1
|
Ruan X, Ao J, Ma M, Jones RR, Liu J, Li K, Ge Q, Xu G, Liu Y, Wang T, Xie L, Wang W, You W, Wang L, Valev VK, Ji M, Zhang L. Nanoplastics Detected in Commercial Sea Salt. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9091-9101. [PMID: 38709279 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c11021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
People of all ages consume salt every day, but is it really just salt? Plastic nanoparticles [nanoplastics (NPs)] pose an increasing environmental threat and have begun to contaminate everyday salt in consumer goods. Herein, we developed a combined surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) approach that can realize the filtration, enrichment, and detection of NPs in commercial salt. The Au-loaded (50 nm) anodic alumina oxide substrate was used as the SERS substrate to explore the potential types of NP contaminants in salts. SRS was used to conduct imaging and quantify the presence of the NPs. SRS detection was successfully established through standard plastics, and NPs were identified through the match of the hydrocarbon group of the nanoparticles. Simultaneously, the NPs were quantified based on the high spatial resolution and rapid imaging of the SRS imaging platform. NPs in sea salts produced in Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the Atlantic were studied. We estimate that, depending on the location, an average person could be ingesting as many as 6 million NPs per year through the consumption of sea salt alone. The potential health hazards associated with NP ingestion should not be underestimated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejun Ruan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Jianpeng Ao
- State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Human Phenome Institute, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Yiwu Research Institute of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Minglu Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Robin R Jones
- Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials and Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K
| | - Juan Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Kejian Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Ge
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Guanjun Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Tao Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Lifang Xie
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Wenbo You
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Licheng Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Ventsislav K Valev
- Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials and Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K
| | - Minbiao Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Human Phenome Institute, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Yiwu Research Institute of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Liwu Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang Z, Geng Y, Zhou W, Shao X, Lin H, Zhou Y. Development of a multi-spectroscopy method coupling μ-FTIR and μ-Raman analysis for one-stop detection of microplastics in environmental and biological samples. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170396. [PMID: 38301783 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170396] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Current techniques for microplastics (MPs) analysis are diverse. However, most techniques have individual limitations like the detection limit of spatial resolution, susceptibility, high cost, and time-consuming detection. In this study, we proposed a multi-spectroscopy method coupling μ-FTIR and μ-Raman analysis for one-stop MPs detection, in which barium fluoride was used as the substrate alternative to the filter membrane. Compared with commonly used filter membranes (alumina, silver, PTFE and nylon membranes), the barium fluoride substrate showed better spectroscopic detection performance on microscopic observation, broader transmittable wavenumber range for μ-FTIR (750-4000 cm-1) and μ-Raman (250-4000 cm-1) detection, thus suitable for the multi-spectroscopy analysis of spiked samples. Further, the real environmental and biological samples (indoor air, bottled water and human exhaled breath) were collected and detected to verify the applicability of the developed multi-spectroscopy method. The results indicated that the average content of detected MPs could be increased by 30.4 ± 29.9 % for indoor air, 17.1 ± 13.2 % for bottled water and 38.4 ± 16.0 % for human exhaled breath, respectively in comparison with widely used μ-Raman detection, which suggested that MPs exposure might be underestimated using single spectroscopy detection. Moreover, the majority of underestimated MPs were colored and smaller sized (<50 μm) MPs, which could pose higher risks to human body. In addition, the proposed method consumed lower sample pre-treatment costs and was environmental-friendly since the barium fluoride substrate could be used repeatedly after being cleaned by organic solvent with reliable results (n = 10, CV = 10 %, ICC = 0.961), which reduced the cost of MPs detection by at least 2.49 times compared with traditional methods using silver membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhichun Zhang
- Centers for Water and Health, Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yang Geng
- Centers for Water and Health, Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of General Practice, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai 317000, China
| | - Xuehua Shao
- Department of Pediatric, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai 317000, China
| | - Hua Lin
- Bruker (Beijing) Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai 201103, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Centers for Water and Health, Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Pudong New Area centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fudan University Pudong Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanghai 200136, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li F, Liu D, Guo X, Zhang Z, Martin FL, Lu A, Xu L. Identification and visualization of environmental microplastics by Raman imaging based on hyperspectral unmixing coupled machine learning. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133336. [PMID: 38142654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous contaminants that have become an emerging pollutant of concern, potentially threatening human health and ecosystem environments. Although current detection methods can accurately identify various types of MPs, it remains necessary to develop non-destructive and rapid methods to meet growing demands for detection. Herein, we combine a hyperspectral unmixing method and machine learning to analyse Raman imaging data of environmental MPs. Five MPs types including poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), p-polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and polypropylene (PP) were visualized and identified. Individual or mixed pure or aged MPs along with environmental samples were analysed by Raman imaging. Alternating volume maximization (AVmax) combined with unconstrained least squares (UCLS) method estimated end members and abundance maps of each of the MPs in the samples. Pearson correlation coefficients (r) were used as the evaluation index; the results showed that there is a high similarity between the raw spectra and the average spectra calculated by AVmax. This indicates that Raman imaging based on machine learning and hyperspectral unmixing is a novel imaging analysis method that can directly identify and visualize MPs in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Li
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture & Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100095, China
| | - Dongsheng Liu
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Xuetao Guo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Zhenming Zhang
- College of Resource and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550003, China
| | - Francis L Martin
- Biocel UK Ltd, Hull HU10 6TS, UK; Department of Cellular Pathology, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool FY3 8NR, UK
| | - Anxiang Lu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture & Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100095, China.
| | - Li Xu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture & Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100095, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kau D, Materić D, Holzinger R, Baumann-Stanzer K, Schauer G, Kasper-Giebl A. Fine micro- and nanoplastics concentrations in particulate matter samples from the high alpine site Sonnblick, Austria. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141410. [PMID: 38346510 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141410] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
We report atmospheric fine micro- and nanoplastics concentrations from particulate matter (PM) samples of two size fractions (PM10, fine micro- and nanoplastics, and PM1, nanoplastics), which were collected at the remote high alpine station Sonnblick Observatory, Austria. Active sampling was performed from June 2021 until April 2022. Analysis was done using TD-PTR-MS to detect 6 different plastic types. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene/polypropylene carbonate (PP/PPC) were found to be the dominating species. PET was detected in almost all samples, while the other plastic types occurred more episodically. Furthermore, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS) and tire wear particles were detected in single samples. Considering the three main plastic types, average plastics concentrations were 35 and 21 ng m-³ with maximum concentrations of 165 and 113 ng m-³ for PM10 and PM1, respectively. Average polymer concentrations were higher in the summer/fall period than in winter/spring. In summer/fall, PM10 plastics concentrations were higher by a factor of 2 compared to PM1, while concentrations of both size classes were comparable in the winter/spring period. This suggests that in the colder season plastic particles arriving at the Eastern Alpine crests are mainly present as nanoplastics. The contribution of micro- and nanoplastics to organic matter at the remote site was found to be comparable to data determined at an urban site. We found significant correlations between the PET concentration and tracers originating from anthropogenic activities such as elemental carbon, nitrate, ammonium, and sulphate as well as organic carbon and arabitol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Kau
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Dušan Materić
- Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht, Utrecht University, Princetonplein 5, 3584CC, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department for Analytical Chemistry, Helmoltz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Rupert Holzinger
- Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht, Utrecht University, Princetonplein 5, 3584CC, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Anne Kasper-Giebl
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Azaaouaj S, Nachite D, Anfuso G, Er-Ramy N. Abundance and distribution of microplastics on sandy beaches of the eastern Moroccan Mediterranean coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116144. [PMID: 38340376 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116144] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) were investigated at 19 sandy beaches along the eastern Mediterranean Moroccan coast. Sediment samples (5 mm-63 μm) were analyzed to identify MPs abundance, size, shape, color and nature. MPs concentration ranged from 40 ± 7.4 to 230 ± 48.6 MPs kg-1; fibrous MPs were the most abundant (74.72 %), followed by fragments (20.26 %), films (3.27 %), pellets (1.42 %) and foams (0.33 %). Large MPs (1-5 mm) accounted for 58 %, while small (< 1 mm) for 42 %. The 1-2 mm fraction of sediments presented the greatest amounts (30.67 %) of MPs. Transparent (50 %) and blue (17 %) were most common colors and most of particles were angular and irregularly shaped. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that PE (Polyethylene), PS (Polystyrene) and PP (Polypropylene) and PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) were the most common polymers. These findings revealed a moderate level of microplastic pollution along the beaches of the eastern Moroccan Mediterranean coast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Azaaouaj
- Laboratory of Applied and Marine Geosciences, Geotechnics and Geohazards (LR3G), Faculty of Sciences, University of Abdelmalek Essaâdi, 93000 Tetouan, Morocco
| | - D Nachite
- Laboratory of Applied and Marine Geosciences, Geotechnics and Geohazards (LR3G), Faculty of Sciences, University of Abdelmalek Essaâdi, 93000 Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - G Anfuso
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Spain.
