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Tao H, Wang X, Zhou L, Lin T. Spatiotemporal variation of microplastics along the long-distance raw water pipeline. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175373. [PMID: 39117215 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Raw water pipelines are considered a significant pathway for human exposure to microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) in surface water. However, there is currently very limited information on the longitudinal distribution characteristics of microplastics in raw water pipelines. This study assessed the abundance and distribution characteristics of microplastics in surface water from two different water sources in Jiangsu Province during different seasons. The correlation between conventional water quality indicators and microplastics was also explored. Specifically, the longitudinal variation of microplastics in raw water pipelines was investigated. Results showed that microplastics were detected in both basins during different seasons. In Basin 1, the abundance of MPs ranged from 34 ± 1 to 58 ± 2 n/L in March and from 3 ± 1 to 6.7 ± 4 n/L in June. In Basin 2, the abundance ranged from 6.5 ± 1 to 14 ± 1 n/L in March and from 2 ± 1 to 7.7 ± 1 n/L in June. The abundance of microplastics showed a decreasing trend along the pipeline. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) was the main polymer type detected in both basins. Polyethylene terephthalate (PE) and polyurethane (PU) showed higher removal rates in the pipeline due to their higher density. The predominant size ranges of microplastics in the raw water were 10-50 μm and 50-100 μm. Additionally, the average particle size of MPs increased with the transportation distance, likely due to microbial colonization. This study is the first comprehensive investigation of the distribution characteristics of microplastics in raw water pipeline systems. The removal of microplastics in raw water pipelines contributes significantly to the elimination of microplastics at the source. This research helps to fill the knowledge gap regarding the fate of microplastics in raw water pipeline systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Tao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Xiaoyue Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Lingqin Zhou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Tao Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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2
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Zhang K, Cheng MCY, Liu M, Xu S, Ma Y, Chau HS, Chen L, Cao Y, Yan M, Xu X, Thoe W, Sun SWC, Yang RR, Leung KMY, Lam PKS. Microplastics in Hong Kong's marine waters: Impact of rainfall and Pearl River discharge. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116635. [PMID: 38936000 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116635] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
This study provided a systematic investigation of microplastics in Hong Kong's surface marine waters during the pandemic from 2019 to 2021. Microplastics (2.07 ± 4.00 particles/m3) exhibited significant temporal variations with higher abundance in the wet season, without a consistent trend after the mandatory mask-wearing requirement was announced. The impact of pandemic restrictions on microplastic distribution was found to be relatively minor. However, significant correlations between microplastic abundances and rainfall highlighted the substantial contribution of local emissions through surface runoff. Notably, sites in closer proximity to the Pearl River Delta exhibited higher microplastic abundances, indicating their association with emission sources. The influence of rainfall and adverse weather on marine microplastic loads demonstrated different sensitivities among various locations but can generally last for one month. These results revealed the impact of seasonal rainfall on coastal microplastics and emphasized the need for efforts to reduce microplastic discharge from land-based sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhang
- National Observation and Research Station of Coastal Ecological Environments in Macao, Macao Environmental Research Institute, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519080, China; Center for Ocean Research in Hong Kong and Macau (CORE), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Michael C Y Cheng
- Water Quality Management Group, Environmental Protection Department, Government of the Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mengyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Shaopeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yue Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hoi Shan Chau
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Luoluo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yaru Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Meng Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiangrong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wai Thoe
- Water Quality Management Group, Environmental Protection Department, Government of the Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sunny W C Sun
- Water Quality Management Group, Environmental Protection Department, Government of the Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ron R Yang
- Water Quality Management Group, Environmental Protection Department, Government of the Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kenneth M Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- Department of Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China.
