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Chen C, Pagsuyoin SA, van Emmerik THM, Xu YY, He YQ, Guo ZF, Liu D, Xu YY. Significant regional disparities in riverine microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134571. [PMID: 38743976 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Research on riverine microplastics has gradually increased, highlighting an area for further exploration: the lack of extensive, large-scale regional variations analysis due to methodological and spatiotemporal limitations. Herein, we constructed and applied a comprehensive framework for synthesizing and analyzing literature data on riverine microplastics to enable comparative research on the regional variations on a large scale. Research results showed that in 76 rivers primarily located in Asia, Europe, and North America, the microplastic abundance of surface water in Asian rivers was three times higher than that in Euro-America rivers, while sediment in Euro-American rivers was five times more microplastics than Asia rivers, indicating significant regional variations (p < 0.001). Additionally, based on the income levels of countries, rivers in lower-middle and upper-middle income countries had significantly (p < 0.001) higher abundance of microplastics in surface water compared to high-income countries, while the opposite was true for sediment. This phenomenon was preliminarily attributed to varying levels of urbanization across countries. Our proposed framework for synthesizing and analyzing microplastic literature data provides a holistic understanding of microplastic disparities in the environment, and can facilitate broader discussions on management and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai Chen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | | | - Tim H M van Emmerik
- Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen 6700 AA, Netherlands
| | - Yu-Yao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, PR China
| | - Yu-Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Zhao-Feng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, PR China
| | - Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, PR China
| | - Yao-Yang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, PR China.
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2
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Carnevale Miino M, Galafassi S, Zullo R, Torretta V, Rada EC. Microplastics removal in wastewater treatment plants: A review of the different approaches to limit their release in the environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 930:172675. [PMID: 38670366 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In last 10 years, the interest about the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment has strongly grown. Wastewaters function as a carrier for MPs contamination from source to the aquatic environment, so the knowledge of the fate of this emerging contaminant in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is a priority. This work aims to review the presence of MPs in the influent wastewater (WW) and the effectiveness of the treatments of conventional WWTPs. Moreover, the negative impacts of MPs on the management of the processes have been also discussed. The work also focuses on the possible approaches to tackle MPs contamination enhancing the effectiveness of the WWTPs. Based on literature results, despite WWTPs are not designed for MPs removal from WW, they can effectively remove the MPs (up to 99 % in some references). Nevertheless, they normally act as "hotspots" of MPs contamination considering the remaining concentration of MPs in WWTPs' effluents can be several orders of magnitude higher than receiving waters. Moreover, MPs removed from WW are concentrated in sewage sludge (potentially >65 % of MPs entering the WWTP) posing a concern in case of the potential reuse as a soil improver. This work aims to present a paradigm shift intending WWTPs as key barriers for environmental protection. Approaches for increasing effectiveness against MPs have been discussed in order to define the optimal point(s) of the WWTP in which these technologies should be located. The need of a future legislation about MPs in water and sludge is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Carnevale Miino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy.
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Largo Tonolli 50, 28920 Verbania, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo 90133, Italy.
| | - Rosa Zullo
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Largo Tonolli 50, 28920 Verbania, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Torretta
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy.
| | - Elena Cristina Rada
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy.
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3
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Wang WM, Lu TH, Chen CY, Liao CM. Assessing microplastics-antibiotics coexistence induced ciprofloxacin-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a water region scale. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 257:121721. [PMID: 38728782 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121721] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) waste is widespread globally in water systems. The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause serious acute and chronic infections that are notoriously difficult to treat. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is broadly applied as an anti-P. aeruginosa drug. A growing evidence reveals that antibiotic-resistance genes-carrying Pseudomonas aeruginosa were detected on MPs forming plastisphere due to their adsorbability along with high occurrence of CIP in water environments. The MPs-niched CIP-resistant P. aeruginosa has been likely to emerge as an unignorable public health issue. Here, we offered a novel approach to assess the development of CIP-resistant P. aeruginosa under MPs-antibiotic coexistence at a water region scale. By combing the adsorption isotherm models used to estimate CIP condensation around MPs and a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic-based microbial population dynamic model, we predicted the P. aeruginosa development on CIP-adsorbed MPs in waters. Our assessment revealed a high antibiotic resistance in the P. aeruginosa populations (∼50 %) with a wider range of waterborne total cell counts (∼10-2-104 cfu mL-1) among water regions in that the resistance proportion was primarily determined by CIP pollution level and relative abundance of various polymer type of MPs. We implicate that water region-specific MPs were highly likely to provide media for P. aeruginosa propagation. Our results highlight the importance of antibiotic-resistant pathogen colonization-emerging environmental medium interactions when addressing global threat from MPs pollution, in the context of MPs-antibiotics co-contamination assessment and for the continued provision of water system management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Min Wang
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 106319, China
| | - Tien-Hsuan Lu
- Department of Science Education and Application, National Taichung University of Education, Taichung 403514, China
| | - Chi-Yun Chen
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, FL 32608, United States
| | - Chung-Min Liao
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 106319, China.
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4
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Chen Y, Niu L, Li Y, Wang Y, Shen J, Zhang W, Wang L. Distribution characteristics and microbial synergistic degradation potential of polyethylene and polypropylene in freshwater estuarine sediments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134328. [PMID: 38643575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The microbial degradation of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) resins in rivers and lakes has emerged as a crucial issue in the management of microplastics. This study revealed that as the flow rate decreased longitudinally, ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), heavy fraction of organic carbon (HFOC), and small-size microplastics (< 1 mm) gradually accumulated in the deep and downstream estuarine sediments. Based on their surface morphology and carbonyl index, these sediments were identified as the potential hot zone for PE/PP degradation. Within the identified hot zone, concentrations of PE/PP-degrading genes, enzymes, and bacteria were significantly elevated compared to other zones, exhibiting strong intercorrelations. Analysis of niche differences revealed that the accumulation of NH4+-N and HFOC in the hot zone facilitated the synergistic coexistence of key bacteria responsible for PE/PP degradation within biofilms. The findings of this study offer a novel insight and comprehensive understanding of the distribution characteristics and synergistic degradation potential of PE/PP in natural freshwater environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Lihua Niu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Yingjie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jiayan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Wenlong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Linqiong Wang
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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Shi J, Zhang B, Tang Y, Kong F. Undisclosed contribution of microbial assemblages selectively enriched by microplastics to the sulfur cycle in the large deep-water reservoir. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134342. [PMID: 38678705 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134342] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics in reservoirs due to river damming has drawn considerable attention due to their potential impacts on elemental biogeochemical cycling at the watershed scale. However, the effects of plastisphere communities on the sulfur cycle in the large deep-water reservoir remain poorly understood. Here, we collected microplastics and their surrounding environmental samples in the water and sediment ecosystems of Xiaowan Reservoir and found a significant spatiotemporal pattern of microplastics and sulfur distribution in this Reservoir. Based on the microbial analysis, plastic-degrading taxa (e.g., Ralstonia, Rhodococcus) involved in the sulfur cycle were enriched in the plastisphere of water and sediment, respectively. Typical thiosulfate oxidizing bacteria Limnobacter acted as keystone species in the plastisphere microbial network. Sulfate, oxidation reduction potential and organic matter drove the variations of the plastisphere. Environmental filtration significantly affected the plastisphere communities, and the deterministic process dominated the community assembly. Furthermore, predicted functional profiles related to sulfur cycling, compound degradation and membrane transport were significantly enriched in the plastisphere. Overall, our results suggest microplastics as a new microbial niche exert different effects in water and sediment environments, and provide insights into the potential impacts of the plastisphere on the sulfur biogeochemical cycle in the reservoir ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Shi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, PR China; MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environmental Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, PR China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Baogang Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environmental Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, PR China.