| | - N Er-Ramy
- Laboratory of Applied and Marine Geosciences, Geotechnics and Geohazards (LR3G), Faculty of Sciences, University of Abdelmalek Essaâdi, 93000 Tetouan, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lu YY, Lu L, Ren HY, Hua W, Zheng N, Huang FY, Wang J, Tian M, Huang Q. The size-dependence and reversibility of polystyrene nanoplastics-induced lipid accumulation in mice: Possible roles of lysosomes. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 185:108532. [PMID: 38422876 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) continue to accumulate in global aquatic and terrestrial systems, posing a potential threat to human health through the food chain and/or other pathways. Both in vivo and in vitro studies have confirmed that the liver is one of the main organs targeted for the accumulation of NPs in living organisms. However, whether exposure to NPs induces size-dependent disorders of liver lipid metabolism remains controversial, and the reversibility of NPs-induced hepatotoxicity is largely unknown. In this study, the effects of long-term exposure to environmentally relevant doses of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on lipid accumulation were investigated in terms of autophagy and lysosomal mechanisms. The findings indicated that hepatic lipid accumulation was more pronounced in mice exposed to 100 nm PS-NPs compared to 500 nm PS-NPs. This effect was effectively alleviated after 50 days of self-recovery for 100 nm and 500 nm PS-NPs exposure. Mechanistically, although PS-NPs exposure activated autophagosome formation through ERK (mitogen-activated protein kinase 1)/mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase) signaling pathway, the inhibition of Rab7 (RAB7, member RAS oncogene family), CTSB (cathepsin B), and CTSD (cathepsin D) expression impaired lysosomal function, thereby blocking autophagic flux and contributing to hepatic lipid accumulation. After termination of PS-NPs exposure, lysosomal exocytosis was responsible for the clearance of PS-NPs accumulated in lysosomes. Furthermore, impaired lysosomal function and autophagic flux inhibition were effectively alleviated. This might be the main reason for the alleviation of PS-NPs-induced lipid accumulation after recovery. Collectively, we demonstrate for the first time that lysosomes play a dual role in the persistence and reversibility of hepatotoxicity induced by environmental relevant doses of NPs, which provide novel evidence for the prevention and intervention of liver injury associated with nanoplastics exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yang Lu
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Lu Lu
- College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Hong-Yun Ren
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Weizhen Hua
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Nengxing Zheng
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Fu-Yi Huang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Jiani Wang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Meiping Tian
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jiao M, Wang Y, Yang F, Zhao Z, Wei Y, Li R, Wang Y. Dynamic fluctuations in plant leaf interception of airborne microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167877. [PMID: 37852496 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Plant leaves have been demonstrated to be a crucial sink of airborne microplastics (MPs). However, because of the particular shape of MPs and their relatively weak forces with leaves, the traditional accumulation model used for the adsorption of particulate matter and persistent organic pollutants may not be appropriate for describing the interception of MPs by leaves. Here, we performed a 7-day exploration of the interception of MPs by leaves in downtown Nanning. The abundances and characteristics of leaf-intercepted MPs showed dramatic diurnal fluctuations and interspecies differences (conifers > arbors > shrubs). The fluctuation (Coefficient of Variation (CV) = 0.459; abundances 0.003 ± 0.002 to 0.047 ± 0.005 n·cm-2) was even more drastic than that measured across species (CV = 0.353; 0.06 ± 0.01 to 0.40 ± 0.04 n·cm-2). Further analysis using partial least-squares path modeling demonstrated that stomatal variation and divergence largely dominated diurnal fluctuations and interspecies differences in microplastic interception by leaves, respectively. Our results highlight that the leaf-intercepted MPs is characterized by dynamic fluctuations rather than static equilibrium and reveal the important regulatory roles played by leaf micromorphological structures in intercepting MPs, thus enhancing our understanding of the interactions between terrestrial plants and airborne pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Jiao
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yijin Wang
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Fei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Information System, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yihua Wei
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Ruilong Li
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Yinghui Wang
- Institute of Green and Low Carbon Technology, Guangxi Institute of Industrial Technology, Nanning 530004, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xie L, Luo S, Liu Y, Ruan X, Gong K, Ge Q, Li K, Valev VK, Liu G, Zhang L. Automatic Identification of Individual Nanoplastics by Raman Spectroscopy Based on Machine Learning. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:18203-18214. [PMID: 37399235 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03210] [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] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of nanoplastics in the environment underscores the need for effective detection and monitoring techniques. Current methods mainly focus on microplastics, while accurate identification of nanoplastics is challenging due to their small size and complex composition. In this work, we combined highly reflective substrates and machine learning to accurately identify nanoplastics using Raman spectroscopy. Our approach established Raman spectroscopy data sets of nanoplastics, incorporated peak extraction and retention data processing, and constructed a random forest model that achieved an average accuracy of 98.8% in identifying nanoplastics. We validated our method with tap water spiked samples, achieving over 97% identification accuracy, and demonstrated the applicability of our algorithm to real-world environmental samples through experiments on rainwater, detecting nanoscale polystyrene (PS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Despite the challenges of processing low-quality nanoplastic Raman spectra and complex environmental samples, our study demonstrated the potential of using random forests to identify and distinguish nanoplastics from other environmental particles. Our results suggest that the combination of Raman spectroscopy and machine learning holds promise for developing effective nanoplastic particle detection and monitoring strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lifang Xie
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Siheng Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- State Key Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Ruan
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Kedong Gong
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Ge
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Kejian Li
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| | - Ventsislav Kolev Valev
- Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials and Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Guokun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- State Key Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Liwu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples' Republic of China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples' Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Luo S, Zhang J, de Mello JC. Detection of environmental nanoplastics via surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy using high-density, ring-shaped nanogap arrays. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1242797. [PMID: 37941723 PMCID: PMC10628472 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1242797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) are global contaminants of growing concern to the ecosystem and human health. In-the-field detection and identification of environmental micro- and nano-plastics (e-MNPs) is critical for monitoring the spread and effects of e-MNPs but is challenging due to the dearth of suitable analytical techniques, especially in the sub-micron size range. Here we show that thin gold films patterned with a dense, hexagonal array of ring-shaped nanogaps (RSNs) can be used as active substrates for the sensitive detection of micro- and nano-plastics by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), requiring only small sample volumes and no significant sample preparation. By drop-casting 0.2-μL aqueous test samples onto the SERS substrates, 50-nm polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles could be determined via Raman spectroscopy at concentrations down to 1 μg/mL. The substrates were successfully applied to the detection and identification of ∼100-nm polypropylene e-MNPs in filtered drinking water and ∼100-nm polyethylene terephthalate (PET) e-MNPs in filtered wash-water from a freshly cleaned PET-based infant feeding bottle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sihai Luo
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - John C. de Mello
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
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: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Uogintė I, Vailionytė A, Skapas M, Bolanos D, Bagurskienė E, Gruslys V, Aldonytė R, Byčenkienė S. New evidence of the presence of micro- and nanoplastic particles in bronchioalveolar lavage samples of clinical trial subjects. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19665. [PMID: 37809787 PMCID: PMC10558899 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This is the first study reporting the presence of airborne nano-sized plastic particles in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples of patients undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy. The results represent the plastic pollution content in the lower airways of the residents of Northern Europe. Airborne micro- and nanoplastic particles (MP/NPs) are widely dispersed worldwide and intrude on human organisms to various extents, with the respiratory tract being the first line of exposure. The amounts of inhaled MP/NPs, their fate in the human respiratory tract, and the effects on the health of human airways and other exposed organs remain largely unknown. In this clinical study, human BALF samples were assessed by means of optical and transmission electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM-EDX). Results show that MP/NPs levels vary in the interval of 0.14-12.8 particles per 100 ml of BALF and are present in all samples tested, mainly in a fragmented form. External pollution by MP/NPs was excluded by carefully choosing methodology and equipment. This finding is a timely addition of valuable information and stimulates further research into the biological effects of inhaled MP/NPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ieva Uogintė
