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Costa CQV, Afonso II, Cruz J, Teodósio MAA, Jockusch S, Ramamurthy V, Power DM, Da Silva JP. Environmental Markers of Plastics and Microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:8889-8898. [PMID: 38685194 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The slow reaction rates to chemical and photochemical degradation are well-known properties of plastics. However, large plastic surfaces exposed to environmental conditions release particles and compounds that affect ecosystems and human health. The aim of this work was to identify compounds associated with the degradation of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics (markers) on silica and sand and evaluate their use to screen microplastics on natural sand. Products were identified by using targeted and untargeted LC-HRMS analysis. All polymers underwent chemical oxidation on silica. PE released dicarboxylic acids (HO2C-(CH2)n-CO2H (n = 4-30), while PS released cis/trans-chalcone, trans-dypnone, 3-phenylpropiophenone, and dibenzoylmethane. PVC released dicarboxylic acids and aromatic compounds. Upon irradiation, PE was stable while PS released the same compounds as under chemical oxidation but at lower yields. Under the above condition, PVC generated HO2C-[CH2-CHCl]n-CH2-CO2H and HO2C-[CH2-CHCl]n-CO2H (n = 2-19) dicarboxylic acids. The same products were detected on sand but at a lower concentration than on silica due to better retention within the pores. Detection of markers of PE and PS on natural sand allowed us to screen microplastics by following a targeted analysis. Markers of PVC were not detected before or after thermal/photo-oxidation due to the low release of compounds and limitations associated with surface exposure/penetration of radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Q V Costa
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Inês I Afonso
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Joana Cruz
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Maria Alexandra A Teodósio
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Steffen Jockusch
- Center for Photochemical Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, United States
| | | | - Deborah M Power
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - José P Da Silva
- Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR/CIMAR LA), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
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Alijagic A, Suljević D, Fočak M, Sulejmanović J, Šehović E, Särndahl E, Engwall M. The triple exposure nexus of microplastic particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants from a human health perspective. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108736. [PMID: 38759545 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) is increasing at a dramatic rate globally, posing risks for exposure and subsequent potential adverse effects on human health. Apart from being physical objects, MP particles contain thousands of plastic-associated chemicals (i.e., monomers, chemical additives, and non-intentionally added substances) captured within the polymer matrix. These chemicals are often migrating from MPs and can be found in various environmental matrices and human food chains; increasing the risks for exposure and health effects. In addition to the physical and chemical attributes of MPs, plastic surfaces effectively bind exogenous chemicals, including environmental pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants). Therefore, MPs can act as vectors of environmental pollution across air, drinking water, and food, further amplifying health risks posed by MP exposure. Critically, fragmentation of plastics in the environment increases the risk for interactions with cells, increases the presence of available surfaces to leach plastic-associated chemicals, and adsorb and transfer environmental pollutants. Hence, this review proposes the so-called triple exposure nexus approach to comprehensively map existing knowledge on interconnected health effects of MP particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants. Based on the available data, there is a large knowledge gap in regard to the interactions and cumulative health effects of the triple exposure nexus. Each component of the triple nexus is known to induce genotoxicity, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, but knowledge about long-term and inter-individual health effects is lacking. Furthermore, MPs are not readily excreted from organisms after ingestion and they have been found accumulated in human blood, cardiac tissue, placenta, etc. Even though the number of studies on MPs-associated health impacts is increasing rapidly, this review underscores that there is a pressing necessity to achieve an integrated assessment of MPs' effects on human health in order to address existing and future knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi Alijagic
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Damir Suljević
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Muhamed Fočak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jasmina Sulejmanović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Elma Šehović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Eva Särndahl
- Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Magnus Engwall
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
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Di Giulio T, De Benedetto GE, Ditaranto N, Malitesta C, Mazzotta E. Insights into Plastic Degradation Processes in Marine Environment by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5060. [PMID: 38791107 PMCID: PMC11121657 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study employs X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze plastic samples subjected to degradation processes with the aim to gain insight on the relevant chemical processes and disclose fragmentation mechanisms. Two model plastics, namely polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene (PE), are selected and analyzed before and after artificial UV radiation-triggered weathering, under simulated environmental hydrodynamic conditions, in fresh and marine water for different time intervals. The object of the study is to identify and quantify chemical groups possibly evidencing the occurrence of hydrolysis and oxidation reactions, which are the basis of degradation processes in the environment, determining macroplastic fragmentation. Artificially weathered plastic samples are analyzed also by Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy. Changes in surface chemistry with weathering are revealed by XPS, involving the increase in chemical moieties (hydroxyl, carbonyl, and carboxyl functionalities) which can be correlated with the degradation processes responsible for macroplastic fragmentation. On the other hand, the absence of significant modifications upon plastics weathering evidenced by Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy confirms the importance of investigating plastics surface, which represents the very first part of the materials exposed to degradation agents, thus revealing the power of XPS studies for this purpose. The XPS data on experimentally weathered particles are compared with ones obtained on microplastics collected from real marine environment for investigating the occurring degradation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziano Di Giulio
- Laboratorio di Chimica Analitica, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (Di.S.Te.B.A.), Università del Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (T.D.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Egidio De Benedetto
- Laboratorio di Spettrometria di Massa Analitica ed Isotopica, Dipartimento di Beni Culturali, Università del Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Nicoletta Ditaranto
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70126 Bari, Italy;
- CSGI (Center for Colloid and Surface Science) Bari Unit, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Cosimino Malitesta
- Laboratorio di Chimica Analitica, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (Di.S.Te.B.A.), Università del Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (T.D.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Mazzotta
- Laboratorio di Chimica Analitica, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (Di.S.Te.B.A.), Università del Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (T.D.G.); (C.M.)
