misiones, CONICET-UNaM, Posadas 3300, Misiones, Argentina
| | - Pooja C. Mayekar
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Rafael A. Auras
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Carlos E. Schvezov
- Instituto de Materiales de Misiones, CONICET-UNaM, Posadas 3300, Misiones, Argentina
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37
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Maurizzi E, Bigi F, Quartieri A, De Leo R, Volpelli LA, Pulvirenti A. The Green Era of Food Packaging: General Considerations and New Trends. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14204257. [PMID: 36297835 PMCID: PMC9610407 DOI: 10.3390/polym14204257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, academic research and industries have gained awareness about the economic, environmental, and social impacts of conventional plastic packaging and its disposal. This consciousness has oriented efforts towards more sustainable materials such as biopolymers, paving the way for the “green era” of food packaging. This review provides a schematic overview about polymers and blends of them, which are emerging as promising alternatives to conventional plastics. Focus was dedicated to biopolymers from renewable sources and their applications to produce sustainable, active packaging with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. In particular, the incorporation of plant extracts, food-waste derivatives, and nano-sized materials to produce bio-based active packaging with enhanced technical performances was investigated. According to recent studies, bio-based active packaging enriched with natural-based compounds has the potential to replace petroleum-derived materials. Based on molecular composition, the natural compounds can diversely interact with the native structure of the packaging materials, modulating their barriers, optical and mechanical performances, and conferring them antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Overall, the recent academic findings could lead to a breakthrough in the field of food packaging, opening the gates to a new generation of packaging solutions which will be sustainable, customised, and green.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Maurizzi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Bigi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Quartieri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Riccardo De Leo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Luisa Antonella Volpelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre for the Improvement of Agro-Food Biological Resources (BIOGEST-SITEIA), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42124 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Andrea Pulvirenti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre for the Improvement of Agro-Food Biological Resources (BIOGEST-SITEIA), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42124 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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38
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Bao R, Cheng Z, Hou Y, Xie C, Pu J, Peng L, Gao L, Chen W, Su Y. Secondary microplastics formation and colonized microorganisms on the surface of conventional and degradable plastic granules during long-term UV aging in various environmental media. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 439:129686. [PMID: 36104912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recently, biodegradable plastics (BPs) as an alternative of conventional plastics have been widely advocated and applied. However, there is still a large research gap between the formation of secondary microplastics (MPs) and colonized microorganisms on their surface under long-term aging in different environments. In this study, the generation of secondary MPs and the formation of surface biofilms on the micro-sized (3-5 mm) biodegradable plastic poly (butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate) (BP-PBAT) and conventional plastic polyvinyl chloride (CP-PVC) under long-term UV aging was investigated. The results showed that hundreds and even thousands of MPs (185.53 ± 85.73 items/g - 1473.27 ± 143.67 items/g) were generated by BP-PBAT and CP-PVC after aged for 90 days, and the abundance of MPs produced by BP-PBAT was significantly higher than that of CP-PVC. Moreover, the α diversities and detected OTU number of biofilm communities formed on MPs increased with MPs-aging. The genes related to the formation of biofilms was significantly expressed on aged MPs and the genes related to human pathogens and diseases were also detected in enriching on MPs surface. Overall, BPs may lead to greater ecological risks as it releases thousands of secondary MPs after being aged, and their environmental behavior needs to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Bao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Zhiruo Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Yipeng Hou
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Chaolin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Jingrun Pu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China.