- State Research Institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Agnė Vailionytė
- State Research Institute Center for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Martynas Skapas
- State Research Institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Dave Bolanos
- State Research Institute Center for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ernesta Bagurskienė
- Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics, Interventional Pulmonology and Lung Function Diagnostics Department, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vygantas Gruslys
- Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics, Interventional Pulmonology and Lung Function Diagnostics Department, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Rūta Aldonytė
- State Research Institute Center for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Steigvilė Byčenkienė
- State Research Institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mukherjee F, Shi A, Wang X, You F, Abbott NL. Liquid Crystals as Multifunctional Interfaces for Trapping and Characterizing Colloidal Microplastics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207802. [PMID: 36892170 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Identifying and removing microplastics (MPs) from the environment is a global challenge. This study explores how the colloidal fraction of MPs assemble into distinct 2D patterns at aqueous interfaces of liquid crystal (LC) films with the goal of developing surface-sensitive methods for identifying MPs. Polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microparticles are measured to exhibit distinct aggregation patterns, with addition of anionic surfactant amplifying differences in PS/PE aggregation patterns: PS changes from a linear chain-like morphology to a singly dispersed state with increasing surfactant concentration whereas PE forms dense clusters at all surfactant concentrations. Statistical analysis of assembly patterns using deep learning image recognition models yields accurate classification, with feature importance analysis confirming that dense, multibranched assemblies are unique features of PE relative to PS. Microscopic characterization of LC ordering at the microparticle surfaces leads to predict LC-mediated interactions (due to elastic strain) with a dipolar symmetry, a prediction consistent with the interfacial organization of PS but not PE. Further analysis leads to conclude that PE microparticles, due to their polycrystalline nature, possess rough surfaces that lead to weak LC elastic interactions and enhanced capillary forces. Overall, the results highlight the potential utility of LC interfaces for rapid identification of colloidal MPs based on their surface properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Mukherjee
- Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Anye Shi
- Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Fengqi You
- Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Nicholas L Abbott
- Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang J, Peng M, Lian E, Xia L, Asimakopoulos AG, Luo S, Wang L. Identification of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Nanoplastics in Commercially Bottled Drinking Water Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37220668 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c00842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics have emerged as global contaminants of serious concern to human and ecosystem health. However, identification and visualization of microplastics and particularly nanoplastics have remained elusive due to the lack of feasible and reliable analytical approaches, particularly for trace nanoplastics. Here, an efficient surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-active substrate with triangular cavity arrays is reported. The fabricated substrate exhibited high SERS performance for standard polystyrene (PS) nanoplastic detection with size down to 50 nm and a detection limit of 0.001% (1.5 × 1011 particles/mL). Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) nanoplastics collected from commercially bottled drinking water were detected with an average mean size of ∼88.2 nm. Furthermore, the concentration of the collected sample was estimated to be about 108 particles/mL by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and the annual nanoplastic consumption of human beings through bottled drinking water was also estimated to be about 1014 particles, assuming water consumption of 2 L/day for adults. The facile and highly sensitive SERS substrate provides more possibilities for detecting trace nanoplastics in an aquatic environment with high sensitivity and reliability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Miao Peng
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Enkui Lian
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lu Xia
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Sihai Luo
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
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: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Azari A, Vanoirbeek JAJ, Van Belleghem F, Vleeschouwers B, Hoet PHM, Ghosh M. Sampling strategies and analytical techniques for assessment of airborne micro and nano plastics. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 174:107885. [PMID: 37001214 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107885] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The atmosphere is pervasively polluted by microplastics and nano plastics (M/NPs) released into indoor and outdoor areas. However, various methodologies and their limitations along with non-standardization make the comparison of information concerning their prevalence difficult. Such diversity in techniques greatly limits the interpretation of results. Herein, We extracted data from publications on PubMed and Embase database up to the year 2022 regarding sampling strategies, identification methods, and reporting data for M/NPs quantification. In this review, 5 major areas for measuring airborne M/NPs have been identified including pre-sampling/ sampling/ post-sampling/ analysis/ and contamination avoidance. There are many challenges specific to each of those sections that need to be resolved through further method development and harmonization. This review mainly focuses on the different methods for collecting atmospheric M/NPs and also the analytical tools which have been used for their identification. While passive sampling is the most user-friendly method, the most precise and reproducible approach for collecting plastic particles is an active method which is directly followed by visual counting as the most common physical analysis technique. Polymers collected using visual sorting are most frequently identified by spectroscopy (FTIR; Raman). However, destructive analytical techniques (thermal degradation) also provide precise chemical information. In all cases, the methods were screened for advantages, limitations, and fieldwork abilities. This review outlines and critiques knowledge gaps, and recommendations to support standardized and comparable future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aala Azari
- Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen A J Vanoirbeek
- Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Van Belleghem
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hasselt University Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Brent Vleeschouwers
- Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter H M Hoet
- Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Manosij Ghosh
- Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ronda AC, Menéndez MC, Tombesi N, Álvarez M, Tomba JP, Silva LI, Arias AH. Microplastic levels on sandy beaches: Are the effects of tourism and coastal recreation really important? CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 316:137842. [PMID: 36640983 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.137842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the effect of tourism and other recreational activities on microplastic (MP) levels and their characteristics in the sand and surf zone of the seawater. Six sites were chosen belonging to three sandy beaches with similar geomorphologic and morphodynamic characteristics but with different tourism activities. On average, a concentration of 1133.3 ± 811.3 items/kg dry weight (d.w.) and 12.7 ± 14.9 items/m3 were found in the sand and seawater samples, respectively. Fibers and films predominated and were less than 1 mm in length. In the sand, the films mainly matched the PE polymer spectra and the fibers matched PET polymer, cotton, and indigo blue dye; in the seawater samples, PP films and PET fibers prevailed. At the Pehuén-Co - Monte Hermoso Coastal Marine MPA where the flow of tourists is low, the MP levels were the lowest and the largest particles were found, mainly blue or black fibers, with less polymer diversity, cotton and PET being the most prevalent suggesting a recent input of textile fibers to this site. Moreover, the highest concentration of MPs was found on the southern site of a beach considered to be more pristine due to negligible human activity, including the smallest size pattern, mostly composed of white films or fibers with a greater diversity of polymers, predominantly PE > PET > PP. A great occurrence of PVC white films was also found in the surf zone at this site. Proximity to the mouth of a river, littoral drift, and other point sources were identified as the main sources, indicating that, apart from the local tourism and recreational activities, other sources might play a major role in the input of MPs to sandy beaches, such as extensive/intensive agricultural land use and irrigation areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Ronda
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - María Clara Menéndez
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Norma Tombesi
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Instituto de Química del Sur (INQUISUR - CONICET/UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Mónica Álvarez
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Instituto de Química del Sur (INQUISUR - CONICET/UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Tomba
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales (INTEMA), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMP)-CONICET, Av. Colón 10850, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Leonel Ignacio Silva
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales (INTEMA), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMP)-CONICET, Av. Colón 10850, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Andrés Hugo Arias
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