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Yang Z, DeLoid GM, Baw J, Zarbl H, Demokritou P. Assessment of Ingested Micro- and Nanoplastic (MNP)-Mediated Genotoxicity in an In Vitro Model of the Small Intestinal Epithelium (SIE). NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:807. [PMID: 38727401 PMCID: PMC11085749 DOI: 10.3390/nano14090807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become ubiquitous contaminants of water and foods, resulting in high levels of human ingestion exposure. MNPs have been found in human blood and multiple tissues, suggesting that they are readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and widely distributed. Growing toxicological evidence suggests that ingested MNPs may pose a serious health threat. The potential genotoxicity of MNPs, however, remains largely unknown. In this study, genotoxicity of primary and environmentally relevant secondary MNPs was assessed in a triculture small intestinal epithelium (SIE) model using the CometChip assay. Aqueous suspensions of 25 and 1000 nm carboxylated polystyrene spheres (PS25C and PS1KC), and incinerated polyethylene (PEI PM0.1) were subjected to simulated GIT digestion to create physiologically relevant exposures (digestas), which were applied to the SIE model at final MNP concentrations of 1, 5, and 20 μg/mL for 24 or 48 h. PS25C and PS1KC induced DNA damage in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. To our knowledge, this is one of the first assessment of MNP genotoxicity in an integrated in vitro ingestion platform including simulated GIT digestion and a triculture SIE model. These findings suggest that ingestion of high concentrations of carboxylated PS MNPs could have serious genotoxic consequences in the SIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Yang
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Glen M. DeLoid
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Joshua Baw
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Helmut Zarbl
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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Yang L, Kang S, Luo X, Wang Z. Microplastics in drinking water: A review on methods, occurrence, sources, and potential risks assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123857. [PMID: 38537794 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123857] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics in drinking water captured widespread attention following reports of widespread detection around the world. Concerns have been raised about the potential adverse effects of microplastics in drinking water on human health. Given the widespread interest in this research topic, there is an urgent need to compile existing data and assess current knowledge. This paper provides a systematic review of studies on microplastics in drinking water, their evidence, key findings, knowledge gaps, and research needs. The data collected show that microplastics are widespread in drinking water, with large variations in reported concentrations. Standardized methodologies of sampling and analysis are urgently needed. There were more fibrous and fragmented microplastics, with the majority being <10 μm in size and composed of polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Little attention has been paid to the color of microplastics. More research is needed to understand the occurrence and transfer of microplastics throughout the water supply chain and the treatment efficiency of drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). Methods capable of analyzing microplastics <10 μm and nanoplastics are urgently needed. Potential ecological assessment models for microplastics currently in use need to be improved to take into account the complexity and specificity of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Shichang Kang
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Xi Luo
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhaoqing Wang
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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Martin L, Simpson K, Brzezinski M, Watt J, Xu W. Cellular response of keratinocytes to the entry and accumulation of nanoplastic particles. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:22. [PMID: 38685063 PMCID: PMC11057139 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-024-00583-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic accumulation in the environment is rapidly increasing, and nanoplastics (NP), byproducts of environmental weathering of bulk plastic waste, pose a significant public health risk. Particles may enter the human body through many possible routes such as ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption. However, studies on NP penetration and accumulation in human skin are limited. Loss or reduction of the keratinized skin barrier may enhance the skin penetration of NPs. The present study investigated the entry of NPs into a human skin system modeling skin with compromised barrier functions and cellular responses to the intracellular accumulations of NPs. Two in vitro models were employed to simulate human skin lacking keratinized barriers. The first model was an ex vivo human skin culture with the keratinized dermal layer (stratum corneum) removed. The second model was a 3D keratinocyte/dermal fibroblast cell co-culture model with stratified keratinocytes on the top and a monolayer of skin fibroblast cells co-cultured at the bottom. The penetration and accumulation of the NPs in different cell types were observed using fluorescent microscopy, confocal microscopy, and cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The cellular responses of keratinocytes and dermal fibroblast cells to stress induced by NPs stress were measured. The genetic regulatory pathway of keratinocytes to the intracellular NPs was identified using transcript analyses and KEGG pathway analysis. The cellular uptake of NPs by skin cells was confirmed by imaging analyses. Transepidermal transport and penetration of NPs through the skin epidermis were observed. According to the gene expression and pathway analyses, an IL-17 signaling pathway was identified as the trigger for cellular responses to internal NP accumulation in the keratinocytes. The transepidermal NPs were also found in co-cultured dermal fibroblast cells and resulted in a large-scale transition from fibroblast cells to myofibroblast cells with enhanced production of α-smooth muscle actin and pro-Collagen Ia. The upregulation of inflammatory factors and cell activation may result in skin inflammation and ultimately trigger immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leisha Martin
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Dr, 78412, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Kayla Simpson
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Dr, 78412, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Molly Brzezinski
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Dr, 78412, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - John Watt
- Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Dr, 78412, Corpus Christi, TX, USA.