| | - Liu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
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39
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Okoffo ED, Chan CM, Rauert C, Kaserzon S, Thomas KV. Identification and Quantification of Micro-Bioplastics in Environmental Samples by Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:13774-13785. [PMID: 36128767 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics are materials that are biobased and/or biodegradable, but not necessarily both. Concerns about environmental plastic pollution are constantly growing with increasing demand for substituting fossil-based plastics with those made using renewable resource feedstocks. For many conventional bioplastics to completely decompose/degrade, they require specific environmental conditions that are rarely met in natural ecosystems, leading to rapid formation of micro-bioplastics. As global bioplastic production and consumption/use continue to increase, there is growing concern regarding the potential for environmental pollution from micro-bioplastics. However, the actual extent of their environmental occurrence and potential impacts remains unclear, and there is insufficient mass concentration-based quantitative data due to the lack of quantitative analytical methods. This study developed and validated an analytical method coupling pressurized liquid extraction and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry combined with thermochemolysis to simultaneously identify and quantify five targeted micro-bioplastics (i.e., polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polycaprolactone, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) in environmental samples on a polymer-specific mass-based concentration. The recovery of spiked micro-bioplastics in environmental samples (biosolids) ranged from 74 to 116%. The limits of quantification for the target micro-bioplastics were between 0.02 and 0.05 mg/g. PLA and PBAT were commonly detected in wastewater, biosolids, and sediment samples at concentrations between 0.07 and 0.18 mg/g. The presented analytical method enables the accurate identification, quantification, and monitoring of micro-bioplastics in environmental samples. This study quantified five micro-bioplastic types in complex environmental samples for the first time, filling in gaps in our knowledge about bioplastic pollution and providing a useful methodology and important reference data for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Clement Matthew Chan
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Sarit Kaserzon
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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40
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Sun R, He L, Li T, Dai Z, Sun S, Ren L, Liang YQ, Zhang Y, Li C. Impact of the surrounding environment on antibiotic resistance genes carried by microplastics in mangroves. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155771. [PMID: 35537514 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The pollution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) carried by microplastics (MPs) is a growing concern. Mangroves are located at the intersection of land and sea and are seriously affected by MP pollution. However, few studies have systematic research evaluating the transmission risk of ARGs carried by MPs in mangroves. We conducted in situ experiments by burying five different MPs (polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene glycol terephthalate, and polycaprolactone particles) in mangroves with different surrounding environments. A total of 10 genes in the MPs of mangroves were detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions, including eight ARGs and two mobile genetic elements (MGEs). The abundance of ARGs in Guanhai park mangroves in living areas (GH) was higher than that of Gaoqiao mangroves in protected areas (GQ) and Beiyue dike mangroves in aquaculture pond areas (BY). Pathogenic bacteria, such as Acinetobacter, Bacillus, and Vibrio were found on the MP surfaces of the mangroves. The number of ARGs carried by multiple drug-resistant bacteria in the GH mangroves was greater than that in the GQ and BY mangroves. Moreover, the ARGs carried by MPs in GH mangroves had the highest potential transmission risk by horizontal gene transfer. Sociometric and environmental factors were the main drivers shaping the distribution characteristics of ARGs and MGEs. Polypropylene and high-density polyethylene particles are preferred substrates for obtaining diffuse ARGs. This study investigated the drivers of ARGs in the MPs of mangroves and provided essential guidance on the use and handling of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruikun Sun
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Lei He
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Ting Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zhenqing Dai
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518114, China
| | - Shengli Sun
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Lei Ren
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518114, China; College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Yan-Qiu Liang
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Yueqin Zhang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Chengyong Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518114, China.
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41
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Tamayo-Belda M, Pulido-Reyes G, González-Pleiter M, Martín-Betancor K, Leganés F, Rosal R, Fernández-Piñas F. Identification and toxicity towards aquatic primary producers of the smallest fractions released from hydrolytic degradation of polycaprolactone microplastics. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:134966. [PMID: 35588878 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics are thought as a safe substitute of non-biodegradable polymers. However, once released in the environment, biodegradation may be very slow, and they also suffer abiotic fragmentation processes, which may give rise to different fractions of polymer sizes. We present novel data on abiotic hydrolytic degradation of polycaprolactone (PCL), tracking the presence of by-products during 132 days by combining different physicochemical techniques. During the study a considerable amount of two small size plastic fractions were found (up to ∼ 6 mg of PCL by-product/g of PCL beads after 132 days of degradation); and classified as submicron-plastics (sMPs) from 1 μm to 100 nm and nanoplastics (NPs, <100 nm) as well as oligomers. The potential toxicity of the smallest fractions, PCL by-products < 100 nm (PCL-NPs + PCL oligomers) and the PCL oligomers single fraction, was tested on two ecologically relevant aquatic primary producers: the heterocystous filamentous nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120, and the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942. Upon exposure to both, single and combined fractions, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) overproduction, intracellular pH and metabolic activity alterations were observed in both organisms, whilst membrane potential and morphological damages were only observed upon PCL-NPs + PCL oligomers exposure. Notably both PCL by-products fractions inhibited nitrogen fixation in Anabaena, which may be clearly detrimental for the aquatic trophic chain. As conclusion, fragmentation of bioplastics may render a continuous production of secondary nanoplastics as well as oligomers that might be toxic to the surrounding biota; both PCL-NPs and PCL oligomers, but largely the nanoparticulate fraction, were harmful for the two aquatic primary producers. Efforts should be made to thoroughly understand the fragmentation of bioplastics and the toxicity of the smallest fractions resulting from that degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Tamayo-Belda
