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Qi Y, Shao W, Xiu FR. A low-temperature co-treatment of diethylhexyl phthalate-rich polyvinyl chloride and waste copper catalyst by subcritical water (hydrothermal treatment): Dechlorination, recovery of diethylhexyl phthalate and copper. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 189:276-289. [PMID: 39217802 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
As one of the most widespread plastics in the world, the recycling of diethylhexyl phthalate-rich polyvinyl chloride (DEHP-rich PVC) faces great challenges because of the high levels of Cl and plasticizers. On the other hand, waste copper catalyst (WCC) discharged from various industrial processes is not effectively recycled. In this study, a significant synergistic effect between the DEHP-rich PVC and WCC was found in a subcritical water (SubCW) medium, and a co-treatment of the DEHP-rich PVC and WCC was developed by the SubCW process. The introduction of WCC significantly improved the dechlorination efficiency of the DEHP-rich PVC to 96.03 % at a low temperature of 250 °C. Under the optimal conditions, the leaching of copper from WCC reached a maximum of 81.08 %. Oil products included DEHP (55.7 %, GC peak area%), 3-methyl-3-heptene (37.3 %, GC peak area%), and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (7.0 %, GC peak area%). The dechlorination pathways of the DEHP-rich PVC included hydroxyl substitution and direct dechlorination. HCl released from the DEHP-rich PVC led to a decrease in the pH of the system and significant copper leaching from the WCC. DEHP was decomposed by hydrolysis, dehydration, and rearrangement reaction by the SubCW co-treatment process. The enhancement mechanism of the WCC for the dechlorination of the DEHP-rich PVC was based on that the conversion of copper species in the SubCW promoted the formation of hydroxyl radicals and the hydroxyl substitution for chlorine in PVC molecular chain. The proposed SubCW low-temperature co-treatment could be a prospective strategy for the low-energy and synchronous recovery of the two different wastes of the DEHP-rich PVC and WCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Qi
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, China
| | - Wenting Shao
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, China
| | - Fu-Rong Xiu
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, China.
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2
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Martynova A, Rodrigue M, Pieribone V, Qurban M, Duarte CM. Density and distribution patterns of seafloor macrolitter in the eastern Red Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176042. [PMID: 39244039 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
The constant production of plastic and incessant growth of waste pollution continues to alter the marine environment from the coasts and surface waters to the deep sea. The quantification and investigation of macrolitter on the vast seabed of the ocean are challenging tasks that must be undertaken to elucidate the impact of anthropogenic activity on the marine environment and facilitate subsequent implementation of legally binding waste management regulations. In this study, we analyzed >60,000 images collected during 84 dives surveying 62.1 km of seabed in the eastern Red Sea to quantify the abundance and density of seafloor macrolitter. The surveyed depth of the seabed varied between 35 and 2415 m, and litter was observed at depths ranging from 93 to 2415 m. The litter density varied between 0 and 73,798 items km-2, with the mean (± SE) and median densities of 4069 ± 1188 and 1371 items km-2, respectively. Plastic was the main litter category, comprising 46 % of all litter. The density of litter was higher at deeper depths (>1400 m) and increased significantly at distances farther from the shore. The results of this study suggest that maritime traffic and the possible direct litter discharge from vessels are the main anthropogenic sources of seafloor litter in the eastern Red Sea. Thus, we emphasize the urgency of conservation efforts and strict waste regulations to preserve the marine ecosystem of the Red Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Martynova
- Marine Science Program, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | | | - Carlos M Duarte
- Marine Science Program, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Pinochet J, Thiel M, Urbina M. How plastic litter sunk by biofouling recovers buoyancy - The role of benthic predation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 952:175910. [PMID: 39226971 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175910] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Estimates suggest that the amount of plastic litter discarded in the ocean is several times greater than what remains floating at the sea surface, raising questions about the fate of this marine debris. Fouling-induced sinking of plastic litter is one of the proposed mechanisms responsible for this mass difference. While some of this 'missing' plastic mass may be explained by the effects of fouling, it has also been hypothesized that sinking litter may return to the surface after benthic organisms consume the biofouling. However, this hypothesis has never been tested. The present study evaluated the structure and biomass of the fouling community in response to benthic predation in both summer and winter seasons. Floating PVC plates were installed during winter and summer in central Chile (36°S) until the growing biofouling community caused them to sink. Plates were then moved to the seabed, where they were exposed to benthic predation, while control plates were maintained in a mesh cage impeding predator access. In summer, all plates recovered their buoyancy, while in the winter only 60 % recovered buoyancy. All caged control samples remained on the bottom in both seasons. The community structure differed both in the treatments and across the seasons, with plates that recovered buoyancy initially being dominated by Ulva sp. and Ciona robusta. Conversely, plates that did not refloat were mainly covered by species resistant to predation such as Pyura chilensis, Austromegabalanus psittacus, and Balanus laevis. Thus, fouling community structure influences how predation facilitates buoyancy recovery, because not all epibionts can be consumed by predators. While previous studies had shown how fouling organisms cause sinking of floating litter, this is the first study to provide experimental evidence that predation can reverse this process and allow litter to resurface and become again available as dispersal vectors for native and invasive species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Pinochet
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Concepción, Chile
| | - Martin Thiel
- MarineGEO Program, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, MD, USA; Dpto. de Biologia Marina, Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Center of Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile.
| | - Mauricio Urbina
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Concepción, Chile; Instituto Milenio de Oceanografía (IMO), Universidad de Concepción, PO Box 1313, Concepción, Chile.
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4
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Jia T, Peng Z, Yu J, Piaggio AL, Zhang S, de Kreuk MK. Detecting the interaction between microparticles and biomass in biological wastewater treatment process with Deep Learning method. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175813. [PMID: 39191331 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175813] [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: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Investigating the interaction between influent particles and biomass is basic and important for the biological wastewater treatment. The micro-level methods allow for this, such as the microscope image analysis method with the conventional ImageJ processing software. However, these methods are cost and time-consuming, and require a large amount of work on manual parameter tuning. To deal with this problem, we proposed a deep learning (DL) method to automatically detect and quantify microparticles free from biomass and entrapped in biomass from microscope images. Firstly, we introduced a "TU Delft-Interaction between Particles and Biomass" dataset containing labeled microscope images. Then, we built DL models using this dataset with seven state-of-the-art model architectures for a instance segmentation task, such as Mask R-CNN, Cascade Mask R-CNN, Yolact and YOLOv8. The results show that the Cascade Mask R-CNN with ResNet50 backbone achieves promising detection accuracy, with a mAP50box and mAP50mask of 90.6 % on the test set. Then, we benchmarked our results against the conventional ImageJ processing method. The results show that the DL method significantly outperforms the ImageJ processing method in terms of detection accuracy and processing cost. The DL method shows a 13.8 % improvement in micro-average precision, and a 21.7 % improvement in micro-average recall, compared to the ImageJ method. Moreover, the DL method can process 70 images within 1 min, while the ImageJ method costs at least 6 h. The promising performance of our method allows it to offer a potential alternative to examine the interaction between microparticles and biomass in biological wastewater treatment process in an affordable manner. This approach offers more useful insights into the treatment process, enabling further reveal the microparticles transfer in biological treatment systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianlong Jia
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Department of Water Management, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Zhaoxu Peng
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Department of Water Management, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, the Netherlands; Zhengzhou University, School of Water Conservancy and Transportation, Kexue Road 100, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Jing Yu
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Dr Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Antonella L Piaggio
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Department of Water Management, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Department of Water Management, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Merle K de Kreuk
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Department of Water Management, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, the Netherlands
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5
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Lv L, Feng W, Cai J, Zhang Y, Jiang J, Liao D, Yan C, Sui Y, Dong X. Enrichment characteristics of microplastics in Antarctic benthic and pelagic fish and krill near the Antarctic Peninsula. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175582. [PMID: 39159696 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Global microplastic pollution has garnered widespread attention from researchers both domestically and internationally. However, compared to other regions worldwide, little is known about microplastic pollution in the marine ecosystems of the Antarctic region. This study investigated the abundance and characteristics of microplastics (MPs) in the gills and intestines of 15 species of Antarctic fish and Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba). The results indicate that the abundance of MPs in Antarctic fish and E. superba ranged from 0.625 to 2.0 items/individual and 0.17 to 0.27 items/individual, with mean abundances of 0.93 ± 0.96 items/individual and 0.23 ± 0.44 items/individual, respectively. Antarctic fish ingested significantly more MPs than E. superba. There was no significant difference in the abundance of MPs between the gills and intestines of Antarctic fish. However, the quantity of pellet-shaped MPs in the gills was significantly higher than in the intestines. The depth of fish habitat influenced the quantity and size of MPs in their bodies, with benthic fish ingesting significantly fewer MPs than pelagic fish. Pelagic fish ingested significantly more MPs sized 1-5 mm than benthic fish. Additionally, analysis of the characteristics of MPs revealed that fiber-shaped MPs were predominant in shape, with sizes generally smaller than 0.25 mm and 0.25-0.5 mm. The predominant colors of MPs were transparent, red, and black, while the main materials were polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Compared to organisms from other regions, the levels of MPs in Antarctic fish and E. superba were relatively low. This study contributes to a better understanding of the extent of MP pollution in Antarctic fish and E. superba, aiding human efforts to mitigate its impact on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlan Lv
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Wanjun Feng
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Jiaying Cai
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Jiacheng Jiang
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Dagui Liao
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Cong Yan
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Yanming Sui
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
| | - Xuexing Dong
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224,000, PR China
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6
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Perold V, Ronconi RA, Moloney CL, Dilley BJ, Connan M, Ryan PG. Little change in plastic loads in South Atlantic seabirds since the 1980s. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 950:175343. [PMID: 39127220 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing concern about the large amounts of waste plastic in marine ecosystems, evidence of an increase in the amount of floating plastic at sea has been mixed. Both at-sea surveys and ingested plastic loads in seabirds show inconsistent evidence of significant increases in the amount of plastic since the 1980s. We use 3727 brown skua Catharacta antarctica regurgitations, each containing the remains of a single seabird, to monitor changes in plastic loads in four seabird taxa breeding at Inaccessible Island, Tristan da Cunha in nine years from 1987 to 2018. Frequency of occurrence in plastic ingestion and types were compared across four near-decadal time periods (1987-1989; 1999-2004; 2009-2014 and 2018) while loads were compared among years. The number and proportions of industrial pellets among ingested plastic decreased consistently over the study period in all four taxa, suggesting that industry initiatives to reduce pellet leakage have reduced the numbers of pellets at sea. Despite global plastic production increasing more than four-fold over the study period, there was no consistent increase in the total amount of ingested plastic in any species. Plastic loads in great shearwaters Ardenna gravis, which spend the austral winter in the North Atlantic Ocean, increased in 2018, but the proportion of shearwaters containing plastic decreased. We conclude that the density of plastic floating at sea has not increased in line with global production over the last 30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vonica Perold
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa.