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7
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Verdi A, Naseri M. Effects of tire wear particles on the water retention of soils with different textures in the full moisture range. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 264:104345. [PMID: 38657472 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Tire wear particles (TWPs) are significant contributors to microplastic pollution in the environment, yet there is limited scientific information concerning their impact on soil hydraulic properties. This study aimed to investigate the impact of TWPs at different concentrations (1, 4, 8, and 16% of the air-dried mass of packed soil samples, w/w) on the water retention curves (WRC) of southern California soils with five different textures (clay, clay loam, silt loam, sandy loam, and loamy sand). The concentrations of 8% and 16% were selected to represent extreme pollution scenarios that might occur near highway corridors. High-resolution water retention data, spanning from saturation to oven dryness, were generated using HYPROP™ and WP4C dew point meter instruments. We also developed WRC scaling equations based on the quantity of TWPs. The bulk density of the samples decreased as the TWP concentration in soils increased. The inclusion of very high concentrations of TWPs (8% and 16% w/w) led to a significant reduction in soil moisture content in the intermediate and dry ranges across various soil textures. However, at the same moisture range, adding 1% TWPs had a minimal impact on soil moisture reduction, while the influence of the 4% TWPs concentration treatment was noticeable only in loamy sand and partially in clay loam soils. Additionally, the overall plant available water decreased with increasing TWP concentrations, except for the clay soil. The texture-specific scaling models exhibited promising performance, with RMSE values ranging from 0.0061 to 0.0120 cm3 cm-3. When bulk density was included as an additional input predictor to construct a single scaling model for all textures, the RMSE increased. Nevertheless, it still indicated a good fit ranging from 0.007 to 0.024 cm3 cm-3, highlighting the suitability of simple scaling for identifying WRC in TWPs-polluted soils, particularly for practical purposes. The findings of this study can contribute to a better understanding and quantification of the impact of TWPs on soil hydrology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Verdi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, United States of America.
| | - Mahyar Naseri
- Thünen Institute of Agricultural Technology, Bundesallee 47, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany.
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Wang Y, Zhao J, Fu Z, Guan D, Zhang D, Zhang H, Zhang Q, Xie J, Sun Y, Wang D. Innovative overview of the occurrence, aging characteristics, and ecological toxicity of microplastics in environmental media. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123623. [PMID: 38387545 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123623] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), pollutants detected at high frequency in the environment, can be served as carriers of many kinds of pollutants and have typical characteristics of environmental persistence and bioaccumulation. The potential risks of MPs ecological environment and health have been widely concerned by scholars and engineering practitioners. Previous reviews mostly focused on the pollution characteristics and ecological toxicity of MPs, but there were few reviews on MPs analysis methods, aging mechanisms and removal strategies. To address this issue, this review first summarizes the contamination characteristics of MPs in different environmental media, and then focuses on analyzing the detection methods and analyzing the aging mechanisms of MPs, which include physical aging and chemical aging. Further, the ecotoxicity of MPs to different organisms and the associated enhanced removal strategies are outlined. Finally, some unresolved research questions related to MPs are prospected. This review focuses on the ageing and ecotoxic behaviour of MPs and provides some theoretical references for the potential environmental risks of MPs and their deep control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Wang
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Jianwei Zhao
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China.
| | - Zhou Fu
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Dezheng Guan
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Qingdao Jiebao Ecological Technology Co., Ltd., Qingdao, 266000, PR China
| | - Jingliang Xie
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Yingjie Sun
- Qingdao Solid Waste Pollution Control and Recycling Engineering Research Center, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, PR China
| | - Dongbo Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
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9
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Queiroz LG, Prado CCA, Melo EC, Moraes BR, de Oliveira PFM, Ando RA, Paiva TCB, Pompêo M, Rani-Borges B. Biofragmentation of Polystyrene Microplastics: A Silent Process Performed by Chironomus sancticaroli Larvae. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4510-4521. [PMID: 38426442 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08193] [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: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is one of the main synthetic polymers produced around the world, and it is present in the composition of a wide variety of single-use objects. When released into the environment, these materials are degraded by environmental factors, resulting in microplastics. We investigated the ability of Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) to promote the fragmentation of PS microspheres (24.5 ± 2.9 μm) and the toxic effects associated with exposure to this polymer. C. sancticaroli larvae were exposed to 3 different concentrations of PS (67.5, 135, and 270 particles g-1 of dry sediment) for 144 h. Significant lethality was observed only at the highest concentration. A significant reduction in PS particle size as well as evidence of deterioration on the surface of the spheres, such as grooves and cracks, was observed. In addition, changes in oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, MDA, and GST) were also observed. This is the first study to report the ability of Chironomus sp. to promote the biofragmentation of microplastics. The information obtained demonstrates that the macroinvertebrate community can play a key role in the degradation of plastic particles present in the sediment of freshwater environments and can also be threatened by such particle pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G Queiroz
- Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão 277, São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caio C A Prado
- School of Engineering of Lorena, Department of Biotechnology, University of São Paulo, Estrada do Campinho s/n, Lorena, 12602-810 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo C Melo
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Beatriz R Moraes
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo F M de Oliveira
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rômulo A Ando
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Teresa C B Paiva
- School of Engineering of Lorena, Department of Basic and Environmental Sciences, University of São Paulo, Estrada do Campinho s/n, Lorena, 12602-810 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Pompêo
- Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão 277, São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Rani-Borges
- Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University, Av Três de Março 511, Sorocaba, 18087-180 São Paulo, Brazil
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10
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Nakatani H, Yamashiro K, Uchiyama T, Motokucho S, Dao ATN, Kim HJ, Yagi M, Kyozuka Y. Effect of Copper Antifouling Paint on Marine Degradation of Polypropylene: Uneven Distribution of Microdebris between Nagasaki Port and Goto Island, Japan. Molecules 2024; 29:1173. [PMID: 38474685 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) encompass not only plastic products but also paint particles. Marine microdebris, including MP, was retrieved from five sampling stations spanning Nagasaki-Goto island and was classified into six types, primarily consisting of MP (A), Si-based (B), and Cu-based (C) paint particles. Type-A particles, i.e., MP, were exceedingly small, with 74% of them having a long diameter of 25 µm or less. The vertical distribution of type C, containing cuprous oxide, exhibited no depth dependence, with its dominant size being less than 7 μm. It was considered that the presence of type C was associated with a natural phenomenon of MP loss. To clarify this, polypropylene (PP) samples containing cuprous oxide were prepared, and their accelerated degradation behavior was studied using a novel enhanced degradation method employing a sulfate ion radical as an initiator. Infrared spectroscopy revealed the formation of a copper soap compound in seawater. Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis indicated that the chemical reactions between Cl- and cuprous oxide produced Cu+ ions. The acceleration of degradation induced by the copper soap formed was studied through the changes in the number of PP chain scissions, revealing that the presence of type-C accelerated MP degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Nakatani
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Kaito Yamashiro
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Taishi Uchiyama
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Suguru Motokucho
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Anh Thi Ngoc Dao
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Mitsuharu Yagi
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Yusaku Kyozuka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
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11
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Shafi M, Lodh A, Khajuria M, Ranjan VP, Gani KM, Chowdhury S, Goel S. Are we underestimating stormwater? Stormwater as a significant source of microplastics in surface waters. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133445. [PMID: 38198866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Stormwater represent a critical pathway for transporting microplastics (MPs) to surface waters. Due to complex dynamics of MPs in stormwater, its dispersion, weathering, risk, and transport are poorly understood. This review bridges those gaps by summarizing the latest findings on sources, abundance, characteristics, and dynamics involved in stormwater MP pollution. Weathering starts before or after MPs enter stormwater and is more pronounced on land due to continuous heat and mechanical stress. Land use patterns, rainfall intensity, MPs size and density, and drainage characteristics influence the transport of MPs in stormwater. Tire and road wear particles (TRWPs), littering, and road dust are major sources of MPs in stormwater. The concentrations of MPs varies from 0.38-197,000 particles/L globally. Further MP concentrations showed regional variations, highlighting the importance of local monitoring efforts needed to understand local pollution sources. We observed unique signatures associated with the shape and color of MPs. Fibers and fragments were widely reported, with transparent and black being the predominant colors. We conclude that the contribution of stormwater to MP pollution in surface waters is significantly greater than wastewater treatment plant effluents and demands immediate attention. Field and lab scale studies are needed to understand its behavior in stormwater and the risk posed to the downstream water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozim Shafi
- Environmental Engineering and Management Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Ayan Lodh
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Medha Khajuria
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Ved Prakash Ranjan
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440020, India
| | - Khalid Muzamil Gani
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Shamik Chowdhury
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Sudha Goel
- Environmental Engineering and Management Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India.
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12
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Jasinski J, Völkl M, Wilde MV, Jérôme V, Fröhlich T, Freitag R, Scheibel T. Influence of the polymer type of a microplastic challenge on the reaction of murine cells. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133280. [PMID: 38141312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133280] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Due to global pollution derived from plastic waste, the research on microplastics is of increasing public interest. Until now, most studies addressing the effect of microplastic particles on vertebrate cells have primarily utilized polystyrene particles (PS). Other studies on polymer microparticles made, e.g., of polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), or poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), cannot easily be directly compared to these PS studies, since the used microparticles differ widely in size and surface features. Here, effects caused by pristine microparticles of a narrow size range between 1 - 4 µm from selected conventional polymers including PS, PE, and PVC, were compared to those of particles made of polymers derived from biological sources like polylactic acid (PLA), and cellulose acetate (CA). The microparticles were used to investigate cellular uptake and assess cytotoxic effects on murine macrophages and epithelial cells. Despite differences in the particles' properties (e.g. ζ-potential and surface morphology), macrophages were able to ingest all tested particles, whereas epithelial cells ingested only the PS-based particles, which had a strong negative ζ-potential. Most importantly, none of the used model polymer particles exhibited significant short-time cytotoxicity, although the general effect of environmentally relevant microplastic particles on organisms requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Jasinski
- Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Matthias Völkl
- Process Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Magdalena V Wilde
- Gene Center Munich, Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), LMU München, Munich, Germany; Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Paleontology & Geobiology, LMU München, Munich, Germany
| | - Valérie Jérôme
- Process Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Gene Center Munich, Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), LMU München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ruth Freitag
- Process Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany; Bayreuth Center for Molecular Biosciences (BZMB), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany; Bayreuth Center for Colloids and Interfaces (BZKG), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany; Bayreuth Center for Molecular Biosciences (BZMB), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany; Bayreuth Center for Material Science (BayMAT), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany; Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany.
