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Krause S, Ouellet V, Allen D, Allen S, Moss K, Nel HA, Manaseki-Holland S, Lynch I. The potential of micro- and nanoplastics to exacerbate the health impacts and global burden of non-communicable diseases. Cell Rep Med 2024:101581. [PMID: 38781963 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101581] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCD) constitute one of the highest burdens of disease globally and are associated with inflammatory responses in target organs. There is increasing evidence of significant human exposure to micro- and nanoplastics (MnPs). This review of environmental MnP exposure and health impacts indicates that MnP particles, directly and indirectly through their leachates, may exacerbate inflammation. Meanwhile, persistent inflammation associated with NCDs in gastrointestinal and respiratory systems potentially increases MnP uptake, thus influencing MnP access to distal organs. Consequently, a future increase in MnP exposure potentially augments the risk and severity of NCDs. There is a critical need for an integrated one-health approach to human health and environmental research for assessing the drivers of human MnP exposure and their bidirectional links with NCDs. Assessing these risks requires interdisciplinary efforts to identify and link drivers of environmental MnP exposure and organismal uptake to studies of impacted disease mechanisms and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Krause
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Ecologie des Hydrosystèmes Naturels et Anthropisés (LEHNA), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, UMR5023, 69622 Villeurbanne, France.
| | - Valerie Ouellet
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Deonie Allen
- WESP - Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability & Public Health, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK
| | - Steven Allen
- WESP - Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability & Public Health, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK
| | - Kerry Moss
- Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Holly A Nel
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Semira Manaseki-Holland
- Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Iseult Lynch
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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2
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Luo D, Chu X, Wu Y, Wang Z, Liao Z, Ji X, Ju J, Yang B, Chen Z, Dahlgren R, Zhang M, Shang X. Micro- and nano-plastics in the atmosphere: A review of occurrence, properties and human health risks. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133412. [PMID: 38218034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133412] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquitous occurrence of micro/nano plastics (MNPs) poses potential threats to ecosystem and human health that have attracted broad concerns in recent decades. Detection of MNPs in several remote regions has implicated atmospheric transport as an important pathway for global dissemination of MNPs and hence as a global health risk. In this review, the latest research progress on (1) sampling and detection; (2) origin and characteristics; and (3) transport and fate of atmospheric MNPs was summarized. Further, the current status of exposure risks and toxicological effects from inhaled atmospheric MNPs on human health is examined. Due to limitations in sampling and identification methodologies, the study of atmospheric nanoplastics is very limited today. The large spatial variation of atmospheric MNP concentrations reported worldwide makes it difficult to compare the overall indoor and outdoor exposure risks. Several in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies demonstrate adverse effects of immune response, apoptosis and oxidative stress caused by MNP inhalation that may induce cardiovascular diseases and reproductive and developmental abnormalities. Given the emerging importance of atmospheric MNPs, the establishment of standardized sampling-pretreatment-detection protocols and comprehensive toxicological studies are critical to advance environmental and health risk assessments of atmospheric MNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Luo
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xinyun Chu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhenfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhonglu Liao
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xiaoliang Ji
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Jingjuan Ju
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Pingyang County Health Inspection Center, Wenzhou 325405, China.
| | - Zheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Randy Dahlgren
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Minghua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Xu Shang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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Chen L, Zhou S, Zhang Q, Su B, Yin Q, Zou M. Global occurrence characteristics, drivers, and environmental risk assessment of microplastics in lakes: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123321. [PMID: 38185354 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123321] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in lakes has received much attention as an increasing amount of plastic waste enters aquatic ecosystems. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding of the global distribution patterns, environmental hazards, factors driving their presence, and the relationships between sources and sinks of MPs. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of drivers of lake MP pollution based on 42 articles on MP pollution from three different aspects: geographical distribution, driving factors and environmental risks. The results revealed differences in the MP pollution levels across the different sampling sites in the global lakes. Moreover, there is significant heterogeneity in the abundance of MPs among various lakes, whose distribution pattern is affected by geographical location, sampling method and extraction method. The size of the MPs differed significantly between water and sediment, and the proportion of small (<1 mm) MPs in sediment was significantly greater than that in water (72% > 46%). Environmental risk assessment reveals that the risk level of MP pollution in most lakes worldwide is low, and the environmental risk of pollution in lake water is higher than that in sediment. Based on the risk assessment and geographical location of the lake, the risk of MP pollution is related not only to human activities and economic development but also to local waste management practices, which directly impact the accumulation of MPs. Therefore, we suggest that the production of biodegradable low-risk polymer plastics instead of high-risk materials, and plastic solid waste recycling management should be strengthened to effectively mitigate the presence of MPs in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Chen
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Shenglu Zhou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China.
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Bo Su
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Qiqi Yin
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Mengmeng Zou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
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4
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Kaushik A, Gupta P, Kumar A, Saha M, Varghese E, Shukla G, Suresh K, Gunthe SS. Identification and physico-chemical characterization of microplastics in marine aerosols over the northeast Arabian Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168705. [PMID: 38000750 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the atmosphere can undergo long-range transport from emission regions to pristine terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems. Due to their inherent toxic and hazardous characteristics, MPs pose serious risks to both human well-being and the equilibrium of ecosystem. The present study outlines the comprehensive characterization, spanning physical and chemical attributes of MPs associated with atmospheric aerosols. Total suspended particulates (TSPs) were collected on a quartz fibre filter by operating a high-volume sampler for 24 h during distinct years (March, 2016 and November, 2020) at a coastal location in the northeast Arabian Sea. Subsequent to the sampling, a series of techniques were applied including density separation. The assessment and scrutiny of the MPs was carried out using stereo-zoom microscopy with supplementary validation using advanced fluorescence microscopy for enhanced precision in identification. Our comparative assessment suggests peroxide treatment followed by density separation could be a robust procedure for the definitive identification and characterization of MPs in the atmosphere. Average total abundance of MPs was found to be 1.30 ± 0.14 n/m3 in 2016 and 1.46 ± 0.12 n/m3 in 2020 with fibres, fragments and films having similar relative contributions (41 %, 31 %, 28 % in 2016 and 40 %, 35 %, 25 % in 2020). Fibres were found to be dominant morphotype followed by fragments and films over the coastal region of the Arabian Sea. In order to unravel the detailed chemical nature of these MPs, spectral analysis using μ-FTIR was carried out. The outcome of the analysis showed prevailing polymers as polyvinyl chloride and polymethyl methacrylate (50545 %) as dominant polymers followed by polyester (15 %), styrene butyl methacrylate (11 %), and polyacetal (9 %). MPs present in the vicinity of the Arabian Sea have potential to supply nutrients and toxicants, consequently can contribute to the modulation of the surface water biogeochemical processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Kaushik
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India
| | - Priyansha Gupta
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Ashwini Kumar
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Emil Varghese
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Garima Shukla
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - K Suresh
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Physical Research Laboratory, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, India
| | - Sachin S Gunthe
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
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5
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Liu K, Zhu L, Wei N, Li D. Underappreciated microplastic galaxy biases the filter-based quantification. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132897. [PMID: 37935065 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Long-term environmental loading of microplastics (MPs) causes alarming exposure risks for a variety of species worldwide, considered a planetary threat to the well-being of ecosystems. Robust quantitative estimates of MP extents and featured diversity are the basis for comprehending their environmental implications precisely, and of these methods, membrane-based characterizations predominate with respect to MP inspections. However, though crucial to filter-based MP quantification, aggregation statuses of retained MPs on these substrates remain poorly understood, leaving us a "blind box" that exaggerates uncertainty in quantitive strategies of preselected areas without knowing overview loading structure. To clarify this uncertainty and estimate their impacts on MP counting, using MP imaging data assembled from peer-reviewed studies through a systematic review, here we analyze the particle-specific profiles of MPs retained on various substrates according to their centre of mass with a fast-random forests algorithm. We visualize the formation of distinct galaxy-like MP aggregation-similar to the solar system and Milky Way System comprised of countless stars-across the pristine and environmental samples by leveraging two spatial parameters developed in this study. This unique pattern greatly challenges the homogeneously or randomly distributed MP presumption adopted extensively for simplified membrane-based quantification purposes and selective ROI (region of interest) estimates for smaller-sized plastics down to the nano-range, as well as the compatibility theory using pristine MPs as the standard to quantify the presence of environmental MPs. Furthermore, our evaluation with exemplified numeration cases confirms these location-specific and area-dependent biases in many imaging analyses of a selective filter area, ascribed to the minimum possibility of reaching an ideal turnover point for the selective quantitive strategies. Consequently, disproportionate MP schemes on loading substrates yield great uncertainty in their quantification processing, highlighting the prompt need to include pattern-resolved calibration prior to quantification. Our findings substantially advance our understanding of the structure, behavior, and formation of these MP aggregating statuses on filtering substrates, addressing a fundamental question puzzling scientists as to why reproducible MP quantification is barely achievable even for subsamples. This study inspires the following studies to reconsider the impacts of aggregating patterns on the effective counting protocols and target-specific removal of retained MP aggregates through membrane separation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Lixin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; Marine and Environmental Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nian Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; Norwegian Institute for Water Research, 94 Økernveien, Oslo 0579, Norway
| | - Daoji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
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6
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Chen Q, Wang J, Yao F, Zhang W, Qi X, Gao X, Liu Y, Wang J, Zou M, Liang P. A review of recent progress in the application of Raman spectroscopy and SERS detection of microplastics and derivatives. Mikrochim Acta 2023; 190:465. [PMID: 37953347 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-023-06044-y] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The global environmental concern surrounding microplastic (MP) pollution has raised alarms due to its potential health risks to animals, plants, and humans. Because of the complex structure and composition of microplastics (MPs), the detection methods are limited, resulting in restricted detection accuracy. Surface enhancement of Raman spectroscopy (SERS), a spectral technique, offers several advantages, such as high resolution and low detection limit. It has the potential to be extensively employed for sensitive detection and high-resolution imaging of microplastics. We have summarized the research conducted in recent years on the detection of microplastics using Raman and SERS. Here, we have reviewed qualitative and quantitative analyses of microplastics and their derivatives, as well as the latest progress, challenges, and potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Chen
- College of Metrology and Measurement Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Jiamiao Wang
- College of Metrology and Measurement Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Fuqi Yao
- College of Metrology and Measurement Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- College of Optical and Electronic Technology, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiaohua Qi
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine (CAIQ), Beijing, 100123, China
| | - Xia Gao
- Institute of Analysis and Testing, Beijing Research Institute of Science and Technology, Beijing, 100089, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Analysis and Testing, Beijing Research Institute of Science and Technology, Beijing, 100089, China
| | - Jiamin Wang
- Institute of Analysis and Testing, Beijing Research Institute of Science and Technology, Beijing, 100089, China
| | - Mingqiang Zou
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine (CAIQ), Beijing, 100123, China.