| | - Robert A Ronconi
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 2N6, Canada
| | - Coleen L Moloney
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Ben J Dilley
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Maëlle Connan
- Department of Zoology, Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Peter G Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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7
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Yang YJ, Zhu MJ. Influences of bisphenol A on hydrogen production from food waste by thermophilic dark fermentation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 260:119625. [PMID: 39019138 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
The extensive use of plastic products in food packaging and daily life makes them inevitably enter the treatment process of food waste (FW). Plasticizer as a new pollutant is threatening the dark fermentation of FW. Our study showed that bisphenol A (BPA) at > 250 mg/L had a significant inhibition on hydrogen production from FW by thermophilic dark fermentation. The endogenous ATP content and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release showed that high level of BPA not only inhibited the growth of hydrogen-producing consortium, but also led to cell death. In addition, BPA mainly affects the hydrogen-producing consortium by reducing cell membrane fluidity, damaging cell membrane integrity and reducing cell membrane potential, resulting in cell death. This study provides some new insights into the mechanism of the effect of BPA on hydrogen production from FW by thermophilic dark fermentation, and lays the foundation on the utilization of FW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jun Yang
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Panyu, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ming-Jun Zhu
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Panyu, Guangzhou, 510006, China; The Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecology of Pamirs Plateau in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, The Key Laboratory of Ecology and Biological Resources in Yarkand Oasis at Colleges & Universities Under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, College of Life and Geographic Sciences, Kashi University, Kashi, 844006, China.
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8
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Courtene-Jones W, Cheung SWH, Thompson RC, Hanley ME. Effect of biodegradable and conventional microplastic exposure in combination with seawater inundation on the coastal terrestrial plant Plantago coronopus. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124573. [PMID: 39029863 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124573] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems face a multitude of pressures including plastic pollution and increased flood risk due to sea level rise and the frequency and severity of storms. Experiments seldom examine multiple stressors such as these, but here we quantified the effect of microplastics (polyethylene terephthalate (PET): a durable plastic and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT): a biodegradable polymer), in combination with simulated seawater inundation on the coastal species Plantago coronopus. After 35-days exposure to plastic (0.02 g.Kg-1, <300 μm diameter), P. coronopus were flooded to pot height with artificial seawater for 72-h, drained and grown for a further 24-days. Plant mortality, necrosis and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) were recorded throughout, with root:shoot biomass and scape production (flower stalks) quantified at harvest. There were significant interactions between microplastics and seawater on the root:shoot ratio; a measure of resource allocation. The allocation to belowground biomass increased significantly under the PET + inundation treatment compared to the PBAT + inundation and the no plastic + inundation treatments, with potential consequences on the capture of water, nutrients and sunlight, which can affect plant performance. Plant necrosis significantly increased, and Fv/Fm declined as a result of seawater inundation. While not significant, plant Fv/Fm responses were influenced by microplastics (17% and 7% reduction in PBAT and PET exposure respectively compared to the no plastic control). Plants mediated this stress response with no discernible treatment-specific effects detected in Fv/Fm 14-days after seawater introduction. Plastic exposure significantly influenced potential reproductive output, with lower average scape numbers across PBAT treatments, but higher in PET treatments. This study highlights the complex interactions and potential for microplastics to present an elevated risk when in combination with additional stressors like seawater flooding; establishing the threat presented to ecosystem resilience in a changing world is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Courtene-Jones
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - S W H Cheung
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - R C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - M E Hanley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
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9
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Wang Z, Liu L, Zhou G, Yu H, Hrynsphan D, Tatsiana S, Robles-Iglesias R, Chen J. Impact of microplastics on microbial community structure in the Qiantang river: A potential source of N 2O emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 359:124755. [PMID: 39151781 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the spatial distribution of microplastics (MPs) and the features of the bacterial community in the Qiantang River urban river. Surface water samples from the Qiantang River were analyzed for this purpose. The results of the 16S high-throughput sequencing indicated that the microbial community diversity of MPs was significantly lower than in natural water but higher than in natural substrates. The biofilm of MPs was mainly composed of Enterobacteriaceae (28.00%), Bacillaceae (16.25%), and Phormidiaceae (6.75%). The biodiversity on MPs, natural water, and natural substrates varied significantly and was influenced by seasonal factors. In addition, the presence of MPs hindered the denitrification process in the aquatic environment and intensified N2O emission when the nitrate concentration was higher than normal. In particular, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) exhibited a 12% residue of NO3--N and a 4.2% accumulation of N2O after a duration of 48 h. Further findings on gene abundance and cell viability provided further confirmation that PET had a considerable impact on reducing the expression of nirS (by 0.34-fold) and nosZ (by 0.53-fold), hence impeding the generation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) (by 0.79-fold). Notably, all MPs demonstrated higher the nirK gene abundances than the nirS gene, which could account for the significant accumulation of N2O. The results suggest that MPs can serve as a novel carrier substrate for microbial communities and as a potential promoter of N2O emission in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Lingxiu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, China; College of Geography and Environmental Science, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, 321004, China
| | - Gang Zhou
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Hui Yu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Dzmitry Hrynsphan
- Research Institute of Physical and Chemical Problems, Belarusian State University, Minsk, 220030, Belarus
| | - Savitskaya Tatsiana
- Research Institute of Physical and Chemical Problems, Belarusian State University, Minsk, 220030, Belarus
| | - Raúl Robles-Iglesias
- Chemical Engineering Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Center for Advanced Scientific Research/Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), BIOENGIN Group, University of La Coruña, La Coruña, 15008, Spain
| | - Jun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, China.
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10
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Xu J, Zhang J, Dong Y, Luo Y, Xie W. Effects of polyethylene microplastics on CHCl 3 and CHBr 3 fluxes and microbial community in temperate salt marsh soil. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 359:124719. [PMID: 39142428 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) affect the carbon cycle in coastal salt marsh soils. However, studies on their effects on CHCl3 and CHBr3, which are volatile halohydrocarbons that can damage the ozone layer, are lacking. In this study, indoor simulation experiments were conducted to explore the effects of MPs invasion on the source and sink characteristics of soil CHCl3 and CHBr3. The results showed that different concentrations of polyethylene (PE)-MPs promoted CHCl3 and CHBr3 emissions. Emission peaks of the two gases appeared on days 3 and 15 during the culture cycle. CHCl3 and CHBr3 fluxes were mainly affected by soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities. PE-MPs caused changes in soil properties, microorganisms, and related functional genes. Soil total organic carbon, which was significantly and positively correlated with CHCl3. Dissolved organic matter, which was one of the main factors affecting CHBr3, its relative content increased after the addition of PE-MPs. The abundances of Methylocella and Dehalococcoides, which mediate dechlorination reduction, decreased with the addition of PE-MPs. The addition of PE-MPs also significantly varied the abundance of ctrA, which controls dechlorination in soil microorganisms. The gene pceA greatly influenced CHCl3 emissions. In addition, CHBr3 flux was influenced by the interactions between sediment redox and microbial co-metabolic reactions under the control of genes such as TC.FEV.OM and soxB. This study provides theoretical and data support for the source and sink characteristics of volatile halohydrocarbons in coastal salt marshes and highlights the environmental hazards of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jiale Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yange Dong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yue Luo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Wenxia Xie
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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11
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Xu J, Zhang Y, Wen K, Wang X, Huang L, Yang Z, Zheng G, Huang Y, Zhang J. Enhanced flotation removal of polystyrene nanoplastics by chitosan modification: Performance and mechanism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174254. [PMID: 38925388 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are difficult to remove from water using conventional flotation processes due to their stability and resistance to biodegradation. Here, polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) were selected as the object of study. In addition, chitosan (CTS), an environmentally friendly natural cationic polymer, was selected to modify the air flotation process to improve the separation of PSNPs using air flotation. Adding chitosan effectively enhanced the removal of PSNPs using air flotation from 3.1 % to 96.7 %. The residual concentration decreased from 9.69 mg/L to 0.33 mg/L. Removal of PSNPs by CTS-modified air flotation was maintained at 92.8 % even when the air flotation time was significantly shortened. The zeta potential alterations demonstrated robust electrostatic attraction within the CTS-modified air flotation process. The contact angle measurements indicated that incorporating CTS could enhance the hydrophobic interaction between bubbles and PSNPs. PSNPs particles around 100 nm agglomerated to form floating flocs with a particle size of more than 4500 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed the presence of tight adhesion between PSNPs and CTS, indicating the presence of bridging adsorption during the process. The major PSNPs removal mechanisms included electrostatic attraction, enhancement of hydrophobicity, and bridging adsorption. Increasing the aeration volume could improve the removal rate, but this improvement was finite. Weakly acidic and low ionic strength conditions favored PSNPs removal. The CTS-modified air flotation process showed great potential for PSNPs removal from real water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhui Xu
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Yanting Zhang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Kecheng Wen
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Lupeng Huang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Zhiwei Yang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Guozhong Zheng
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; Yibin Ind Technol Res Inst, Sichuan University, Yibin 644000, China.