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3
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Yang Z, Li Y, Zhang G. Degradation of microplastic in water by advanced oxidation processes. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 357:141939. [PMID: 38621489 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141939] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Plastic products have gained global popularity due to their lightweight, excellent ductility, high durability, and portability. However, out of the 8.3 billion tons of plastic waste generated by human activities, 80% of plastic waste is discarded due to improper disposal, and then transformed into microplastic pollution under the combined influence of environmental factors and microorganisms. In this comprehensive study, we present a thorough review of recent advancements in research on the source, distribution, and effect of microplastics. More importantly, we conducted deep research on the catalytic degradation technologies of microplastics in water, including advanced oxidation and photocatalytic technologies, and elaborated on the mechanisms of microplastics degradation in water. Besides, various strategies for mitigating microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems are discussed, ranging from policy interventions, the initiative for plastic recycling, the development of efficient catalytic materials, and the integration of multiple technological approaches. This review serves as a valuable resource for addressing the challenge of removing microplastic contaminants from water bodies, offering insights into effective and sustainable solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiong Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Mineral Resources Processing and Environment, Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Silicate Materials for Architectures, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Mineral Resources Processing and Environment, Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Silicate Materials for Architectures, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Gaoke Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Mineral Resources Processing and Environment, Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Silicate Materials for Architectures, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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4
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Lima AR, Sammarro Silva KJ, Aguiar ASN, de Souza M, Lima THN, Blanco KC, Bagnato VS, Dias LD. Impact of PVC microplastics in photodynamic inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2024; 89:2105-2117. [PMID: 38678412 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.104] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic processes have found widespread application in therapies. These processes involve photosensitizers (PSs) that, when excited by specific light wavelengths and in the presence of molecular oxygen, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), that target cells leading to inactivation. Photodynamic action has gained notable attention in environmental applications, particularly against pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) that pose a significant challenge to public health. However, environmental matrices frequently encompass additional contaminants and interferents, including microplastics (MPs), which are pollutants of current concern. Their presence in water and effluents has been extensively documented, highlighting their impact on conventional treatment methods, but this information remains scarce in the context of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) setups. Here, we described the effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microparticles in PDI targeting Staphylococcus aureus and its methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), using curcumin as a PS under blue light. The presence of PVC microparticles does not hinder ROS formation; however, depending on its concentration, it can impact bacterial inactivation. Our results underscore that PDI remains a potent method for reducing bacterial concentrations in water and wastewater containing ARB, even in highly contaminated scenarios with MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ramos Lima
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil E-mail:
| | - Kamila Jessie Sammarro Silva
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Antônio Sérgio Nakao Aguiar
- Grupo de Química Teórica e Estrutural de Anápolis, Universidade Estadual de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil; Laboratório de Novos Materiais, Universidade Evangélica de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil
| | - Mariana de Souza
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Thalita Hellen Nunes Lima
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Kate Cristina Blanco
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Lucas Danilo Dias
- Laboratório de Novos Materiais, Universidade Evangélica de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil
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Shafi M, Lodh A, Khajuria M, Ranjan VP, Gani KM, Chowdhury S, Goel S. Are we underestimating stormwater? Stormwater as a significant source of microplastics in surface waters. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133445. [PMID: 38198866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Stormwater represent a critical pathway for transporting microplastics (MPs) to surface waters. Due to complex dynamics of MPs in stormwater, its dispersion, weathering, risk, and transport are poorly understood. This review bridges those gaps by summarizing the latest findings on sources, abundance, characteristics, and dynamics involved in stormwater MP pollution. Weathering starts before or after MPs enter stormwater and is more pronounced on land due to continuous heat and mechanical stress. Land use patterns, rainfall intensity, MPs size and density, and drainage characteristics influence the transport of MPs in stormwater. Tire and road wear particles (TRWPs), littering, and road dust are major sources of MPs in stormwater. The concentrations of MPs varies from 0.38-197,000 particles/L globally. Further MP concentrations showed regional variations, highlighting the importance of local monitoring efforts needed to understand local pollution sources. We observed unique signatures associated with the shape and color of MPs. Fibers and fragments were widely reported, with transparent and black being the predominant colors. We conclude that the contribution of stormwater to MP pollution in surface waters is significantly greater than wastewater treatment plant effluents and demands immediate attention. Field and lab scale studies are needed to understand its behavior in stormwater and the risk posed to the downstream water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozim Shafi
- Environmental Engineering and Management Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Ayan Lodh
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Medha Khajuria
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Ved Prakash Ranjan
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440020, India
| | - Khalid Muzamil Gani
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Shamik Chowdhury
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Sudha Goel
- Environmental Engineering and Management Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India.
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6
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Junaid M, Liu S, Yue Q, Wei M, Wang J. Trophic transfer and interfacial impacts of micro(nano)plastics and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133243. [PMID: 38103288 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Both micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) possessed excellent properties and diverse applications, albeit gained worldwide attention due to their anthropogenic, ubiquitous, degradation resistant nature and a wide variety of ecological and human health impacts. MNPs and PFAS discharged from discrete sources and extensively bioaccumulated in the food chain through trophic transfer and their long-distance transport potential assist in their dispersal to pristine but vulnerable ecosystems such as Antarctica. They inevitably interacted with each other in the environment through polarized N-H bond, hydrogen bond, hydrophobic interaction, and weak bond energies such as Van der Waals, electrostatic, and intramolecular forces. During co-exposure, they significantly impact the uptake and bioaccumulation of each other in exposed organisms, which may increase or decrease their bioavailable concentration. Hence, this review compiles the studies on the co-occurrence and adsorption of PFAS and MNPs in the environment, their trophic transfer, combined in vivo and in vitro impacts, and factors influencing the MNP-PFAS interface. A significant proportion of studies were conducted in China, Europe, and the US, while studies are rare from other parts of the world. Freshwater and marine food chains were more prominently investigated for trophic transfers compared to terrestrial food chains. The most notable in vivo effects were growth and reproductive impairment, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity and apoptosis, DNA damage, genotoxicity and immunological responses, behavioral and gut microbiota modifications, and histopathological alterations. Cellular uptake of PFAS and MNPs can impact cell survival and proliferation, photosynthesis and membrane integrity, ROS generation and antioxidant responses, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) release in vitro. MNP characteristics, PFAS properties, tissue and species-dependent distribution, and environmental medium properties were the main factors influencing the PFAS and MNP nexus and associated impacts. Last but not least, gaps and future research directions were highlighted to better understand the interplay between these critical persistent chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Junaid
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan 512005, China
| | - Shulin Liu
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Qiang Yue
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan 512005, China
| | - Maochun Wei
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Intelligent Fishery, Xiamen Ocean Vocational College, Xiamen 361100, China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China; Institute of Eco-Environmental Research, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory of Intelligent Fishery, Xiamen Ocean Vocational College, Xiamen 361100, China.