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13
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Pinlova B, Nowack B. From cracks to secondary microplastics - surface characterization of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) during weathering. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141305. [PMID: 38331266 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Secondary microplastics are a product of the fragmentation of plastic debris. Despite concerns regarding the omnipresence of microplastics in the environment, knowledge about the mechanics of their actual formation is still limited. Fragmentation is usually linked to weathering, which alters the properties of the plastic and allows fragmentation to occur. Therefore, in this study, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) samples were exposed to artificial UV light or a combination of UV light and water for a total of three months to simulate natural weathering. The samples included three forms of PET with different production histories: pellets, yarns, and films. The surface alterations to the samples during weathering were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Results indicated that the three different types of PET developed markedly different surface defects and also exhibited signs of weathering within different time frames. Differences were also found between samples exposed only to UV and those exposed to UV and submerged in water. In water, the first surface changes were spotted within 30 days of initial submersion and later developed into an organized crack network. Upon the introduction of mild mechanical forces, pieces of the weathered surface started to delaminate. The fragments from films had an elongated shape with a median size of 16.1 × 2.1 × 1.8 μm, resembling a fibre. If the weathered surface of a film were to detach completely, it could create 1.4-7.9 million microplastic fragments/cm2. For pellets, this number would range between 0.4 and 2.2 million microplastics/cm2. In addition to particle formation by surface delamination, particles also emerged on the weathered surfaces of all studied samples, presenting another possible source of micro-sized particles during weathering. Overall, the results of this work show that the weathering of plastics and the formation of microplastics are heavily influenced not only by the weathering mechanism but also by the type and production history of the polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Pinlova
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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14
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Nakatani H, Narizumi S, Okubo S, Motokucho S, Dao ATN, Kim HJ, Yagi M, Kyozuka Y, Miura S, Josyula KV. Study on the onset mechanism of bio-blister degradation of polyolefin by diatom attachment in seawater. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3902. [PMID: 38366080 PMCID: PMC10873352 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54668-8] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
It is essential to develop a mechanism for lowering the molecular weight of polyolefins to achieve biodegradation in seawater. In this study, a polypropylene/polylactic acid blend sample was first subjected to photodegradation pretreatment, and it was confirmed that in pure water, the acid generated promotes the polypropylene degradation (autoxidation), while in alkaline seawater, the promotion was inhibited by a neutralization reaction. In the autoxidation of polyolefins in alkaline seawater, aqueous Cl- was also the inhibitor. However, we found that autoxidation could be initiated even in seawater by lowering the pH and using dissociation of ClOH (called blister degradation). The blister degradation mechanism enabled autoxidation, even in seawater, by taking advantage of the ability of diatoms to secrete transparent exopolymer particles (TEP) to prevent direct contact between the surface layer of polyolefins and alkaline seawater. We named blister degradation in seawater with diatoms as bio-blister degradation and confirmed its manifestation using linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)/starch samples by SEM, IR, DSC and GPC analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Nakatani
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan.
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machiachi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan.
| | - Shun Narizumi
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Seiya Okubo
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Suguru Motokucho
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machiachi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Anh Thi Ngoc Dao
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Mitsuharu Yagi
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Yusaku Kyozuka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machiachi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Shigenobu Miura
- BioLogiQ Japan LLC, 3-9-10-347, Takaidohigashi, Suginami, Tokyo, 1680072, Japan
| | - Kanth V Josyula
- BioLogiQ, Inc., 3834 Professional Way, Idaho Falls, ID, 83402, USA
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15
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Li X, Wu J, Cheng X, Cai Z, Wang Z, Zhou J. Biodegradable microplastics reduce the effectiveness of biofertilizers by altering rhizospheric microecological functions. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 352:120071. [PMID: 38246103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of biofertilizers as a cost-effective crop yield enhancer can be compromised by residual soil pollutants. However, the impact of accumulated polyadipate/butylene terephthalate microplastics (PBAT-MPs) from biodegradable mulch films on biofertilizer application and the consequent growth of crop plants remains unclear. Here, the effects of different levels of PBAT-MPs in soil treated with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens biofertilizer were assessed in a four-week potted experiment. PBAT-MPs significantly decreased the growth-promoting effect of the biofertilizer on Brassica chinensis L., resulting in a notable reduction in both above- and belowground biomass (up to 52.91% and 57.53%, respectively), as well as nitrate and crude fiber contents (up to 12.18% and 13.64%, respectively). In the rhizosphere microenvironment, PBAT-MPs increased soil organic carbon by 2.63-fold and organic matter by 2.68-fold, while enhancing sucrase (from 67.55% to 108.89%) and cellulase (from 31.26% to 49.10%) activities. PBAT-MPs also altered the rhizospheric bacterial community composition/diversity, resulting in more complex microbial networks. With regard to microbial function, PBAT-MPs impacted carbon metabolic function by inhibiting the 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate fixation pathway and influencing chitin and lignin degradation processes. Overall, the rhizospheric microbial profiles (composition, function, and network interactions) were the main contributors to plant growth inhibition. This study provides a practical case and theoretical basis for rational use of biodegradable mulch films and indicates that the residue of biodegradable films needs pay attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China
| | - Jialing Wu
- Ecological Fertilizer Research Institute, Shenzhen Batian Ecological Engineering Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xueyu Cheng
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China
| | - Zhonghua Cai
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China
| | - Zongkang Wang
- Ecological Fertilizer Research Institute, Shenzhen Batian Ecological Engineering Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, PR China.
| | - Jin Zhou
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China.