| | - Pei Liang
- College of Optical and Electronic Technology, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
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7
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Kumar K, Umapathi R, Ghoreishian SM, Tiwari JN, Hwang SK, Huh YS, Venkatesu P, Shetti NP, Aminabhavi TM. Microplastics and biobased polymers to combat plastics waste. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 341:140000. [PMID: 37652244 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140000] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have become the major global concern due to their adverse effects on the environment, human health, and hygiene. These complex molecules have numerous toxic impacts on human well-being. This review focuses on the methods for chemically quantifying and identifying MPs in real-time samples, as well as the detrimental effects resulting from exposure to them. Biopolymers offer promising solutions for reducing the environmental impact caused by persistent plastic pollution. The review also examines the significant progress achieved in the preparation and modification of various biobased polymers, including polylactic acid (PLA), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), lignin-based polymers, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), and poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA), which hold promise for addressing the challenges associated with unplanned plastic waste disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishan Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, India; NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Reddicherla Umapathi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, India; NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Seyed Majid Ghoreishian
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Jitendra N Tiwari
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul, 100-715, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Kyu Hwang
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Suk Huh
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea.
| | | | - Nagaraj P Shetti
- Center for Energy and Environment, School of Advanced Sciences, KLE Technological University, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India; University Center for Research & Development (UCRD), Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, 140413, Panjab, India
| | - Tejraj M Aminabhavi
- Center for Energy and Environment, School of Advanced Sciences, KLE Technological University, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India; University Center for Research & Development (UCRD), Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, 140413, Panjab, India.
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8
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Qin X, Teng W, Zhang X, Yang Y, Zhu Y, Liu Z, Li W, Dong H, Qiang Z, Zeng J, Lian J. Ethanol-diluted turbidimetry method for rapid and accurate quantification of low-density microplastics in synthetic samples. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1278:341712. [PMID: 37709455 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341712] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Retention and transport behaviours of microplastics (MPs) and their associated pollutants in porous media are of great concern. The homogeneity of the studied MPs in artificially controlled lab-scale studies makes rapid and accurate MP quantification feasible. In this study, an economical ethanol-diluted turbidimetry method for polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) MPs was developed. With ethanol dilution, the MP dispersion system exhibited an excellent suspension performance. Strong linear relationships were observed between MP concentrations and turbidities in both low (<1.3 mg L-1) and high (<170 mg L-1) MP concentration ranges. Solution density and MP agglomeration governed the MP suspension performance. For low surface tension and high molecular mass, the addition of ethanol decreased the contact angles of PP-MPs with solutions from 81.73 to 15.5°, and consequently improved the MP suspension performance. The suspension system was optimised to an ethanol/water (v/v) ratio of 3:2 and 4:1 for PP- and PE-MPs, when the slopes of standard curves were determined to be 1.252 and 0.471 with the recovery of 100.54 ± 3.09% and 103.19 ± 1.66%, and the limit of detection and quantification values of 0.025 and 0.082 mg L-1, and 0.060 and 0.201 mg L-1, respectively. Solution pH, salinity, and dissolved organic matter in the selected range induced acceptable fluctuations in the MP recovery and matrix effect values. The Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) energy barriers were calculated to be > 20 kT, indicating excellent tolerance to the solution matrix. Additionally, applications in real water samples were validated to demonstrate the potential of the developed method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Qin
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Geotechnology and Engineering Disaster Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Wenxi Teng
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Yalin Yang
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Yichun Zhu
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Geotechnology and Engineering Disaster Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Zuwen Liu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Geotechnology and Engineering Disaster Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China; School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009, China
| | - Wentao Li
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuang-qing Road, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Huiyu Dong
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuang-qing Road, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Zhimin Qiang
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuang-qing Road, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Jinfeng Zeng
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China; Hydrology and Water Resources Monitoring Center for Ganjiang Upstream Watershed, 8 Zhang-jia-wei Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Junfeng Lian
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Basin Pollution Simulation and Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Geotechnology and Engineering Disaster Control, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 1958 Ke-jia Road, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
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9
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Ferreiro B, Leardi R, Farinini E, Andrade JM. Supervised classification combined with genetic algorithm variable selection for a fast identification of polymeric microdebris using infrared reflectance. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 195:115540. [PMID: 37722263 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115540] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Pollution caused by plastics and, in particular, microplastics has become a source of environmental concern for Society. Their ubiquity, with millions of tons of plastic debris spilled in both land and sea, requires efficient technological improvements in the ways residues are collected, handled, characterized and recycled. For reliable decision-making, dependable chemical information is essential to assess both the nature of the plastics found in the environment and their fate. In this work an efficient method to identify the polymeric composition of microplastic fragments is proposed. It combines infrared reflectance spectra and chemometric methods. A breakthrough result is that the models include polymers weathered under both dry (shoreline) and submerged (in sea water) conditions and, hence, they are very promising as a starting point for eventual practical applications. In addition, no spectral processing is required after the initial measurement. SYNOPSIS: This approach to identify microplastics in aquatic environments combines infrared measurements and multivariate data analysis to fight against (micro)plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borja Ferreiro
- Grupo Química Analítica Aplicada (QANAP), Faculty of Sciences, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira, s/n, 15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Riccardo Leardi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy
| | - Emanuele Farinini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy
| | - Jose M Andrade
- Grupo Química Analítica Aplicada (QANAP), Faculty of Sciences, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira, s/n, 15071 A Coruña, Spain.
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10
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Wright S, Levermore J, Ishikawa Y. Application of Infrared and Near-Infrared Microspectroscopy to Microplastic Human Exposure Measurements. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 77:1105-1128. [PMID: 37792505 PMCID: PMC10566227 DOI: 10.1177/00037028231199772] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a global issue for the environment and human health. The potential for human exposure to microplastic through drinking water, dust, food, and air raises concern, since experimental in vitro and in vivo toxicology studies suggest there is a level of hazard associated with high microplastic concentrations. However, to infer the likelihood of hazards manifesting in the human population, a robust understanding of exposure concentrations is needed. Infrared and near-infrared microspectroscopies have routinely been used to analyze microplastic in different exposure matrices (air, dust, food, and water), with technological advances coupling multivariate and machine learning algorithms to spectral data. This focal point article will highlight the application of infrared and Raman modes of spectroscopy to detect, characterize, and quantify microplastic particles, with a focus on human exposure to microplastic. Methodologies and state-of-the-art approaches will be reported and potential confounding variables and challenges in microplastic analysis discussed. The article provides an up-to-date review of the literature on microplastic exposure measurement using (near) infrared spectroscopies as an analytical tool, highlighting the recent advances in this rapidly advancing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Wright
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
| | - Joseph Levermore
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
| | - Yukari Ishikawa
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
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11
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Nagato EG, Noothalapati H, Kogumasaka C, Kakii S, Hossain S, Iwasaki K, Takai Y, Shimasaki Y, Honda M, Hayakawa K, Yamamoto T, Archer SDJ. Differences in microplastic degradation in the atmosphere and coastal water environment from two island nations: Japan and New Zealand. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122011. [PMID: 37302783 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122011] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are subject to environmental forces that can change polymer organization on a molecular scale. However, it is not clear to what extent these changes occur in the environment and whether microplastics in the atmospheric and water environment differ. Here we identify structural differences between microplastics in the atmosphere and water environment from Japan and New Zealand, representing two archipelagos differing in their proximity to nearby countries and highly populated areas. We first highlight the propensity for smaller microplastics to arrive via air masses from the Asian continent to the Japan Sea coastal area, while New Zealand received larger, locally derived microplastics. Analyses of polyethylene in the Japanese atmosphere indicate that microplastics transported to the Japanese coastal areas were more crystalline than polyethylene particles in the water, suggesting that the plastics arriving by air were relatively more aged and brittle. By contrast, polypropylene particles in New Zealand waters were more degraded than the microplastic particles in the air. Due to the lack of abundance, both polyethylene and polypropylene could not be analyzed for both countries. Nevertheless, these findings show the structural variation in microplastics between environments in markedly different real-world locations, with implications for the toxic potential of these particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward G Nagato
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan.
| | | | - Chihiro Kogumasaka
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Sota Kakii
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Sarwar Hossain
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Keita Iwasaki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Yuki Takai
- Animal and Marine Bioresources Sciences, Kyushu University, Itoshima, Japan
| | - Yohei Shimasaki
- Animal and Marine Bioresources Sciences, Kyushu University, Itoshima, Japan
| | - Masato Honda
- Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kazuichi Hayakawa
- Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuyuki Yamamoto
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Stephen D J Archer
- School of Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Tran TV, Jalil AA, Nguyen TM, Nguyen TTT, Nabgan W, Nguyen DTC. A review on the occurrence, analytical methods, and impact of microplastics in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 102:104248. [PMID: 37598982 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104248] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, microplastic pollution is one of the globally urgent concerns as a result of discharging plastic products into the atmosphere, aquatic and soil environments. Microplastics have average size of less than 5 mm, are non-biodegradable, accumulative, and highly persistent substances. Thousands of tons of microplastics are still accumulated in various environments, posing an enormous threat to human health and living creatures. Here, we review the occurrence and analytical methods, and impact of microplastics in the environments including soil, aquatic media, and atmosphere. Analytical methods including visual observation, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were evaluated. We elucidated the environmental and human health impacts of microplastics with emphasis on life malfunction, immune disruption, neurotoxicity, diseases and other tangible health risks. This review also found some shortages of analytical equivalence and/or standardization, inconsistence in sampling collection and limited knowledge of microplastic toxicity. It is hopeful that the present work not only affords a more insight into the potential dangers of microplastics on human health but also urges future researches to establish new standardizations in analytical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuan Van Tran
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam; NTT Hi-Tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam.
| | - A A Jalil
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Centre of Hydrogen Energy, Institute of Future Energy, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Tung M Nguyen
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam; NTT Hi-Tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Faculty of Science, Nong Lam University, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Walid Nabgan
- Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Duyen Thi Cam Nguyen
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam; NTT Hi-Tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam.