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7
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Kong W, Jalalah M, Alsareii SA, Harraz FA, Almadiy AA, Thakur N, Salama ES. Occurrence, characteristics, and microbial community of microplastics in anaerobic sludge of wastewater treatment plants. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123370. [PMID: 38244902 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) usually contain microplastics (MPs) due to daily influents of domestic and municipal wastewater. Thus, the WWTPs act as a point source of MPs distribution in the environment due to their incapability to remove MPs completely. In this study, MPs occurrence and distribution in anaerobic sludge from WWTPs in different regions (Kaifeng "KHP", Jinan "JSP", and Lanzhou "LGP") were studied. Followed by MPs identification by microscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum. The microbial communities associated with anaerobic sludge and MPs were also explored. The results showed that MPs concentrations were 16.5, 38.5, and 17.2 particles/g of total solids (TS) and transparent MPs accounted for 49.1%, 58.5%, and 48.3% in KHP, JSP, and LGP samples, respectively. Fibers represented the most common shape of MPs in KHP (49.1%), JSP (56.0%), and LGP (69.0%). The FTIR spectroscopy indicated the predominance of polyethylene polymer in 1-5 mm MPs. The Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Planctomycetes were the abundant phyla in all anaerobic sludge. The bacterial genera in KHP and LGP were similar, in which Caldilinea (>23%), Terrimonas (>10%), and Ferruginibacter (>7%) formed the core bacterial genera. While Rhodococcus (15.3%) and Rhodoplanes (10.9%) were dominating in JSP. The archaeal genera Methanosaeta (>69%) and Methanobrevibacter (>10%) were abundant in KHP and LGP sludge. While Methanomethylovorans accounted for 90% of JSP. Acetyltransferase and hydratase were the major bacterial enzymes, while reductase was the key archaeal enzyme in all anaerobic sludge. This study provided the baseline for MPs distribution, characterization, and MPs associated microbes in WWTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Kong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, PR China
| | - Mohammed Jalalah
- Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Advanced Materials and Nano-Research Centre, Najran University, P.O. Box: 1988, Najran, 11001, Saudi Arabia; Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Najran University, Najran, 11001, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed A Alsareii
- Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Advanced Materials and Nano-Research Centre, Najran University, P.O. Box: 1988, Najran, 11001, Saudi Arabia; Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Najran University, Najran, 11001, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farid A Harraz
- Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Advanced Materials and Nano-Research Centre, Najran University, P.O. Box: 1988, Najran, 11001, Saudi Arabia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts at Sharurah, Najran University, Sharurah, 68342, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrhman A Almadiy
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Najran University, 1988, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nandini Thakur
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, PR China
| | - El-Sayed Salama
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, PR China.
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Qin ZH, Siddiqui MA, Xin X, Mou JH, Varjani S, Chen G, Lin CSK. Identification of microplastics in raw and treated municipal solid waste landfill leachates in Hong Kong, China. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141208. [PMID: 38219986 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are indispensable in modern society but also pose a persistent threat to the environment. In particular, microplastics (MPs) have a substantial environmental impact on ecosystems. Municipal solid waste landfill leachates are a source of MPs, but leakage of MPs from leachates has only been reported in a few studies. As a modern city, Hong Kong has a remarkably high population density and a massive plastic waste generation. However, it depends on conventional landfilling for plastic waste management and traditional thermal ammonia stripping for leachate treatment. Yet, the MP leakage from landfill leachates in Hong Kong has not been disclosed. This is the first study that aimed to identify, quantify, and characterise MPs in raw and treated leachates, respectively, from major landfill sites in Hong Kong. The concentrations of MPs varied from 49.0 ± 24.3 to 507.6 ± 37.3 items/L among the raw leachate samples, and a potential correlation was found between the concentration of MPs in the raw leachate sample from a given landfill site and the annual leachate generation of the site. Most MPs were 100-500 μm fragments or filaments and were transparent or yellow. Regarding the polymeric materials among the identified MPs, poly(ethylene terephthalate) and polyethylene were the most abundant types, comprising 45.30% and 21.37% of MPs, respectively. Interestingly, leachates treated by ammonia stripping contained higher concentrations of MPs than raw leachate samples, which demonstrated that the traditional treatment process may not be sufficient regarding the removal of emerging pollutants, such as MPs. Overall, our findings provide a more comprehensive picture of the pollution of MPs in landfill leachates in Hong Kong and highlight the urgent need for adopting the consideration of MPs into the conventional mindset of waste management systems in Hong Kong.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Qin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Muhammad Ahmar Siddiqui
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiayin Xin
- Beaty Water Research Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Union Street, Queen's University, Kingston, K7L 3Z6, Canada
| | - Jin-Hua Mou
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Guanghao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Sze Ki Lin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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9
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Ding S, Gu X, Sun S, He S. Optimization of microplastic removal based on the complementarity of constructed wetland and microalgal-based system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169081. [PMID: 38104829 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169081] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