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12
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Laranjeiro F, Rotander A, López-Ibáñez S, Vilas A, Södergren Seilitz F, Clérandeau C, Sampalo M, Rial D, Bellas J, Cachot J, Almeda R, Beiras R. Comparative assessment of the acute toxicity of commercial bio-based polymer leachates on marine plankton. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174403. [PMID: 38960198 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Conventional plastics have become a major environmental concern due to their persistence and accumulation in marine ecosystems. The development of potential degradable polymers (PBP), such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and polylactic acid (PLA), has gained attention as an alternative to mitigate plastic pollution, since they have the potential to biodegrade under certain conditions, and their production is increasing as replacement of conventional polyolefins. This study aimed to assess and compare the toxicity of leachates of pre-compounding PBP (PLA and the PHA, polyhydroxybutyrate-covalerate (PHBv)) and polypropylene (PP) on five marine planktonic species. A battery of standard bioassays using bacteria, microalgae, sea urchin embryos, mussel embryos and copepod nauplii was conducted to assess the toxicity of leachates from those polymers. Additionally, the presence of chemical additives in the leachates was also verified through GC-MS and LC-HRMS analysis. Results showed that PHBv leachates exhibited higher toxicity compared to other polymers, with the microalgae Rhodomonas salina, being the most sensitive species to the tested leachates. On the other hand, PP and PLA generally displayed minimal to no toxicity in the studied species. Estimated species sensitivity distribution curves (SSD) show that PHBv leachates can be 10 times more hazardous to marine plankton than PP or PLA leachates, as demonstrated by the calculated Hazardous Concentration for 5 % of species (HC5). Qualitative chemical analysis supports the toxicological results, with 80 % of compounds being identified in PHBv leachates of which 2,4,6-trichlorophenol is worth mentioning due to the deleterious effects to aquatic biota described in literature. These findings underscore the fact that whereas environmental persistence can be targeted using PBP, the issue of chemical safety remains unsolved by some alternatives, such as PHBv. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the toxicity profiles of PBP materials through a priori toxicological risk assessment is vital for their responsible application as alternatives to conventional plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Laranjeiro
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain.
| | - A Rotander
- MTM Research Centre, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - S López-Ibáñez
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - A Vilas
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | | | - C Clérandeau
- EPOC, University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, UMR 5805, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - M Sampalo
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - D Rial
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52 36390 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - J Bellas
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52 36390 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - J Cachot
- EPOC, University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, UMR 5805, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - R Almeda
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - R Beiras
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
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13
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Sunil S, Bhagwat G, Vincent SGT, Palanisami T. Microplastics and climate change: the global impacts of a tiny driver. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174160. [PMID: 38909818 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution and climate change, the two seemingly distinct phenomena of global concern, are interconnected through various pathways. The connecting links between the two include the biological carbon pumps in the oceans, the sea ice, the plastisphere involved in biogeochemical cycling and the direct emissions of greenhouse gases from microplastics. On one hand, the presence of microplastics in the water column disrupts the balance of the natural carbon sequestration by affecting the key players in the pumping of carbon, such as the phytoplankton and zooplankton. On the other hand, the effect of microplastics on the sea ice in Polar Regions is two-way, as the ice caps are transformed into sinks and sources of microplastics and at the same time, the microplastics can enhance the melting of ice by reducing the albedo. Microplastics may have more potential than larger plastic fragments to release greenhouse gases (GHGs). Microbe-mediated emission of GHGs from soils is also now altered by the microplastics present in the soil. Plastisphere, the emerging microbiome in aquatic environments, can also contribute to climate change as it hosts complex networks of microbes, many of which are involved in greenhouse gas production. To combat a global stressor like climate change, it needs to be addressed with a holistic approach and this begins with tracing the various stressors like microplastic pollution that can aggravate the impacts of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syama Sunil
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695034, India
| | - Geetika Bhagwat
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | | | - Thava Palanisami
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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14
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Su L, Dong X, Peng J, Cheng H, Craig NJ, Hu B, Li JY. Segmentation of beach plastic fragments' contours based on self-organizing map and multi-shape descriptors: A rapid indication of fragmentation and wearing types. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135564. [PMID: 39173392 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Environmental plastic fragments have been verified as byproducts of large plastic and its secondary pollutants including micro and nanoplastics. There are few quantitative studies available, but their contours have values for the weathering mechanisms. We used geometric descriptors, fractal dimensions, and Fourier descriptors to characterize field and artificial polyethylene and polypropylene samples as a means of investigating the contour characteristics. It provides a methodological framework for contour classification. Unsupervised classification was performed using self-organizing neural networks with size-invariance parameters. We revealed the isometric phenomenon of plastic fragments during fragmentation, i.e., that the degree of contour rounding and complexity increase and decrease, respectively, with decreasing fragment size. With an average error rate of 8.9 %, we can distinguish artificial samples from field samples. It was also validated by the difference in Carbonyl Index between groups. We propose a two-stage process for plastic fragmentation and give three types of contour features which were key in the description of fragmented contours, i.e., size, complexity, and rounding. Our work will improve the accuracy of characterizations regarding the weathering and fragmentation processes of certain kinds of plastic fragments. The contour parameters also have the potential to be applied in more realistic scenarios and varied polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Su
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xinyue Dong
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Junjie Peng
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Nicholas J Craig
- School of Biosciences, the University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bo Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Juan-Ying Li
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
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15
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Hu T, Lü F, Zhang H, Yuan Z, He P. Wet oxidation technology can significantly reduce both microplastics and nanoplastics. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 263:122177. [PMID: 39111211 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122177] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
For the resource recovery of biomass waste, it is a challenge to simultaneously remove micro-/nano-plastics pollution but preserve organic resources. Wet oxidation is a promising technology for valorization of organic wastes through thermal hydrolysis and oxidation. This might in turn result in the degradation of microplastics in the presence of oxygen and high temperatures. Based on this hypothesis, this study quantified both microplastics and nanoplastics in an industrial-scale wet oxidation reactor from a full-size coverage perspective. Wet oxidation significantly reduced the size and mass of individual microplastics, and decreased total mass concentration of microplastics and nanoplastics by 94.8 % to 98.6 %. This technology also reduced the micro- and nanoplastic shapes and polymer types, resulting in a complete removal of fibers, clusters, polypropylene (PP) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The present study confirms that wet oxidation technology is effective in removing microplastics and nanoplastics while recovering organic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Hu
- Institute of Waste Treatment and Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Fan Lü
- Institute of Waste Treatment and Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Institute of Waste Treatment and Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Zhiwen Yuan
- Ningbo Kaseen Ecology Technology Co., Ltd., Ningbo 315000, PR China
| | - Pinjing He
- Institute of Waste Treatment and Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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16
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Meng Q, Yi X, Zhou H, Song H, Liu Y, Zhan J, Pan H. Isolation of marine polyethylene (PE)-degrading bacteria and its potential degradation mechanisms. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116875. [PMID: 39236493 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116875] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Microbial degradation of polyethylene (PE) offers a promising solution to plastic pollution in the marine environment, but research in this field is limited. In this study, we isolated a novel marine strain of Pseudalkalibacillus sp. MQ-1 that can degrade PE. Scanning electron microscopy and water contact angle results showed that MQ-1 could adhere to PE films and render them hydrophilic. Analyses using X-ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed a decrease in relative crystallinity, the appearance of new functional groups and an increase in the oxygen-to‑carbon ratio of the PE films, making them more susceptible to degradation. The results of gel permeation chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry indicated the depolymerization of the long PE chains, with the detection of an intermediate, decanediol. Furthermore, genome sequencing was employed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of PE degradation. The results of genome sequencing analysis identified the genes associated with PE degradation, including cytochrome P450, alcohol dehydrogenase, and aldehyde dehydrogenase involved in the oxidative reaction, monooxygenase related to ester bond formation, and esterase associated with ester bond cleavage. In addition, enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism and intracellular transport have been identified, collectively providing insights into the metabolic pathway of PE degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Meng
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China
| | - Xianliang Yi
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China.
| | - Hao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China
| | - Hongyu Song
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China
| | - Jingjing Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China
| | - Haixia Pan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Panjin Campus, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, China.
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17
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Sato M, Yang Z, Katagata Y, Hamada H, Yamada Y, Arakawa H. Microplastic volumes in Tokyo Bay. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116871. [PMID: 39216256 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is a rising environmental concern. This study investigated MP concentrations in Tokyo Bay using neuston net for surface sampling and deep-sea plankton pump for underwater sampling across six stations at multiple depths. Results revealed substantial variation in MP concentrations. Surface large microplastics (LMP, > 350 μm) ranged from 0.21 × 10-3 to 3.34 × 10-3 pieces L-1, averaging 1.26 × 10-3 pieces L-1, while surface small microplastics (SMP, 60 μm to 350 μm) were highest at head of the bay (11.5 ± 3.05 pieces L-1). SMP concentrations varied with depth and position, peaking at center of the bay (5.79 ± 1.63 pieces L-1 at 2 m). Additionally, the total amount of surface LMP was estimated at 10.3 m3 and SMP at 15.0 m3 in the Tokyo Bay. This study provides a comprehensive picture of the spatial and vertical distribution of MP in Tokyo Bay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirai Sato
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Zijiang Yang
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Yukiho Katagata
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Hamada
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Yuta Yamada
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Hisayuki Arakawa
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
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18
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Zhang L, Vaccari F, Bandini F, Puglisi E, Trevisan M, Lucini L. The short-term effect of microplastics in lettuce involves size- and dose-dependent coordinate shaping of root metabolome, exudation profile and rhizomicrobiome. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:174001. [PMID: 38879040 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174001] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) in the soil can impact the microbial diversity within rhizospheres and induce modifications in plants' morphological, physiological, and biochemical parameters. However, a significant knowledge gap still needs to be addressed regarding the specific effects of varying particle sizes and concentrations on the comprehensive interplay among soil dynamics, root exudation, and the overall plant system. In this sense, different omics techniques were employed to clarify the mechanisms of the action exerted by four different particle sizes of polyethylene plastics considering four different concentrations on the soil-roots exudates-plant system was studied using lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata) as a model plant. The impact of MNPs was investigated using a multi-omics integrated approach, focusing on the tripartite interaction between the root metabolic process, exudation pattern, and rhizosphere microbial modulation. Our results showed that particle size and their concentrations significantly modulated the soil-roots exudates-plant system. Untargeted metabolomics highlighted that fatty acids, amino acids, and hormone biosynthesis pathways were significantly affected by MNPs. Additionally, they were associated with the reduction of rhizosphere bacterial α-diversity, following a size-dependent trend for specific taxa. The omics data integration highlighted a correlation between Pseudomonadata and Actinomycetota phyla and Bacillaceae family (Peribacillus simplex) and the exudation of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lignans in lettuce exposed to increasing sizes of MNPs. This study provides a novel insight into the potential effects of different particle sizes and concentrations of MNPs on the soil-plant continuum, providing evidence about size- and concentration-dependent effects, suggesting the need for further investigation focused on medium- to long-term exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Zhang
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Filippo Vaccari
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Bandini
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Edoardo Puglisi
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Marco Trevisan
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Luigi Lucini
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy.