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: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Tammina SK, Khan A, Rhim JW. Advances and prospects of carbon dots for microplastic analysis. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137433. [PMID: 36460157 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137433] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have become the world's most emerging pollutants today due to the ubiquitous use of plastics in everyday life and their ability to migrate from micro to nanoscale to every corner of the natural world, leading to ecological imbalances and global catastrophes. However, a standardized method for separating and analyzing microplastics from actual food or environmental samples has not been established. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a simple, fast, cost-effective, and accurate method that can accurately measure the degree of contamination of microplastics. As one of these methods, fluorometry has been proposed as a cost-effective method to detect, quantify and differentiate individual plastic particles. Therefore, this review discussed the technique for analyzing microplastics using fluorescent carbon dots (CDs). This review provided an overview of the impact of microplastics and the feasibility of using CDs to detect and analyze microplastics. In particular, this review will discuss novel microplastic analysis methods using CD and future application studies. The method using CDs will overcome the limitations of current microplastic analysis technology and may become a new method for detecting and analyzing microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sai Kumar Tammina
- Department of Food and Nutrition, BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Ajahar Khan
- Department of Food and Nutrition, BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Whan Rhim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Huang Z, Hu B, Wang H. Analytical methods for microplastics in the environment: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2023; 21:383-401. [PMID: 36196263 PMCID: PMC9521859 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-022-01525-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a recently discovered threat to ecosystems requiring the development of new analytical methods. Here, we review classical and advanced methods for microplastic analysis. Methods include visual analysis, laser diffraction particle, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermal analysis, mass spectrometry, aptamer and in vitro selection, and flow cytometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zike Huang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| | - Bo Hu
- School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3JW UK
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bhat MA, Gedik K, Gaga EO. Atmospheric micro (nano) plastics: future growing concerns for human health. AIR QUALITY, ATMOSPHERE, & HEALTH 2023; 16:233-262. [PMID: 36276170 PMCID: PMC9574822 DOI: 10.1007/s11869-022-01272-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Plastics are an integral but largely inconspicuous part of daily human routines. The present review paper uses cross-disciplinary scientific literature to examine and assess the possible effects of nanoplastics (NPs) concerning microplastics (MPs) on human health and summarizes crucial areas for future research. Although research on the nature and consequences of MPs has seen a substantial rise, only limited studies have concentrated on the atmospheric nanosized polymeric particles. However, due to the intrinsic technological complications in separating and computing them, their existence has been difficult to determine correctly. There is a consensus that these are not only existing in the environment but can get directly released or as the outcome of weathering of larger fragments, and it is believed to be that combustion can be the tertiary source of polymeric particles. NPs can have harmful consequences on human health, and their exposure may happen via ingestion, inhalation, or absorption by the skin. The atmospheric fallout of micro (nano) plastics may be responsible for contaminating the environment. Apart from this, different drivers affect the concentration of micro (nano) plastics in every environment compartment like wind, water currents, vectors, soil erosion, run-off, etc. Their high specific surface for the sorption of organic pollutions and toxic heavy metals and possible transfer between organisms at different nutrient levels make the study of NPs an urgent priority. These NPs could potentially cause physical damage by the particles themselves and biological stress by NPs alone or by leaching additives. However, there is minimal understanding of the occurrence, distribution, abundance, and fate of NPs in the environment, partially due to the lack of suitable techniques for separating and identifying NPs from complex environmental matrices. HIGHLIGHTS Micro (nano) plastics generated may reach the soil, water, and atmospheric compartments.Atmospheric currents serve as a way to transport, leading to micro (nano) plastics pollution.Exposure to micro (nano) plastics may happen via ingestion, inhalation, or absorption by the skin.Nanoplastics may be environmentally more harmful than other plastic particles; the focus should be on defining the exact size range.Visual classification of micro (nano) plastics is poor in reliability and may also contribute to microplastics being misidentified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mansoor Ahmad Bhat
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, Eskişehir Technical University, 26555 Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Kadir Gedik
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, Eskişehir Technical University, 26555 Eskişehir, Turkey
- Environmental Research Center (ÇEVMER), Eskişehir Technical University, 26555 Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Eftade O. Gaga
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, Eskişehir Technical University, 26555 Eskişehir, Turkey
- Environmental Research Center (ÇEVMER), Eskişehir Technical University, 26555 Eskişehir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
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: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [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.
Collapse
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 ()
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jiao M, Wang Y, Li T, Li R, Liu B. Riverine microplastics derived from mulch film in Hainan Island: Occurrence, source and fate. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 312:120093. [PMID: 36064060 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Mulch film (MF) residues is an important source of microplastics (MPs) in farmland, but its transportation risk to the wider environment was still unknown. Some researches have pursued the sources of MPs found in exorheic rivers. Even so, a systematic study depicting the occurrence, source and fate of microplastics derived from mulch films (MPMF), the crucial component of MPs in farmlands, in exorheic rivers still lacking. Here, the combination of UV-Vis Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to identify the full-size MPMF (1-5000 μm) in field sediment samples collected by single-diagonal systematic sampling. This study verified that MPMF, a polyethylene-matrix composite doped with additives, contributed a considerable part of MPs detected in upstream farmland soil and riverine sediments, and even had an abundance of 38 ± 11 items/kg to 82 ± 15 items/kg, accounting for 9.0%-13.7% of the total MPs in estuary sediments. Notably, upstream farmland was identified to the main source of the riverine MPMF by partial least square path modeling (PLS-PM), contributing to 94.7% of MPMF in riverside sediments and 85.0% of MPMF in estuary sediments. Our study first demonstrates that MPMF constitutes a non-negligible component of MPs in estuarine sediments and underlines the urgency of strengthening the management of MPs pollution in drainage areas with a high agricultural intensity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Jiao
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Yijin Wang
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Tiezhu Li
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Ruilong Li
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Beibei Liu
- Institute of Environmental and Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, 571101, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chow JC, Watson JG, Wang X, Abbasi B, Reed WR, Parks D. Review of Filters for Air Sampling and Chemical Analysis in Mining Workplaces. MINERALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:10.3390/min12101314. [PMID: 37180428 PMCID: PMC10174218 DOI: 10.3390/min12101314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This review considers the use of filters to sample air in mining workplace environments for dust concentration measurement and subsequent analysis of hazardous contaminants, especially respirable crystalline silica (RCS) on filters compatible with wearable personal dust monitors (PDM). The review summarizes filter vendors, sizes, costs, chemical and physical properties, and information available on filter modeling, laboratory testing, and field performance. Filter media testing and selection should consider the characteristics required for mass by gravimetry in addition to RCS quantification by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) or Raman spectroscopic analysis. For mass determination, the filters need to have high filtration efficiency (≥99% for the most penetrable particle sizes) and a reasonable pressure drop (up to 16.7 kPa) to accommodate high dust loading. Additional requirements include: negligible uptake of water vapor and gaseous volatile compounds; adequate particle adhesion as a function of particle loading; sufficient particle loading capacity to form a stable particle deposit layer during sampling in wet and dusty environments; mechanical strength to withstand vibrations and pressure drops across the filter; and appropriate filter mass compatible with the tapered element oscillating microbalance. FTIR and Raman measurements require filters to be free of spectral interference. Furthermore, because the irradiated area does not completely cover the sample deposit, particles should be uniformly deposited on the filter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith C. Chow
- Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89511, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - John G. Watson
- Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89511, USA
| | - Xiaoliang Wang
- Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89511, USA
| | - Behrooz Abbasi
- Department of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Wm. Randolph Reed
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA
| | - David Parks