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13
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Benito-Kaesbach A, Amigo JM, Izagirre U, Garcia-Velasco N, Arévalo L, Seifert A, Castro K. Misinterpretation in microplastic detection in biological tissues: When 2D imaging is not enough. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 876:162810. [PMID: 36921855 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162810] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics in the food chain is a public concern worldwide, and its analysis is an analytical challenge. In our research, we apply Raman imaging to study the presence of 1 μm polystyrene microplastics in cryosections of Mytilus galloprovincialis due to its wide geographic distribution, widespread occurrence in the food web, and general high presence in the environment. Ingested microplastics are accumulated in the digestive tract, but a large number can also be rapidly eliminated. Some authors state that the translocation of microplastics to the epithelial cells is possible, increasing the risk of microplastics transmission along the food chain. However, as seen in our study, a surface imaging approach (2D) is probably not enough to confirm the internalization of particles and avoid misinterpretation. In fact, while some microplastic particles were detected in the epithelium by 2D Raman imaging, further 3D Raman imaging analysis demonstrated that those particles were dragged from the lumens to the epithelium during sample preparation due to the blade drag effect of the cryotome, and subsequently located on the surface of the analyzed cryosection, discarding the translocation to the epithelial cells. This effect can also happen when the samples are fortuitously contaminated during sample preparation. Several research articles that use similar analytical techniques have shown the presence of microplastics in different types of tissue. It is not our intention to put such results in doubt, but the present work points out the necessity of appropriate three-dimensional analytical methods including data interpretation and the need to go a step further than just surface imaging analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Benito-Kaesbach
- Cell Biology in Environmental Toxicology (CBET) Research Group, Dept. Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology and Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology PIE-UPV/EHU, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48080 Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Amigo
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Euskadi Plaza 5, 48009 Bilbao, Spain; IBeA Research Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48080 Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain
| | - Urtzi Izagirre
- Cell Biology in Environmental Toxicology (CBET) Research Group, Dept. Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology and Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology PIE-UPV/EHU, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48080 Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain
| | - Nerea Garcia-Velasco
- Cell Biology in Environmental Toxicology (CBET) Research Group, Dept. Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology and Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology PIE-UPV/EHU, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48080 Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain
| | - Laura Arévalo
- CIC nanoGUNE BRTA, Tolosa Hiribidea 76, 20018 San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Andreas Seifert
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Euskadi Plaza 5, 48009 Bilbao, Spain; CIC nanoGUNE BRTA, Tolosa Hiribidea 76, 20018 San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Kepa Castro
- IBeA Research Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48080 Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain.
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14
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O'Brien S, Rauert C, Ribeiro F, Okoffo ED, Burrows SD, O'Brien JW, Wang X, Wright SL, Thomas KV. There's something in the air: A review of sources, prevalence and behaviour of microplastics in the atmosphere. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162193. [PMID: 36828069 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Literature regarding microplastics in the atmosphere has advanced in recent years. However, studies have been undertaken in isolation with minimal collaboration and exploration of the relationships between air, deposition and dust. This review collates concentrations (particle count and mass-based), shape, size and polymetric characteristics for microplastics in ambient air (m3), deposition (m2/day), dust (microplastics/g) and snow (microplastics/L) from 124 peer-reviewed articles to provide a holistic overview and analysis of our current knowledge. In summary, ambient air featured concentrations between <1 to >1000 microplastics/m3 (outdoor) and <1 microplastic/m3 to 1583 ± 1181 (mean) microplastics/m3 (indoor), consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference (p > 0.05) was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations or the minimum size of microplastics (p > 0.5). Maximum microplastic sizes were larger indoors (p < 0.05). Deposition concentrations ranged between 0.5 and 1357 microplastics/m2/day (outdoor) and 475 to 19,600 microplastics/m2/day (indoor), including polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate. Concentrations varied between indoor and outdoor deposition (p < 0.05), being more abundant indoors, potentially closer to sources/sinks. No difference was observed between the minimum or maximum reported microplastic sizes within indoor and outdoor deposition (p > 0.05). Road dust concentrations varied between 2 ± 2 and 477 microplastics/g (mean), consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene. Mean outdoor dust concentrations ranged from <1 microplastic/g (remote desert) to between 18 and 225 microplastics/g, comprised of polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polypropylene. Snow concentrations varied between 0.1 and 30,000 microplastics/L, containing polyethylene, polyamide, polypropylene. Concentrations within indoor dust varied between 10 and 67,000 microplastics/g, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations (microplastics/g) or maximum size (p > 0.05). The minimum size of microplastics were smaller within outdoor dust (p > 0.05). Although comparability is hindered by differing sampling methods, analytical techniques, polymers investigated, spectral libraries and inconsistent terminology, this review provides a synopsis of knowledge to date regarding atmospheric microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia.
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Francisca Ribeiro
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephen D Burrows
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Jake W O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Xianyu Wang
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Wright
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London SE1 9NH, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Environmental Exposures and Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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15
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Li J, Zhao R, Bi J, Engarnevis A. Design of a single aspheric beam homogenizer for accurate particle sizing application. APPLIED OPTICS 2023; 62:3683-3689. [PMID: 37706985 DOI: 10.1364/ao.488571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Understanding, detection, and accurate monitoring of particles are of utmost importance in various industrial fields and environmental science. Optical sensors allow for real-time monitoring of particles at the single species level by analyzing the elastically scattered light intensities. Nevertheless, since most laser diodes employed for illuminating the particle generally follow a Gaussian-type intensity distribution, the non-uniform energy distribution across the aerosol channel causes considerable errors in the conversion of the scattered light intensities into the actual particle sizes. In order to achieve uniform illumination of particles across the aerosol channel and improve the particle sizing and classification accuracy, we design and customize a single aspheric lens, which efficiently converts the divergent Gaussian beam profile of a TO packaged laser diode into a one-dimensional flattop beam profile along the fast axis at the desired working distance. A beam uniformity better than 5% has been achieved. Furthermore, we demonstrate a practical sensing application using the designed lens for accurate particle sizing, and an obvious improvement in the accuracy has been achieved compared to that based on off-the-shelf aspheric lenses. The singlet beam homogenizer developed in this work has many appealing features (e.g., high uniformity and energy efficiency, compactness, and low stray light), which is especially relevant for building portable particle sensors in order to address various industrial applications where on-site or remote metrology and classification of particles are required.
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16
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Dewika M, Markandan K, Irfan NA, Mohd Abdah MAA, Ruwaida JN, Sara YY, Khalid M. Review of microplastics in the indoor environment: Distribution, human exposure and potential health impacts. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 324:138270. [PMID: 36878370 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of microplastics (MPs) pollution as a global environmental concern has attracted significant attention in the last decade. The majority of the human population spends most of their time indoors, leading to increased exposure to MPs contamination through various sources such as settled dust, air, drinking water and food. Although research on indoor MPs has intensified significantly in recent years, comprehensive reviews on this topic remain limited. Therefore, this review comprehensively analyses the occurrence, distribution, human exposure, potential health impact and mitigation strategies of MPs in the indoor air environment. Specifically, we focus on the risks associated with finer MPs that can translocate into the circulatory system and other organs, emphasizing the need for continued research to develop effective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with MPs exposure. Our findings suggest that indoor MPs impose potential risk to human health, and strategies for mitigating exposure should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dewika
- Centre of American Education, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Kalaimani Markandan
- Faculty of Engineering, Technology and Built Environment, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - N Ahmad Irfan
- Centre of American Education, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Amirul Aizat Mohd Abdah
- Graphene & Advanced 2D Materials Research Group (GAMRG), School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, No. 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; Sunway Materials Smart Science & Engineering (SMS2E) Research Cluster, Sunway University, No. 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia
| | - J Nor Ruwaida
- Air Resources Research Laboratory, Malaysia Japan International Institute of Technology, 54100, UTM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Y Y Sara
- Faculty of Civil Engineering & Technology, University Malaysia Perlis, Kompleks Pusat Pengajian Jejawi 3, 02600, Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Khalid
- Graphene & Advanced 2D Materials Research Group (GAMRG), School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, No. 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; Sunway Materials Smart Science & Engineering (SMS2E) Research Cluster, Sunway University, No. 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia; Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, Uttarakhand, India.