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19
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Higuchi C, Isobe A. Reduction scenarios of plastic waste emission guided by the probability distribution model to avoid additional ocean plastic pollution by 2050s. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116791. [PMID: 39121802 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Marine plastic pollution is progressing worldwide and will become increasingly serious if plastic waste emissions continue at the current rate or increase with economic growth. Here, we report a particle tracking-based probability distribution model for predicting the abundances of marine macroplastics and microplastics, which undergo generation, transport, and removal processes in the world's upper ocean, under various scenarios of future land-to-sea plastic waste emissions. To achieve the Osaka Blue Ocean Vision, which aims to reduce additional pollution by marine plastic litter to zero by 2050, plastic waste emission in ∼2035 should be reduced by at least 32 % relative to 2019. It is necessary to take stringent measures such as 'system change scenario' or 'improve waste management scenario' proposed in previous studies to reduce the marine plastic pollution by 2050.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chisa Higuchi
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan.
| | - Atsuhiko Isobe
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan
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20
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Oberhausen CM, Mahajan JS, Sun JA, Epps TH, Korley LTJ, Vlachos DG. Hydrogenolysis of Poly(Ethylene-co-Vinyl Alcohol) and Related Polymer Blends over Ruthenium Heterogeneous Catalysts. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024; 17:e202400238. [PMID: 38609332 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202400238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The hydrogenolysis of polymers is emerging as a promising approach to deconstruct plastic waste into valuable chemicals. Yet, the complexity of plastic waste, including multilayer packaging, is a significant barrier to handling realistic waste streams. Herein, we reveal fundamental insights into a new chemical route for transforming a previously unaddressed fraction of plastic waste - poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVOH) and related polymer blends - into alkane products. We report that Ru/ZrO2 is active for the concurrent hydrogenolysis, hydrogenation, and hydrodeoxygenation of EVOH and its thermal degradation products into alkanes (C1-C35) and water. Detailed reaction data, product analysis, and catalyst characterization reveal that the in-situ thermal degradation of EVOH forms aromatic intermediates that are detrimental to catalytic activity. Increased hydrogen pressure promotes hydrogenation of these aromatics, preventing catalyst deactivation and improving alkane product yields. Calculated apparent rates of C-C scission reveal that the hydrogenolysis of EVOH is slower than low-density polyethylene. We apply these findings to achieve hydrogenolysis of EVOH/polyethylene blends and elucidate the sensitivity of hydrogenolysis catalysts to such blends. Overall, we demonstrate progress towards efficient catalytic processes for the hydroconversion of waste multilayer film plastic packaging into valuable products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Oberhausen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Jignesh S Mahajan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 127 The Green, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Jessie A Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Thomas H Epps
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 127 The Green, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - LaShanda T J Korley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 127 The Green, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Dionisios G Vlachos
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
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21
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Khechfe AA, Eckstrom FD, Chokkapu ER, Baston LA, Liu B, Chen EYX, Román-Leshkov Y. Synthesis of α-methylene-δ-valerolactone and its selective polymerization from a product mixture for concurrent separation and polymer production. GREEN CHEMISTRY : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL AND GREEN CHEMISTRY RESOURCE : GC 2024:d4gc03016h. [PMID: 39309015 PMCID: PMC11409163 DOI: 10.1039/d4gc03016h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
We report the continuous, gas-phase synthesis of α-methylene-δ-valerolactone (MVL) from δ-valerolactone (DVL) and formaldehyde (FA) over alkaline earth oxide catalysts. MgO, CaO, and BaO supported on silica (∼5 wt%) were active for MVL production (613 K, 0.4 kPa DVL, 1.2 kPa FA, 101 kPa total pressure). CaO and BaO showed 90% and 83% selectivity to MVL at ∼60% DVL conversion, respectively. Decreasing contact times improved MVL selectivity for all three catalysts, achieving near quantitative selectivity at DVL conversions <40% with CaO. Further studies with CaO indicated that increasing the FA partial pressure for a given DVL partial pressure negligibly changed conversion while maintaining high selectivity; however, increasing the reaction temperature generally resulted in lower MVL selectivity. Deactivation and carbon loss were attributed to non-volatile compound formation from series and parallel reactions that consume MVL and DVL and poison the catalyst surface. These side reactions were more pronounced at high temperatures and higher contact times. While slow deactivation poses a challenge, the catalyst could be fully regenerated by calcining at 773 K for 4 h under flowing air. As the product mixture of MVL and DVL is difficult to separate, we developed a selective polymerization strategy to convert either one or both monomers into valuable polymeric materials, thereby achieving efficient separation and concurrent polymer production. Using a model mixture of 30 wt% of MVL in DVL, vinyl-addition polymerization converted MVL to the corresponding vinyl polymer (PMVL)VAP in 98% yield, while DVL was recovered in 96% yield by distillation. Alternatively, ring-opening polymerization of the same mixture resulted in a DVL/MVL copolyester and separatable vinyl homopolymer P(MVL)VAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Khechfe
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Francesca D Eckstrom
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University Fort Collins CO 80523-1872 USA
| | - Eswara Rao Chokkapu
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University Fort Collins CO 80523-1872 USA
| | - Lucas A Baston
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Bowei Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University Fort Collins CO 80523-1872 USA
| | - Yuriy Román-Leshkov
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge MA 02139 USA
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22
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Yang L, Yuan L, Wang WX. Visible Combined Near-Infrared in Situ Imaging Revealed Dynamic Effects of Microplastic Fibers and Beads in Zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:16269-16281. [PMID: 39213526 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04578] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) as emerging contaminants are widely present in the environment and are ubiquitously ingested and accumulated by aquatic organisms. MPs may be quickly eliminated after a brief retention in aquatic animals (such as the digestive tract); thus, understanding the damage caused by MPs during this process and whether the damage can be recovered is important. Here, we proposed the use of visible light imaging to track MPs combined with near-infrared (NIR) imaging to reveal the in situ impacts of MPs. The combination of these two techniques allows for the simultaneous investigation of the localization and functionality of MPs in vivo. We investigated the effects of two types of MPs on zebrafish, microplastic fibers (MFs) and microplastic beads (MBs). The results showed that MPs larger than 10 μm primarily accumulated in the intestines of zebrafish. Both MFs and MBs disrupted the redox balance of the intestine, and the location of the damage was consistent with the heterogeneous accumulation of MPs. MFs caused greater and more difficult-to-recover damage compared to MBs, which was closely related to the slower elimination rate of MFs. Our study highlights the importance of capturing the dynamic toxicological effects of MPs on organisms. Fibrous MPs and spherical MPs clearly had distinct effects on their toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanpeng Yang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
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23
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Grumelot S, Ashkarran AA, Jiwani Z, Ibrahim R, Mahmoudi M. Identification of Pristine and Protein Corona Coated Micro- and Nanoplastic Particles with a Colorimetric Sensor Array. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:39188-39194. [PMID: 39310157 PMCID: PMC11411689 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c06166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
A colorimetric sensor array has been developed to differentiate various micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNPs), both pristine and those coated with a protein corona, in buffered water. This array utilizes five distinct cross-reactive chemo-responsive dyes, which exhibit changes in visible optical absorbance upon interaction with MNPs. Although no single dye responds exclusively to either pristine or protein-corona-coated MNPs, the collective shifts in color across all dyes create a unique molecular fingerprint for each type of MNP. This method demonstrates high sensitivity, capable of detecting MNPs of various sizes (50 nm, 100 nm, and 2 μm) and differentiating them from controls at concentrations as low as 10 ng/mL using standard chemometric techniques, ensuring accurate results without error. Additionally, the method can effectively distinguish between pristine and protein-corona-coated polystyrene MNPs. This colorimetric approach offers a rapid, cost-effective, and accurate method for monitoring MNP pollution and assessing their prior interactions with biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Grumelot
- Department of Radiology and
Precision Health Program, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Ali Akbar Ashkarran
- Department of Radiology and
Precision Health Program, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Zahra Jiwani
- Department of Radiology and
Precision Health Program, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Rula Ibrahim
- Department of Radiology and
Precision Health Program, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Morteza Mahmoudi
- Department of Radiology and
Precision Health Program, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
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24
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Radford F, Horton AA, Felgate S, Lichtschlag A, Hunt J, Andrade V, Sanders R, Evans C. Factors influencing microplastic abundances in the sediments of a seagrass-dominated tropical atoll. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 357:124483. [PMID: 38960123 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are one of the world's most diverse ecosystems offering habitats for an extensive array of species, as well as serving as protectors of coral reefs and vital carbon sinks. Furthermore, they modify hydrodynamics by diminishing water flow velocities and enhancing sediment deposition, indicating the potential for microplastic accumulation in their sediments. The build-up of microplastics could potentially have ecological impacts threatening to ecosystems, however little is known about microplastic abundance and controlling factors in seagrass sediments. Here we investigated microplastic characteristics and abundances within sediments underlying four seagrass meadow sites on the Turneffe Atoll, Belize. Sediment cores were collected and sub-sampled to include a range of replicate surface sediments (0-4 cm) and depth cores (sediment depths 0-2, 2-5, 5-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm). These were analysed using 25 μm resolution μFTIR, with spectral maps processed using siMPle software. Microplastics were prevalent across the sites with an abundance range (limit of detection (LOD) blank-corrected) of < LOD to 17137 microplastics kg-1 dw found on the east side of the atoll. However, their abundances varied greatly between the replicate samples. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the most commonly detected polymers overall, although the dominant polymer type varied between sites. There were no differences in the abundance of microplastics between sites, nor could abundance distributions be explained by seagrass cover. However, abundances of microplastics were highest in sediments with lower proportions of fine grained particles (clay, <4 μm) suggesting that hydrodynamics override seagrass effects. Additionally, no patterns were seen between microplastic abundance and depth of sediment. This suggests that microplastic abundance and distribution in seagrass meadows may vary significantly depending on the specific geographical locations within those meadows, and that more complex hydrodynamic factors influence spatial variability at a localised scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya Radford
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK; Biospheric Microplastics Research Cluster, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Alice A Horton
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK.