| | - Yang Tang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environmental Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Fanlong Kong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, PR China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, PR China
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6
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He YQ, McDonough LK, Zainab SM, Guo ZF, Chen C, Xu YY. Microplastic accumulation in groundwater: Data-scaled insights and future research. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 258:121808. [PMID: 38796912 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Given that microplastics (MPs) in groundwater have been concerned for risks to humans and ecosystems with increased publications, a Contrasting Analysis of Scales (CAS) approach is developed by this study to synthesize all existing data into a hierarchical understanding of MP accumulation in groundwater. Within the full data of 386 compiled samples, the median abundance of MPs in Open Groundwater (OG) and Closed Groundwater (CG) were 4.4 and 2.5 items/L respectively, with OG exhibiting a greater diversity of MP colors and larger particle sizes. The different pathways of MP entry (i.e., surface runoff and rock interstices) into OG and CG led to this difference. At the regional scale, median MP abundance in nature reserves and landfills were 17.5 and 13.4 items/L, respectively, all the sampling points showed high pollution load risk. MPs in agricultural areas exhibited a high coefficient of variation (716.7%), and a median abundance of 1.0 items/L. Anthropogenic activities at the regional scale are the drivers behind the differentiation in the morphological characteristics of MPs, where groundwater in residential areas with highly toxic polymers (e.g., polyvinylchloride) deserves prolonged attention. At the local scale, the transport of MPs is controlled by groundwater flow paths, with a higher abundance of MP particles downstream than upstream, and MPs with regular surfaces and lower resistance (e.g., pellets) are more likely to be transported over long distances. From the data-scaled insight this study provides on the accumulation of MPs, future research should be directed towards network-based observation for groundwater-rich regions covered with landfills, residences, and agricultural land.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Liza K McDonough
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), New Illawarra Rd, Lucas Heights, NSW 2234, Australia
| | - Syeda Maria Zainab
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Zhao-Feng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Cai Chen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yao-Yang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China.
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7
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Choi S, Lee S, Kim MK, Yu ES, Ryu YS. Challenges and Recent Analytical Advances in Micro/Nanoplastic Detection. Anal Chem 2024. [PMID: 38758170 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing ecological concerns, studies on microplastics and nanoplastics are still in their initial stages owing to technical hurdles in analytical techniques, especially for nanoplastics. We provide an overview of the general attributes of micro/nanoplastics in natural environments and analytical techniques commonly used for their analysis. After demonstrating the analytical challenges associated with the identification of nanoplastics due to their distinctive characteristics, we discuss recent technological advancements for detecting nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyeop Choi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungha Lee
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Ki Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Sang Yu
- Materials and Components Research Division, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, Daejeon 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sang Ryu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Micro/Nano System, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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8
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Du M, Pu Q, Xu Y, Li Y, Li X. Improved microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation in the lake through in silico method. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171623. [PMID: 38485006 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171623] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The impact of microplastics in lake water environments on microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation has attracted global attention. The molecular dynamic simulation method was used to design microplastic additive proportioning schemes for improving microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation. Results showed that the harm of microplastics can be effectively alleviated by adjusting the proportioning scheme of plastic additives. Besides, the decabromodiphenyl oxide (DBDPO) was identified as the main additive that affect the microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation. Thus, a molecular modification based on CiteSpace visual analysis was firstly used and 12 DBDPO derivatives were designed. After the screening, DBDPO-2 and DBDPO-5 became the environmentally friendly DBDPO alternatives, with the highest microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation ability enhancement of over 25 %. Compared to DBDPO, DBDPO derivatives were found easier to stimulate the adsorption and binding ability of surrounding hotspot amino acids to CO2 and ribulose-5-phosphate, increasing the solvent-accessible surface area of microplastics, thus improving the microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation ability. This study provides theoretical support for simultaneously promoting the microalgae carbon fixation and microplastic sedimentation in the lake water environment and provides scientific basis for the protection and sustainable development of lake water ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijin Du
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qikun Pu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yingjie Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Yu Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Xixi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's A1B 3X5, Canada.
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9
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Huang C, Gong X, Qin Y, Zhang L, Cai Y, Feng S, Zhang Y, Zhao Z. Risk assessment of China's Eastern Route of the South-to-north Water Diversion Project from the perspective of Phthalate Esters occurrence in the impounded lakes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 473:134511. [PMID: 38772103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Phthalate esters (PAEs) are widely utilized and can accumulate in lacustrine ecosystems, posing significant ecological and human health hazards. Most studies on PAEs focus on individual lakes, lacking a comprehensive and systematic perspective. In response, we have focused our investigation on characteristic lakes situated along the Eastern Route of the South-to-north Water Diversion Project (SNWDP-ER) in China. We have detected 16 PAE compounds in the impounded lakes of the SNWDP-ER by collecting surface water samples using solid-phase extraction followed by gas chromatography analysis. The concentration of PAEs were found to between 0.80 to 12.92 μg L-1. Among them, Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was the most prevalent, with mean concentration of 1.56 ± 0.62 μg L-1 (48.44%), followed by Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), 0.64 ± 1.40 μg L-1 (19.87%). Spatial distribution showed an increasing trend in the direction of water flow. Retention of DEHP and DIBP has led to increased environmental risks. DEHP, Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) etc. determined by agriculture and human activities. Additionally, Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and DIBP mainly related to the use of agricultural products. To mitigate the PAEs risk, focusing on integrated management of the lakes, along with the implementation of stringent regulations to control the use of plasticizes in products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; College of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xionghu Gong
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yu Qin
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 211135, China
| | - Yongjiu Cai
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Shaoyuan Feng
- College of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Youliang Zhang
- College of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Zhonghua Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China.