- Spokane Mining Research Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Spokane, WA 99207, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yang Q, Zhang S, Su J, Li S, Lv X, Chen J, Lai Y, Zhan J. Identification of Trace Polystyrene Nanoplastics Down to 50 nm by the Hyphenated Method of Filtration and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Based on Silver Nanowire Membranes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:10818-10828. [PMID: 35852947 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c02584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are emerging pollutants that pose potential threats to the environment and organisms. However, in-depth research on nanoplastics has been hindered by the absence of feasible and reliable analytical methods, particularly for trace nanoplastics. Herein, we propose a hyphenated method involving membrane filtration and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to analyze trace nanoplastics in water. In this method, a bifunctional Ag nanowire membrane was employed to enrich nanoplastics and enhance their Raman spectra in situ, which omitted sample transfer and avoided losing smaller nanoplastics. Good retention rates (86.7% for 50 nm and approximately 95.0% for 100-1000 nm) and high sensitivity (down to 10-7 g/L for 50-1000 nm and up to 105 SERS enhancement factor) of standard polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics were achieved using the proposed method. PS nanoplastics with concentrations from 10-1 to 10-7 g/L and sizes ranging from 50 to 1000 nm were successfully detected by Raman mapping. Moreover, PS micro- and nanoplastics in environmental water samples collected from the seafood market were also detected at the μg/L level. Consequently, the proposed method provides more possibilities for analyzing low-concentration nanoplastics in aquatic environments with high enrichment efficiency, minimal sample loss, and high sensitivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Shaoying Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Jie Su
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Shu Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Xiaochen Lv
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Jing Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yongchao Lai
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250117, China
| | - Jinhua Zhan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Jenner LC, Rotchell JM, Bennett RT, Cowen M, Tentzeris V, Sadofsky LR. Detection of microplastics in human lung tissue using μFTIR spectroscopy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 831:154907. [PMID: 35364151 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 309] [Impact Index Per Article: 154.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Airborne microplastics (MPs) have been sampled globally, and their concentration is known to increase in areas of high human population and activity, especially indoors. Respiratory symptoms and disease following exposure to occupational levels of MPs within industry settings have also been reported. It remains to be seen whether MPs from the environment can be inhaled, deposited and accumulated within the human lungs. This study analysed digested human lung tissue samples (n = 13) using μFTIR spectroscopy (size limitation of 3 μm) to detect and characterise any MPs present. In total, 39 MPs were identified within 11 of the 13 lung tissue samples with an average of 1.42 ± 1.50 MP/g of tissue (expressed as 0.69 ± 0.84 MP/g after background subtraction adjustments). The MP levels within tissue samples were significantly higher than those identified within combined procedural/laboratory blanks (n = 9 MPs, with a mean ± SD of 0.53 ± 1.07, p = 0.001). Of the MPs detected, 12 polymer types were identified with polypropylene, PP (23%), polyethylene terephthalate, PET (18%) and resin (15%) the most abundant. MPs (unadjusted) were identified within all regions of the lung categorised as upper (0.80 ± 0.96 MP/g), middle/lingular (0.41 ± 0.37 MP/g), and with significantly higher levels detected in the lower (3.12 ± 1.30 MP/g) region compared with the upper (p = 0.026) and mid (p = 0.038) lung regions. After subtracting blanks, these levels became 0.23 ± 0.28, 0.33 ± 0.37 and 1.65 ± 0.88 MP/g respectively. The study demonstrates the highest level of contamination control and reports unadjusted values alongside different contamination adjustment techniques. These results support inhalation as a route of exposure for environmental MPs, and this characterisation of types and levels can now inform realistic conditions for laboratory exposure experiments, with the aim of determining health impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Jenner
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Jeanette M Rotchell
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Robert T Bennett
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham HU16 5JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Cowen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham HU16 5JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Vasileios Tentzeris
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham HU16 5JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Laura R Sadofsky
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Luo X, Wang Z, Yang L, Gao T, Zhang Y. A review of analytical methods and models used in atmospheric microplastic research. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 828:154487. [PMID: 35278538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154487] [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: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in the environment has become a source of concern in recent years. The transport and deposition of suspended atmospheric microplastics play an important role in the global linkage of microplastic sources and sinks. In this review, we summarized recent research progress on sampling devices, pretreatments, and identification methods for atmospheric microplastics. The total suspended particles and atmospheric deposition, including dust, rainfall, and snow samples, are the environmental carriers for atmospheric microplastic studies. There are active and passive sampling methods. Pretreatment depends on sample types and identification methods and includes sieving, digestion, density separation, filtration, and drying. The measured features for atmospheric microplastics include particle size distributions, shapes, colors, surface morphology, and polymer compositions, using stereomicroscopes, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Laser direct infrared spectroscopy and thermochemical methods coupled with mass spectrometry are potential methods for identifying atmospheric microplastics. Currently, models for estimating the fluxes of atmospheric microplastic emission, transport, and deposition are in the initial stages of development; their implementation will enhance our understanding of the "microplastic cycle" globally based on simulated and observed data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 10049, China
| | - Zhaoqing Wang
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ling Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tanguang Gao
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yulan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fang M, Liao Z, Ji X, Zhu X, Wang Z, Lu C, Shi C, Chen Z, Ge L, Zhang M, Dahlgren RA, Shang X. Microplastic ingestion from atmospheric deposition during dining/drinking activities. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 432:128674. [PMID: 35299106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Human-health risks from microplastics have attracted considerable attention, but little is known about human-exposure pathways and intensities. Recent studies posited that inhalation of atmospheric microplastics was the dominant human-exposure pathway. Herein, our study identified that atmospheric microplastics ingested from deposition during routine dining/drinking activities represent another important exposure pathway. We measured abundances of atmospheric-deposited microplastics of up to 105 items m-2 d-1 in dining/drinking venues, with 90% smaller than 100 µm and a dominance of amorphous fragments rather than fibers. Typical work-life scenarios projected an annual ingestion of 1.9 × 105 to 1.3 × 106 microplastics through atmospheric deposition on diet, with higher exposure rates for indoor versus outdoor dining/drinking settings. Ingestion of atmospheric-deposited microplastics through diet was similar in magnitude to presumed inhalation exposure, but 2-3 orders of magnitude greater than direct ingestion from food sources. Simple mitigation strategies (e.g., covering and rinsing dishware) can substantially reduce the exposure of atmospheric deposition microplastics through diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Fang
- 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
| | - Xuan Zhu
- 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
| | - Changjie Lu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Chenwei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, 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
| | - Liyun Ge
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| | - 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
| | - Randy A Dahlgren
- 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.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xie Y, Li Y, Feng Y, Cheng W, Wang Y. Inhalable microplastics prevails in air: Exploring the size detection limit. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 162:107151. [PMID: 35228011 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in the environment, including the atmosphere. Yet, the size detection limit in measuring airborne MPs undermines the determination of the human MP exposure level through inhalation and also restricts the understanding of airborne MPs pollution behavior. To comprehensively and accurately assess the MPs pollution features in air, we demonstrate a qualitative and quantitively method using Raman microscopy to characterize the suspended atmospheric MPs. Our methodology has achieved detailed characterization of MPs down to 1 μm and ensured all the MPs to be counted regardless of their transparency. Further, a case study of indoor and outdoor samples from eight sampling sites were conducted in Shanghai, China. Inhalable MPs prevails in all samples with higher concentrations occur indoors. Indoor MPs varied strongly in composition compare to outdoor. Ventilation played an important role in lowering indoor MPs concentrations, and MPs in better ventilated indoors displayed similar distribution patterns as outdoors. MPs detected were mainly Polyethylene, Polyester, Phenolic Resin and Polyvinyl chloride. 77% of the Polyethylene detected were transparent films, suggesting the fragmentation from PE film products, such as plastic bags and cling films. Our work confirmed the widespread existences of inhalable MPs in air and provides solid foundations for future studies to understand the realistic MPs exposure conditions through inhalation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yichun Xie
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Yan Feng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Wei Cheng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China.