| | - Stacey Felgate
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Anna Lichtschlag
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - James Hunt
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Valdemar Andrade
- Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA), 1216 Blue Marlin Boulevard, Belize City, Belize
| | - Richard Sanders
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research, Jahnebakken 5, 5007 Bergen, Norway
| | - Claire Evans
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
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25
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Tosi Robinson D, Thao Vu P, Le TT, Thi Hoang TH, Viet Ly Q, Thi Thuy Ngo H, Zurbrügg C, Hanh Tien Nguyen T. Land-based plastic leakage into the aquatic environment from municipal solid waste - Waste flow diagram applied to Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen, Vietnam. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 186:226-235. [PMID: 38936306 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Plastic mismanagement and its subsequent pollution by rapid economic development and urbanisation pose significant challenges for modern world society. Notwithstanding one of the main sources for macro plastic leakage into the ocean from land, precise assessment of plastic pollution origins from Southeast Asia is yet to be clearly examined. In order to make informed decisions and prioritise areas of improvement it is required to better understand the waste leakage dynamics at the local level. In this work, the Waste Flow Diagram (WFD) was applied to understand the sources and fates of plastics leaking from the solid waste management system for the case of Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen, Vietnam. The study shows scenarios of leakage into the aquatic environment ranging from 0.8 to 2.7 kg/cap/year, which originates mainly from the collection system. Targeted improvements to this stage of the service could reduce leakages and the overall environmental impacts of mismanaged plastic waste. The results of this study show the necessity and importance of having up to date and reliable data to better inform stakeholders and service planning, facilitating efficient action against plastic pollution. As the first peer-reviewed scientific article critically applying the WFD, this work highlights the steps and challenges of the methodology and critically analyses different methodological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorian Tosi Robinson
- Department Sanitation, Water and Solid Waste for Development, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Phuong Thao Vu
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Lab, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam
| | - Thanh-Thao Le
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Lab, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam
| | - Thu-Huong Thi Hoang
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, 1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Quang Viet Ly
- Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Lab, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; Department of Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Huong Thi Thuy Ngo
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Lab, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam
| | - Christian Zurbrügg
- Department Sanitation, Water and Solid Waste for Development, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Thi Hanh Tien Nguyen
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Lab, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam.
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26
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Du C, Sang W, Abbas M, Xu C, Jiang Z, Ma Y, Shi J, Feng M, Ni L, Li S. The interaction mechanisms of algal organic matter (AOM) and various types and aging degrees of microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135273. [PMID: 39047561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135273] [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: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Algal blooms can produce substantial amounts of algal organic matter (AOM). Microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments inevitably interact with AOM. Meanwhile, the aging and type of MPs may increase the uncertainty surrounding interaction. This study focused on polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) to investigate their interaction with AOM before and after aging. The results shw that PLA has a stronger adsorption capacity for AOM than PE. Meanwhile, aging enhanced and weakened the adsorption of PE and PLA for AOM. Compared to unaged PE (UPE) and aged PLA (APLA), aged PE (APE) and unaged PLA (UPLA) more significantly promote the humification of AOM and alter its functional groups. 2D-IR-COS analysis reveals that the sequence of functional group changes in AOM interacting with MPs is influenced by the type and aging of MPs. After interacting with AOM, surface roughness increased for all MPs. FTIR and XPS analyses show that the addition of AOM accelerated the oxidation of MPs surfaces, especially for UPE and APLA, with oxygen content increasing by 9.32 % and 1 %. Aging enhances the interaction between PE and AOM, while weakening the interaction between PLA and AOM. These findings provide new insights into understanding the interplay between AOM and MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cunhao Du
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Wenlu Sang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Chu Xu
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiyun Jiang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Yushen Ma
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Jiahui Shi
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Muyu Feng
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Lixiao Ni
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China.
| | - Shiyin Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, 210097 Nanjing, China.
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27
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Tong R, Wang B, Xiao N, Yang S, Xing Y, Wang Y, Xing B. Selection of engineered degradation method to remove microplastics from aquatic environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176281. [PMID: 39278507 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment are difficult to degrade naturally due to their hydrophobicity and structure. A variety of engineered degradation methods were developed to treat MPs contamination in the aquatic environment. Current reviews of MPs degradation methods only provided an inventory but lacked systematic comparisons and application recommendations. However, selecting suitable degradation methods for different types of MPs contamination may be more effective. This work examined the present engineered degradation methods for MPs in the aquatic environment. They were categorized into chemical degradation, biodegradation, thermal degradation and photodegradation. These degradation methods were systematically summarized in terms of degradation efficiency, technical limitations and production of environmental hazards. Also, the potential influences of different environmental factors and media on degradation were analyzed, and the selection of degradation methods were suggested from the perspectives of contamination types and degradation mechanisms. Finally, the development trend and challenges for studying MPs engineered degradation were proposed. This work will contribute to a better selection of customized degradation methods for different types of MPs contamination scenarios in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhen Tong
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Shaanxi Geomatics Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China.
| | - Na Xiao
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yan Xing
- Shaanxi Environmental Monitoring Center, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Monitoring and Forewarning of Trace Pollutants, Xi'an 710054, China
| | - Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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28
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Roman L, Kong M, Barilli E, Chanrout R, Lawson TJ, Schuyler Q, Hardesty BD. Plastic pollution in a rapidly developing nation: A comprehensive assessment of litter and marine debris surrounding coastal Cambodia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024:116872. [PMID: 39294088 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Cambodia is a rapidly developing country in south-east Asia, a region forecast as an outsized source of plastic pollution into the world's oceans. However, to date there has been no large-scale assessment of plastic pollution in the environment within the country. We conducted a comprehensive assessment of plastic items and hotspots across 243 coastal, river and inland sites along the entire coastline of Cambodia, recording 46,927 items in transects throughout the study area. Plastic densities along coastlines were more than ten times those on riverbanks and more than twenty times that of inland areas. Averaging 70 plastic items per metre of coastline, Cambodia has among the highest average loads of whole plastic items recorded on coastlines globally. Single-use plastic bottles were the most abundant whole item recorded, overrepresented by drinking water bottles. Polystyrene foam was the most common fragmented item. We provide specific recommendations to reduce plastic in Cambodia's environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Roman
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Environment, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia; Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia.
| | - Majel Kong
- Fauna & Flora, Boeung Keng Kang I, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | - Ren Chanrout
- Fauna & Flora, Boeung Keng Kang I, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - T J Lawson
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Environment, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia
| | - Qamar Schuyler
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Environment, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia
| | - Britta Denise Hardesty
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Environment, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia
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29
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Li H, Wang Z, Zhu F, Li G. Alginate-based active and intelligent packaging: Preparation, properties, and applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 279:135441. [PMID: 39260631 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Alginate-based packaging materials have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics due to their biodegradability, renewability, and versatile functionalities. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the recent advances in the development and application of alginate-based films and coatings for food packaging. The composition and fabrication methods of alginate-based packaging materials are discussed, highlighting the incorporation of various functional compounds to enhance their physicochemical properties. The mechanisms of action and the factors influencing the release and migration of active compounds from the alginate matrix are explored. The application of alginate-based packaging materials for the preservation of various food products, including meat, fish, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, is reviewed, demonstrating their effectiveness in extending shelf-life and maintaining quality. The development of alginate-based pH-sensitive indicators for intelligent food packaging is also discussed, focusing on the colorimetric response of natural pigments to spoilage-related pH changes. Furthermore, the review highlights the challenges and future perspectives of alginate-based packaging materials, emphasizing the need for novel strategies to improve their performance, sustainability, and industrial adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China
| | - Zongji Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Linyi University, Linyi 276000, China
| | - Fan Zhu
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Guantian Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China.
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30
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Ma K, An HY, Nam J, Reilly LT, Zhang YL, Chen EYX, Xu TQ. Fully recyclable and tough thermoplastic elastomers from simple bio-sourced δ-valerolactones. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7904. [PMID: 39256412 PMCID: PMC11387789 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52229-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
While a large number of chemically recyclable thermoplastics have been developed in recent years, technologically important thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) that are not only bio-based and fully recyclable but also exhibit mechanical properties that can rival or even exceed those petroleum-based, non-recyclable polyolefin TPEs are critically lacking. The key challenge in developing chemically circular, bio-based, high-performance TPEs rests on the complexity of TPE's block copolymer (BCP) structure involving block segments of different suitable monomers required to induce self-assembled morphologies responsible for performance as well as the control and monomer compatibility in their synthesis and the selectivity in their depolymerization. Here we demonstrate the utilization of bio-sourced δ-valerolactone (δVL) and its simple α-alkyl-substituted derivatives to produce all δVL-based polyester tri-BCP TPEs, which exhibit not only complete (closed-loop) chemical recyclability but also excellent toughness that is 2.5-3.8 times higher than commercial polyolefin-based TPEs. The visualized cylindrical morphology formed via crystallization-driven self-assembly in the new all δVL tri-BCP is postulated to contribute to the excellent TPE property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Ma
- School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Hai-Yan An
- School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Jiyun Nam
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1872, USA
| | - Liam T Reilly
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1872, USA
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1872, USA
| | - Tie-Qi Xu
- School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China.
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31
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Nguyen MK, Rakib MRJ, Lin C, Hwangbo M, Kim J. Is micro(nano)plastic contamination in wet atmospheric deposition a prominent issue requiring heightened attention? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135027. [PMID: 38925051 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ky Nguyen
- Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nong Lam University of Ho Chi Minh City, Hamlet 6, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Environmental Science and Management, North South University, Bashundhara, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh; School of Earth, Environmental and Marine Sciences, University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Myung Hwangbo
- School of Earth, Environmental and Marine Sciences, University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States
| | - Jongsun Kim
- School of Earth, Environmental and Marine Sciences, University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX 78520, United States.