As one of the emblematic emerging contaminants, microplastics (MPs) have aroused great public concern. Nevertheless, the global community still insufficiently acknowledges the ecological health risks and resolution strategies of MP pollution. As the nature-based biotechnologies, the constructed wetland (CW) and microalgal-based system (MBS) have been applied in exploring the removal of MPs recently. This review separately presents the removal research (mechanism, interactions, implications, and technical defects) of MPs by a single method of CWs or MBS. But one thing with certitude is that the exclusive usage of these techniques to combat MPs has non-negligible and formidable challenges. The negative impacts of MP accumulation on CWs involve toxicity to macrophytes, substrates blocking, and nitrogen-removing performance inhibition. While MPs restrict MBS practical application by making troubles for separation difficulties of microalgal-based aggregations from effluent. Hence the combined strategy of microalgal-assisted CWs is proposed based on the complementarity of biotechnologies, in an attempt to expand the removing size range of MPs, create more biodegradable conditions and improve the effluent quality. Our work evaluates and forecasts the potential of integrating combination for strengthening micro-polluted wastewater treatment, completing the synergistic removal of MP-based co-pollutants and achieving long-term stability and sustainability, which is expected to provide new insights into MP pollution regulation and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxuan Ding
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Xushun Gu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Shanshan Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Shengbing He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Landscape Water Environment, Shanghai 200031, PR China.
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10
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Guo Y, Tang N, Lu L, Li N, Hu T, Guo J, Zhang J, Zeng Z, Liang J. Aggregation behavior of polystyrene nanoplastics: Role of surface functional groups and protein and electrolyte variation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 350:140998. [PMID: 38142881 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140998] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Aggregation kinetics of plastics are affected by the surface functional groups and exposure orders (electrolyte and protein) with kinds of mechanisms in aquatic environment. This study investigates the aggregation of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) with varying surface functional groups in the presence of common electrolytes (NaCl, CaCl2, Na2SO4) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). It also examines the impact of different exposure orders, namely BSA + NaCl (adding them together), BSA → NaCl (adding BSA firstly and then NaCl), and NaCl → BSA (adding NaCl firstly and then BSA), on PSNPs aggregation. The presence of BSA decreased the critical coagulation concentration in NaCl (CCCNa+) of the non-modified PS-Bare from 222.17 to 142.81 mM (35.72%), but increased that of the carboxyl-modified PS-COOH from 157.34 to 160.03 mM (1.71%). This might be ascribed to the thicker absorbed layer of BSA onto the PS-Bare surface, known from Ohshima's soft particle theory. Their aggregation in CaCl2 was both increased because of Ca2+ bridging. Different from the monotonous effects of BSA on PS-Bare and PS-COOH, BSA initially facilitated PS-NH2 aggregation via patch-charge attraction, then inhibited it at higher salt levels through steric repulsion. Furthermore, exposure orders had no significant effect on PS-Bare and PS-COOH, but had a NaCl concentration-dependent impact on PS-NH2. At the low NaCl concentrations (10 and 100 mM), no obvious influence could be observed. While, at 300 mM NaCl, the high concentrations of BSA could not totally stabilize the salt-induced aggregates in NaCl → BSA, but could achieve it in the other two orders. These might be attributed to the electrical double layer compression by NaCl, "patch-charge" force and steric hindrance by BSA. These experimental findings shed light on the potential fate and transport of nanoparticles in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Guo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Ning Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Lan Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Na Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Tingting Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Jiayin Guo
- School of Resources and Environment, Hunan University of Technology and Business, Changsha 410205, PR China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Jie Liang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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11
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Wang T, Li B, Shi H, Ding Y, Chen H, Yuan F, Liu R, Zou X. The processes and transport fluxes of land-based macroplastics and microplastics entering the ocean via rivers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133623. [PMID: 38301445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 80% of marine plastic waste originates from land-based sources and enters oceans through rivers. Hence, to create effective regulations, it is crucial to thoroughly examine the processes by which land-based plastic waste flows into marine environments. To this end, this review covers the complete journey of macro- and microplastics from their initial input into rivers to their ultimate release into oceans. Here, we also discuss the primary influencing factors and current popular research topics. Additionally, the principles, applicability, accuracy, uncertainty, and potential improvement of the standard methods used for flux estimation at each stage are outlined. Emission estimates of land-based macro- and microplastics are typically assessed using the emission factor approach, coefficient accounting approach, or material flow analysis. Accurately estimating mismanaged plastic waste is crucial for reducing uncertainty in the macroplastic emission inventory. In our review of the processes by which land-originating plastics enter rivers, we categorized them into two major types: point-source and diffuse-source pollution. Land surface hydrological models simulate transport from diffuse sources to rivers, necessitating further research. Riverine (micro)plastic flux to the ocean is often estimated using monitoring statistics and watershed hydrological models at the watershed scale; however, standardized monitoring methods have not yet been established. At the global scale, algorithms based on river datasets are often used, which require further improvements in river data selection and microplastic number-mass conversion factors. Furthermore, the article summarizes the accuracy and sources of uncertainty of various methods. Future research efforts should focus on quantifying and mitigating uncertainties in resultant projections. Overall, this review deepens our understanding of the processes by which land-based plastic waste enters the ocean and helps scholars efficiently select or improve relevant methods when studying land-ocean transport fluxes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Hazards Forecasting, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Marine Bio-resources Sustainable Utilization & Nanjing Outskirts Sea-Atmosphere Interface Field Scientific Observation Research Station & College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China.