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17
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Cary CM, Seymore TN, Singh D, Vayas KN, Goedken MJ, Adams S, Polunas M, Sunil VR, Laskin DL, Demokritou P, Stapleton PA. Single inhalation exposure to polyamide micro and nanoplastic particles impairs vascular dilation without generating pulmonary inflammation in virgin female Sprague Dawley rats. Part Fibre Toxicol 2023; 20:16. [PMID: 37088832 PMCID: PMC10122824 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-023-00525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) in humans is being identified in both the indoor and outdoor environment. Detection of these materials in the air has made inhalation exposure to MNPs a major cause for concern. One type of plastic polymer found in indoor and outdoor settings is polyamide, often referred to as nylon. Inhalation of combustion-derived, metallic, and carbonaceous aerosols generate pulmonary inflammation, cardiovascular dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Additionally, due to the additives present in plastics, MNPs may act as endocrine disruptors. Currently there is limited knowledge on potential health effects caused by polyamide or general MNP inhalation. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to assess the toxicological consequences of a single inhalation exposure of female rats to polyamide MNP during estrus by means of aerosolization of MNP. METHODS Bulk polyamide powder (i.e., nylon) served as a representative MNP. Polyamide aerosolization was characterized using particle sizers, cascade impactors, and aerosol samplers. Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD) modeling was used to evaluate pulmonary deposition of MNPs. Pulmonary inflammation was assessed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell content and H&E-stained tissue sections. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), wire myography of the aorta and uterine artery, and pressure myography of the radial artery was used to assess cardiovascular function. Systemic inflammation and endocrine disruption were quantified by measurement of proinflammatory cytokines and reproductive hormones. RESULTS Our aerosolization exposure platform was found to generate particles within the micro- and nano-size ranges (thereby constituting MNPs). Inhaled particles were predicted to deposit in all regions of the lung; no overt pulmonary inflammation was observed. Conversely, increased blood pressure and impaired dilation in the uterine vasculature was noted while aortic vascular reactivity was unaffected. Inhalation of MNPs resulted in systemic inflammation as measured by increased plasma levels of IL-6. Decreased levels of 17β-estradiol were also observed suggesting that MNPs have endocrine disrupting activity. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate aerosolization of MNPs in our inhalation exposure platform. Inhaled MNP aerosols were found to alter inflammatory, cardiovascular, and endocrine activity. These novel findings will contribute to a better understanding of inhaled plastic particle toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea M Cary
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Talia N Seymore
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Dilpreet Singh
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Kinal N Vayas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael J Goedken
- Research Pathology Services, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Samantha Adams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Marianne Polunas
- Research Pathology Services, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Vasanthi R Sunil
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Debra L Laskin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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18
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Osman AI, Hosny M, Eltaweil AS, Omar S, Elgarahy AM, Farghali M, Yap PS, Wu YS, Nagandran S, Batumalaie K, Gopinath SCB, John OD, Sekar M, Saikia T, Karunanithi P, Hatta MHM, Akinyede KA. Microplastic sources, formation, toxicity and remediation: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2023; 21:1-41. [PMID: 37362012 PMCID: PMC10072287 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-023-01593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is becoming a major issue for human health due to the recent discovery of microplastics in most ecosystems. Here, we review the sources, formation, occurrence, toxicity and remediation methods of microplastics. We distinguish ocean-based and land-based sources of microplastics. Microplastics have been found in biological samples such as faeces, sputum, saliva, blood and placenta. Cancer, intestinal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, infectious and inflammatory diseases are induced or mediated by microplastics. Microplastic exposure during pregnancy and maternal period is also discussed. Remediation methods include coagulation, membrane bioreactors, sand filtration, adsorption, photocatalytic degradation, electrocoagulation and magnetic separation. Control strategies comprise reducing plastic usage, behavioural change, and using biodegradable plastics. Global plastic production has risen dramatically over the past 70 years to reach 359 million tonnes. China is the world's top producer, contributing 17.5% to global production, while Turkey generates the most plastic waste in the Mediterranean region, at 144 tonnes per day. Microplastics comprise 75% of marine waste, with land-based sources responsible for 80-90% of pollution, while ocean-based sources account for only 10-20%. Microplastics induce toxic effects on humans and animals, such as cytotoxicity, immune response, oxidative stress, barrier attributes, and genotoxicity, even at minimal dosages of 10 μg/mL. Ingestion of microplastics by marine animals results in alterations in gastrointestinal tract physiology, immune system depression, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, differential gene expression, and growth inhibition. Furthermore, bioaccumulation of microplastics in the tissues of aquatic organisms can have adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem, with potential transmission of microplastics to humans and birds. Changing individual behaviours and governmental actions, such as implementing bans, taxes, or pricing on plastic carrier bags, has significantly reduced plastic consumption to 8-85% in various countries worldwide. The microplastic minimisation approach follows an upside-down pyramid, starting with prevention, followed by reducing, reusing, recycling, recovering, and ending with disposal as the least preferable option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed I. Osman
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, David Keir Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Mohamed Hosny
- Green Technology Group, Environmental Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511 Egypt
| | | | - Sara Omar
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Elgarahy
- Environmental Science Department, Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
- Egyptian Propylene and Polypropylene Company (EPPC), Port-Said, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Farghali
- Department of Agricultural Engineering and Socio-Economics, Kobe University, Kobe, 657-8501 Japan
- Department of Animal and Poultry Hygiene & Environmental Sanitation, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526 Egypt
| | - Pow-Seng Yap
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, 215123 China
| | - Yuan-Seng Wu
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Saraswathi Nagandran
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Kalaivani Batumalaie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Subash C. B. Gopinath
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 02600 Arau, Perlis Malaysia
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 01000 Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia
- Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Pauh Campus, 02600 Arau, Perlis Malaysia
| | - Oliver Dean John
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Royal College of Medicine Perak, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, 30450 Ipoh, Perak Malaysia
| | - Trideep Saikia
- Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Guwahati Assam, India
| | - Puvanan Karunanithi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM), Melaka, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hayrie Mohd Hatta
- Centre for Research and Development, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Johor Malaysia
| | - Kolajo Adedamola Akinyede
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, 7530 South Africa
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Science Technology, The Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B.5351, Ado Ekiti, 360231 Ekiti State Nigeria
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19
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Tokunaga Y, Okochi H, Tani Y, Niida Y, Tachibana T, Saigawa K, Katayama K, Moriguchi S, Kato T, Hayama SI. Airborne microplastics detected in the lungs of wild birds in Japan. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 321:138032. [PMID: 36739985 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138032] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been found in a wide range of animal species including humans. The detection of MPs in human lungs suggests that humans inhale airborne microplastics (AMPs). Although birds respire more efficiently than mammals and are therefore more susceptible to air pollution, little is known about their inhalation exposure to MPs. In this study, we analyzed samples isolated from the lungs of several species of wild birds in Japan by attenuated total reflection (ATR) imaging method of micro-Fourier transform infrared (μFTIR) spectroscopy to clear whether AMPs can be inhaled and accumulate within the lungs of wild birds. To isolate MPs from lung samples of rock doves (Columba livia), black kites (Milvus migrans), and barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) euthanized for pest control, digestion and density separation were performed. After each sample collected on an alumina filter was measured by ATR imaging method using μFTIR spectroscopy, the physical and chemical characteristics of the detected MPs were evaluated. Six MPs were detected in 3 of 22 lung samples. Polypropylene and polyethylene were found in rock doves and ethylene vinyl acetate was found in a barn swallow. Most MPs were fragments of 28.0-70.5 μm. Our results demonstrated that in addition to dietary sources, some wild birds are exposed to MPs by inhalation, and these MPs reach the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Tokunaga
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kinya Katayama
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Takuya Kato
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
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20
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Luo Y, Naidu R, Fang C. Raman imaging to capture microplastics and nanoplastics carried by smartphones. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:160959. [PMID: 36539093 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The sources of microplastics and nanoplastics can be found almost everywhere, including being released from the activities of our daily lives. Unfortunately, the process for determining the sources of microplastics and nanoplastics is hampered by the limited techniques available for characterisation. Herewith, we advance Raman imaging by combining it with logic-based, algebra-based, PCA-based algorithms and their hybrid, which can significantly increase the signal-noise ratio and the imaging certainty, to enable the characterisation of microplastics. Consequently, we can capture and identify the microplastics carried by our smartphones. That is because, due to the friction and fragmentation etc., our clothes and the decoration trinkets that might be made of plastic fibres can release microplastics. The released microplastics stick on the phone surface, or are trapped in the charging port, speaker ports etc., towards accumulation. We estimate hundreds or thousands of microplastics can be captured and carried by a smartphone, depending on the clothing materials, pocketing styles, user habits etc. Due to the complexity of the samples (which shields the weak signals emitted from nanoplastics), further methodological improvements are required, such as optimisation of sample preparation (for better isolation of nano-sized plastics), refinement of data processing algorithms and combined use of Raman microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Luo
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Ravi Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Cheng Fang
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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21
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Boakes LC, Patmore IR, Bancone CEP, Rose NL. High temporal resolution records of outdoor and indoor airborne microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39246-39257. [PMID: 36600156 PMCID: PMC9812541 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24935-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing concern regarding airborne microplastics, but to date, studies have typically used coarse interval sampling (a day or longer) to generate deposition and concentration estimates. In this proof-of-concept study, we used a Burkard volumetric spore trap (intake 10 L min-1; recording airborne particulates onto an adhesive-coated tape moving at 2 mm hr-1) to assess whether this approach has potential to record airborne microplastics at an hourly resolution, thereby providing detailed diurnal patterns. Simultaneous sampling at outdoor and indoor locations at rural and urban sites showed clear daily and weekly patterns in microplastic concentrations which may be related to people and vehicle movement. Indoor residential concentrations of suspected microplastics were the highest (reaching hourly concentrations of 40-50 m-3), whilst rural outdoor concentrations were very low (typically 1-2 m-3 h-1). Whilst the approach shows great potential for high resolution data generation, further development is required for spectroscopic analysis and hence chemical confirmation of visual microplastic identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy C Boakes
- Environmental Change Research Centre, Department of Geography, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ian R Patmore
- Environmental Change Research Centre, Department of Geography, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Chiara E P Bancone
- Environmental Change Research Centre, Department of Geography, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Neil L Rose
- Environmental Change Research Centre, Department of Geography, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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22
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Luo P, Bai M, He Q, Peng Z, Wang L, Dong C, Qi Z, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Cai Z. A Novel Strategy to Directly Quantify Polyethylene Microplastics in PM 2.5 Based on Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2023; 95:3556-3562. [PMID: 36757384 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The broad application of plastic products has resulted in a considerable release of microplastics (MPs) into the ecosystem. While MPs in other environmental matrices (e.g., soil and water) have been studied for a long time, the atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5)-bound MPs are rarely investigated due to the lack of an appropriate analytical approach. The prevalently used visual and spectroscopic means (e.g., optical microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy) suffer from obvious drawbacks that cannot precisely detect MPs of tiny sizes and provide quantitative information. In the present study, a novel strategy that does not require sample pretreatment was developed to first effectuate accurate quantification of polyethylene MP (PE-MP) in PM2.5 based on pyrolysis-gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC-MS/MS). It featured acceptable recoveries (97%-110%), high sensitivity (LOD = 1 pg), and qualified precisions (RSD of 3%-13%). Employing this approach, for the first time, exact atmospheric concentrations of PE-MPs in PM2.5 from megacities in North (Zhengzhou and Taiyuan) and South (Guangzhou) China were obtained, and relatively serious pollution was found in Taiyuan. The 100% sample detection rates also suggested the widespread occurrence and possible human exposure risks of PM2.5-bound PE-MPs. In brief, the new strategy could conduct direct, sensitive, and accurate quantification of PE-MP in PM2.5, favoring further studies of environmental fates, distributions, and toxicities of atmospheric MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiru Luo
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Mengke Bai
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Qingyun He
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Zifang Peng
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Lingyun Wang
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Chuan Dong
- Institute of Environmental Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, P. R. China
| | - Zenghua Qi
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Wenfen Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China.,Center of Advanced Analysis and Gene Sequencing, Key Laboratory of Molecular Sensing and Harmful Substances Detection Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Yanhao Zhang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, P. R. China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, P. R. China
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23
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Galvão LS, Ferreira RR, Fernandes EMS, Correia CA, Valera TS, Dos Santos Rosa D, Wiebeck H. Analysis of selective fluorescence for the characterization of microplastic fibers: Use of a Nile Red-based analytical method to compare between natural and synthetic fibers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 443:130217. [PMID: 36283213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130217] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The scientific community has been focusing on studying and understanding the extent of damage caused by microplastics (MPs) to flora, fauna, and humans, including the environmental and health risks associated with them. MPs with different morphologies have been described in different environments, with fibers being the most common type regardless of the environment. Various methods have been used to analyze MPs. Analytical methodologies such as visual inspection, spectroscopic methods, and others currently used to study MPs are time-consuming, and only subjective results are obtained when these methods are used for sample analysis. Researchers have used various dyes, such as Nile Red (NR), a selective fluorescent stain, to differentiate the polymers from the other sample components and address these problems. Using such dyes helps distinguish polymer particles from other contaminants present in the samples. We aimed to study the analytical process, morphology, and wettability of synthetic (such as polyethylene and polypropylene) and natural (such as linen and cotton) fibers using NR to characterize the fibers. The fibers were fragmented manually, and the samples were prepared using a cryomicrotome. The prepared samples were subjected to different NR incubation times of 30 min, 24 h, and 168 h, and characterized under ultraviolet light using optical microscopy. We investigated the effect of NR on different fibers, and the samples selection using the fluorescence properties generated when the fibers adsorbed the NR dye. The wettabilities of the samples indicated that polyethylene and polypropylene were hydrophobic, while linen and cotton were hydrophilic. Both synthetic and natural fibers exhibited fluorescence properties in the presence of NR. This increased the complexity of executing the MP characterization process, indicating that combined methodologies and optical and chemical identification processes should be used to characterize plastic specimens efficiently. We summarize and discuss the results and findings and provide recommendations for future laboratory research on microplastic fibers focusing on (I) microplastic selection, (II) stain preparation, and (III) microplastic characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana S Galvão
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Laboratory of Chemistry and Manufactured Goods - Institute for Technological Research (IPT), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Rafaela R Ferreira
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences - CECS, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Emília M S Fernandes
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences - CECS, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Carla Almêda Correia
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ticiane S Valera
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Derval Dos Santos Rosa
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences - CECS, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil.