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Parolini M, Perin E, De Felice B, Gazzotti S, Palazzi A, Conti L, Conterosito E, Rosio E, Bruno F, Gianotti V, Cavallo R. Altitudinal variation of microplastic abundance in lakeshore sediments from Italian lakes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:35864-35877. [PMID: 38743335 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33648-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination represents an issue of global concern for both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, but only in recent years, the study of MPs has been focused on freshwaters. Several monitoring surveys have detected the presence of a wide array of MPs differing in size, shape, and polymer composition in rivers and lakes worldwide. Because of their role of sink for plastic particles, the abundance of MPs was investigated in waters, and deep and shoreline sediments from diverse lakes, confirming the ubiquity of this contamination. Although diverse factors, including those concerning anthropogenic activities and physical characteristics of lakes, have been supposed to affect MP abundances, very few studies have directly addressed these links. Thus, the aim of the present study was to explore the levels of MP contamination in mountain and subalpine lakes from Northern Italy. Fourteen lakes dislocated at different altitudes and characterized by dissimilar anthropic pressures were visited. Lakeshore sediments were collected close to the drift line to assess MPs contamination. Our results showed the presence of MPs in lakeshore sediments from all the lakes, with a mean (± standard deviation) expressed as MPs/Kg dry sediment accounting to 14.42 ± 13.31 (range 1.57-61.53), while expressed as MPs/m2, it was 176.07 ± 172.83 (range 25.00-666.67). The MP abundance measured for Garda Lake was significantly higher compared to all the other ones (F1,13 = 7.344; P < 0.001). The pattern of contamination was dominated by fibers in all the lakes, but they were the main contributors in mountain lakes. These findings showed that the MP abundance varied according to the altitude of the lakes, with higher levels measured in subalpine lakes located at low altitudes and surrounded by populated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Parolini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Elena Perin
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, 13100, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Beatrice De Felice
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Gazzotti
- Department of Chemistry, University of Milan, Via Golgi 19, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Adriano Palazzi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Conti
- ERICA Soc. Coop, Via Santa Margherita, 26, 12051, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Eleonora Conterosito
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, 13100, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Emanuela Rosio
- ERICA Soc. Coop, Via Santa Margherita, 26, 12051, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Francesco Bruno
- ERICA Soc. Coop, Via Santa Margherita, 26, 12051, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Valentina Gianotti
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, 13100, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Roberto Cavallo
- ERICA Soc. Coop, Via Santa Margherita, 26, 12051, Cuneo, Italy
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Fan Y, Zheng J, Xu W, Zhang Q, Chen N, Wang H, Qian X, Wang G. Spatiotemporal occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in the urban road dust in a megacity, eastern China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 468:133733. [PMID: 38367435 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
The pervasive issue of microplastics pollution has garnered public attention, yet urban residents remain unaware of the threat within their living spaces. Urban road dust, as primary reservoirs for environmental microplastics, offers an insightful perspective into their occurrence and characteristics. This study investigated microplastics in the urban road dust in Nanjing, a megacity in eastern China, to reveal their spatiotemporal pattern. The abundance of microplastics in the road dust measured 143.3 ± 40.8 particles/m2, with predominant fragments and suspected tire wear particles, particularly those below 100 µm. Significant spatial variations were observed across urban functional zones (P < 0.05), with commercial and heavy industrial areas experiencing the highest microplastic pollution (up to 223.5 particles/m2). Infrared spectroscopy analysis identified 29 polymer types, with polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA), and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) prevailing. Light industrial zones exhibited slight contamination (mean = 93.4 particles/m2) but with diverse polymer components (24 types). Redundancy analysis and variation partitioning revealed that urban functional zoning, 7-day accumulated precipitation, and monthly PM2.5 primarily influenced the occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in urban road dust (P = 0.001). This study deepened our understanding of microplastics pollution in urban environments, providing novel insights for effective urban environmental management and improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jinglan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; SinoCarbon Innovation & Investment (SCII) Co., Ltd., Beijing 100000, China
| | - Wanlu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qiji Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Nianhao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xin Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology (CICAEET), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Guoqiang Wang
- Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
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12
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Cowger W, Markley LAT, Moore S, Gray AB, Upadhyay K, Koelmans AA. How many microplastics do you need to (sub)sample? ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 275:116243. [PMID: 38522288 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116243] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Analysis of microplastics in the environment requires polymer characterization as a confirmation step for suspected microplastic particles found in a sample. Material characterization is costly and can take a long time per particle. When microplastic particle counts are high, many researchers cannot characterize every particle in their sample due to time or monetary constraints. Moreover, characterizing every particle in samples with high plastic particle counts is unnecessary for describing the sample properties. We propose an a priori approach to determine the number of suspected microplastic particles in a sample that should be randomly subsampled for characterization to accurately assess the polymer distribution in the environmental sample. The proposed equation is well-founded in statistics literature and was validated using published microplastic data and simulations for typical microplastic subsampling routines. We report values from the whole equation but also derive a simple way to calculate the necessary particle count for samples or subsamples by taking the error to the power of negative two. Assuming an error of 0.05 (5 %) with a confidence interval of 95 %, an unknown expected proportion, and a sample with many particles (> 100k), the minimum number of particles in a subsample should be 386 particles to accurately characterize the polymer distribution of the sample, given the particles are randomly characterized from the full population of suspected particles. Extending this equation to simultaneously estimate polymer, color, size, and morphology distributions reveals more particles (620) would be needed in the subsample to achieve the same high absolute error threshold for all properties. The above proposal for minimum subsample size also applies to the minimum count that should be present in samples to accurately characterize particle type presence and diversity in a given environmental compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Cowger
- Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research, 120 N Marina Drive Long Beach, CA 90803, USA; University of California, Riverside, USA.
| | | | - Shelly Moore
- Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research, 120 N Marina Drive Long Beach, CA 90803, USA
| | | | | | - Albert A Koelmans
- Wageningen University, Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, PO Box 47, Wageningen 6700 AA, the Netherlands
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13
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Wang S, Feng H, Lim JYC, Li K, Li B, Mah JJQ, Xing Z, Zhu J, Loh XJ, Li Z. Recyclable, Malleable, and Strong Thermosets Enabled by Knoevenagel Adducts. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9920-9927. [PMID: 38557104 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Plastic recycling is critical for waste management and achieving a circular economy, but it entails difficult trade-offs between performance and recyclability. Here, we report a thermoset, poly(α-cyanocinnamate) (PCC), synthesized using Knoevenagel condensation between terephthalaldehyde (TPA) and a triarm cyanoacetate star, that tackles this difficulty by harnessing its intrinsically conjugated and dynamic chemical characteristics. PCCs exhibit extraordinary thermal and mechanical properties with a typical Tg of ∼178 °C, Young's modulus of 3.8 GPa, and tensile strength of 102 MPa, along with remarkable flexibility and dimensional and chemical stabilities. Furthermore, end-of-life PCCs can be selectively degraded and partially recycled back into one starting monomer TPA for a new production cycle or reprocessed through dynamic exchange aided by cyanoacetate chain-ends. This study lays the scientific groundwork for the design of robust and recyclable thermosets, with transformative potential in plastic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wang
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