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gerardo Pulido-Reyes
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Keila Martín-Betancor
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Leganés
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Gavriely S, Gulakhmedova T, Yecheskel Y, Rubin AE, Xing B, Richter S, Zucker I. Slow release of copper from jellyfish-based hydrogels for soil enrichment. NANOIMPACT 2022; 27:100417. [PMID: 35995389 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2022.100417] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nanotechnology has shown great potential to increase global food production and enhance food security. However, large-scale application of nano-enabled plant agriculture necessitates careful adjustments in design to overcome barriers associated with targeted nanomaterial delivery and their safety concerns. The research herein proposes the delivery of copper (Cu) from immobilized and non-immobilized copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu2O), an active nanomaterial with antifungal and micro-nutrient properties. A benign and biodegradable jellyfish-based hydrogel was used as a platform during Cu2O delivery to soils. The delivery kinetics and Cu dissolution from the nanocomposite were compared to those obtained with crosslinked ionic Cu in hydrogel, which was found to be a less controlled composite. In addition, changing environmental conditions from DI to soil extracts resulted in a decrease in the Cu dissolution rate (from 0.025 to 0.015 h-1) and an increase in the overall normalized Cu release (0.27 to 0.76 mg g-1). Use of hydrogels from natural sources allowed biodegradability over several months, adding nutrients (in the form of elements such as sulfur, nitrogen, and carbon) back to the environment, which ultimately minimizes nanomaterial required for a given desired nanomaterial yield and enhances the overall performance. Altogether, this work demonstrates the potential of Cu2O embedded hydrogels as a benign composite for Cu slow-release and therefore bolsters the field of nano-enabled plant agriculture and supports its safe deployment at large scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira Gavriely
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Tel Aviv University Center for Nano Science and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Tamilla Gulakhmedova
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Tel Aviv University Center for Nano Science and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Yinon Yecheskel
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; The Porter School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Israel
| | - Andrey Ethan Rubin
- The Porter School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Israel
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Shachar Richter
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Tel Aviv University Center for Nano Science and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ines Zucker
- Tel Aviv University Center for Nano Science and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; The Porter School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Israel.
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43
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Wang C, Wang L, Ok YS, Tsang DCW, Hou D. Soil plastisphere: Exploration methods, influencing factors, and ecological insights. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 430:128503. [PMID: 35739682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP), an emerging contaminant, is globally prevalent and poses potential environmental threats and ecological risks to both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. When MPs enter into natural environments, they may serve as artificial substrates for microbial colonization and plastisphere formation, providing new ecological niches for microorganisms. Recent studies of the plastisphere have focused on aquatic ecosystems. However, our understanding of the soil plastisphere e.g. its formation process, microbial ecology, co-transport of organic pollutants and heavy metals, and effects on biogeochemical processes is still very limited. This review summarizes latest methods used to explore the soil plastisphere, assesses the factors influencing the microbial ecology of the soil plastisphere, and sheds light on potential ecological risks caused by the soil plastisphere. The formation and succession of soil plastisphere communities can be driven by MP characteristics and soil environmental factors. The soil plastisphere may affect a series of ecological processes, especially the co-transport of environmental contaminants, biodegradation of MPs, and soil carbon cycling. We aim to narrow the knowledge gap between the soil and aquatic plastisphere, and provide valuable guidance for future research on the soil plastisphere in MP-contaminated soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengqian Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel C W Tsang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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Li C, Cui Q, Li Y, Zhang K, Lu X, Zhang Y. Effect of LDPE and biodegradable PBAT primary microplastics on bacterial community after four months of soil incubation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 429:128353. [PMID: 35123132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics would be gradually degraded by microbes after being used and discarded, forming biodegradable microplastics (BMPs). It is however not clear if it, like conventional microplastics, can affect the original soil ecological balance. In this study, the non-degradable LDPE (low density polyethylene) was used as the reference primary microplastic, and the BMP PBAT (polyadipate/butylene terephthalate) was used as the test object. The effects of the amount of PBAT on soil physical-chemical properties, bacterial community were investigated using high throughput sequencing. The results showed that when the highest amount of PBAT applied was up to 250 times higher than the normal application amount, resulted in a certain dose-effect, and a higher amount of PBAT would reduce the content of NO3--N and TP. The lower amount of PBAT relatively increased the diversity of soil bacterial communities, and the relative abundance of the unique Azotobacter increased with increasing PBAT amount. The abundance of bacterial community in soil with different PBAT amounts was significantly correlated with the soil's physical-chemical properties. In addition, Mesorhizobium, TM7a and Azotobacter were observed to be highly tolerant bacteria in PBAT containing soil which can be actively explored to study the biodegradation of BMPs PBAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengtao Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.