| | - Hélio Wiebeck
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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24
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Liu Z, Wang W, Liu X. Automated characterization and identification of microplastics through spectroscopy and chemical imaging in combination with chemometric: Latest developments and future prospects. Trends Analyt Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2023.116956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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25
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Aeschlimann M, Li G, Kanji ZA, Mitrano DM. Microplastics and nanoplastics in the atmosphere: the potential impacts on cloud formation processes. NATURE GEOSCIENCE 2022; 15:967-975. [PMID: 36532143 PMCID: PMC7613933 DOI: 10.1038/s41561-022-01051-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MnPs) in the atmosphere and their transport on a global scale has previously been demonstrated. However, little is known about their environmental impacts. MnPs could act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) or ice nucleating particles (INPs), affecting cloud formation processes. In sufficient quantities, they could change the cloud albedo, precipitation, and lifetime, collectively impacting the Earth's radiation balance and climate. In this perspective, we evaluate the potential impact of MnPs on cloud formation by assessing their ability to act as CCN or INPs. Based on an analysis of their physicochemical properties, we propose that MnPs can act as INPs and potentially as CCN, after environmental ageing processes, such as photochemical weathering, sorption of macromolecules or trace soluble species onto the particle surface. The actual climate impact(s) of MnPs depend on their abundance relative to other aerosols. The concentration of MnPs in the atmosphere is currently low, so they are unlikely to make a significant contribution to radiative forcing in regions exposed to other anthropogenic aerosol pollution. Nevertheless, MnPs will potentially cause non-negligible perturbations in unpolluted remote/marine clouds and generate local climate impacts, particularly in view of increased MnPs release to the environment in future. Further measurements coupled with better characterization of the physiochemical properties of MnPs will enable a more accurate assessment of climate impacts of MnPs to act as INP and CCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mischa Aeschlimann
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 16, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Guangyu Li
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 16, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zamin A. Kanji
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 16, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Corresponding Authors: Statement Authors to whom correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed: Dr. Zamin Kanji () and Prof. Dr. Denise M. Mitrano ()
| | - Denise M. Mitrano
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 16, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Corresponding Authors: Statement Authors to whom correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed: Dr. Zamin Kanji () and Prof. Dr. Denise M. Mitrano ()
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26
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Tripathy B, Dash A, Das AP. Detection of Environmental Microfiber Pollutants through Vibrational Spectroscopic Techniques: Recent Advances of Environmental Monitoring and Future Prospects. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2022:1-11. [PMID: 36370114 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2022.2144994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
A robust environmental monitoring system is highly essential for the instant detection of environmental microfiber pollutants for the sustainable management of the environment and human health. The extent of microfiber pollution is growing exponentially across the globe in both terrestrial and marine environments. An immediate and accurate environmental monitoring system is crucial to investigate the composition and distribution of these micropollutants. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy are vibrational spectroscopic techniques that have the novel ability to detect microfibers within a minute concentration from diverse environmental samples. The major micropollutants which have been analyzed are polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon 6, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate. After a detailed and critical study of the various aspects of spectroscopic analysis, the review is concluded with a comprehensive discussion of the significance of these robust methods and their application in future aspects for further preventing microfiber pollution in the marine environment. This study highlights the utilities and significance of vibrational spectroscopic detection techniques for the immediate and accurate identification of synthetic microfibers. This review also evaluated the implementation of spectroscopic methods as a precise tool for the characterization and monitoring of microfiber pollutants in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banismita Tripathy
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Akankshya Dash
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Alok Prasad Das
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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27
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Salthammer T. Microplastics and their Additives in the Indoor Environment. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202205713. [PMID: 35670249 PMCID: PMC9400961 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202205713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Analyses of air and house dust have shown that pollution of the indoor environment with microplastics could pose a fundamental hygienic problem. Indoor microplastics can result from abrasion, microplastic beads are frequently added to household products and microplastic granules can be found in artificial turf for sports activities and in synthetic admixtures in equestrian hall litter. In this context, the question arose as to what extent particulate emissions of thermoplastic materials from 3D printing should be at least partially classified as microplastics or nanoplastics. The discussion about textiles as a possible source of indoor microplastics has also been intensified. This Minireview gives an overview of the current exposure of residents to microplastics. Trends can be identified from the results and preventive measures can be derived if necessary. It is recommended that microplastics and their additives be given greater consideration in indoor environmental surveys in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry Fraunhofer WKI Bienroder Weg 54 E 38108 Braunschweig Germany
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28
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Mehmood T, Hassan MA, Faheem M, Shakoor A. Why is inhalation the most discriminative route of microplastics exposure? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:49479-49482. [PMID: 35570254 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20653-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent research suggests a definite distinction between indoor and outdoor microplastics (MPs). However, knowledge of different MP kinds and relative exposure via inhalation to humans in outdoor and indoor locations is lacking. Notably, MPs formed from various plastic types could have distinct features, and the relative health risk varies by environment. For example, outdoor polyethylene (PE) goods have recently become more popular. These products are generally of poor structure and recycled material, making them more susceptible to decay. Particularly in the outdoor environment, the constant exposure to an open-air environment increases the risk of fragmentation and atmospheric mixing and thus facilitates MP's availability. Using PE as an example, we aimed to emphasize the importance of explicitly defining exposure intensity and the health risk of each MP type, especially in contrasting situations such as indoor and outdoor. Unchecked and excessive use of these materials can be hazardous, whereas lowering or replacing PE with alternative plastics can significantly reduce potential health hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Mehmood
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan Province, China.