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Junaid M, Liu S, Yue Q, Wang J. Exacerbated interfacial impacts of nanoplastics and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate by natural organic matter in adult zebrafish: Evidence through histopathology, gut microbiota, and transcriptomic analysis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135038. [PMID: 38941840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) interact with cooccurring chemicals and natural organic matter (NOM) in the environment, forming complexes that can change their bioavailability and interfacial toxicity in aquatic organisms. This study aims to elucidate the single and combined impacts of 21-day chronic exposure to low levels of polystyrene NPs (size 80 nm) at 1 mg/L and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (Cl-PFAES or F53B) at 200 μg/L in the presence and absence of NOM (humic acid-HA and bovine serum albumin-BSA at 10 mg/L) in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Our findings through multiple bioassays, revealed that the mixture group (M), comprising of NPs, F53B, HA, and BSA, caused a higher level of toxicity compared to the single NPs (AN), single F53B (AF), and combined NPs+F53B (ANF) groups. The mixture exposure caused the highest level of vacuolization and nuclear condensation in hepatocytes, and most of the intestinal villi were fused and highly reduced in villi length and crypt depth. Further, the T-AOC levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05), while the MDA levels in the liver and intestine were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the M group with downregulation of nfkbiaa, while upregulation of prkcda, csf1ra, and il1b apoptosis genes in the liver. Pairwise comparison of gut microbiota showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) abundances of various genera in the M group, including Gordonia, Methylobacterium, Tundrisphaera, GKS98, Pedomicrobium, Clostridium, Candidatus and Anaerobacillus, as well as higher abundance of genera including pathogenic strains, while control group showed higher abundance of probiotic genus ZOR0006 than exposed group (p < 0.01). The transcriptomic analysis revealed highest number of DEGs in the M group (2815), followed by the AN group (506) and ANF group (206) with the activation of relaxin signaling pathway-RSP (slc9a1, slc9a2) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway (plin1), and suppression of the toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway (tlr4a, tlr2, tlr1), cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction (CCRI) pathway (tnfb, il21r1, il21, ifng1), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) pathway (pfkfb3). Overall, toxicity in the M group was higher, indicating that the HA and BSA elevated the interfacial impacts of NPs and F53B in adult zebrafish after chronic environmentally relevant exposure, implying the revisitation of the critical interaction of NOM with co-occurring chemicals and associated impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Junaid
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan 512005, China
| | - Shulin Liu
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Qiang Yue
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan 512005, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China.
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Xiu FR, Zhan L, Qi Y, Wu T, Ju Y. Upcycling of waste disposable medical masks to high value-added gasoline fuel and surfactants products by sub/supercritical water degradation and partial oxidation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134950. [PMID: 38908183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The amount of waste disposable medical masks (DMMs) and the potential environmental risk increased significantly due to the huge demand of disposable medical surgical masks. In this study, two effective and environmentally friendly processes, supercritical water degradation (SCWD) and subcritical water partial oxidation (SubCWPO), were proposed for the upcycling of DMMs. The optimal conditions for the SCWD process (conversion ratio>98 %) were 410 ℃, 15 min, and 1:5 g/mL. The oil products obtained from the SCWD process were mainly small molecule hydrocarbons (C7-C12) with a content of 86 % and could be recycled as fuel feedstock for gasoline. Alkyl radicals in the SCWD reaction formed double bonds and ring structures through hydrogen capture reactions, β-scission, and dehydrogenation reactions, and aromatic hydrocarbons were formed by olefin cyclization and cycloalkane dehydrogenation. The introduction of an oxidant (H2O2) to the reaction system could significantly reduce the reaction temperature and shorten the reaction time. At 350 ℃, 15 min, 1:20 g/mL, V(H2O2): V (H2O) of 1:1, the conversion ratio of the SubCWPO process was 88 %, which was higher than that of the SCWD process at 400 ℃ (71.49 %). Oil products produced from the SubCWPO process were rich in alcohols and esters, which could be used as raw materials for nonionic surfactant of polyol and fatty acid ester. The abundant hydroxyl radical in the SubCWPO system trapped hydrogen atoms on PP and reacted with the resulting alkyl radical to form alkanols, which was oxidized to form acids. The esterification of acids and alkanols formed high level of esters. The SCWD and SubCWPO processes proposed in this study are believed to be promising strategies for DMMs degradation and the recovery of high value-added hydrocarbons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Rong Xiu
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710054, China
| | - Longsheng Zhan
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710054, China
| | - Yingying Qi
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710054, China.
| | - Tianbi Wu
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710054, China
| | - Yawei Ju
- College of Geology and Environment, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710054, China
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Zhong Y, Feng Y, Huang Y, Wang B, Shi W, Liang B, Li Z, Zhang B, Du J, Xiu J, Yang X, Huang Z. Polystyrene nanoplastics accelerate atherosclerosis: Unraveling the impact on smooth muscle cells through KIF15-mediated migration. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 284:116983. [PMID: 39232293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) originating from plastic pollution pose potential threats to cardiovascular health, with prior studies linking MNPs to atherosclerosis. Our earlier research elucidated how nanoplastics enhance macrophages' phagocytic activity, leading to the formation of foam cells and an elevated risk of atherosclerosis. However, the specific influence of MNPs on smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the context of MNP-induced atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. In this study, ApoE knockout (ApoE-/-) male mice with a high-fat diet were orally exposed to environmentally realistic concentrations of 2.5-250 mg/kg polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 50 nm) for consecutive 19 weeks. Cardiovascular toxicity was comprehensively assessed through histopathological, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses, while mechanisms underlying this toxicity were explored through in vitro studies. Herein, hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed accelerated atherosclerotic plaque development in ApoE-/- mice exposed to PS-NPs. Multi-omics analysis identified kinesin family member 15 (KIF15) as a pivotal target molecule. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments affirmed the specific upregulation of KIF15 in mouse aortic SMCs exposed to PS-NPs. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that PS-NPs can promote the migration ability of MOVAS cells. Knockdown of Kif15 revealed its role in reducing MOVAS cell migration, with subsequent exposure to PS-NPs reversing the increased migration ability. This suggests that PS-NPs promote SMC migration by upregulating KIF15, and the migration of SMCs is closely associated with atherosclerosis outcomes. This study significantly advances our understanding of MNP-induced cardiovascular toxicity, providing valuable insights for risk assessment of human MNP exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Zhong
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China
| | - Yu Feng
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuji Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China
| | - Bo Wang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wenting Shi
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bingli Zhang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiaxin Du
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiancheng Xiu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research Department of Cardiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China.
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Razzak SA. Municipal Solid and Plastic Waste Co-pyrolysis Towards Sustainable Renewable Fuel and Carbon Materials: A Comprehensive Review. Chem Asian J 2024; 19:e202400307. [PMID: 38880993 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202400307] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The substantial rise in global energy demand, propelled by industrial expansion, population growth, and transportation needs, poses a formidable challenge. The concurrent urbanization places pressure on the disposal of solid municipal solid waste and the management of plastic waste. Addressing the global waste crisis requires innovative and sustainable garbage disposal solutions with an environmentally friendly approach. This review tackles the challenges of worldwide waste management, focusing on renewable and sustainable fuels and waste recycling through the exploration of co-pyrolysis as an innovative method. It explores the characteristics and environmental impact of municipal solid waste (MSW) and plastic waste (PW), delving into pyrolysis fundamentals, processes, and challenges. The primary emphasis is on co-pyrolysis, elucidating its integration of municipal and plastic waste, synergistic effects, and advantages. The manuscript thoroughly analyzes reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and the feasibility of co-pyrolysis for energy recovery. It also delves into the synthesis of renewable fuels and valuable chemical intermediates, considering optimization of product distribution. Environmental and economic sustainability aspects, including impact assessment, greenhouse gas emissions, life cycle analysis, and cost analysis of co-pyrolysis processes, are comprehensively investigated. The review underscores the economic benefits of renewable fuel and chemical materials synthesis. The conclusion addresses challenges, proposes future directions, outlines limitations, technical challenges, environmental considerations, and recommends further exploration and integration with other waste management techniques. The manuscript emphasizes the ongoing importance of research in this critical field, aiming to contribute to the development of effective solutions for the escalating global waste management crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaikh Abdur Razzak
- Chemical Engineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Refining & Advanced Chemicals, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
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36
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Ramimoghadam D, Eyckens DJ, Evans RA, Moad G, Holmes S, Simons R. Towards Sustainable Materials: A Review of Acylhydrazone Chemistry for Reversible Polymers. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202401728. [PMID: 38888459 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202401728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Transitioning towards a circular economy, extensive research has focused on dynamic covalent bonds (DCBs) to pave the way for more sustainable materials. These bonds enable debonding and rebonding on demand, as well as facilitating end-of-life recycling. Acylhydrazone/hydrazone chemistry offers a material with high stability under neutral and basic conditions making it a promising candidate for materials research, though the material is susceptible to acid degradation. However, this degradation under acidic conditions can be exploited, making it widely applicable in self-healing and biomedical fields, with potential for reprocessing and recycling. This review highlights studies exploring the reversibility of acylhydrazone/hydrazone bonds in various polymers, altering their properties, and utilizing them in applications such as self-healing, reprocessing, and recycling. The review also focuses on how the mechanical properties are affected by the presence of dynamic linkages, and methods to improve the mechanical performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donya Ramimoghadam
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Daniel J Eyckens
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Richard A Evans
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Graeme Moad
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Susan Holmes
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Ranya Simons
- Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
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Jabri NA, Abed RMM, Habsi AA, Ansari A, Barry MJ. The impacts of microplastics on zebrafish behavior depend on initial personality state. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 111:104561. [PMID: 39233253 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is associated with inflammation, gut dysbiosis and behavioral changes in fish. Fish have distinct personality traits but the role of personality in behavioral toxicology is rarely considered. We classified zebrafish on four behavioral axes: boldness, anxiety, sociability and exploration tendency then exposed them to low- or high- concentrations of two types of polyethylene microplastics (low- and high-density) for 28 days. Behaviors, antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase), and gut microbiome were then measured. There were direct effects of microplastics on boldness, anxiety and sociability. However, fish retained their initial behavioral tendencies. Exposure to all microplastic treatments reduced average swimming speed and decreased the time spent motionless. Microplastic exposure did not affect antioxidant enzymes but did cause significant changes in the composition of the gut microbiome. This study demonstrates that environmentally realistic concentrations of microplastics can alter fish behavior, but much of the variance in response can be explained by personality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawal Al Jabri
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Raeid M M Abed
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Aziz Al Habsi
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Aliya Ansari
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Veresoglou SD, Begum N. Dose-response curves: the next frontier in plant ecology. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 29:971-977. [PMID: 38653637 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
A large fraction of experimental work in plant ecology, and thus also on ecosystem functioning and the delivery of ecosystem services, describes experiments that have been carried out under controlled (glasshouse) conditions. Controlled growth settings commonly sacrifice realism through, for example, reducing the densities of plant species in the pots and controlling how environmental settings such as moisture and light vary in favor of a higher mechanistic resolution, which makes these studies particularly suitable for subsequent syntheses. We explore the possibility that further integration of dose-response curves can maximize the impact of existing studies. We suggest that we can expand considerably the scope of the dose and response variables that are considered in plant ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros D Veresoglou
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Naheeda Begum
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
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Khan MT, Rashid S, Yaman U, Khalid SA, Kamal A, Ahmad M, Akther N, Kashem MA, Hossain MF, Rashid W. Microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystem: A review of existing policies and regulations. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143221. [PMID: 39233299 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143221] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Environmental pollution due to plastic waste is a global challenge causing adverse impacts on the ecosystem and public health. Microplastic (MP) originates at the upstream processes such as industrial and household activities; however, their existence is affecting the downstream environment. Even though many governments and non-government organizations have taken technological and regulatory steps, these current efforts and strategies are insufficient to prevent the MP release in the environment. Thus, a multidisciplinary global approach is required, which must prioritize the reducing of plastic inputs to the environment. To regulate MP levels in the environment, worldwide reformative and preventive strategies are required because the issue is not limited to a single nation or region. In relation to marine plastic waste, a number of multilateral agreements and measures exist at global level. Several regulatory measures have been examined by regulatory bodies with the intention of safeguarding the environment from excessive MP contamination. However, neither of the frameworks in place is specifically made to stop the increased MP pollution in the environment. Therefore, this review focused on the preventive measures taken by the government and non-government organizations for MP control through legislations. The study also critically discussed MP-related policies aiming to increase the viability and efficiency of implementing future plastic management. This review is expected to provide the basic guidelines for formulating MP standards in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tariq Khan
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai po New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Sajid Rashid
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco- Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Unzile Yaman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, 35620, Cigli, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Saeed Ahsan Khalid
- Department of Law, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Asif Kamal
- Guanghua Law School Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mushtaq Ahmad
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Nasrin Akther
- Department of Soil Science, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abul Kashem
- Department of Soil Science, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Md Faysal Hossain
- Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu, Erkki Koiso-Kanttilan katu, Oulu, 90014, Finland
| | - Wajid Rashid
- Department of Environmental and Conservation Sciences, University of Swat, Swat, 19120, Pakistan.