| | - Hongzhi Feng
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Laboratory of Polymers and Composites, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jason Y C Lim
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Ke Li
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Bofan Li
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
| | - Justin J Q Mah
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Zhenxiang Xing
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Laboratory of Polymers and Composites, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Xian Jun Loh
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Zibiao Li
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
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14
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Zhang D, Wang X, Zhang Z, Hadjichristidis N. Heteroatom Substitution Strategy Modulates Thermodynamics Towards Chemically Recyclable Polyesters and Monomeric Unit Sequence by Temperature Switching. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024:e202402233. [PMID: 38591713 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202402233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
In this paper, we proposed a heteroatom substitution strategy (HSS) in the δ-valerolactone (VL) system to modulate thermodynamics toward chemically recyclable polyesters. Three VL-based monomers containing different heteroatoms (M1 (N), M2 (S), and M3 (O)), instead of C-5 carbon, were designed and synthesized to verify our proposed HSS. All three monomers undergo organocatalytic living/controlled ROP and controllable depolymerization. Impressively, the resulting P(M1) achieved over 99 % monomer recovery under both mild solution depolymerization and high vacuum pyrolysis conditions without any side reactions, and the recycled monomers can be polymerized again forming new polymers. The systematic study of the relationship between heteroatom substitution and recyclability shows that introducing heteroatoms does change the thermodynamics of the monomers (ΔHp o, ΔSp o and Tc values), thereby adjusting the polymerizability and depolymerizability. DFT calculations found that the introduction of heteroatoms adjusts the ring strain by changing the angular strain of the monomers, and the order of their angular strain (M2>M1>M3) is consistent with the order of the experimentally obtained enthalpy change. Notably, the one-pot/one-step copolymerization of two of each of the three monomers enables the synthesis of sequence-controlled copolymers from gradient to random to block structures, by simply switching the copolymerization temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Zhang
- State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhengbiao Zhang
- State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Nikos Hadjichristidis
- Polymer Synthesis Laboratory, KAUST Catalysis Center, Physical Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Xu J, Wang Z. Intelligent classification and pollution characteristics analysis of microplastics in urban surface waters using YNet. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133694. [PMID: 38330648 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs, ≤ 5 mm in size) are hazardous contaminants that pose threats to ecosystems and human health. YNet was developed to analyze MPs abundance and shape to gain insights into MPs pollution characteristics in urban surface waters. The study found that YNet achieved an accurate identification and intelligent classification performance, with a dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 90.78%, precision of 94.17%, and recall of 89.14%. Analysis of initial MPs levels in wetlands and reservoirs revealed 127.3 items/L and 56.0 items/L. Additionally, the MPs in effluents were 27.0 items/L and 26.3 items/L, indicating the ability of wetlands and reservoirs to retain MPs. The concentration of MPs in the lower reaches of the river was higher (45.6 items/L) compared to the upper reaches (22.0 items/L). The majority of MPs detected in this study were fragments, accounting for 51.63%, 54.94%, and 74.74% in the river, wetland, and reservoir. Conversely, granules accounted for the smallest proportion of MPs in the river, wetland, and reservoir, representing only 11.43%, 10.38%, and 6.5%. The study proves that the trained YNet accurately identify and intelligently classify MPs. This tool is essential in comprehending the distribution of MPs in urban surface waters and researching their sources and fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiongji Xu
- School of Civil Engineering and Transportation, State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building and Urban Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China.
| | - Zhaoli Wang
- School of Civil Engineering and Transportation, State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building and Urban Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China; Pazhou Lab, Guangzhou 510335, China.
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16
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Binelli A, Magni S, Della Torre C, Sbarberi R, Cremonesi C, Galafassi S. Monthly variability of floating plastic contamination in Lake Maggiore (Northern Italy). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170740. [PMID: 38340826 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The monitoring of plastics in freshwater ecosystems has witnessed a significant increase in recent years, driven by the awareness that approximately 80 % of marine plastic litter originates from terrestrial sources transported to the seas through lakes and rivers. Consequently, it is imperative to develop monitoring plans that offer a comprehensive understanding of plastic contamination in these aquatic environments, given their seasonal variations in hydrochemical characteristics and anthropogenic sources. Historically, most global lake monitoring campaigns have been limited to one-time or, at most, seasonal sampling. In this context, the primary objective of the present study was to assess the quantitative and qualitative monthly variations of floating plastics in Lake Maggiore, a large European lake with high ecological and economic significance. Twelve transverse transects were conducted from January to December 2022 using a Manta-net with a 100 μm mesh. Characterization of each plastic particle was performed using a μ-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (μFT-IR). The results revealed relatively low levels of contamination in Lake Maggiore when compared with other lakes worldwide exclusively from a secondary origin. However, a considerable heterogeneity was observed, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Notably, we identified a 13-fold difference between the minimum (0.02 plastics/m3 in September) and maximum (0.29 plastics/m3 in December) concentrations of plastics, accompanied by significant variations in polymer composition. Our monitoring underscored the necessity of also considering the temporal variation as a potential factor influencing plastic contamination in a lake. Moreover, frequent sampling emerged as a crucial requirement to accurately gauge the extent of plastic pollution, yielding robust and valuable data essential for effective environmental management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Binelli
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Magni
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sbarberi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Cremonesi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- National Research Council, Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA), Largo Tonolli 50, 28922 Verbania Pallanza, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
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17
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Martín-Vélez V, Cano-Povedano J, Cañuelo-Jurado B, López-Calderón C, Céspedes V, Ros M, Sánchez MI, Shamoun-Baranes J, Müller W, Thaxter CB, Camphuysen CJ, Cózar A, Green AJ. Leakage of plastics and other debris from landfills to a highly protected lake by wintering gulls. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 177:13-23. [PMID: 38281470 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
GENERAL CONTEXT Gulls ingest plastic and other litter while foraging in open landfills, because organic matter is mixed with other debris. Therefore, gulls are potential biovectors of plastic pollution into natural habitats, especially when they concentrate in wetlands for roosting. NOVELTY We quantified, for the first time, the flow of plastic and other anthropogenic debris from open landfills to a natural lake via the movement of gulls. We focused on Fuente de Piedra, an inland closed-basin lake in Spain that is internationally important for biodiversity. METHODOLOGY In 2022, we sampled gull pellets regurgitated in the lake by lesser black-backed gulls Larus fuscus that feed on landfills, as well as their faeces, then characterized and quantified debris particles of ≥0.5 mm. By combining GPS and census data from 2010 to 2022, together with plastic quantification based on FTIR-ATR analysis, we estimated the average annual deposition of plastic and other debris by the wintering gull population into the lake. MAIN RESULTS 86 % of pellets contained plastics, and 94 % contained other debris such as glass and textiles. Polyethylene (54 %), polypropylene (11.5 %) and polystyrene (11.5 %) were the main plastic polymers. An estimated annual mean of 400 kg of plastics were moved by gulls into the lake. Only 1 % of plastic mass was imported in faeces. DISCUSSION Incorporating the biovectoring role of birds can provide a more holistic view of the plastic cycle and waste management. Biovectoring is predictable in sites worldwide where gulls and other waterbirds feed in landfills and roost in wetlands. We discuss bird deterrence and other ways of mitigating debris leakage into aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Martín-Vélez
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM), CSIC, Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, Barcelona 37-49 08003, Spain; Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain.