| | - Muhammad Azher Hassan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Muhammad Faheem
- Department of Civil Infrastructure and Environment Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Awais Shakoor
- Department of Environment and Soil Science, University of Lleida, Avinguda Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198, Lleida, Spain
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29
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Ly NH, Kim MK, Lee H, Lee C, Son SJ, Zoh KD, Vasseghian Y, Joo SW. Advanced microplastic monitoring using Raman spectroscopy with a combination of nanostructure-based substrates. JOURNAL OF NANOSTRUCTURE IN CHEMISTRY 2022; 12:865-888. [PMID: 35757049 PMCID: PMC9206222 DOI: 10.1007/s40097-022-00506-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastic (MNP) pollutants have not only impacted human health directly, but are also associated with numerous chemical contaminants that increase toxicity in the natural environment. Most recent research about increasing plastic pollutants in natural environments have focused on the toxic effects of MNPs in water, the atmosphere, and soil. The methodologies of MNP identification have been extensively developed for actual applications, but they still require further study, including on-site detection. This review article provides a comprehensive update on the facile detection of MNPs by Raman spectroscopy, which aims at early diagnosis of potential risks and human health impacts. In particular, Raman imaging and nanostructure-enhanced Raman scattering have emerged as effective analytical technologies for identifying MNPs in an environment. Here, the authors give an update on the latest advances in plasmonic nanostructured materials-assisted SERS substrates utilized for the detection of MNP particles present in environmental samples. Moreover, this work describes different plasmonic materials-including pure noble metal nanostructured materials and hybrid nanomaterials-that have been used to fabricate and develop SERS platforms to obtain the identifying MNP particles at low concentrations. Plasmonic nanostructure-enhanced materials consisting of pure noble metals and hybrid nanomaterials can significantly enhance the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra signals of pollutant analytes due to their localized hot spots. This concise topical review also provides updates on recent developments and trends in MNP detection by means of SERS using a variety of unique materials, along with three-dimensional (3D) SERS substrates, nanopipettes, and microfluidic chips. A novel material-assisted spectral Raman technique and its effective application are also introduced for selective monitoring and trace detection of MNPs in indoor and outdoor environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyễn Hoàng Ly
- Department of Chemistry, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120 Republic of Korea
| | - Moon-Kyung Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seokyeong University, Seoul, 02713 Republic of Korea
| | - Cheolmin Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seokyeong University, Seoul, 02713 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Jun Son
- Department of Chemistry, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120 Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Duk Zoh
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 Republic of Korea
| | - Yasser Vasseghian
- Department of Chemistry, Soongsil University, Seoul, 06978 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Woo Joo
- Department of Chemistry, Soongsil University, Seoul, 06978 Republic of Korea
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30
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Salthammer T. Microplastics and their Additives in the Indoor Environment. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202205713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Fraunhofer WKI Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry Bienroder Weg 54 E 38108 Braunschweig GERMANY
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31
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Xu D, Su W, Lu H, Luo Y, Yi T, Wu J, Wu H, Yin C, Chen B. A gold nanoparticle doped flexible substrate for microplastics SERS detection. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2022; 24:12036-12042. [PMID: 35537128 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp05870c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Due to overuse of plastic products, decomposed microplastics (MPs) are widely spread in aquatic ecosystems, and will cause irreparable harm to the human body through the food chain. Traditional MP detection methods require cumbersome sample pre-processing procedures and complex instruments, so there is an urgent demand to develop methods to achieve simple on-site detection. Herein, a simple, sensitive, accurate, and stable MP detection method based on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is investigated. Considering the hydrophobic problems of MPs, gold nanoparticle (AuNP) doped filter paper as a flexible SERS substrate is applied to capture MPs in the fiber pores. Benefitting from the electromagnetic (EM) hot spots generated by AuNPs, the Raman signal of MPs can be effectively enhanced. Meanwhile, the flexible SERS substrate has good sensitivity to a minimum detectable concentration of 0.1 g L-1 for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in water, and the maximum enhancement factor (EF) can reach 360.5. Furthermore, the practicability of the developed method has been proved by the successful detection of MPs in tap water and pond water. This research provides an easy process, high sensitivity, and good reproducibility method for MP detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dewen Xu
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China. .,Research Institute of Ocean and Offshore Engineering, Hohai University, Nantong, 226300, China
| | - Wei Su
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China. .,Research Institute of Ocean and Offshore Engineering, Hohai University, Nantong, 226300, China
| | - Hanwen Lu
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China. .,Research Institute of Ocean and Offshore Engineering, Hohai University, Nantong, 226300, China
| | - Yinlong Luo
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China. .,Research Institute of Ocean and Offshore Engineering, Hohai University, Nantong, 226300, China
| | - Tianan Yi
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China. .,Research Institute of Ocean and Offshore Engineering, Hohai University, Nantong, 226300, China
| | - Jian Wu
- College of Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, 410073, China.
| | - Hong Wu
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, 210003, China
| | - Cheng Yin
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China.
| | - Bingyan Chen
- College of Science, Hohai University, Changzhou, 213022, China.
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Xue W, Chen B, Hong D, Yu J, Liu G. Research on the Comprehensive Evaluation Method for the Automatic Recognition of Raman Spectrum under Multidimensional Constraint. Anal Chem 2022; 94:7628-7636. [PMID: 35584207 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c00852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Raman spectrum contains abundant substance information with fingerprint characteristics. However, due to the huge variety of substances and their complex characteristic information, it is difficult to recognize the Raman spectrum accurately. Starting from dimensions like the Raman shift, the relative peak intensity, and the overall hit ratio of characteristic peaks, we extracted and recognized the characteristics in the Raman spectrum and analyzed these characteristics from local and global perspectives and then proposed a comprehensive evaluation method for the recognition of Raman spectrum on the basis of the data fusion of the recognition results under multidimensional constraint. Based on the common spectrum database of the normal Raman and surface-enhanced Raman of thousands of substances, we analyzed the performance of the evaluation method. It shows that even for the identification of spectra from instruments of low technical specifications, the automatic recognition rate of the sample can reach 98% and above, a great improvement compared with that of the common identification algorithms, which proves the effectiveness of the comprehensive evaluation method under multidimensional constraint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendong Xue
- Department of Instrumental and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
| | - Benneng Chen
- Department of Instrumental and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
| | - Deming Hong
- Department of Instrumental and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
| | - Jiahan Yu
- Department of Instrumental and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
| | - Guokun Liu
- College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
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Mehmood T, Peng L. Polyethylene scaffold net and synthetic grass fragmentation: a source of microplastics in the atmosphere? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 429:128391. [PMID: 35236024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) implications in the atmosphere are of current global concern. Currently, there is a growing interest regarding source appointment, fate, level of toxicity, and exposure intensity of ambient air MPs. Recent data suggest that polyethylene (PE) dominates ambient MPs in China's megacities. Albeit understanding of PE sources is limited and restricted to typical sources polluting terrestrial and marine environments. However, the air is a distinct environmental component and may have some separate pollution sources as well as the relative contribution of different sources could also contrast in different environments. Urbanization and fast construction activity resulting from increased economic growth in these places might be a potential source of ambient PE. Recently, the use of scaffold netting on construction sites and synthetic grass as land covering sheets has been on the rise. Generally, these PE items are often inferior and composed of recycled material, making them more prone to degradation. Also, because these items were continually exposed to open air, there is a considerable risk of fragmentation and atmospheric mixing. Therefore, unchecked and excessive usage of these materials can be risky. Here, PE's physical and chemical characteristics, transport and health risks in urban air are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Mehmood
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, PR China 570228
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, PR China 570228.
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Kernchen S, Löder MGJ, Fischer F, Fischer D, Moses SR, Georgi C, Nölscher AC, Held A, Laforsch C. Airborne microplastic concentrations and deposition across the Weser River catchment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 818:151812. [PMID: 34808158 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) appears to be omnipresent in the atmosphere, raising concerns about dispersion across environmental compartments, ecological consequences and human health risks by inhalation. To date, data on the sources of atmospheric MP and deposition to river catchment areas are still sparse. We, therefore, took aerosol and total atmospheric deposition samples in the catchment area of the large German river Weser to estimate microplastic deposition fluxes (DFs) at six specific sites and airborne MP concentrations. Sampling in rural, suburban, and urban environments and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) was performed, aiming at a variation in airborne MP pollution and elucidating potential MP source areas. Aerosol samples were taken twice in April and October while monthly total deposition samples were collected over a period from March to October. Microplastics were detected in all analysed aerosol samples by Raman spectroscopy down to 4 μm, and in all 32 total deposition samples by μFT-IR down to 11 μm. Average MP number concentrations of 91 ± 47 m-3 were found in aerosol samples. The measured total MP number DFs ranged between 10 and 367 N m-2 day-1 (99 ± 85 mean ± SD) corresponding to total deposition of 0.05 ± 0.1 kg ha-1 per year and to an estimated 232 metric tons of plastic being deposited in the Weser River catchment annually. MP number DFs were higher in urban than rural sites. An effect of WWTPs on the MP abundance in air was not observed. Polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, and silicone fragments were found as the predominant polymer types in total deposition samples, while polyethylene particles dominated in aerosol samples. The results suggest that proximity to sources, especially to cities, increase the numbers of MP found in the atmosphere. It further indicates that atmospheric MP considerably contributes to the contamination of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarmite Kernchen
- Department of Atmospheric Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Martin G J Löder
- Department of Animal Ecology I and BayCEER, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Franziska Fischer
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Dresden 01069, Germany
| | - Dieter Fischer
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Dresden 01069, Germany
| | - Sonya R Moses
- Department of Animal Ecology I and BayCEER, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Christoph Georgi
- Chair of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin 10623, Germany
| | - Anke C Nölscher
- Department of Atmospheric Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Andreas Held
- Chair of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin 10623, Germany.
| | - Christian Laforsch
- Department of Animal Ecology I and BayCEER, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany.
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35
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Luo Y, Gibson CT, Chuah C, Tang Y, Naidu R, Fang C. Applying Raman imaging to capture and identify microplastics and nanoplastics in the garden. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127788. [PMID: 34823958 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The characterisation of microplastics is still a challenge, and the challenge is even greater for nanoplastics, of which we only have a limited knowledge so far. Herewith we employ Raman imaging to directly visualise microplastics and nanoplastics which are released from the trimmer lines during lawn mowing. The signal-noise ratio of Raman imaging is significantly increased by generating an image from hundreds or thousands of Raman spectra, rather than from a single spectrum, and is further increased by combining with the logic-based and PCA-based algorithms. The increased signal-noise ratio enables us to capture and identify microplastics and particularly nanoplastics, including plastic fragments or shreds (with diameters / widths of 80 nm - 3 µm) and nanoparticles (with diameters of < 1000 nm) that are released during the mimicked mowing process. Using Raman imaging, we estimate that thousands of microplastics (0.1-5 mm), and billions of nanoplastics (< 1000 nm), are released per minute when a line trimmer is used to mow lawn. Overall, Raman imaging provides effective characterisation of the microplastics and is particularly suitable for nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Luo
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Christopher T Gibson
- Flinders Institute for NanoScale Science and Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia 5042, Australia; Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Clarence Chuah
- Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Youhong Tang
- Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Ravi Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Cheng Fang
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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36
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Dos Santos Galvão L, Fernandes EMS, Ferreira RR, Dos Santos Rosa D, Wiebeck H. Critical steps for microplastics characterization from the atmosphere. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127668. [PMID: 34775309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The microplastics found in many environments, whether in atmospheric, terrestrial, aquatic marine, or freshwater systems, result from exaggerated consumption of plastics. These, when discarded incorrectly, persist in the environment, and degrade into many forms. Researchers have studied microplastics using many collection and characterization methodologies, yet often obtaining divergent results for the same environments. This study presents a bibliographic review of sampling and characterization methodologies for nano and microplastics in the atmospheric environment. Part I of this review presents sampling types and pre-treatment microplastics found in the air to elucidate the principal means of separating plastic species with consequent polymer identification. In Part II, Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy techniques are evaluated for their precision in microplastic identification. The study demonstrates by a systematic revision that depending on the MPs origin, certain characterization techniques are more appropriate. Considering the direct influence of sample impurities, sample pre-treatment is a critical step for correct chemical identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Dos Santos Galvão
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Laboratory of Chemistry and Manufactured Goods - Institute for Technological Research (IPT), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Emília Mori Sarti Fernandes
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences (CECS), Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Santo André, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Reis Ferreira
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences (CECS), Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Santo André, Brazil
| | - Derval Dos Santos Rosa
- Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences (CECS), Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Santo André, Brazil.
| | - Hélio Wiebeck
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Manufactured Goods - Institute for Technological Research (IPT), São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Center for Engineering, Modeling, and Applied Social Sciences (CECS), Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Santo André, Brazil.