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Unnikrishnan V, Anusree S, Shaikh I, D'Costa PM, Chandran T, Valsan G, Vandana TU, Tamrakar A, Paul MM, Rangel-Buitrago N, Warrier AK. Insights into the seasonal distribution of microplastics and their associated biofilms in the water column of two tropical estuaries. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116750. [PMID: 39083907 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116750] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The present study describes the seasonal distribution of microplastics (MPs) and their associated biofilms in the water column of the Netravathi-Gurupura estuary, southwest India. An average abundance of 8.15 (±3.81) particles/l and 1.14 (±0.78) particles/l was observed during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. Fibres, films, and fragments accounted for majority of the microplastics. Polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polystyrene, and high-density polyethylene were the major polymers. The risk assessment revealed a low Pollution Load Index, but the Polymer Hazard Index showed higher toxicity. Diatoms from nine genera were observed attached to the microplastic samples with Amphora and Navicula spp. reported in both estuaries during both seasons. The considerable diversity of diatoms, along with other microbial groups, in microplastic-associated biofilms in this study, highlights the urgent need to understand the structure and development of microplastic-associated biofilms and their role in the vertical and horizontal transport of microplastics in tropical estuaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu Unnikrishnan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - S Anusree
- Department of Sciences, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Imrana Shaikh
- School of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, Goa, 403206, India
| | - Priya M D'Costa
- School of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, Goa, 403206, India
| | - Thara Chandran
- Nitte (Deemed to be University), AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences (ABSMIDS), Department of Public Health Dentistry, Mangalore 574199, Karnataka, India
| | - Gokul Valsan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - T U Vandana
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjali Tamrakar
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Manu Martin Paul
- Department of Sciences, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Anish Kumar Warrier
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India; Centre for Climate Studies, Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India.
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Cordova MR, Kelly MR, Hafizt M, Wibowo SPA, Ulumuddin YI, Purbonegoro T, Yogaswara D, Kaisupy MT, Subandi R, Sani SY, Thompson RC, Jobling S. From riverbank to the sea: An initial assessment of plastic pollution along the Ciliwung River, Indonesia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116662. [PMID: 38991608 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of anthropogenic debris on the riverbanks of the Ciliwung River, covering upstream to downstream areas. The mean of debris found in each measurement was 32.79 ± 15.38 items/m2 with a weight of 106.00 ± 50.23 g/m2. Plastic debris accounted for over 50 % of all litter items identified and represents 55 % by weight, signifying a significantly high prevalence compared to global studies examining litter along riverbanks. The majority of the plastics found originated from Single-use applications and were predominantly made from Styrofoam. This investigation demonstrated the importance of actions to reduce single use applications and to improve waste management strategies. This can be achieved through proactive initiatives coupled with adaptable approaches, such as implementing effective urban planning and enhancing waste collection capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Reza Cordova
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Max R Kelly
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Muhammad Hafizt
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Singgih Prasetyo Adi Wibowo
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yaya Ihya Ulumuddin
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Triyoni Purbonegoro
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Deny Yogaswara
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Taufik Kaisupy
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Riyana Subandi
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Sofia Yuniar Sani
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol Jl. Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, 14430 Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Richard C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Jobling
- Environmental Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH, United Kingdom; Partnership for Plastics in Indonesian Societies (PISCES) Brunel University London, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
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42
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Cottom JW, Cook E, Velis CA. A local-to-global emissions inventory of macroplastic pollution. Nature 2024; 633:101-108. [PMID: 39232151 PMCID: PMC11374682 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07758-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Negotiations for a global treaty on plastic pollution1 will shape future policies on plastics production, use and waste management. Its parties will benefit from a high-resolution baseline of waste flows and plastic emission sources to enable identification of pollution hotspots and their causes2. Nationally aggregated waste management data can be distributed to smaller scales to identify generalized points of plastic accumulation and source phenomena3-11. However, it is challenging to use this type of spatial allocation to assess the conditions under which emissions take place12,13. Here we develop a global macroplastic pollution emissions inventory by combining conceptual modelling of emission mechanisms with measurable activity data. We define emissions as materials that have moved from the managed or mismanaged system (controlled or contained state) to the unmanaged system (uncontrolled or uncontained state-the environment). Using machine learning and probabilistic material flow analysis, we identify emission hotspots across 50,702 municipalities worldwide from five land-based plastic waste emission sources. We estimate global plastic waste emissions at 52.1 [48.3-56.3] million metric tonnes (Mt) per year, with approximately 57% wt. and 43% wt. open burned and unburned debris, respectively. Littering is the largest emission source in the Global North, whereas uncollected waste is the dominant emissions source across the Global South. We suggest that our findings can help inform treaty negotiations and develop national and sub-national waste management action plans and source inventories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua W Cottom
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ed Cook
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Costas A Velis
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom.
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43
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Yuan W, Xu EG, Shabaka S, Chen P, Yang Y. The power of green: Harnessing phytoremediation to combat micro/nanoplastics. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2024; 3:260-265. [PMID: 39234422 PMCID: PMC11372594 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution and its potential risks have been raising public concerns as a global environmental issue. Global plastic waste may double by 2030, posing a significant challenge to the remediation of environmental plastics. In addition to finding alternative products and managing plastic emission sources, effective removal technologies are crucial to mitigate the negative impact of plastic pollution. However, current remediation strategies, including physical, chemical, and biological measures, are unable to compete with the surging amounts of plastics entering the environment. This perspective lays out recent advances to propel both research and action. In this process, phytoaccumulation, phytostabilization, and phytofiltration can be applied to reduce the concentration of nanoplastics and submicron plastics in terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric environments, as well as to prevent the transport of microplastics from sources to sinks. Meanwhile, advocating for a more promising future still requires significant efforts in screening hyperaccumulators, coupling multiple measures, and recycling stabilized plastics from plants. Phytoremediation can be an excellent strategy to alleviate global micro/nanoplastic pollution because of the cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability of green technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenke Yuan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution & Ecological Restoration, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Elvis Genbo Xu
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense 5230, Denmark
| | - Soha Shabaka
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Cairo 11516, Egypt
| | - Peng Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution & Ecological Restoration, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution & Ecological Restoration, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Key Laboratory of Lake and Watershed Science for Water Security, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
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44
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Yip A, McArthur OD, Ho KC, Aucoin MG, Ingalls BP. Degradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics by wastewater bacteria engineered via conjugation. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e70015. [PMID: 39315602 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.70015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants are one of the major pathways for microplastics to enter the environment. In general, microplastics are contaminants of global concern that pose risks to ecosystems and human health. Here, we present a proof-of-concept for reduction of microplastic pollution emitted from wastewater treatment plants: delivery of recombinant DNA to bacteria in wastewater to enable degradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Using a broad-host-range conjugative plasmid, we enabled various bacterial species from a municipal wastewater sample to express FAST-PETase, which was released into the extracellular environment. We found that FAST-PETase purified from some transconjugant isolates could degrade about 40% of a 0.25 mm thick commercial PET film within 4 days at 50°C. We then demonstrated partial degradation of a post-consumer PET product over 5-7 days by exposure to conditioned media from isolates. These results have broad implications for addressing the global plastic pollution problem by enabling environmental bacteria to degrade PET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Yip
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Owen D McArthur
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kalista C Ho
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marc G Aucoin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian P Ingalls
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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45
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Westman Z, Liu B, Richardson K, Davis M, Lim D, Stottlemyer AL, Letko CS, Hooshyar N, Vlcek V, Christopher P, Abu-Omar MM. Influence of Carboxylic Acid Structure on the Kinetics of Polyurethane Foam Acidolysis to Recycled Polyol. JACS AU 2024; 4:3194-3204. [PMID: 39211586 PMCID: PMC11350715 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Closed-loop recycling of plastics is needed to bridge the gap between the material demands imposed by a growing global population and the depletion of nonrenewable petroleum feedstocks. Here, we examine chemical recycling of polyurethane foams (PUFs), the sixth most produced polymer in the world, through PUF acidolysis via dicarboxylic acids (DCAs) to release recyclable polyols. Acidolysis enables recycling of the polyol component of PUFs to high-quality materials, and while the influence of DCA structure on recycled PUF quality has been reported, there are no reports that examine the influence of DCA structure on the kinetics of polyol release. Here, we develop quantitative relationships between DCA structure and PUF acidolysis function for ∼10 different DCA reagents. PUF acidolysis kinetics were quantified with ∼1 s time resolution using the rate of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas generation, which is shown to occur concomitantly with polyol release. Pseudo-zeroth-order rate constants were measured as a function of DCA composition, reaction temperature, and DCA concentration, and apparent activation barriers were extracted. Our findings demonstrate that DCA carboxyl group proximity and phase of transport are descriptors of PUF acidolysis rates, rather than expected descriptors like pK a. DCAs with closer proximity acid groups exhibited faster PUF acidolysis rate constants. Furthermore, a shrinking core mechanism effectively describes the kinetic functional form of the kinetics of PUF acidolysis by DCAs. Measurements of acidolysis kinetics for model PUF (M-PUF) and end-of-life PUF (EOL PUF) confirm the applicability of our analysis to postconsumer materials. This work provides insights into the physical and chemical mechanisms controlling acidolysis, which can facilitate the development of efficient closed-loop PUF chemical recycling schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Westman
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California,
Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106-5080, United States
| | - Baoyuan Liu