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16
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Liu L, Ma H, Xing B. Aging and characterization of disposable polypropylene plastic cups based microplastics and its adsorption for methylene blue. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:140976. [PMID: 38114021 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) as emerging pollutants are of increasing concern, due to their ubiquitous, uncertain, and complex environmental impacts. Different from the standard spherical MPs without additives, here polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) in flake derived from the disposable plastic cup in food-grade in daily life were studied. The characterization of PP-MPs demonstrated that the carbonyl index represented the aging degree was enhanced from 0.26 significantly to 0.82 after 10 days, and the aging process fitted well with pseudo-first-order kinetic. Moreover, the crystallinity degree, polarity and surface negative charges were enhanced, while the hydrophobicity was decreased. The adsorption behavior of PP-MPs toward methylene blue (MB), and the impacts of various pHs, salinities, and humic acid in aquatic environments were also explored. The pseudo-second-order kinetic, Henry and Sips isotherm models provided a good correlation with the experimental data, indicating that the rate-limiting step was closely related with the complex surface adsorption, and the hydrophobic partitioning, polar interaction, electrostatic attraction, and hydrogen bonding were possibly involved in the adsorption. These exhaustive experiments aim to provide a theoretical basis for assessing and better understanding the environmental behavior of disposable PP plastic cups in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'An, Shaanxi, 710119, PR China
| | - Hongzhu Ma
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'An, Shaanxi, 710119, PR China.
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
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17
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Nakatani H, Uchiyama T, Motokucho S, Dao ATN, Kim HJ, Yagi M, Kyozuka Y. Differences in the Residual Behavior of a Bumetrizole-Type Ultraviolet Light Absorber during the Degradation of Various Polymers. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:293. [PMID: 38276701 PMCID: PMC10819654 DOI: 10.3390/polym16020293] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The alteration of an ultraviolet light absorber (UVA: UV-326) in polymers (PP, HDPE, LDPE, PLA, and PS) over time during degradation was studied using an enhanced degradation method (EDM) involving sulfate ion radicals in seawater. The EDM was employed to homogeneously degrade the entire polymer samples containing the UVA. The PP and PS samples containing 5-phr (phr: per hundred resin) UVA films underwent rapid whitening, characterized by the formation of numerous grooves or crushed particles. Notably, the UVA loss rate in PS, with the higher glass transition temperature (Tg), was considerably slower. The behavior of crystalline polymers, with the exception of PS, was analogous in terms of the change in UVA loss rate over the course of degradation. The significant increase in the initial loss rate observed during EDM degradation was due to microplasticization. A similar increase in microplasticization rate occurred with PS; however, the intermolecular interaction between UVA and PS did not result in as pronounced an increase in loss rate as observed in other polymers. Importantly, the chemical structure of UVA remained unaltered during EDM degradation. These findings revealed that the primary cause of UVA loss was leaching from the polymer matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Nakatani
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (T.U.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
| | - Taishi Uchiyama
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (T.U.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
| | - Suguru Motokucho
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (T.U.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
| | - Anh Thi Ngoc Dao
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (T.U.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (H.-J.K.); (M.Y.)
| | - Mitsuharu Yagi
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (H.-J.K.); (M.Y.)
| | - Yusaku Kyozuka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
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18
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Zhang Z, Zou S, Li P. Aging of plastics in aquatic environments: Pathways, environmental behavior, ecological impacts, analyses and quantifications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122926. [PMID: 37963513 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of plastics in our environment has brought about pressing concerns, with their aging processes, photo-oxidation, mechanical abrasion, and biodegradation, being at the forefront. Microplastics (MPs), whether originating from plastic degradation or direct anthropogenic sources, further complicate this landscape. This review delves into the intricate aging dynamics of plastics in aquatic environments under various influential factors. We discuss the physicochemical changes that occur in aged plastics and the release of oxidation products during their degradation. Particular attention is given to their evolving environmental interactions and the resulting ecotoxicological implications. A rigorous evaluation is also conducted for methodologies in the analysis and quantification of plastics aging, identifying their merits and limitations and suggesting potential avenues for future research. This comprehensive review is able to illuminate the complexities of plastics aging, charting a path for future research and aiding in the formulation of informed policy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Shichun Zou
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Pu Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China.