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37
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Batool I, Qadir A, Levermore JM, Kelly FJ. Dynamics of airborne microplastics, appraisal and distributional behaviour in atmosphere; a review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150745. [PMID: 34656602 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The use of plastics is common across all aspects of human life owing to its durable and versatile nature. The generation and utilization of plastics are directly related to the anthropogenic activities. The extensive use of plastics and adoption of inappropriate waste-management frameworks has resulted in their release into the environment, where they may persist. Different environmental factors, such as, photochemical, thermo-oxidation, and biological degradation, can lead to the degradation of plastics into micro- (MPs) and nano-plastics (NPs). The behaviour and concentration of MPs in the terrestrial environment can depend on their size, density, and local atmospheric conditions. Microplastics and nanoplastics may enter the food web, carrying various organic pollutants, which bio-accumulate at different trophic levels, prompting organism health concerns. Microplastics being airborne identifies as new exposure route. Dietary and airborne exposure to MPs has led researchers to stress the importance of evaluating their toxicological potential. The primary goal of this paper is to explore the environmental fate of MPs from sources to sink in the terrestrial environment, as well as detail their potential impacts on human health. Additionally, this review article focuses on the presence of airborne microplastics, detailed sample pre-processing methods, and outlines analytical methods for their characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iffat Batool
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Abdul Qadir
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Joseph M Levermore
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, 10th Floor, Michael Uren Building, White City Campus, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Frank J Kelly
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, 10th Floor, Michael Uren Building, White City Campus, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
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38
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Rahman L, Mallach G, Kulka R, Halappanavar S. Microplastics and nanoplastics science: collecting and characterizing airborne microplastics in fine particulate matter. Nanotoxicology 2022; 15:1253-1278. [PMID: 35007468 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2021.2018065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in the environment is increasing, leading to growing concerns about human exposures and the subsequent impact on health. Although marine MP research has received significant attention in recent years, only a few studies have attempted characterization of MP in air and examined the MP uptake and influence via inhalation on human health. Moreover, the methods used for MP characterization in the marine environment require further optimization to be applicable to MP in the air. This paper details method for collecting and characterizing MP < 2.5 μm in air samples for the purposes of toxicological assessment. The first phase of the study evaluated (a) the suitability of various filter types to collect respirable airborne MP <2.5 μm, and; (b) the ability of Raman and enhanced darkfield-hyperspectral spectroscopy methods to identify MP reference standards collected from spiked filters and in cells after exposure to reference MP. In the second phase, these methods were employed to characterize MP <2.5 μm in personal, indoor and outdoor filter air samples and in cells following exposure to filter extracted material. The results showed the presence of a variety of MP in the respirable size fraction (0.1-1 µm aerodynamic diameter). Silver membrane filters were found not suitable for collecting and analyzing MP <2.5 μm. While it was easy to detect reference MP in cells post-exposure, the identity of only two types of air-borne MP was confirmed in cells. The study highlighted possible sources of artifacts and inconsistencies in analyzing airborne MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Rahman
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gary Mallach
- Water and Air Quality Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan Kulka
- Water and Air Quality Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sabina Halappanavar
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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39
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Amato-Lourenço LF, de Souza Xavier Costa N, Dantas KC, Dos Santos Galvão L, Moralles FN, Lombardi SCFS, Júnior AM, Lindoso JAL, Ando RA, Lima FG, Carvalho-Oliveira R, Mauad T. Airborne microplastics and SARS-CoV-2 in total suspended particles in the area surrounding the largest medical centre in Latin America. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 292:118299. [PMID: 34626707 PMCID: PMC8494494 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been reported in the outdoor/indoor air of urban centres, raising health concerns due to the potential for human exposure. Since aerosols are considered one of the routes of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission and may bind to the surface of airborne MPs, we hypothesize that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) could be associated with the levels of MPs in the air. Our goal was to quantify the SARS-CoV-2 RNA and MPs present in the total suspended particles (TSP) collected in the area surrounding the largest medical centre in Latin America and to elucidate a possible association among weather variables, MPs, and SARS-CoV-2 in the air. TSP were sampled from three outdoor locations in the areas surrounding a medical centre. MPs were quantified and measured under a fluorescence microscope, and their polymeric composition was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microspectroscopy coupled with attenuated total reflectance (ATR). The viral load of SARS-CoV-2 was quantified by an in-house real-time PCR assay. A generalized linear model (GzLM) was employed to evaluate the effect of the SARS-CoV-2 quantification on MPs and weather variables. TSP samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in 22 out of 38 samples at the three sites. Polyester was the most frequent polymer (80%) found in the samples. The total amount of MPs was positively associated with the quantification of SARS-CoV-2 envelope genes and negatively associated with weather variables (temperature and relative humidity). Our findings show that SARS-CoV-2 aerosols may bind to TSP, such as MPs, and facilitate virus entry into the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Fernando Amato-Lourenço
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Advanced Studies (IEA) Global Cities Program, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Kátia Cristina Dantas
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Alfredo Mendroni Júnior
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Targeted Therapy in OncoImmuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Department of Hematology, Hospital das Clínicas -HCFMUSP, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Angelo Lauletta Lindoso
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Infectiology Emilio Ribas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Augusto Ando
- Chemical Analyses Laboratory, Institute for Technological Research (IPT), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Gallego Lima
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine at Sao Paulo University, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Thais Mauad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Advanced Studies (IEA) Global Cities Program, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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40
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Fang C, Luo Y, Zhang X, Zhang H, Nolan A, Naidu R. Identification and visualisation of microplastics via PCA to decode Raman spectrum matrix towards imaging. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 286:131736. [PMID: 34352542 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
To visualise microplastics and nanoplastics via Raman imaging, we need to scan the sample surface over a pixel array to collect Raman spectra as a matrix. The challenge is how to decode this spectrum matrix to map accurate and meaningful Raman images. This study compares two decoding approaches. The first approach is used when the sample contains several known types of microplastics whose standard spectra are available. We can map the Raman intensity at selected characteristic peaks as images. In order to increase the image certainty, we employ a logic-based algorithm to merge several images that are simultaneously mapped at several characteristic peaks to one image. However, the rest of the signals other than the selected peaks are ignored, meaning a low signal-noise ratio. The second approach for decoding is used when samples are complicated and standard spectra are not available. We employ principal component analysis (PCA) to decode the spectrum matrix. By selecting principal components (PC) and generating PC score curves to mimic the Raman spectrum, we can justify and assign the suspected items to microplastics and other materials. By mapping the PC loadings as images, microplastics and other materials can be simultaneously visualised. We analyse a sample containing two known microplastics to validate the effectiveness of the PCA-based algorithm. We then apply this method to analyse "unknown" microplastics printed on paper to extract Raman spectra from the complicated background and individually assign the images to paper fabric/additive, black carbon and microplastics, etc. Overall, the PCA-based algorithm shows some advantages and suggests a further step to decode Raman spectrum matrices towards machine learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Fang
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Yunlong Luo
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Xian Zhang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Hongping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Friendly Energy Materials, Engineering Research Centre of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Sichuan, 621010, China
| | - Annette Nolan
- Ramboll Australia, The Junction, NSW, 2291, Australia
| | - Ravi Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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41
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Wright S, Borm PJA. Applying Existing Particle Paradigms to Inhaled Microplastic Particles. Front Public Health 2022; 10:868822. [PMID: 35712293 PMCID: PMC9197419 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.868822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ambient particulate pollution originating from plastic contaminates air, including indoor and urban environments. The recent discovery of ambient microplastic (MP) particles of a size capable of depositing in the thoracic region of the airway, if inhaled, has raised concern for public exposure and health impacts following lessons learned from other particle domains. Current microplastic exposure estimates are relatively low compared to total ambient particulate matter, but optimal analytical techniques and therefore data for risk and health impact assessments are lacking. In the absence of such an evidence base, this paper explores paradigms, metrics and dose-response curves developed in other particle domains as a starting point for predicting whether microplastic are of concern. Bio-persistence, presence of reactive sites and soluble toxicants are likely key properties in microplastic toxicity, but these are not measured in environmental studies and hence are challenging to interpret in exposure. Data from a MP inhalation study in rats is available but the study was conducted using conditions that do not replicate the known human health effects of PM2.5 or surrogate exposures: compromised, aged animal models are recommended to investigate potential parallels between MPs and PM2.5. One of these parallels is provided by tire wear particles (TWP), which form part of current ambient PM and are sometimes regarded as microplastic. A connection to epidemiological studies where PM filters are still available is recommended and consequently analytical advances are required. In summary, established particle domains and existing paradigms provide valuable insight and data that can be used to predict MP toxicity, and direct study design and key properties to consider in this emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Wright
- Environmental Research Group, Medical Research Council Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Stephanie Wright
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42
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Leung MML, Ho YW, Lee CH, Wang Y, Hu M, Kwok KWH, Chua SL, Fang JKH. Improved Raman spectroscopy-based approach to assess microplastics in seafood. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117648. [PMID: 34332172 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics represent an emerging environmental issue and have been found almost everywhere including seafood, raising a great concern about the ecological and human health risks they pose. This study addressed the common technical challenges in the assessment of microplastics in seafood by developing an improved protocol based on Raman spectroscopy and using the green-lipped mussel Perna viridis and the Japanese jack mackerel Trachurus japonicus as the test models. Our findings identified a type of stainless-steel filter membranes with minimal Raman interference, and a combination of chemicals that achieved 99-100% digestion efficiency for both organic and inorganic biomass. This combined chemical treatment reached 90-100% recovery rates for seven types of microplastics, on which the surface modification was considered negligible and did not affect the accuracy of polymer identification based on Raman spectra, which showed 94-99% similarity to corresponding untreated microplastics. The developed extraction method for microplastics was further combined with an automated Raman mapping approach, from which our results confirmed the presence of microplastics in P. viridis and T. japonicus collected from Hong Kong waters. Identified microplastics included polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene and poly(ethylene terephthalate), mainly in the form of fragments and fibres. Our protocol is applicable to other biological samples, and provides an improved alternative to streamline the workflow of microplastic analysis for routine monitoring purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Ming-Lok Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuen-Wa Ho
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cheng-Hao Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Youji Wang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Menghong Hu
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Kevin Wing Hin Kwok
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Institute for Future Food, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Song-Lin Chua
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Food Biological Safety Control, Shenzhen Research Institute of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Institute for Future Food, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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43
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Ivleva NP. Chemical Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Challenges, Advanced Methods, and Perspectives. Chem Rev 2021; 121:11886-11936. [PMID: 34436873 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics have become emerging particulate anthropogenic pollutants and rapidly turned into a field of growing scientific and public interest. These tiny plastic particles are found in the environment all around the globe as well as in drinking water and food, raising concerns about their impacts on the environment and human health. To adequately address these issues, reliable information on the ambient concentrations of microplastics and nanoplastics is needed. However, micro- and nanoplastic particles are extremely complex and diverse in terms of their size, shape, density, polymer type, surface properties, etc. While the particle concentrations in different media can vary by up to 10 orders of magnitude, analysis of such complex samples may resemble searching for a needle in a haystack. This highlights the critical importance of appropriate methods for the chemical identification, quantification, and characterization of microplastics and nanoplastics. The present article reviews advanced methods for the representative mass-based and particle-based analysis of microplastics, with a focus on the sensitivity and lower-size limit for detection. The advantages and limitations of the methods, and their complementarity for the comprehensive characterization of microplastics are discussed. A special attention is paid to the approaches for reliable analysis of nanoplastics. Finally, an outlook for establishing harmonized and standardized methods to analyze these challenging contaminants is presented, and perspectives within and beyond this research field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia P Ivleva
- Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377 Munich, Germany
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44
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Review of Microplastic Distribution, Toxicity, Analysis Methods, and Removal Technologies. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13192736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination has become a problem, as plastic production has increased worldwide. Microplastics are plastics with particles of less than 5 mm and are absorbed through soil, water, atmosphere, and living organisms and finally affect human health. However, information on the distribution, toxicity, analytical methods, and removal techniques for microplastics is insufficient. For clear microplastic analytical methods and removal technologies, this article includes the following: (1) The distribution and contamination pathways of microplastics worldwide are reviewed. (2) The health effects and toxicity of microplastics were researched. (3) The sampling, pretreatment, and analytical methods of microplastics were all reviewed through various related articles. (4) The various removal techniques of microplastics were categorized by wastewater treatment process, physical treatment, chemical treatment, and biological treatment. This paper will be of great help to microplastic analysis and removal techniques.