| | - Julián Cano-Povedano
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Belén Cañuelo-Jurado
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Cosme López-Calderón
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain; Grupo de Investigación en Conservación. Biodiversidad y Cambio Global, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Vanessa Céspedes
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Macarena Ros
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, Sevilla 41012, Spain
| | - Marta I Sánchez
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Judy Shamoun-Baranes
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1090 GE, The Netherlands
| | - Wendt Müller
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Wilrijk, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Chris B Thaxter
- British Trust for Ornithology, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2PU, UK
| | - Cornelis J Camphuysen
- COS Department, Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Andrés Cózar
- Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz and European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), Puerto Real 11510, Spain
| | - Andy J Green
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
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18
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Jansen MAK, Andrady AL, Bornman JF, Aucamp PJ, Bais AF, Banaszak AT, Barnes PW, Bernhard GH, Bruckman LS, Busquets R, Häder DP, Hanson ML, Heikkilä AM, Hylander S, Lucas RM, Mackenzie R, Madronich S, Neale PJ, Neale RE, Olsen CM, Ossola R, Pandey KK, Petropavlovskikh I, Revell LE, Robinson SA, Robson TM, Rose KC, Solomon KR, Andersen MPS, Sulzberger B, Wallington TJ, Wang QW, Wängberg SÅ, White CC, Young AR, Zepp RG, Zhu L. Plastics in the environment in the context of UV radiation, climate change and the Montreal Protocol: UNEP Environmental Effects Assessment Panel, Update 2023. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2024; 23:629-650. [PMID: 38512633 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-024-00552-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This Assessment Update by the Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) considers the interactive effects of solar UV radiation, global warming, and other weathering factors on plastics. The Assessment illustrates the significance of solar UV radiation in decreasing the durability of plastic materials, degradation of plastic debris, formation of micro- and nanoplastic particles and accompanying leaching of potential toxic compounds. Micro- and nanoplastics have been found in all ecosystems, the atmosphere, and in humans. While the potential biological risks are not yet well-established, the widespread and increasing occurrence of plastic pollution is reason for continuing research and monitoring. Plastic debris persists after its intended life in soils, water bodies and the atmosphere as well as in living organisms. To counteract accumulation of plastics in the environment, the lifetime of novel plastics or plastic alternatives should better match the functional life of products, with eventual breakdown releasing harmless substances to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel A K Jansen
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Anthony L Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Janet F Bornman
- Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.
| | | | - Alkiviadis F Bais
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastazia T Banaszak
- Unidad Académica Sistemas Arrecifales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - Paul W Barnes
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environment Program, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Laura S Bruckman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rosa Busquets
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kingston University London, Kingston Upon Thames, UK
| | | | - Mark L Hanson
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Samuel Hylander
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Robyn M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Roy Mackenzie
- Centro Universitario Cabo de Hornos, Universidad de Magallanes, Puerto Williams, Chile
- Millennium Institute Biodiversity of Antarctic and Subantarctic Ecosystems BASE, Santiago, Chile
- Cape Horn International Center CHIC, Puerto Williams, Chile
| | - Sasha Madronich
- UV-B Monitoring and Research Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Patrick J Neale
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, MD, USA
| | - Rachel E Neale
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine M Olsen
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachele Ossola
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | | | - Irina Petropavlovskikh
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
- Ozone and Water Vapor Division, NOAA ESRL Global Monitoring Laboratory, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Laura E Revell
- School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Sharon A Robinson
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - T Matthew Robson
- UK National School of Forestry, University of Cumbria, Ambleside Campus, Ambleside, UK
- Organismal & Evolutionary Ecology, Viikki Plant Science Centre, Faculty of Biological & Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kevin C Rose
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Keith R Solomon
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Mads P Sulbæk Andersen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Barbara Sulzberger
- Retired From Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dubendorf, Switzerland
| | - Timothy J Wallington
- Center for Sustainable Systems, School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qing-Wei Wang
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Sten-Åke Wängberg
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Richard G Zepp
- ORD/CEMM, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Liping Zhu
- State Key Lab for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Ahmadi P, Dichgans F, Jagau L, Schmidt C, Aizinger V, Gilfedder BS, Fleckenstein JH. Systematic CFD-based evaluation of physical factors influencing the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of microplastic particles in lakes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170218. [PMID: 38280578 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Spatiotemporal distribution patterns of microplastic (MP) particles in lakes hinge on both the physical conditions in the lake and particle properties. Using numerical simulations, we systematically investigated the influence of lake depth and bathymetry, wind and temperature conditions, MP particle release location and timing, as well as particle diameter (10, 20, and 50 μm). Our results indicate that maximum lake depth had the greatest effect on the residence time in the water column, as it determines the settling timescale and occurrence of hydrodynamic complexity such as density-driven flows in the lake. Increasing particle size from 10 to 20 and 50 μm also significantly reduced the residence time making particle size the factor with the second strongest effect on the residence time and, in turn, on the availability of MP particles for uptake by organisms. Changing bathymetry from a uniform to a non-uniform had a less pronounced effect on particle residence time compared to maximum depth and particle size. Release location, wind conditions, and release time had comparably little effect on particle behavior but became more important as MP particle size decreased. The release of the 10 μm MP particles in the deeper lakes with uniform bathymetry during summer with stable thermal stratification, resulted in a nearly month-long turnover phase in the fall in which both settling and rising of particles occurred simultaneously. This was caused by convective heat and water transport during this period. In these scenarios about 2.6 to 5.4 % of the released MP particles were held in or returned to the water layers near the lake surface. While acknowledging the dominant role of lake depth and MP particle size on the particle residence time, this study further emphasizes that it is ultimately a particular combination of different factors and their interactions that shape MP distribution patterns in lakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouyan Ahmadi
- Department of Hydrogeology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Franz Dichgans
- Department of Hydrogeology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Lisa Jagau
- Chair of Scientific Computing, University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Christian Schmidt
- Department of Hydrogeology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Vadym Aizinger
- Chair of Scientific Computing, University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Benjamin S Gilfedder
- Limnological Research Station, Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research, University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany; Department of Hydrology, Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research (BayCEER), University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Jan H Fleckenstein
- Department of Hydrogeology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; Hydrologic Modelling Unit, Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research (BayCEER), University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
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20
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Hu P, Zhang C, Chu M, Wang X, Wang L, Li Y, Yan T, Zhang L, Ding Z, Cao M, Xu P, Li Y, Cui Y, Zhang Q, Chen J, Chi L. Stable Interfacial Ruthenium Species for Highly Efficient Polyolefin Upcycling. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:7076-7087. [PMID: 38428949 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The present polyolefin hydrogenolysis recycling cases acknowledge that zerovalent Ru exhibits high catalytic activity. A pivotal rationale behind this assertion lies in the propensity of the majority of Ru species to undergo reduction to zerovalent Ru within the hydrogenolysis milieu. Nonetheless, the suitability of zerovalent Ru as an optimal structural configuration for accommodating multiple elementary reactions remains ambiguous. Here, we have constructed stable Ru0-Ruδ+ complex species, even under reaction conditions, through surface ligand engineering of commercially available Ru/C catalysts. Our findings unequivocally demonstrate that surface-ligated Ru species can be stabilized in the form of a Ruδ+ state, which, in turn, engenders a perturbation of the σ bond electron distribution within the polyolefin carbon chain, ultimately boosting the rate-determining step of C-C scission. The optimized catalysts reach a solid conversion rate of 609 g·gRu-1·h-1 for polyethylene. This achievement represents a 4.18-fold enhancement relative to the pristine Ru/C catalyst while concurrently preserving a remarkable 94% selectivity toward valued liquid alkanes. Of utmost significance, this surface ligand engineering can be extended to the gentle mixing of catalysts in ligand solution at room temperature, thus rendering it amenable for swift integration into industrial processes involving polyolefin degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Hu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Congyang Zhang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Western Ontario, London N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Mingyu Chu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Xianpeng Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, P. R. China