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China; The Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abbasi S, Rezaei M, Ahmadi F, Turner A. Atmospheric transport of microplastics during a dust storm. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 292:133456. [PMID: 34973256 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133456] [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: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Dust storms are common events in arid and semi-arid regions that have a wide range of impacts on the environment and human health. This study addresses the presence, characteristics and potential sources of microplastics (MPs) in such events by analysing MPs deposited with dust particles in the metropolis of Shiraz, southwest Iran, following an intense storm in May 2018. At 22 locations throughout the city, MP concentrations on a number basis ranged from 0.04 to 1.06 per g of dust (median = 0.31 MP g-1). Particles were mainly fibrous, with a mean diameter of about 20 μm and >60% under 100 μm in length, and polymer makeup was dominated by nylon, polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate. Examination of selected MPs by scanning electron microscopy revealed varying degrees of weathering and contamination by extraneous geogenic particles amongst the samples. Using published MP concentrations in urban dusts and remote, arid soils, we estimate that between about 0.1 and 5% of MPs deposited by the dust storm are derived from local sources within the metropolis, with the remainder arising from more distant sources. HYSPLIT modelling, satellite imagery and published geochemical signatures of regional dust particles suggest that the deserts of Saudi Arabia constitute the principal distal and transboundary source. Dust storms may represent a significant means by which MPs are transported and redistributed in arid and semi-arid environments and an important source of MPs to the oceans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajjad Abbasi
- Department of Earth Sciences, College of Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, 71454, Iran; Department of Radiochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, 20-031, Poland.
| | - Mahrooz Rezaei
- Meteorology and Air Quality Group, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Department of Soil Science, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnaz Ahmadi
- Department of Soil Science, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Haixin Z, Yimei H, Shaoshan A, Haohao L, Xiaoqian D, Pan W, Mengyuan F. Land-use patterns determine the distribution of soil microplastics in typical agricultural areas on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127806. [PMID: 34802828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Land-use patterns may affect the distribution characteristics of soil microplastics (MPs), but the effects in the agricultural areas of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are still unknown. This study investigated the abundance of MPs in facility, farmland, grassland, and orchard soils in the Qaidam basin and Hehuang valley of Qinghai Province and analyzed its shape, size, color, and polymer composition distribution characteristics from 105 sites. The average abundance of MPs in facility, farmland, and grassland soils in the Hehuang valley were 2795.7, 1860.5, and 910.9 items kg-1, which were 1.33, 4.84, and 1.50 times higher than those in the Qaidam basin, respectively. Orchard soils had 1322.2 items kg-1 MPs. Soil MPs abundance in grassland and farmland was positively correlated with precipitation and 0 cm ground temperature; and negatively correlated with average wind speed (p < 0.05). Both the particle size of < 1 mm and pellet-shape MPs abundance showed a positive correlation with SOC (p < 0.05). Land-use patterns had the most significant affecting force (51.35%) on soil MPs abundance (p < 0.0001). Hence, land-use patterns, regional climate, and soil properties influence the distribution characteristics of soil MPs; besides, the land-use patterns were dominant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Haixin
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100 Shaanxi, China
| | - Huang Yimei
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100 Shaanxi, China.
| | - An Shaoshan
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Haohao
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100 Shaanxi, China
| | - Deng Xiaoqian
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wang Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fan Mengyuan
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100 Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
A Preliminary Assessment of Size-Fractionated Microplastics in Indoor Aerosol—Kuwait’s Baseline. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10020071. [PMID: 35202257 PMCID: PMC8878012 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10020071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The omnipresence of microplastic (MP) in various environmental samples, including aerosols, has raised public health concerns; however, there is presently very limited information on MPs in indoor aerosol. This paper presents a unique dataset where smaller MPs have been sampled using a six-stage cascade impactor from indoor environments in Kuwait. The MP concentration in the indoor air varied between 3.2 and 27.1 particles m−3, and the relative MP concentration decreased linearly from the lowest to the highest size fraction. A significant effect of location was observed for the total number of MPs (F2,14 = 5.80, p = 0.02) and the inhalable fraction (F2,14 = 8.38, p = 0.005), while location had no effect on the respirable fraction (F2,14 = 0.54, p = 0.60). A significant effect of the type of air conditioning used was also observed for the total number of MPs (F2,19 = 5.58, p = 0.01) and the inhalable fraction (F2,19 = 6.45, p = 0.008), while location had no effect on the respirable fraction (F2,19 = 1.30, p = 0.30). For the total number of MPs and the inhalable fraction, the concentration was significantly higher for the split unit air-conditioning as compared to the central air-conditioning plants. The presence/absence of carpets had no significant effect on the MP concentrations (total: F1,19 = 4.08, p = 0.06; inhalable: F1,19 = 3.03, p = 0.10; respirable: F1,19 = 4.27, p = 0.05). The shape was dominantly fibers, with few fragments in lower size fractions. These datasets represent the first baseline information for Kuwait, and the smaller MPs in all the samples further underscore the need to develop standardized protocols of MP collection in the ≤2.5 µm fraction that can have more conspicuous health implications.
Collapse
|
35
|
Uddin S, Fowler SW, Habibi N, Behbehani M. Micro-Nano Plastic in the Aquatic Environment: Methodological Problems and Challenges. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030297. [PMID: 35158621 PMCID: PMC8833669 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastic research has become a buzz word. It is seen as one of the most pressing issues of Anthropocene contamination. There is certainly no doubt about the ubiquitous presence of microplastic (MP) in almost all environmental matrices. However, the validity of considering them as a vector for contaminants needs some reconsideration, there are other more potent pathways. Their effect on marine biota also calls for some realistic experiments with environmental concentrations of MP and nanoplastic (NP). It has been observed that in most published literature, polymer characterization is performed. Is it necessary to do, or will merely finding and confirming the particle as plastic suffice for environmental research? Harmonization of protocols is necessary, and there is likely a need for some inter-laboratory comparison exercises in order to produce comparable data and reliable assessments across regions. Samples collected from the same area using different techniques show an order of magnitude difference in MP concentration. The issue of nanoplastic is more contentious; are we technologically ready to identify NP in environmental samples?