| | - Baojie Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Huahong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yongcheng Ding
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Feng Yuan
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Rongze Liu
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Marine Bio-resources Sustainable Utilization & Nanjing Outskirts Sea-Atmosphere Interface Field Scientific Observation Research Station & College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Xinqing Zou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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12
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Lin D, Lai C, Wang X, Wang Z, Kuang K, Wang Z, Du X, Liu L. Enhanced membrane fouling by microplastics during nanofiltration of secondary effluent considering secretion, interaction and deposition of extracellular polymeric substances. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167110. [PMID: 37739085 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167110] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) has been found to influence membrane fouling during microfiltration/ultrafiltration processes in direct and indirect ways by acting as fouling components and changing microbial activities, respectively. However, there is no relevant research about the contribution of MPs to nanofiltration membrane fouling. In this study, for the first time, the impacts of MPs on membrane fouling during the nanofiltration of secondary effluent (SE) were systematically investigated from the perspective of bacterial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secretion, their interaction with coexisting pollutants and also deposition. Membrane flux behaviors indicate that MPs simultaneously aggravated the short-term and long-term membrane fouling resistance of nanofiltration by 46 % and 27 %, respectively. ATR-FTIR, XPS and spectrophotometry spectra demonstrate that the deteriorated membrane fouling by MPs directly resulted from the increased accumulation of protein-like, polysaccharides-like and humic-like substances on membranes. EEM spectra further confirmed that MPs preferred to induce serious cake layers, which dominated membrane flux decline but hindered pore fouling. According to CLSM and SEM-EDS mappings, MPs in SE could stimulate microbial activities and then aggravate EPS secretion, after which their interaction with Ca2+ was also enhanced in bulk solution. The cross-linker nets could promote the deposition of other unlinked pollutants on membranes. Besides, MPs could weaken the rejection of certain dissolved organic matters (from 57 % to 52 % on the 50th day of filtration) by aggravating cake-enhanced concentration polarization (CECP), but improved the average removal of inorganic salts from 58 % to 63 % by improving their back diffusion through cake layers. Based on these analyses, the mechanisms of MP-enhanced membrane fouling during the nanofiltration of SE can be thoroughly revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dachao Lin
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Caijing Lai
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xiaokai Wang
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zhihong Wang
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| | - Ke Kuang
- GuangZhou Sewage Purification Company, Guangzhou 510627, PR China
| | - Ziyuan Wang
- GuangZhou Sewage Purification Company, Guangzhou 510627, PR China
| | - Xing Du
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| | - Lifan Liu
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
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13
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Lee S, Jeong H, Hong SM, Yun D, Lee J, Kim E, Cho KH. Automatic classification of microplastics and natural organic matter mixtures using a deep learning model. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 246:120710. [PMID: 37857009 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120710] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Several preprocessing procedures are required for the classification of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic systems using spectroscopic analysis. Procedures such as oxidation, which are employed to remove natural organic matter (NOM) from MPs, can be time- and cost-intensive. Furthermore, the identification process is prone to errors due to the subjective judgment of the operators. Therefore, in this study, deep learning (DL) was applied to improve the classification accuracies for mixtures of microplastic and natural organic matter (MP-NOM). A convolutional neural network (CNN)-based DL model with a spatial attention mechanism was adopted to classify substances from their Raman spectra. Subsequently, the classification results were compared with those obtained using conventional Raman spectral library software to evaluate the applicability of the model. Additionally, the crucial spectral band for training the DL model was investigated by applying gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) as a post-processing technique. The model achieved an accuracy of 99.54%, which is much higher than the 31.44% achieved by the Raman spectral library. The Grad-CAM approach confirmed that the DL model can effectively identify MPs based on their visually prominent peaks in the Raman spectra. Furthermore, by tracking distinctive spectra without relying solely on visually prominent peaks, we can accurately classify MPs with less prominent peaks, which are characterized by a high standard deviation of intensity. These findings demonstrate the potential for automated and objective classification of MPs without the need for NOM preprocessing, indicating a promising direction for future research in microplastic classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghyeon Lee
- Department of Civil Urban Earth and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Heewon Jeong
- Department of Civil Urban Earth and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Min Hong
- Department of Civil Urban Earth and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Daeun Yun
- Department of Civil Urban Earth and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiye Lee
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, United States
| | - Eunju Kim
- Water Cycle Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hwa Cho
- School of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Repulic of Korea.