| | - Lu Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Youyong Li
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, P. R. China
| | - Tianran Yan
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Zhifeng Ding
- Department of Chemistry, University of Western Ontario, London N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Muhan Cao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Panpan Xu
- Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Yifan Li
- Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Yi Cui
- Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Qiao Zhang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Jinxing Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Lifeng Chi
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, P. R. China
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Hu L, He L, Cai L, Wang Y, Wu G, Zhang D, Pan X, Wang YZ. Deterioration of single-use biodegradable plastics in high-humidity air and freshwaters over one year: Significant disparities in surface physicochemical characteristics and degradation rates. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133170. [PMID: 38064942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
More single-use plastics are accumulating in the environment, and likewise biodegradable plastics (BPs), which are being vigorously promoted, cannot escape the fate. Currently, studies on the actual degradation of BPs in open-air and freshwaters are underrepresented despite they are potentially headmost leakage and contamination sites for disposable BPs. Herein, we compared the degradation behavior of six BP materials and non-degradable polypropylene (PP) plastics over a 1-year in situ suspension in the high-humidity air, a eutrophic river, and an oligotrophic lake. Moreover, a 3-months laboratory incubation was performed to detect the release of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from BPs. In both air and freshwaters, poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO) degraded significantly while PP and polylactic acid (PLA) showed no signs of degradation. The average degradation rates of three poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)-based films varied: 100% in river, 55% in lake, and 10% in air. In addition to PLA, surface chemical groups, hydrophilicity, and thermal stability of BPs changed, and microplastics were found on their surfaces. Correspondingly, BPs with faster degradation rates released relatively higher amounts of DOC. Environmental microbial and chemical characteristics may contribute to differences in BP degradation besides polymer specificity. Altogether, our results indicate the need for appropriate monitoring of BPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Hu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Shaoxing Research Institute, Zhejiang University of Technology, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Linlin He
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Li Cai
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Gang Wu
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
| | - Daoyong Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Yu-Zhong Wang
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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22
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Wu H, Gao T, Hu A, Wang J. Network Complexity and Stability of Microbes Enhanced by Microplastic Diversity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4334-4345. [PMID: 38382548 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08704] [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: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic mixtures are ubiquitously distributed in global ecosystems and include varying types. However, it remains unknown how microplastic diversity affects the biotic interactions of microbes. Here, we developed novel experiments of 600 microcosms with microplastic diversity ranging from 1 to 6 types and examined ecological networks for microbial communities in lake sediments after 2 months of incubation at 15 and 20 °C. We found that microplastic diversity generally enhanced the complexity of microbial networks at both temperatures, such as increasing network connectance and reducing average path length. This phenomenon was further confirmed by strengthened species interactions toward high microplastic diversity except for the negative interactions at 15 °C. Interestingly, increasing temperatures further exaggerated the effects of microplastic diversity on network structures, resulting in higher network connectivity and species interactions. Consistently, using species extinction simulations, we found that higher microplastic diversity and temperature led to more robust networks, and their effects were additionally and positively mediated by the presence of biodegradable microplastics. Our findings provide the first evidence that increasing microplastic diversity could unexpectedly promote the complexity and stability of microbial networks and that future warming could amplify this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Tianheng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Ang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
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23
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Luan Q, Hu H, Ouyang X, Jiang X, Lin C, Zhu H, Shi T, Zhao YL, Wang J, Zhu J. New modifications of PBAT by a small amount of oxalic acid: Fast crystallization and enhanced degradation in all natural environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133475. [PMID: 38219588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics are often mistakenly thought to be capable of degrading in any environment, but their slow degradation rate in the natural environment is still unsatisfactory. We synthetized a novel series of poly(butylene oxalate-co-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBOAT) with unchanged melting point (135 °C), high elastic modulus (140 - 219 MPa) and elongation at break (478 - 769%). Fast isothermal crystallization with a semi-crystallization time < 20 s was demonstrated by the PBOAT. In N2 and air atmospheres, the PBOAT maintained the Td,5% higher than 329 °C. They also had good thermal stability at melt processing temperature for more than 20 min. PBOAT exhibited faster hydrolysis and seawater degradation, even under natural soil burial without light, but still kept stable under low humidity conditions during the storage and the shelf-life. Moreover, the hydrolysis mechanisms were clarified based on Fukui function analysis and DFT calculation, indicating that the hydrolysis of PBOAT would be more straightforward. The mechanism of soil burial is also elucidated through detailed characterization of the structure changes. The PBOAT offered a fresh approach to the development of high-performing, naturally degradable materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyang Luan
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Han Hu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
| | - Xingyu Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyu Jiang
- Cambridge A level Center, Zhenhai High School of Zhejiang, No.32 Gulou East Road, Zhenhai, Ningbo 315200, China
| | - Chen Lin
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Hanxu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ting Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yi-Lei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jinggang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
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24
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Chen L, Zhou S, Zhang Q, Su B, Yin Q, Zou M. Global occurrence characteristics, drivers, and environmental risk assessment of microplastics in lakes: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123321. [PMID: 38185354 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in lakes has received much attention as an increasing amount of plastic waste enters aquatic ecosystems. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding of the global distribution patterns, environmental hazards, factors driving their presence, and the relationships between sources and sinks of MPs. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of drivers of lake MP pollution based on 42 articles on MP pollution from three different aspects: geographical distribution, driving factors and environmental risks. The results revealed differences in the MP pollution levels across the different sampling sites in the global lakes. Moreover, there is significant heterogeneity in the abundance of MPs among various lakes, whose distribution pattern is affected by geographical location, sampling method and extraction method. The size of the MPs differed significantly between water and sediment, and the proportion of small (<1 mm) MPs in sediment was significantly greater than that in water (72% > 46%). Environmental risk assessment reveals that the risk level of MP pollution in most lakes worldwide is low, and the environmental risk of pollution in lake water is higher than that in sediment. Based on the risk assessment and geographical location of the lake, the risk of MP pollution is related not only to human activities and economic development but also to local waste management practices, which directly impact the accumulation of MPs. Therefore, we suggest that the production of biodegradable low-risk polymer plastics instead of high-risk materials, and plastic solid waste recycling management should be strengthened to effectively mitigate the presence of MPs in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Chen
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Shenglu Zhou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China.