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19
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Chen R, Zhao X, Wu X, Wang J, Wang X, Liang W. Research progress on occurrence characteristics and source analysis of microfibers in the marine environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115834. [PMID: 38061148 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic microfiber pollution is a growing concern in the marine environment. However, critical issues associated with microfiber origins in marine environments have not been resolved. Herein, the potential sources of marine microfibers are systematically reviewed. The obtained results indicate that surface runoffs are primary contributors that transport land-based microfibers to oceans, and the breakdown of larger fiber plastic waste due to weathering processes is also a notable secondary source of marine microfibers. Additionally, there are three main approaches for marine microplastic source apportionment, namely, anthropogenic source classification, statistical analysis, and numerical simulations based on the Lagrangian particle tracking method. These methods establish the connections between characteristics, transport pathways and sources of microplastics, which provides new insights to further conduct microfiber source apportionment. This study helps to better understand sources analysis and transport pathways of microfibers into oceans and presents a scientific basis to further control microfiber pollution in marine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouzheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China.
| | - Xiaowei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Junyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Xia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Weigang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
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20
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Jain R, Gaur A, Suravajhala R, Chauhan U, Pant M, Tripathi V, Pant G. Microplastic pollution: Understanding microbial degradation and strategies for pollutant reduction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167098. [PMID: 37717754 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with the potential for adverse impacts on ecosystems and human health. These particles originate from the fragmentation of larger plastic items, shedding from synthetic fibers, tire abrasions, and direct release from personal care products and industrial processes. Once released into the environment, microplastics can disrupt ecosystems, accumulate in organisms, cause physical harm, and carry chemical pollutants that pose risks to both wildlife and human health. There is an urgent need to comprehensively explore the multifaceted issue of microplastic pollution and understand microbial degradation to reduce environmental pollution caused by microplastics. This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of microplastics, including their types, composition, advantages, and disadvantages, as well as the journey and evolution of microplastic pollution. The impact of microplastics on the microbiome and microbial communities is elucidated, highlighting the intricate interactions between microplastics and microbial ecosystems. Furthermore, the microbial degradation of microplastics is discussed, including the identification, characterization, and culturing methods of microplastic-degrading microorganisms. Mechanisms of microplastic degradation and the involvement of microbial enzymes are elucidated to shed light on potential biotechnological applications. Strategies for reducing microplastic pollution are presented, encompassing policy recommendations and the importance of enhanced waste management practices. Finally, the paper addresses future challenges and prospects in the field, emphasizing the need for international collaboration, research advancements, and public engagement. Overall, this study underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to mitigate microplastic pollution and offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in environmental preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajul Jain
- Bioclues.org, India, Vivekananda Nagar, Kukatpally, 500072 Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Ashish Gaur
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Renuka Suravajhala
- Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Clappana, 690525, Kerala, India.
| | - Uttra Chauhan
- Department of Microbiology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, India
| | - Manu Pant
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Vishal Tripathi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Gaurav Pant
- Department of Microbiology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, India.
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21
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Oluwoye I, Machuca LL, Higgins S, Suh S, Galloway TS, Halley P, Tanaka S, Iannuzzi M. Degradation and lifetime prediction of plastics in subsea and offshore infrastructures. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166719. [PMID: 37673242 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Engineering and civil developments have relied on synthetic polymers and plastics (including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, etc.) for decades, especially where their durability protects engineering structures against corrosion and other environmental stimuli. Offshore oil and gas infrastructure and renewable energy platforms are typical examples, where these plastics (100,000 s of metric tonnes worldwide) are used primarily as functional material to protect metallic flowlines and subsea equipment against seawater corrosion. Despite this, the current literature on polymers is limited to sea-surface environments, and a model for subsea degradation of plastics is needed. In this review, we collate relevant studies on the degradation of plastics and synthetic polymers in marine environments to gain insight into the fate of these materials when left in subsea conditions. We present a new mathematical model that accounts for various physicochemical changes in the oceanic environment as a function of depth to predict the lifespan of synthetic plastics and the possible formation of plastic debris, e.g., microplastics. We found that the degradation rate of the plastics decreases significantly as a function of water depth and can be estimated quantitatively by the mathematical model that accounts for the effect (and sensitivity) of geographical location, temperature, light intensity, hydrostatic pressure, and marine sediments. For instance, it takes a subsea polyethylene coating about 800 years to degrade on ocean floor (as opposed to <400 years in shallow coastal waters), generating 1000s of particles per g of degradation under certain conditions. Our results demonstrate how suspended sediments in the water column are likely to compensate for the decreasing depth-corrected degradation rates, resulting in surface abrasion and the formation of plastic debris such as microplastics. This review, and the complementing data, will be significant for the environmental impact assessment of plastics in subsea infrastructures. Moreover, as these infrastructures reach the end of their service life, the management of the plastic components becomes of great interest to environmental regulators, industry, and the community, considering the known sizeable impacts of plastics on global biogeochemical cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibukun Oluwoye
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Laura L Machuca
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Stuart Higgins
- Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6824, Australia
| | - Sangwon Suh
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Peter Halley
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Shuhei Tanaka
- Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mariano Iannuzzi
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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22
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Ma YF, You XY. Modeling the effect of fish migration on the horizontal distribution of microplastics in freshwater and ecological risks in the food web: Influence of habitat. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166265. [PMID: 37591398 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs < 5 mm) pollution is a widespread phenomenon in freshwater ecosystems. While the role of physiochemical factors in the migration and distribution of MPs is understood, the impact of biological migration remains less clear. The influence of nekton migration determined by habitat suitability on the distribution of MPs and the consequent ecological risks to the regional food web is investigated in the freshwater environment by using Baiyangdian Lake (China) as a case study. The key findings reveal that fish migration significantly alters the horizontal distribution of MPs in the water environment, with a higher degree of fish aggregation in high suitability habitats leading to an increased presence of MPs due to their ingestion and excretion behaviors. In both high and low suitability habitats, MPs are found to bioconcentrate in fish, suggesting a significant risk to aquatic ecosystems. Despite the lack of evidence supporting MPs biomagnification, the results indicate that MPs are more likely to be biomagnified within the food web of high suitability habitats due to the enhanced foraging capabilities of aquatic organisms. These findings highlight the critical need to consider biological factors, such as nekton migration, in understanding and addressing MPs pollution in freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fei Ma
- Tianjin Engineering Center of Urban River Eco-purification Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xue-Yi You
- Tianjin Engineering Center of Urban River Eco-purification Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China.