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saif Uddin
- Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Safat 13109, Kuwait; (N.H.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +965-24989224
| | - Scott W. Fowler
- School of Maine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000, USA;
- Institute Bobby, 8 Allée des Orangers, 06320 Cap d’Ail, France
| | - Nazima Habibi
- Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Safat 13109, Kuwait; (N.H.); (M.B.)
| | - Montaha Behbehani
- Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Safat 13109, Kuwait; (N.H.); (M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tian M, Morais CLM, Shen H, Pang W, Xu L, Huang Q, Martin FL. Direct identification and visualisation of real-world contaminating microplastics using Raman spectral mapping with multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 422:126892. [PMID: 34425427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contamination is ubiquitous in environmental matrices worldwide. Moreover these pollutants can be ingested by organisms and transported to organs via the circulatory system. Although efficient methods for the analysis of MPs derived from environment matrices and organisms' tissue samples have been developed after special sample pre-treatment, there remains a need for an optimised approach allowing direct identification and visualisation these MPs in real environmental matrices and organismal samples. Herein, we firstly used a multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) analysis of Raman hyperspectral imaging data to direct identification and visualisation of MPs in a complex serum background. Four common MPs types including polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were identified and visualised either individually or in mixtures within spiked samples at an 8-μm spatial resolution. Moreover, Raman imaging based on MCR-ALS was successfully applied in fish faeces biological samples and environmental sand samples for in situ MPs identification directly without washing or removal of organic matter. The current results demonstrate Raman imaging based on MCR-ALS as a novel imaging approach for direct identification and visualisation of MPs, through extraction of MPs' chemical spectra within a complicated biological or environmental background whilst eliminating overlapping Raman bands and fluorescence interference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Tian
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Camilo L M Morais
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Heqing Shen
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Weiyi Pang
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Li Xu
- Beijing Research Center for Agricultural Standards and Testing, Beijing Academy of Agriculture & Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100095, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Li P, Lai Y, Li Q, Dong L, Tan Z, Yu S, Chen Y, Sharma VK, Liu J, Jiang G. Total Organic Carbon as a Quantitative Index of Micro- and Nano-Plastic Pollution. Anal Chem 2022; 94:740-747. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c03114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yujian Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Qingcun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lijie Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Zhiqiang Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Sujuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yongsheng Chen
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Virender K. Sharma
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, 212 Adriance Lab Rd. 1266 TAMU, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Jingfu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Allen S, Allen D, Baladima F, Phoenix VR, Thomas JL, Le Roux G, Sonke JE. Evidence of free tropospheric and long-range transport of microplastic at Pic du Midi Observatory. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7242. [PMID: 34934062 PMCID: PMC8692471 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27454-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The emerging threat of atmospheric microplastic pollution has prompted researchers to study areas previously considered beyond the reach of plastic. Investigating the range of atmospheric microplastic transport is key to understanding the global extent of this problem. While atmospheric microplastics have been discovered in the planetary boundary layer, their occurrence in the free troposphere is relatively unexplored. Confronting this is important because their presence in the free troposphere would facilitate transport over greater distances and thus the potential to reach more distal and remote parts of the planet. Here we show evidence of 0.09-0.66 microplastics particles/m3 over 4 summer months from the Pic du Midi Observatory at 2877 meters above sea level. These results exhibit true free tropospheric transport of microplastic, and high altitude microplastic particles <50 µm (aerodynamic diameter). Analysis of air/particle history modelling shows intercontinental and trans-oceanic transport of microplastics illustrating the potential for global aerosol microplastic transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S. Allen
- grid.11984.350000000121138138Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability and Public Health (WESP), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G11XJ UK ,grid.508721.9Laboratoire écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France ,grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Geography/Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - D. Allen
- grid.11984.350000000121138138Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability and Public Health (WESP), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G11XJ UK ,grid.508721.9Laboratoire écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | - F. Baladima
- grid.5676.20000000417654326Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, IRD, Grenoble INP, IGE, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - V. R. Phoenix
- grid.11984.350000000121138138Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability and Public Health (WESP), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G11XJ UK
| | - J. L. Thomas
- grid.5676.20000000417654326Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, IRD, Grenoble INP, IGE, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - G. Le Roux
- grid.508721.9Laboratoire écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | - J. E. Sonke
- grid.15781.3a0000 0001 0723 035XGéosciences Environnement Toulouse, CNRS/IRD/Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, 3 France
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Torres-Agullo A, Karanasiou A, Moreno T, Lacorte S. Overview on the occurrence of microplastics in air and implications from the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 800:149555. [PMID: 34426330 PMCID: PMC8520475 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution from microplastics (MPs) in air is a matter of growing concern because of human health implications. Airborne MPs can be directly and continuously inhaled in air environments. Especially high MPs contributions can be found in indoor air due to the erosion and breakage of consumer, domestic and construction products, although there is little information available on their sources and concentrations and the risks they might pose. This is in part due to the fact that sampling and analysis of airborne MPs is a complex and multistep procedure where techniques used are not yet standardized. In this study, we provide an overview on the presence of MPs in indoor air, potential health impacts, the available methods for their sampling and detection and implications from the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Torres-Agullo
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Karanasiou
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - T Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - S Lacorte
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Jeon Y, Kim D, Kwon G, Lee K, Oh CS, Kim UJ, You J. Detection of nanoplastics based on surface-enhanced Raman scattering with silver nanowire arrays on regenerated cellulose films. Carbohydr Polym 2021; 272:118470. [PMID: 34420729 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has steadily become a global issue due to its ubiquity and degradation into micro and nanoparticles. Herein, we report the construction of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active array substrates with regenerated cellulose (RC) and plasmonic nanoparticles (AuNRs and AgNWs) via a simple vacuum-assisted filtration method using a silicon mask for rapid nanoplastic detection. The AgNWs/RC film exhibited a SERS intensity of crystal violet approximately six times higher than that of the AuNRs/RC film with a high enhancement factor of 1.8 × 107. Moreover, the AgNWs/RC film exhibits a better SERS activity for polystyrene nanoplastic detection than the AuNRs/RC film because the dense AgNW network structures are well suited for nanoplastic detection. The AgNWs/RC film can detect PS nanoplastics down to 0.1 mg/mL with a good reproducibility of the SERS signal. The low-cost, flexible, and highly sensitive AgNWs/RC films could provide an efficient and rapid SERS-based method for nanoplastic detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youngho Jeon
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Dabum Kim
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Goomin Kwon
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Kangyun Lee
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Chang-Sik Oh
- Department of Horticultural Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Ung-Jin Kim
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea
| | - Jungmok You
- Department of Plant & Environmental New Resources and Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Allen D, Allen S, Le Roux G, Simonneau A, Galop D, Phoenix VR. Temporal Archive of Atmospheric Microplastic Deposition Presented in Ombrotrophic Peat. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2021; 8:954-960. [PMID: 34778488 PMCID: PMC8582260 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.1c00697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ombrotrophic peatland-fed solely from atmospheric deposition of nutrients and precipitation-provide unique archives of atmospheric pollution and have been used to illustrate trends and changes in atmospheric trace element composition from the recent decadal to the Holocene period. With the acknowledgment of atmosphere plastic pollution, analysis of ombrotrophic peat presents an opportunity to characterize the historical atmospheric microplastic pollution prevalence. Ombrotrophic peatland is often located in comparatively pristine mountainous and boreal areas, acting as sentinels of environmental change. In this paired site study, a Sphagnum ombrotrophic peat record is used for the first time to identify the trend of atmospheric microplastic pollution. This high altitude, remote location ombrotrophic peat archive pilot study identifies microplastic presence in the atmospheric pollution record, increasing from <5(±1) particles/m2/day in the 1960s to 178(±72) particles/m2/day in 2015-2020 in a trend similar to the European plastic production and waste management. Compared to this catchment's lake sediment archive, the ombrotrophic peat core appears to be effective in collecting and representing atmospheric microplastic deposition in this remote catchment, collecting microplastic particles that are predominantly ≤20 μm. This study suggests that peat records may be a useful tool in assessing the past quantities and trends of atmospheric microplastic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D. Allen
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G11XJ, Scotland
- Laboratoire
écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse 31062, France
| | - S. Allen
- Laboratoire
écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse 31062, France
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, England
- Department
of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Dalhousie
University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - G. Le Roux
- Laboratoire
écologie fonctionnelle et environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse 31062, France
| | - A. Simonneau
- ISTO, Université d’Orléans, CNRS UMR 7327, BRGM, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - D. Galop
- GEODE, Université Toulouse
Jean Jaurès, UMR-CNRS 5602, Toulouse 31062, France
- LabEx
DRIIHM, OHM Pyrénées Haut
Vicdessos, ANR-11-LABX-0010,
INEE-CNRS, Paris 75000, France
| | - V. R. Phoenix
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G11XJ, Scotland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Label-free identification of microplastics in human cells: dark-field microscopy and deep learning study. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 414:1297-1312. [PMID: 34718837 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03749-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The development of an automatic method of identifying microplastic particles within live cells and organisms is crucial for high-throughput analysis of their biodistribution in toxicity studies. State-of-the-art technique in the data analysis tasks is the application of deep learning algorithms. Here, we propose the approach of polystyrene microparticle classification differing only in pigmentation using enhanced dark-field microscopy and a residual neural network (ResNet). The dataset consisting of 11,528 particle images has been collected to train and evaluate the neural network model. Human skin fibroblasts treated with microplastics were used as a model to study the ability of ResNet for classifying particles in a realistic biological experiment. As a result, the accuracy of the obtained classification algorithm achieved up to 93% in cell samples, indicating that the technique proposed will be a potent alternative to time-consuming spectral-based methods in microplastic toxicity research.