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14
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Bayo J, López-Castellanos J, Olmos S, Rojo D. A holistic approach on the impact of microplastic discharge from WWTPs to the neighboring environment in Southeast Spain. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120516. [PMID: 37651865 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the release of microplastics (MPs) from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to the neighboring environment, including marine and coastal sediments, and fish. Here, we comprehensively investigated MP abundance in 34 samples of marine sediment, corresponding to 5,530.5 g of sediment (d.w.) collected at -8.0 m, -12.5 m, and -24.0 m, 69 samples of coastal sediment, accounting for 13,617.4 g (d.w.) from 17 different beaches from Mar Menor, and stomach and intestine of 17 fish samples of Sparus aurata, in the vicinity of Cartagena, a port city in Southeast Spain. The results showed that MPs were detected in all marine sediment samples, with an average abundance of 19.4 ± 2.4 items/kg (d.w.), in coastal sediments, with an average abundance of 52.5 ± 5.3 items/kg (d.w.), and fish samples, with an average of 8.2 ± 1.4 items per individual. The contribution of MPs from WWTPs to marine sediments is expected to be slow, as effluents were mostly dominated by fiber and film shapes, and by polymers less dense than seawater. There were no significant variations in the MP abundance of marine sediments after the atmospheric phenomenon named DANA, although a significant smaller MP size was reported, indicating a high mobility for tiny sizes. The same results were revealed for coastal sediment, although variations after DANA were statistically significant. Coastal sediment samples closer to WWTPs and agricultural fields with plastic mulching displayed higher MP concentrations, and an increase in the removal rate of MPs from WWTP effluents was negatively correlated with a decrease in MPs from fish collected. This study highlights the importance of sewage treatment plants in transporting MPs to the aquatic and terrestrial surrounding environment, which warrants further research on human health risks associated to MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain.
| | - Joaquín López-Castellanos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Sonia Olmos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Dolores Rojo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
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15
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Bayo J, López-Castellanos J, Olmos S, Rojo D. Characterization and removal efficiencies of microplastics discharged from sewage treatment plants in Southeast Spain. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120479. [PMID: 37634462 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120479] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that can effectively harm different ecosystems. The information on the relative contribution of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to the surrounding environment is important, in order to understand ecological health risks and implement measures to reduce their presence. This focus article presents a quantitative assessment on the relative concentration and types of MPs delivered from four WWTPs located at the Southeast of Spain. Samples from WWTPs were collected throughout a four-year period, comprising more than 1,200 L of analyzed wastewater and 3,215 microparticles isolated. Density extraction with 1.08 g/mL NaCl salt solution was systematically used as the main separation method, in a simple and reliable manner, and repeat extraction cycles did not play any significant impact on the study outcomes. The four WWTPs had removal efficiencies between 64.3% and 89.2% after primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment phases, without diurnal or daily variations. Advanced treatment methods displayed a lower removal rate for fibers than for particulate MPs. The abundance of MPs was always higher and with a lower mean size in wastewater samples collected in Autumn than for the rest of seasons. MPs dumped from WWTPs in large quantities into the environment are meant to be regarded as an important point source for aquatic and terrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain.
| | - Joaquín López-Castellanos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Sonia Olmos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Dolores Rojo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
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16
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Lao JY, Xu S, Zhang K, Lin H, Cao Y, Wu R, Tao D, Ruan Y, Yee Leung KM, Lam PKS. New Perspective to Understand and Prioritize the Ecological Impacts of Organophosphate Esters and Transformation Products in Urban Stormwater and Sewage Effluents. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:11656-11665. [PMID: 37503546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Due to their prevalence in urban contaminated water, the driving factors of organophosphate esters (OPEs) need to be well examined, and their related ecological impacts should include that of their transformation products (TPs). Additionally, a robust framework needs to be developed to integrate multiple variables related to ecological impacts for improving the ecological health assessment. Therefore, OPEs and TPs in urban stormwater and wastewater in Hong Kong were analyzed to fill these gaps. The results revealed that the total concentrations of OPEs in stormwater were positively correlated with the area of transportation land. Individual TP concentrations and the mass ratios of individual TPs/OPEs were somewhat higher in sewage effluents than that in stormwater. OPEs generally showed relatively higher risk quotients than TPs; however, the total risk quotients increased by approximately 38% when TPs were factored in. Moreover, the molecular docking results suggested that the investigated TPs might cause similar endocrine disruption in marine organisms as their parent OPEs. This study employed the Toxicological-Priority-Index scheme to successfully integrate the ecological risks and endocrine-disrupting effects to refine the ecological health assessment of the exposure to OPEs and their TPs, which can better inform the authority on the prioritization for regulating these contaminants of emerging concern in urban built environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yong Lao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Shaopeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- National Observation and Research Station of Coastal Ecological Environments in Macao; Macao Environmental Research Institute, Faculty of Innovation Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR 999078, China
- Center for Ocean Research in Hong Kong and Macau (CORE), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Huiju Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yaru Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Rongben Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Danyang Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Kenneth Mei Yee Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Center for Ocean Research in Hong Kong and Macau (CORE), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Department of Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
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17
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Manu MK, Luo L, Kumar R, Johnravindar D, Li D, Varjani S, Zhao J, Wong J. A review on mechanistic understanding of microplastic pollution on the performance of anaerobic digestion. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 325:121426. [PMID: 36907239 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121426] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) has emerged as a promising technology for diverting the organic waste from the landfills along with the production of clean energy. AD is a microbial-driven biochemical process wherein the plethora of microbial communities participate in converting the putrescible organic matter into biogas. Nevertheless, the AD process is susceptible to the external environmental factors such as presence of physical (microplastics) and chemical (antibiotics, pesticides) pollutants. The microplastics (MPs) pollution has received recent attention due to the increasing plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems. This review was aimed for holistic assessment of impact of MPs pollution on AD process to develop efficient treatment technology. First, the possible pathways of MPs entry into the AD systems were critically evaluated. Further, the recent literature on the experimental studies pertaining to the impact of different types of MPs at different concentrations on the AD process was reviewed. In addition, several mechanisms such as direct exposure of MPs on the microbial cells, indirect impact of MPs through the leaching of toxic chemicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation on AD process were elucidated. Besides, the risk possessed by the increase of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) after the AD process due to the MPs stress on microbial communities were discussed. Overall, this review deciphered the severity of MPs pollution on AD process at different levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Manu
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Liwen Luo
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Reeti Kumar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Davidraj Johnravindar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Dongyi Li
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Jun Zhao
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Jonathan Wong
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong.