| | - Qian Cui
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Yan Li
- Research Institute of Oil and Gas Technology, PetroChina Changqing Oilfield Branch, Xi'an 710200, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xueqiang Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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Xu T, Wang Y, Aytac Z, Zuverza-Mena N, Zhao Z, Hu X, Ng KW, White JC, Demokritou P. Enhancing Agrichemical Delivery and Plant Development with Biopolymer-Based Stimuli Responsive Core-Shell Nanostructures. ACS NANO 2022; 16:6034-6048. [PMID: 35404588 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c11490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The inefficient delivery of agrichemicals in agrifood systems is among the leading cause of serious negative planetary and public health impacts. Such inefficiency is mainly attributed to the inability to deliver the agrichemicals at the right place (target), right time, and right dose. In this study, scalable, biodegradable, sustainable, biopolymer-based multistimuli responsive core-shell nanostructures were developed for smart agrichemical delivery. Three types of responsive core/shell nanostructures incorporated with model agrichemicals (i.e., CuSO4 and NPK fertilizer) were synthesized by coaxial electrospray, and the resulting nanostructures showed spherical morphology with an average diameter about 160 nm. Tunable agrichemical release kinetics were achieved by controlling the surface hydrophobicity of nanostructures. The pH and enzyme responsiveness was also demonstrated by the model analyte release kinetics (up to 7 days) in aqueous solution. Finally, the efficacy of the stimuli responsive nanostructures was evaluated in soil-based greenhouse studies using soybean and wheat in terms of photosynthesis efficacy and linear electron flow (LEF), two important metrics for seedling development and health. Findings confirmed plant specificity; for soybean, the nanostructures resulted in 34.3% higher value of relative chlorophyll content and 41.2% higher value of PS1 centers in photosystem I than the ionic control with equivalent agrichemical concentration. For wheat, the nanostructures resulted in 37.6% higher value of LEF than the ionic agrichemicals applied at 4 times higher concentration, indicating that the responsive core-shell nanostructure is an effective platform to achieve precision agrichemical delivery while minimizing inputs. Moreover, the Zn and Na content in the leaves of 4-week-old soybean seedlings were significantly increased with nanostructure amendment, indicating that the developed nanostructures can potentially be used to modulate the accumulation of other important micronutrients through a potential biofortification strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xu
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, United States
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut 06504, United States
| | - Zeynep Aytac
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Nubia Zuverza-Mena
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut 06504, United States
| | - Zhitong Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
| | - Xiao Hu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
- Environmental Chemistry and Materials Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 637141, Singapore
| | - Kee Woei Ng
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
- Environmental Chemistry and Materials Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 637141, Singapore
| | - Jason C White
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut 06504, United States
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, United States
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
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Patel D, Mamtora D, Kamath A, Shukla A. Rogue one: A plastic story. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 177:113509. [PMID: 35290835 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic comprises of variety of polymers and has many applications, but the waste generated by plastic pose threat to environment and marine life. Plastic can be classified into two types: thermoplastics and thermosetting and are divided into 7 different categories: (Polyethylene Terephthalate [PETE], High-Density Polyethylene [HDPE], Polyvinyl Chloride [PVC], Low-Density Polyethylene [LDPE], Polypropylene [PP], Polystyrene or Styrofoam [PS] & Polycarbonate or ABS [others]). To curb the deleterious effects of plastic waste various methods have been devised and utilized that include chemical, physical and biological treatments. One of the aspects primarily focused by the researchers is the phenomenon of biodegradation and there are many microorganisms (bacteria) that have the ability to carry out this particular process. These bacteria assist biodegradation by production of several enzymes like PETases and MHETases. There are few microorganisms that have been listed which cannot be applied for industrial use due to its low biodegradation capacity. To overcome this problem, PHA is one of the alternatives to replace the synthetic plastic due to its high degrading capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhara Patel
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, University of Innovation, Koba Institutional Area, Gandhinagar 382426, India.
| | - Dhruv Mamtora
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, University of Innovation, Koba Institutional Area, Gandhinagar 382426, India
| | - Anushree Kamath
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, University of Innovation, Koba Institutional Area, Gandhinagar 382426, India.
| | - Arpit Shukla
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, University of Innovation, Koba Institutional Area, Gandhinagar 382426, India.