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhu X, Huang W, Fang M, Liao Z, Wang Y, Xu L, Mu Q, Shi C, Lu C, Deng H, Dahlgren R, Shang X. Airborne Microplastic Concentrations in Five Megacities of Northern and Southeast China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:12871-12881. [PMID: 34559513 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Airborne microplastics (MPs) are receiving increasing attention due to their ubiquitous nature and the potential human health consequences resulting from inhalation. The limited data for airborne MP concentrations vary widely among studies (∼4 orders of magnitude), but comparisons are tenuous due to the inconsistent collection and detection/enumeration methodologies among studies. Herein, we used uniform methodologies to obtain comparable airborne MP concentration data to assess MP exposure intensity in five Chinese megacities. Airborne MP concentrations in northern cities (358 ± 132 items/m3) were higher than those in southeast cities (230 ± 94 items/m3) but of a similar order of magnitude, unlike previous studies. The majority (94.7%) of MPs found in air samples were smaller than 100 μm, and the main shape of airborne MPs was fragments (88.2%). Polyethylene, polyester, and polystyrene were the dominant polymers comprising airborne MPs. No consistent relationships were detected between airborne MP concentration and typical socioeconomic indices, and the spatial and diurnal patterns for airborne MPs were different from various components of air quality indices (PM2.5, PM10, etc.). These findings reflect the contrasting source/generation dynamics between airborne MPs and other airborne pollutants. Maximum annual exposure of humans to airborne MPs was estimated in the range of 1-2 million/year in these megacities, highlighting the need for additional research examining the human health risks from the inhalation of airborne MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics and Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Mingzhu Fang
- 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
| | - Yiqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Lisha Xu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qianqian Mu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Chenwei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Changjie Lu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Huanhuan Deng
- 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, California 95616, United States
| | - Xu Shang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kapelewska J, Klekotka U, Żadziłko E, Karpińska J. Simultaneous sorption behaviors of UV filters on the virgin and aged micro-high-density polyethylene under environmental conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147979. [PMID: 34082205 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The simultaneous sorption behaviors of four analytes from the UV filters group, benzophenone (BPh), 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4MBC), benzophenone 3 (BPh3), and benzophenone 2 (BPh2) on virgin and aged high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with a particle size of 125 μm in milliQ and river water were examined in this study. The aging processes of HDPE particles were carried out with the use of simulated sunlight. Conducted research revealed that the sorption of UV filters on HDPE particles follows pseudo-second-order kinetics. A Temkin isothermal model best described the adsorption process for 4BMC, BPh, BPh3, BPh2 on aged HDPE in river water, and 4MBC, BPh, BPh3 on virgin HDPE in milliQ water. The adsorption of BPh2 onto virgin MPs in milliQ water was consistent with the Langmuir isothermal model. Environmental conditions and physicochemical properties of analytes influenced the sorption mechanism between UV filters and MPs particles. It was observed that the main mechanisms responsible for the sorption of BPh, 4MBC, BPh3, and BPh2 on the surface of HDPE are hydrophobic interactions, that may change through the involvement of electrostatic interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Kapelewska
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland.
| | - Urszula Klekotka
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Żadziłko
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Joanna Karpińska
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Microplastics in the atmospheric compartment: a comprehensive review on methods, results on their occurrence and determining factors. Curr Opin Food Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
47
|
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]
|
48
|
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: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Liao Z, Ji X, Ma Y, Lv B, Huang W, Zhu X, Fang M, Wang Q, Wang X, Dahlgren R, Shang X. Airborne microplastics in indoor and outdoor environments of a coastal city in Eastern China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 417:126007. [PMID: 33992007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in marine and terrestrial environments have been intensively studied, but the dynamics of airborne MPs remains limited. Existing studies on atmospheric MPs are mostly derived from collection of atmospheric deposition, whereas direct measurements of airborne MPs are scarce. However, the abundance of airborne MPs is more relevant for evaluating human inhalation exposure risk. Herein, airborne MPs in indoor and outdoor environments from urban and rural areas of a coastal city in eastern China were investigated. MP concentrations (mean±SD) in indoor air (1583 ± 1180 n/m3) were an order of magnitude higher than outdoor air (189 ± 85 n/m3), and airborne MP concentrations in urban areas (224 ± 70 n/m3) were higher than rural areas (101 ± 47 n/m3). MPs smaller than 100 µm dominated airborne MPs, and the predominant shape of airborne MPs was fragments, as opposed to fibers. The larger MP size fractions contained a higher proportion of fibers, whereas the smaller size fractions were nearly exclusively composed of fragments. The health risk caused by ubiquitous airborne MPs should not be discounted as the maximum annual outdoor exposure of airborne MPs can reach 1 million/year, while indoor exposure may be even higher due to higher indoor airborne MP concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - Yuan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Baoqiang Lv
- School of Life and Environmental Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem and Biogeochemistry, Second Institute of Oceanography SOA, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Mingzhu Fang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Life and Environmental Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xuedong Wang
- 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
| | - Xu Shang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Amato-Lourenço LF, Carvalho-Oliveira R, Júnior GR, Dos Santos Galvão L, Ando RA, Mauad T. Presence of airborne microplastics in human lung tissue. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 416:126124. [PMID: 34492918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 99.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are ubiquitously used by societies, but most of the plastic waste is deposited in landfills and in the natural environment. Their degradation into submillimetre fragments, called microplastics, is a growing concern due to potential adverse effects on the environment and human health. Microplastics are present in the air and may be inhaled by humans, but whether they have deleterious effects on the respiratory system remain unknown. In this study, we determined the presence of microplastics in human lung tissues obtained at autopsies. Polymeric particles (n = 33) and fibres (n = 4) were observed in 13 of 20 tissue samples. All polymeric particles were smaller than 5.5 µm in size, and fibres ranged from 8.12 to 16.8 µm. The most frequently determined polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene. Deleterious health outcomes may be related to the heterogeneous characteristics of these contaminants in the respiratory system following inhalation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luís Fernando Amato-Lourenço
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, Room 1150, Cerqueira Cesar, 01246903 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Advanced Studies (IEA) Global Cities Program, University of São Paulo, Rua da Praça do Relógio, 109, Térreo, Cidade Universitária, 05508-050 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Regiani Carvalho-Oliveira
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, Room 1150, Cerqueira Cesar, 01246903 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Ribeiro Júnior
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, Room 1150, Cerqueira Cesar, 01246903 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciana Dos Santos Galvão
- Chemical Analyses Laboratory, Institute for Technological Research (IPT), Avenida Prof. Almeida Prado, 532 - Butantã, 05508-901 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Augusto Ando
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo (IQUSP), Avenida Prof. Lineu Prestes, 748 - Butantã, 05508-000 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais Mauad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, Room 1150, Cerqueira Cesar, 01246903 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Advanced Studies (IEA) Global Cities Program, University of São Paulo, Rua da Praça do Relógio, 109, Térreo, Cidade Universitária, 05508-050 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|