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18
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Nawab J, Khan H, Ghani J, Zafar MI, Khan S, Toller S, Fatima L, Hamza A. New insights into the migration, distribution and accumulation of micro-plastic in marine environment: A critical mechanism review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 330:138572. [PMID: 37088212 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely distributed in the marine environment, posing a significant threat to marine biota. The contribution of anthropogenic and terrestrial sources to the aquatic ecosystem has led to an increase in MPs findings, and their abundance in aquatic biota has been reported to be of concern. MPs are formed mainly via photo degradation of macroplastics (large plastic debris), and their release into the environment is a result of the degradation of additives. Eco-toxicological risks are increasing for marine organisms, due to the ingestion of MPs, which cause damage to gastrointestinal (GI) tracts and stomach. Plastics with a size <5 mm are considered MPs, and they are commonly identified by Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transfer infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Laser direct infrared (LDIR). The size, density and additives are the main factors influencing the abundance and bioavailability of MPs. The most abundant type of MPs found in fishes are fiber, polystyrenes, and fragments. These microscale pellets cause physiological stress and growth deformities by targeting the GI tracts of fishes and other biota. Approximately 80% MPs come from terrestrial sources, either primary, generated during different products such as skin care products, tires production and the use of MPs as carrier for pharmaceutical products, or secondary plastics, disposed of near coastal areas and water bodies. The issue of MPs and their potential effects on the marine ecosystem require proper attention. Therefore, this study conducted an extensive literature review on assessing MPs levels in fishes, sediments, seawater, their sources, and effects on marine biota (especially on fishes), chemo-physical behavior and the techniques used for their identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed Nawab
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Kohat University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan.
| | - Haris Khan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Junaid Ghani
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mazhar Iqbal Zafar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Sardar Khan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Kohat University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan; Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Simone Toller
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laraib Fatima
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 2300, Pakistan
| | - Amir Hamza
- Department of Soil & Environmental Sciences, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
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19
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Shahsavaripour M, Abbasi S, Mirzaee M, Amiri H. Human occupational exposure to microplastics: A cross-sectional study in a plastic products manufacturing plant. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 882:163576. [PMID: 37086995 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitous in the natural environment, and their potential impact on health is a key issue of concern. Investigating exposure routes in humans and other living organisms is among the major challenges of microplastics. This study aims to examine the exposure level of plastic factory staff to microplastic particles before and after work shifts through body receptors (hand and facial skin, saliva and hair) in Sirjan, southeast of Iran. Moreover, the effect of face masks, gloves, cosmetics (e.g: face powder cream, lipstick and eye makeup products) and appearance on the exposure level is investigated. In total, 19 individuals are selected during six working days. Then, the collected samples are transferred to the laboratory for filtration, extraction, identification and counting of microplastic particles. Moreover, 4802 microplastic particles (100-5000 μm in size) in strand, polyhedral and spherical shapes and color spectra of white/transparent, black, blue/green, red and purple are observed. The nature of most of the observed samples is fiber with a size ≥1000 μm. Analyzing the selected samples using micro-Raman spectroscopy indicate polyester and nylon are the main identified fibers. Hair and saliva samples have the highest and lowest number of microplastics, respectively. Using gloves and sunscreen among all the participants, wearing a scarf and hair size among women and having a beard and mustache among men could have an effective role in the exposure level to microplastics. Results of this study could reveal the exposure route to microplastic particles in the human body and highlight the importance of providing higher protection to reduce exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Shahsavaripour
- Environmental Health Engineering Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sajjad Abbasi
- Department of Earth Sciences, School of Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71454, Iran; Centre for Environmental Studies and Emerging Pollutants (ZISTANO), Shiraz University, Shiraz 714545, Iran
| | - Moghaddameh Mirzaee
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hoda Amiri