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Bo Su
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Qiqi Yin
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Mengmeng Zou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing, 210024, China
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25
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McIlwraith HK, Dias M, Orihel DM, Rennie MD, Harrison AL, Hoffman MJ, Provencher JF, Rochman CM. A Multicompartment Assessment of Microplastic Contamination in Semi-remote Boreal Lakes. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38415806 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination is ubiquitous across the globe, even in remote locations. Still, the sources and pathways of microplastics to such locations are largely unknown. To investigate microplastic contamination in a semi-remote location, we measured microplastic concentrations in nine oligotrophic lakes within and around the International Institute for Sustainable Development-Experimental Lakes Area in northwestern Ontario, Canada. Our first objective was to establish ambient concentrations of microplastics in bottom sediments, surface water, and atmospheric deposition in semi-remote boreal lakes. Across all lakes, mean shallow and deep sediment microplastic concentrations, near-surface water microplastic concentrations from in situ filtering, and dry atmospheric microplastic deposition rates were 551 ± 354 particles kg-1 , 177 ± 103 particles kg-1 , 0.2 ± 0.3 particles L-1 , and 0.4 ± 0.2 particles m-2 day-1 , respectively. Our second objective was to investigate whether microplastic contamination of these lakes is driven by point sources including local runoff and direct anthropogenic inputs or nonpoint sources such as atmospheric deposition. Lakes were selected based on three levels of anthropogenic activity-low, medium, and high-though activity levels were minimal across all study lakes compared with highly populated areas. Whereas a positive correlation would indicate that point sources were a likely pathway, we observed no relationship between the level of anthropogenic activity and microplastic contamination of surface water. Moreover, the composition of microplastics in surface water and atmospheric deposition were similar, comprising mostly polyester and acrylic fibers. Together, these results suggest that atmospheric deposition may be the main pathway of microplastics to these remote boreal lakes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-13. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley K McIlwraith
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Minoli Dias
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diane M Orihel
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael D Rennie
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
- International Institute for Sustainable Development-Experimental Lakes Area, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anna L Harrison
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthew J Hoffman
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Qin L, Li X, Ren G, Yuan R, Wang X, Hu Z, Ye C, Zou Y, Ding P, Zhang H, Cai Q. Closed-Loop Polymer-to-Polymer Upcycling of Waste Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) into Biodegradable and Programmable Materials. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024:e202301781. [PMID: 38409634 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), extensively employed in bottles, film, and fiber manufacture, has generated persistent environmental contamination due to its non-degradable nature. The resolution of this issue requires the conversion of waste PET into valuable products, often achieved through depolymerization into monomers. However, the laborious purification procedures involved in the extraction of monomers pose challenges and constraints on the complete utilization of PET. Herein, a strategy is demonstrated for the polymer-to-polymer upcycling of waste PET into high-value biodegradable and programmable materials named PEXT. This process involves reversible transesterifications dependent on ester bonds, wherein commercially available X-monomers from aliphatic diacids and diols are introduced, utilizing existing industrial equipment for complete PET utilization. PEXT features a programmable molecular structure, delivering tailored mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation performance. Notably, PEXT exhibits superior mechanical performance, with a maximal elongation at break of 3419.2 % and a toughness of 270.79 MJ m-3 . These characteristics make PEXT suitable for numerous applications, including shape-memory materials, transparent films, and fracture-resistant stretchable components. Significantly, PEXT allows closed-loop recycling within specific biodegradable analogs by reprograming PET or X-monomers. This strategy not only offers cost-effective advantages in large-scale upcycling of waste PET into advanced materials but also demonstrates its enormous prospect in environmental conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidong Qin
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Xiaoxu Li
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Geng Ren
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Rongyan Yuan
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Zexu Hu
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Chenwu Ye
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yangyang Zou
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Peiqing Ding
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Qiuquan Cai
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
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Ran H, Zhang S, Ni W, Jing Y. Precise activation of C-C bonds for recycling and upcycling of plastics. Chem Sci 2024; 15:795-831. [PMID: 38239692 PMCID: PMC10793209 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05701a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid accumulation of plastic waste has led to a severe environmental crisis and a noticeable imbalance between manufacturing and recycling. Fortunately, chemical upgradation of plastic waste holds substantial promise for addressing these challenges posed by white pollution. During plastic upcycling and recycling, the key challenge is to activate and cleave the inert C-C bonds in plastic waste. Therefore, this perspective delves deeper into the upcycling and recycling of polyolefins from the angle of C-C activation-cleavage. We illustrate the importance of C-C bond activation in polyolefin depolymerization and integrate molecular-level catalysis, active site modulation, reaction networks and mechanisms to achieve precise activation-cleavage of C-C bonds. Notably, we draw potential inspiration from the accumulated wisdom of related fields, such as C-C bond activation in lignin chemistry, alkane dehydrogenation chemistry, C-Cl bond activation in CVOC removal, and C-H bond activation, to influence the landscape of plastic degradation through cross-disciplinary perspectives. Consequently, this perspective offers better insights into existing catalytic technologies and unveils new prospects for future advancements in recycling and upcycling of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshun Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Wenyi Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Yaxuan Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
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28
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Tutaroğlu S, Uslu L, Gündoğdu S. Microplastic contamination of packaged spirulina products. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:1114-1126. [PMID: 38036911 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31130-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination in commercially sold spirulina products has not been previously investigated. In this study, 29 spirulina samples in various packaging types were purchased from different brands and origins to assess the presence of MPs. Microplastic analysis was conducted using microscopic and μ-Raman techniques. To ascertain whether the content is indeed spirulina and make a comparison with the MP level, C-Phycocyanin levels were also analyzed. A total of 251 MP-like particles were observed. Out of the 29 examined packaged spirulina brands, 26 showed potential MPs upon visual inspection, with 35 particles confirmed as MPs (73% of the analyzed particles). The mean abundance of MPs was estimated at 13.77 ± 2.45 MPs/100 g dw. Powdered spirulina had a higher but not statistically significant MP abundance (17.34 ± 4.22 MPs/100 g dw) compared to capsule/tablet forms (10.43 ± 2.45 MPs/100 g dw). Fragments accounted for 38.3% while fibers constituted 61.7% of the identified MPs, with sizes ranging from 0.07 to 2.15 mm for fragments and 0.19 to 5.691 mm for fibers. The color distribution of MPs in spirulina samples was predominantly blue (52.8%), followed by black (25.4%), white (10.9%), and others (10.9%). Ten synthetic polymers and cellulose were identified through μ-Raman analysis, with polypropylene (31.6%) and polystyrene (8.3%) being the most prevalent. The correlation between C-Phycocyanin and MPs concentrations, was not found statistically significant. The abundance and composition of MPs were found to be influenced by packaging and processing stages. Identifying potential sources of MPs in spirulina products and evaluating their risks to human health is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Tutaroğlu
- Department of Biotechnology, Cukurova University, Balcalı, Saricam, 01330, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Leyla Uslu
- Department of Biotechnology, Cukurova University, Balcalı, Saricam, 01330, Adana, Türkiye
- Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Science, Cukurova University, Balcalı, Saricam, 01330, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Sedat Gündoğdu
- Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Science, Cukurova University, Balcalı, Saricam, 01330, Adana, Türkiye.