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Sobhan A, Muthukumarappan K, Wei L. A biopolymer-based pH indicator film for visually monitoring beef and fish spoilage. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2021.101523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Methodologies to Assess the Biodegradability of Bio-Based Polymers—Current Knowledge and Existing Gaps. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14071359. [PMID: 35406232 PMCID: PMC9002992 DOI: 10.3390/polym14071359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Our society lives in a time of transition where traditional petroleum-based polymers/plastics are being replaced by more sustainable alternative materials. To consider these bioproducts as more viable options than the actual ones, it is demanded to ensure that they are fully biodegradable or compostable and that there is no release of hazardous compounds to the environment with their degradation. It is then essential to adapt the legislation to support novel specific guidelines to test the biodegradability of each biopolymer in varied environments, and consequently, establish consistent data to design a coherent labeling system. This review work aims to point out the current standards that can serve as a basis for the characterization of biopolymers’ biodegradation profile in different environments (soil, compost, and aquatic systems) and identify other laboratory methodologies that have been adopted for the same purpose. With the information gathered in this work, it was possible to identify remaining gaps in existing national and international standards to help establish new validation criteria to be introduced in future research and policies related to bioplastics to boost the sustainable progress of this rising industry.
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Zhang Y, Ma J, O'Connor P, Zhu YG. Microbial communities on biodegradable plastics under different fertilization practices in farmland soil microcosms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 809:152184. [PMID: 34890659 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic mulching is a common practice in agricultural systems and is often combined with fertilization. Biodegradable plastics (BPs) are becoming an alternative to non-biodegradable plastics (non-BPs) for soil mulching. However, the effects of fertilization on the microbial communities on BPs remain unclear. Here, we explored the responses of the plastisphere to different fertilization practices in soil-based microcosms containing three BPs: polylactic acid (PLA), poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), and poly (butylene-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), and one non-BP (low-density polyethylene, LDPE). The 16S and ITS rRNA gene-based Illumina sequencing method were used to identify the bacterial and fungal communities on the plastics and in the soils. Microbial community structure on BPs was significantly different from that in soils and on LDPE. The predicted functional profiles of bacteria on BPs, especially PBAT, were distinct from those in soils. The plastisphere communities on BPs were dominated by microbes adapted to access and utilize carbon sources compared with of the communities on LDPE. Application of manure increased the alpha diversity of bacterial communities on BPs but decreased it on LDPE. The structure of bacterial communities on BPs changed with the application of manure. Our research establishes the baseline dynamics of plastisphere communities on BPs in soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station-NUEORS, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315800, China.
| | - Patrick O'Connor
- Centre for Global Food and Resources, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Yong-Guan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
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Towards the Sustainability of the Plastic Industry through Biopolymers: Properties and Potential Applications to the Textiles World. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14040692. [PMID: 35215604 PMCID: PMC8878127 DOI: 10.3390/polym14040692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to provide an overview of the latest research studies on the use of biopolymers in various textile processes, from spinning processes to dyeing and finishing treatment, proposed as a possible solution to reduce the environmental impact of the textile industry. Recently, awareness of various polluting aspects of textile production, based on petroleum derivatives, has grown significantly. Environmental issues resulting from greenhouse gas emissions, and waste accumulation in nature and landfills, have pushed research activities toward more sustainable, low-impact alternatives. Polymers derived from renewable resources and/or with biodegradable characteristics were investigated as follows: (i) as constituent materials in yarn production, in view of their superior ability to be decomposed compared with common synthetic petroleum-derived plastics, positive antibacterial activities, good breathability, and mechanical properties; (ii) in textile finishing to act as biological catalysts; (iii) to impart specific functional properties to treated textiles; (iv) in 3D printing technologies on fabric surfaces to replace traditionally more pollutive dye-based and inkjet printing; and (v) in the implants for the treatment of dye-contaminated water. Finally, current projects led by well-known companies on the development of new materials for the textile market are presented.
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