- Environmental Health Engineering Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Zhang X, Feng Q, Li X, Guo L, Ma D, Cheng X, Qi Y. Microplastics in household fecal sewage treatment facilities of rural China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130925. [PMID: 36753913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130925] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Fecal sewage (FS), composed of human feces and wastewater, potentially contains microplastics (MPs) that are prone to environmental pollution. In this study, 65 FS samples, as collected from 65 villages in 27 Chinese provinces, have been employed to investigate the characteristics of MPs in three kinds of household FS treatment facilities of rural regions, and the possibility of FS irrigation as the source of MPs in farmlands. As a result, seven physicochemical properties and microbial community of FS were detected, and pertinent social statistical data were collected to determine influencing factors of MPs. The abundance of FS-based MPs ranged from 47.16 to 143.05 particles L-1, with an average 90.38 ± 20.63 particles L-1. The FS from northern China had higher MPs abundance than that from southern and northwestern China. Average MPs abundance was cesspit (101.33) > septic tank (86.54) > biogas digester (84.11). The estimated mass of FS-based MPs entering farmlands in China was 7.8 × 103-5.6 × 104 tons a year. Chemical oxygen demand and genus Phascolarctobacterium might mainly affected MPs abundance in FS, while some other factors such as suspended substance, ambient temperature, and medical care spending were also significantly correlated with FS-based MPs abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Qingge Feng
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Xiaowei Li
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - Li Guo
- College of Design Art, Liuzhou Institute of Technology, Liuzhou 545616, China
| | - Dachao Ma
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xiaodie Cheng
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yuan Qi
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
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Liu HM, Grist EPM, Xu XY, Lo HS, Wong ACY, Cheung SG. Microplastics pollution in the rivers of a metropolitan city and its estimated dependency on surrounding developed land. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163268. [PMID: 37031935 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The spatial distribution and abundance of suspected microplastics (SMPs) in the surface water of a metropolitan city, as represented by four Hong Kong rivers, was studied during the dry season. Shing Mun River (SM), Lam Tsuen River (LT), and Tuen Mun River (TM) are located in urbanized areas, and SM and TM are tidal rivers. The fourth river, Silver River (SR) is situated in a rural area. TM had a significantly higher SMP abundance (53.80 ± 20.67 n/L) than the other rivers. The SMP abundance increased from upstream to downstream in non-tidal rivers (LT and SR), but not in tidal rivers (TM and SM), probably due to the tidal influence and a more homogeneous urban development along the tidal rivers. Inter-site differences in the SMP abundance were strongly correlated with the built area ratio (defined as the percentage of surrounding developed land area), human activities, and the nature of the river. About half (48.72 %) of the SMPs were <250 μm. Fibers and fragments were most abundant (>98 %), with most of them being transparent (58.54 %), black (14.68 %), or blue (12.12 %). Polyethylene terephthalate (26.96 %) and polyethylene (20.70 %) were the most common polymers. However, the MP abundance could be overestimated due to the presence of natural fibers. By contrast, an underestimation of the MP abundance could result from a smaller volume of water samples collected, due to a low filtration efficiency caused by high organic content and particle concentrations in the water. A more effective solid waste management strategy and upgrading of the sewage treatment facilities for removing microplastics are recommended to ameliorate the microplastic pollution in local rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric P M Grist
- College of Engineering, Mathematics & Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - X Y Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - H S Lo
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A C Y Wong
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - S G Cheung
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Chau HS, Xu S, Ma Y, Wang Q, Cao Y, Huang G, Ruan Y, Yan M, Liu M, Zhang K, Lam PKS. Microplastic occurrence and ecological risk assessment in the eight outlets of the Pearl River Estuary, a new insight into the riverine microplastic input to the northern South China Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114719. [PMID: 36821929 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries are unique transition zones connecting terrestrial and coastal environments and are recognized as primary conveyors for land-derived plastics to open oceans. Riverine microplastics (MPs) have been commonly investigated using sequential sampling which might not effectively reflect the actual load. In this study, sampling at eight outlets was performed during a complete tidal cycle to estimate the MP flux to the Pearl River Estuarine (PRE) using a concurrent sampling strategy. The MP abundances ranged from 2.90 ± 0.57-5.9 ± 2.27 particles/L. A remarkable difference between tides in MP abundances suggests tidal effect should not be overlooked in assessment. The MP load through the eight outlets was estimated at 304 trillion particles or 1102 tons into the PRE annually. Additionally, similar potential ecological risk assessment among eight rivers implied that environmental threats posed by less urbanized and populated rural areas on the western side have been under-evaluating for decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Shan Chau
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shaopeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yue Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yaru Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Guangling Huang
- Guangdong Research Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Meng Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mengyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- National Observation and Research Station of Coastal Ecological Environments in Macao, Macao Environmental Research Institute, Faculty of Innovation Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Macao SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Center for Ocean Research in Hong Kong and Macau (CORE), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Paul K S Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Center for Ocean Research in Hong Kong and Macau (CORE), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Eun-Ju Kim
- Water Cycle Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, South Korea
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