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93106-9510, United States
| | - Kelsey Richardson
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California,
Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106-5080, United States
| | - Madeleine Davis
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93106-9510, United States
| | - Dingyuan Lim
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93106-9510, United States
| | | | | | - Nasim Hooshyar
- The
Dow Chemical Company, Herbert H Dowweg 5, 4542 NH Hoek, The Netherlands
| | - Vojtech Vlcek
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93106-9510, United States
- Department
of Materials, University of California Santa
Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93016-5050, United States
| | - Phillip Christopher
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California,
Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106-5080, United States
| | - Mahdi M. Abu-Omar
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California,
Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106-5080, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, Santa
Barbara, California 93106-9510, United States
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46
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Labbé C, Métais I, Perrein-Ettajani H, Mouloud M, Le Guernic A, Latchere O, Manier N, Châtel A. Effect of aging on the toxicity of polyethylene microplastics on the estuarine bivalve Scrobicularia plana. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024:124805. [PMID: 39187060 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) are now present in all ecosystems and undergo weathering processes, including physical or chemical degradation. Although most studies have been carried out on MP toxicity in the marine ecosystem, interest is growing for the terrestrial and entire aquatic compartments. However, the interface between both environments, also known as the soil/water continuum, is given little consideration in MP toxicity studies. Only a few studies considered the toxicity of artificially aged or soil field-collected MP on species living at this interface. The present study evaluates the impact of artificial and field aging polyethylene (PE) MP on the bivalve Scrobicularia plana, a key organism of the estuarine compartment, living at the soil/water interface. Clams were exposed for 21 days to environmental concentrations (0.008, 10 and 100 μg L-1) of unaged as well as artificially and field aged PE MP. Toxicity was assessed from individual to molecular levels including condition index, clearance rate, burrowing behavior, energy reserves, enzyme activities and DNA damage. Results showed differential effects at all biological levels depending on the type and the concentration of the MP tested. Indeed, a decrease in burrowing behavior was observed in S. plana exposed to aged and field PE at low concentration (0.008 μg L-1). In the gills of clams, exposures to aged PE (0.008 and 100 μg L-1), virgin PE (10 μg L-1) and field PE (all tested concentrations) decreased CAT activity while DNA damage increased after exposure to virgin PE (0.008 μg L-1 and 10 μg L-1) and field PE (0.008 μg L-1). Our findings suggest that aging modifies the toxicity profile of PE polymer on S. plana and considering plastic from field at environmental concentrations is important when performing ecotoxicological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémentine Labbé
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France.
| | - Isabelle Métais
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Hanane Perrein-Ettajani
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Mohammed Mouloud
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Antoine Le Guernic
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Oihana Latchere
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Nicolas Manier
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Parc Technologique ALATA, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Amélie Châtel
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
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47
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Yang S, Du S, Zhu J, Ma S. Closed-loop recyclable polymers: from monomer and polymer design to the polymerization-depolymerization cycle. Chem Soc Rev 2024. [PMID: 39177226 DOI: 10.1039/d4cs00663a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The extensive utilization of plastic, as a symbol of modern technological society, has consumed enormous amounts of finite and non-renewable fossil resources and produced huge amounts of plastic wastes in the land or ocean, and thus recycling and reuse of the plastic wastes have great ecological and economic benefits. Closed-loop recyclable polymers with inherent recyclability can be readily depolymerized into monomers with high selectivity and purity and repolymerized into polymers with the same performance. They are deemed to be the next generation of recyclable polymers and have captured great and increasing attention from academia and industry. Herein, we provide an overview of readily closed-loop recyclable polymers based on monomer and polymer design and no-other-reactant-involved reversible ring-opening and addition polymerization reactions. The state-of-the-art of circular polymers is separately summarized and discussed based on different monomers, including lactones, thiolactones, cyclic carbonates, hindered olefins, cycloolefins, thermally labile olefin comonomers, cyclic disulfides, cyclic (dithio) acetals, lactams, Diels-Alder addition monomers, Michael addition monomers, anhydride-secondary amide monomers, and cyclic anhydride-aldehyde monomers, and polymers with activatable end groups. The polymerization and depolymerization mechanisms are clearly disclosed, and the evolution of the monomer structure, the polymerization and depolymerization conditions, the corresponding polymerization yield, molecular weight, performance of the polymers, monomer recovery, and depolymerization equipment are also systematically summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospects are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiqi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China.
| | - Shuai Du
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. 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, P. R. China
| | - Songqi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China.
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48
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Dueñas-Moreno J, Mora A, Capparelli MV, González-Domínguez J, Mahlknecht J. Potential ecological risk assessment of microplastics in environmental compartments in Mexico: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024:124812. [PMID: 39182811 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) environmental contamination has been widely studied in Mexico; however, the evaluation of the associated risk to MP in environmental compartments is scarce. Therefore, this study addresses this issue using diverse indicators such as the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Polymer Risk Index (PRI), and the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI). The results of a meta-analysis revealed high MP contamination levels in most of the studied compartments, which included marine and estuarine waters, beach sand, freshwater, sediments, and biota. Regarding the risk assessment indicators, PLIs indicated low (56%), dangerous (22%), moderate (12%), and high (10%) levels across compartments. Meanwhile, PRIs displayed concerning values, with 36%, 35%, 20%, and 9% exhibiting dangerous, high, moderate, and low levels, respectively. Thus, high PRI values emphasized the significant rise in MP pollution, largely attributed to high-hazard polymer compositions. Otherwise, PERIs showed low (56%), very dangerous (29%), moderate (6%), high (5%), and dangerous (4%) levels. Thus, the ecological risk in Mexico is widespread and mainly linked to MP abundance, polymer type, environmental matrix, and organisms' characteristics. This study represents the first attempt at MP ecological risk assessment in Mexico, providing crucial insights for developing mitigation strategies to address concerns about MP contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Dueñas-Moreno
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., México, 64849
| | - Abrahan Mora
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., México, 64849.
| | - Mariana V Capparelli
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Estación El Carmen, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad del Carmen 24157, México
| | - Janeth González-Domínguez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., México, 64849
| | - Jürgen Mahlknecht
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Estación El Carmen, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad del Carmen 24157, México
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49
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Ha DT, Tong HD, Trinh TT. Insights into hydro thermal gasification process of microplastic polyethylene via reactive molecular dynamics simulations. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18771. [PMID: 39138243 PMCID: PMC11322303 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69337-z] [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: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics have become a pressing environmental issue due to their widespread presence in our ecosystems. Among various plastic components, polyethylene (PE) is a prevalent and persistent contaminant. Hydrothermal gasification (HTG), a promising technology for converting PE into syngas, holds great promise for mitigating the microplastic problem. In this study, we employ ReaxFF molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the HTG process of PE, shedding light on the intricate relationships between temperature, water content, carbon conversion efficiency, and product distributions. The results reveal that hydrothermal gasification of PE is a complex process involving multiple reaction pathways. Consistently with experimental findings, the calculations indicate that the gas phase exhibits a substantial hydrogen fraction, reaching up to 70%. Interestingly, our simulations reveal a dual role of water content in the HTG process. On one hand, water enhances hydrogen production by promoting the gas formation. On the other hand, it elevates the activation energy required for PE decomposition. Depending on the water content, the calculated activation energies range from 176 to 268 kJ/mol, which are significantly lower than those reported for thermal gasification (TG). This suggests that HTG may be a more efficient route for PE conversion. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of optimizing both temperature and water content in HTG systems to achieve high yields of hydrogen-rich syngas. The results obtained from our ReaxFF MD simulations demonstrate the robustness of this computational methodology in elucidating complex chemical reactions under extreme conditions. Our findings offer critical insights into the design of advanced waste management strategies for microplastics and contribute to the development of sustainable practices for resource recovery. This work underscores the potential of HTG as a key technology for addressing the global challenge of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Tuong Ha
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Hien Duy Tong
- Faculty of Engineering, Vietnamese-German University (VGU), Thu Dau Mot City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam
| | - Thuat T Trinh
- Porelab, Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, Trondheim, 7491, Norway.
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50
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Jha S, Akula B, Enyioma H, Novak M, Amin V, Liang H. Biodegradable Biobased Polymers: A Review of the State of the Art, Challenges, and Future Directions. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2262. [PMID: 39204482 PMCID: PMC11359911 DOI: 10.3390/polym16162262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable biobased polymers derived from biomass (such as plant, animal, marine, or forestry material) show promise in replacing conventional petrochemical polymers. Research and development have been conducted for decades on potential biodegradable biobased polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and succinate polymers. These materials have been evaluated for practicality, cost, and production capabilities as limiting factors in commercialization; however, challenges, such as the environmental limitations on the biodegradation rates for biodegradable biobased polymer, need to be addressed. This review provides a history and overview of the current development in the synthesis process and properties of biodegradable biobased polymers, along with a techno-commercial analysis and discussion on the environmental impacts of biodegradable biobased polymers. Specifically, the techno-commercial analysis focuses on the commercial potential, financial assessment, and life-cycle assessment of these materials, as well as government initiatives to facilitate the transition towards biodegradable biobased polymers. Lastly, the environmental assessment focuses on the current challenges with biodegradation and methods of improving the recycling process and reusability of biodegradable biobased polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarn Jha
- J. Mike Walker ‘66 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
| | - Bhargav Akula
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
| | - Hannah Enyioma
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
| | - Megan Novak
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
| | - Vansh Amin
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
| | - Hong Liang
- J. Mike Walker ‘66 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3123, USA
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