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Mallick K, Sahu A, Dubey NK, Das AP. Harvesting marine plastic pollutants-derived renewable energy: A comprehensive review on applied energy and sustainable approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119371. [PMID: 37925980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119371] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
The inevitable use of plastics in the existing standard of life makes its way to ecosystems, predominantly into the marine ecosystem. Recent research on energy recycling from marine discarded plastics through biological, chemical, and thermal processes is summarized, which degrade plastic debris and transform it into energy-efficient products. In a system-oriented approach, different boundaries like carbon efficiency, global warming potential, cumulative energy demand, and cost of the product have been evaluated. Even these technologies may successfully reduce the yearly volume of marine plastics by up to 89% while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30%. Conversely, recycling a ton of marine discarded plastics may save 915 cubic feet of landfill space, 6500 kWh of energy, and barrels of oil. Energy may be recovered up to 79% from waste plastics using various techniques. Up to 84% liquid fuel had been generated, with a maximum calorific power of 45 MJ/kg. It has been shown that in Asian countries, the power generation capacity of throw-away facemask wastes regularly varies from 2256 kWh/day to 18.52 million kWh/day. Hence, the conversion of marine plastics into biofuel, syngas, biochar, hydrocarbons, electricity, and value-added functional materials by various biotechnological and chemical processes like biodegradation, pyrolysis, gasification, methanolysis, and hydrolysis should be improvised as a source of alternative energy in the immediate future. Our review signifies the potential benefits of energy harvesting technologies from marine plastics pollutants to overcome the growing challenge of energy demands and provide a long-term solution to underdeveloped and developing countries as a sustainable source of energy. Endorsing current strategies to harvest energy from marine plastic wastes that enhance power generation technologies will help in building a more sustainable and greener environment that imparts a healthy and circular economy while shielding natural resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnamayee Mallick
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Aishwarya Sahu
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Alok Prasad Das
- Department of Life Sciences, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
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30
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Lawrence J, Santolini C, Binda G, Carnati S, Boldrocchi G, Pozzi A, Bettinetti R. Freshwater Lacustrine Zooplankton and Microplastic: An Issue to Be Still Explored. TOXICS 2023; 11:1017. [PMID: 38133418 PMCID: PMC10748375 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11121017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Lakes are essentially interlinked to humans as they provide water for drinking, agriculture, industrial and domestic purposes. The upsurge of plastic usage, its persistence, and potential detrimental effects on organisms cause impacts on the trophic food web of freshwater ecosystems; this issue, however, still needs to be explored. Zooplankton worldwide is commonly studied as an indicator of environmental risk in aquatic ecosystems for several pollutants. The aim of the review is to link the existing knowledge of microplastic pollution in zooplankton to assess the potential risks linked to these organisms which are at the first level of the lacustrine trophic web. A database search was conducted through the main databases to gather the relevant literature over the course of time. The sensitivity of zooplankton organisms is evident from laboratory studies, whereas several knowledge gaps exist in the understanding of mechanisms causing toxicity. This review also highlights insufficient data on field studies hampering the understanding of the pollution extent in lakes, as well as unclear trends on ecosystem-level cascading effects of microplastics (MPs) and mechanisms of toxicity (especially in combination with other pollutants). Therefore, this review provides insight into understanding the overlooked issues of microplastic in lake ecosystems to gain an accurate ecological risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jassica Lawrence
- DISAT Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (J.L.); (C.S.); (S.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Carlotta Santolini
- DISAT Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (J.L.); (C.S.); (S.C.); (A.P.)
- University School for Advanced Studies IUSS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gilberto Binda
- DISAT Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (J.L.); (C.S.); (S.C.); (A.P.)
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefano Carnati
- DISAT Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (J.L.); (C.S.); (S.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Ginevra Boldrocchi
- DiSUIT Department of Human Science and Innovation for the Territory, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy;
| | - Andrea Pozzi
- DISAT Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (J.L.); (C.S.); (S.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Roberta Bettinetti
- DiSUIT Department of Human Science and Innovation for the Territory, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy;
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31
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Cano-Povedano J, López-Calderón C, Sánchez MI, Hortas F, Cañuelo-Jurado B, Martín-Vélez V, Ros M, Cózar A, Green AJ. Biovectoring of plastic by white storks from a landfill to a complex of salt ponds and marshes. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115773. [PMID: 37992543 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115773] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Research into plastic pollution has extensively focused on abiotic vectors, overlooking transport by animals. Opportunistic birds, such as white storks (Ciconia ciconia) often forage on landfills, where plastic abounds. We assess plastic loading by ingestion and regurgitation of landfill plastic in Cadiz Bay, a major stopover area for migratory white storks in south-west Spain. On average, we counted 599 storks per day moving between a landfill and a complex of salt ponds and marshes, where they regurgitated pellets that each contained a mean of 0.47 g of plastic debris, dominated by polyethylene. Modelling reliant on GPS tracking estimated that 99 kg and >2 million particles of plastic were biovectored into the wetland during 2022, with seasonal peaks that followed migration patterns. GPS data enabled the correction of field censuses and the identification of plastic deposition hotspots. This study highlights the important role that biovectoring plays in plastic transport into coastal wetlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julián Cano-Povedano
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Cosme López-Calderón
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Marta I Sánchez
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Francisco Hortas
- Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz and European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), 11510 Puerto Real, Spain
| | - Belén Cañuelo-Jurado
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Víctor Martín-Vélez
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain; Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Macarena Ros
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Andrés Cózar
- Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz and European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), 11510 Puerto Real, Spain
| | - Andy J Green
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
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32
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Davidson J, Arienzo MM, Harrold Z, West C, Bandala ER, Easler S, Senft K. Polymer Characterization of Submerged Plastic Litter from Lake Tahoe, United States. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 77:1240-1252. [PMID: 37731356 PMCID: PMC10604391 DOI: 10.1177/00037028231201174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring plastic litter in the environment is critical to understanding the amount, sources, transport, fate, and environmental impact of this pollutant. However, few studies have monitored plastic litter on lakebeds which are potentially important environments for determining the fate and transport of plastic litter in freshwater basins. In this study, a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus was used for litter collection at the lakebed along five transects in Lake Tahoe, United States. Litter was brought to the surface and characterized by litter type. Plastic litter was subsampled, and polymer composition was determined using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The average plastic litter from the lakebed for the five dive transects was 83 ± 49 items per kilometer. The top plastic litter categories were other plastic litter (plastic litter that did not fall in another category), followed by food containers, bottles <2 L, plastic bags, and toys. These results are in line with prior studies on submerged litter, and intervention approaches or ongoing education are needed. The six polymers most frequently detected in the subsamples were polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene/expanded polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate/polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyamide. These observations reflect global plastic production and microplastic studies from lake surface water and sediments. We found that some litter subcategories were primarily comprised of a single polymer type, therefore, in studies where the polymer type cannot be measured but litter is categorized, these results could provide an estimate of the total polymer composition for select litter categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Davidson
- Desert Research Institute, Northern Nevada Science Center, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Monica M Arienzo
- Desert Research Institute, Northern Nevada Science Center, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Zoe Harrold
- Clear Horizons Consulting, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Colin West
- Clean Up the Cayes, DBA Clean Up the Lake, Incline Village, Nevada, USA
| | - Erick R Bandala
- Desert Research Institute, Southern Nevada Science Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Sadye Easler
- Clean Up the Cayes, DBA Clean Up the Lake, Incline Village, Nevada, USA
| | - Katie Senft
- University of California, Davis, Tahoe Environmental Research Center, Incline Village, Nevada, USA
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33
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Hypocrisy is threatening the future of the world's oceans. Nature 2023; 621:7. [PMID: 37670062 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-02746-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
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34
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Law KL, Rochman CM. Large-scale collaborations uncover global extent of plastic pollution. Nature 2023; 619:254-255. [PMID: 37438596 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-02175-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
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