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45
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Direct radiative effects of airborne microplastics. Nature 2021; 598:462-467. [PMID: 34671134 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03864-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are now recognized as widespread contaminants in the atmosphere, where, due to their small size and low density, they can be transported with winds around the Earth1-25. Atmospheric aerosols, such as mineral dust and other types of airborne particulate matter, influence Earth's climate by absorbing and scattering radiation (direct radiative effects) and their impacts are commonly quantified with the effective radiative forcing (ERF) metric26. However, the radiative effects of airborne microplastics and associated implications for global climate are unknown. Here we present calculations of the optical properties and direct radiative effects of airborne microplastics (excluding aerosol-cloud interactions). The ERF of airborne microplastics is computed to be 0.044 ± 0.399 milliwatts per square metre in the present-day atmosphere assuming a uniform surface concentration of 1 microplastic particle per cubic metre and a vertical distribution up to 10 kilometres altitude. However, there are large uncertainties in the geographical and vertical distribution of microplastics. Assuming that they are confined to the boundary layer, shortwave effects dominate and the microplastic ERF is approximately -0.746 ± 0.553 milliwatts per square metre. Compared with the total ERF due to aerosol-radiation interactions27 (-0.71 to -0.14 watts per square metre), the microplastic ERF is small. However, plastic production has increased rapidly over the past 70 years28; without serious attempts to overhaul plastic production and waste-management practices, the abundance and ERF of airborne microplastics will continue to increase.
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46
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Francischini DS, Arruda MA. When a picture is worth a thousand words: Molecular and elemental imaging applied to environmental analysis – A review. Microchem J 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2021.106526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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47
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Sridharan S, Kumar M, Singh L, Bolan NS, Saha M. Microplastics as an emerging source of particulate air pollution: A critical review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 418:126245. [PMID: 34111744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of plastic litter exerts pressure on the environment. Microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a universal challenge due to the overexploitation of plastic products and unsystematic dumping of plastic waste. Initial studies on MPs and their implications had been confined to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, but recent research has also focused on MPs in the air. Their impacts on urban air quality and atmospheric transport to pristine habitats have emerged to be a serious concern. However, the extent and the significance of impacts of airborne particulate matter (PM) MPs on human health are not clearly understood. Further, the influence of airborne MPs on indoor and outdoor air quality remains unknown. We highlight the human health impacts of airborne PM-MPs with a special focus on the occupational safety of the industry workers, their possible influence on Air Quality Index (AQI), their potential exposure, and accumulation in the canopy/arboreal, above-canopy and atmospheric (aerial) habitats. The present review emphasizes the data limitations and knowledge gaps on the atmospheric transport and contribution of particulate plastics to the worsening of overall urban air quality and throws critical perspectives on whether atmospheric MPs pollution is trivial or an actual matter of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinidhi Sridharan
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lal Singh
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for High-Performance Soils, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Mahua Saha
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India.
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48
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Cho S, Kim Y, Chung H. Feasibility study for simple on-line Raman spectroscopic detection of microplastic particles in water using perfluorocarbon as a particle-capturing medium. Anal Chim Acta 2021; 1165:338518. [PMID: 33975705 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2021.338518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
A simple Raman spectroscopic scheme for on-line detection of microplastics (MPs) in water is demonstrated. Instead of using a conventional physical filter for MP separation, perfluorohexane (PFH, C6F14) was deployed as an MP-capturing medium in this study. When PFH was added into a water-filled L-shape tube, it formed a firm droplet at the bottom of the 90° curve due to its strong hydrophobicity and high density. When a tap water sample containing dispersed polyethylene (PE) particles was flowed through the L-tube, the contained PFH droplet effectively captured the PE particles, with an average recovery of 95.9%. Next, for reliable quantitative analysis, it was necessary to measure the entire PE particle captured PFH droplet in Raman spectral acquisition without partial spectroscopic sampling. Therefore, a wide area illumination (WAI) scheme providing a laser illumination diameter of 6 mm was adopted for sampling of the whole droplet. The intensity ratios of PE and PFH peaks in the collected spectra clearly increased with elevated quantities of dispersed PE particles. When samples of PE particles were measured in sea water, which possesses much higher ionic strength than does tap water, the shapes of PE particle-captured PFH droplets did not change, and the accuracy was maintained. Based on these results, the demonstrated analytical scheme is feasible for field analysis; further study is required to strengthen its utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Cho
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunjung Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoeil Chung
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
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49
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Takahashi T, Herdzik KP, Bourdakos KN, Read JA, Mahajan S. Selective Imaging of Microplastic and Organic Particles in Flow by Multimodal Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering and Two-Photon Excited Autofluorescence Analysis. Anal Chem 2021; 93:5234-5240. [PMID: 33729769 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c05474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is an urgent global issue. While spectroscopic techniques have been widely used for the identification of plastics collected from aquatic environments, these techniques are often labor-intensive and time-consuming due to sample collection, preparation, and long measurement times. In this study, a method for the two-dimensional detection and classification of flowing microplastic and organic biotic particles with high spatial and temporal resolutions has been proposed based on the simultaneous detection of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) and two-photon excited autofluorescence (TPEAF) signals. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polystyrene (PS), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) particles with sizes ranging from several tens to hundreds of micrometers were selectively detected in flow with an average velocity of 4.17 mm/s by CARS line scanning. With the same flow velocity, flowing PMMA and alga particles were measured using a multimodal system of CARS and TPEAF signals. The average intensities of both PMMA and alga particles in the CARS signals at a frequency of 2940 cm-1 were higher than the background level, while only algae emitted TPEAF signals. This allowed the classification of PMMA and alga particles to be successfully performed in flow by the simultaneous detection of CARS and TPEAF signals. With the proposed method, the monitoring of microplastics in a continuous water flow without collection or extraction is possible, which is game-changing for the current sampling-based microplastic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Takahashi
- Advanced Science-Technology Research Program (ASTER), Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), 2-15 Natsushima-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 2370061, Japan.,School of Chemistry and the Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.,Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo,4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 1538505, Japan
| | - Krzysztof Pawel Herdzik
- School of Chemistry and the Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Konstantinos Nikolaos Bourdakos
- School of Chemistry and the Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - James Arthur Read
- School of Chemistry and the Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Sumeet Mahajan
- School of Chemistry and the Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
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50
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Laptenok SP, Martin C, Genchi L, Duarte CM, Liberale C. Stimulated Raman microspectroscopy as a new method to classify microfibers from environmental samples. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 267:115640. [PMID: 33254658 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microfibers are reported as the most abundant microparticle type in the environment. Their small size and light weight allow easy and fast distribution, but also make it challenging to determine their chemical composition. Vibrational microspectroscopy methods as infrared and spontaneous Raman microscopy have been widely used for the identification of environmental microparticles. However, only few studies report on the identification of microfibers, mainly due to difficulties caused by their small diameter. Here we present the use of Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) microscopy for fast and reliable classification of microfibers from environmental samples. SRS microscopy features high sensitivity and has the potential to be faster than other vibrational microspectroscopy methods. As a proof of principle, we analyzed fibers extracted from the fish gastrointestinal (GIT) tract, deep-sea and coastal sediments, surface seawater and drinking water. Challenges were faced while measuring fibers from the fish GIT, due to the acidic degradation they undergo. However, the main vibrational peaks were still recognizable and sufficient to determine the natural or synthetic origin of the fibers. Notably, our results are in accordance to other recent studies showing that the majority of the analyzed environmental fibers has a natural origin. Our findings suggest that advanced spectroscopic methods must be used for estimation of the plastic fibers concentration in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey P Laptenok
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Cecilia Martin
- Red Sea Research Center and Computational Bioscience Research Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Luca Genchi
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlos M Duarte
- Red Sea Research Center and Computational Bioscience Research Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlo Liberale
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia; Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.
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