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23
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Mondal MIH, Takebira UM. Disperse dyes, temperature and yarn parametre's effect on microfibre shedding of polyester spun yarn. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166854. [PMID: 37689202 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The yarn dyeing factories discharge liquid waste laden with a variety of hazardous substances, including microplastic fibre (MPFs), which are found in aquatic ecosystems. During dyeing, MPF shedding factors were determined in this study. Shedding factors were determined at six polyester yarn dyeing factories to assess MPF release for (1) dark and (2) light shading. Three dyeing processes were considered including normal, carrier and high temperature. Sawdust-based activated carbon was utilized to decolourize dye wastewater. Flocculation and clarification were done without a flotation process to obtain low-density MPF. A hot needle test was applied to visual identification under an optical microscope and quantification was done by filtering, weighting and count of the yarn. A maximum of 0.00399 % weight loss (wt.) was found for dark shade in the high-temperature dyeing process and 0.00392 % (light) was found in carrier dyeing to dye a coarser yarn. In contrast, 0.4562 mg L-1 fibre particles (≤ 0.225 mm) shedding in normal dyeing, for a light shade, was observed to a fine yarn where a minimum of 0.00138 % wt. was found. Shorter fibre length, higher denier, and courser yarn were associated with the greatest MPF discharge at high-temperature dyeing for a dark shade. The usual effluent treatment plant (ETP) of the textile industry can remove only 75.52 % MPFs of wastewater. Shedding of MPF during dyeing is remarkably higher than the domestic wash cycle of garments. Wastewater of textiles containing MPFs would appear as a regular and extensive initial source of MP emissions, which can damage the ecological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ibrahim H Mondal
- Polymer and Textile Research Lab, Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh.
| | - Umme Magreba Takebira
- Polymer and Textile Research Lab, Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh
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24
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Rozman U, Blažič A, Kalčíková G. Phytoremediation: A promising approach to remove microplastics from the aquatic environment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 338:122690. [PMID: 37797928 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Due to the increasing amount of microplastics (MPs) in the environment, various technologies for their removal have been investigated. One of the possible technologies are phytoremediation methods, but insufficient understanding of the interactions between MPs and aquatic macrophytes limits their further development. In this context, the aim of this study was to investigate the interactions between polyethylene MPs and the floating aquatic macrophyte Lemna minor in terms of the extent and time frame of MPs adhesion to the plant biomass, the stability of the interactions under water movement and understanding the nature of the adsorption process through the adsorption isotherm models. The results showed that the maximum number of adhered MPs was reached after 24 h. With increased amount of plant biomass the number of adhered MPs increased as well. Slow movement of water had no statistically significant effect on the adhesion of MPs. Among several adsorption models, the Freundlich adsorption isotherm model was the best fit to the experimental data, which assumes weak binding of MPs to plant biomass. Finally, 79% of MPs was removed during 15 cycles of phytoremediation (i.e., the biomass was removed and replaced with new biomass 15 times) and it was calculated that 53 cycles would be needed to remove all MPs from the water phase under test conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ula Rozman
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, 113 Večna pot, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anej Blažič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, 113 Večna pot, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gabriela Kalčíková
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, 113 Večna pot, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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25
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Luo H, Tu C, He D, Zhang A, Sun J, Li J, Xu J, Pan X. Interactions between microplastics and contaminants: A review focusing on the effect of aging process. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165615. [PMID: 37481081 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the environment are a major global concern due to their persistent nature and wide distribution. The aging of MPs is influenced by several processes including photodegradation, thermal degradation, biodegradation and mechanical fragmentation, which affect their interaction with contaminants. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the aging process of MPs and the factors that impact their aging, and to discuss the effects of aging on the interaction of MPs with contaminants. A range of characterization methods that can effectively elucidate the mechanistic processes of these interactions are outlined. The rate and extent of MPs aging are influenced by their physicochemical properties and other environmental factors, which ultimately affect the adsorption and aggregation of aged MPs with environmental contaminants. Pollutants such as heavy metals, organic matter and microorganisms have a tendency to accumulate on MPs through adsorption and the interactions between them impact their environmental behavior. Aging enhances the specific surface area and oxygen-containing functional groups of MPs, thereby affecting the mechanism of interaction between MPs and contaminants. To obtain a more comprehensive understanding of how aging affects the interactions, this review also provides an overview of the mechanisms by which MPs interact with contaminants. In the future, there should be further in-depth studies of the potential hazards of aged MPs in different environments e.g., soil, sediment, aquatic environment, and effects of their interaction with environmental pollutants on human health and ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Chaolin Tu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Dongqin He
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Anping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jianqiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jun Li
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Juan Xu
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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26
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Goyal T, Singh S, Das Gupta G, Verma SK. Microplastics in environment: a comprehension on sources, analytical detection, health concerns, and remediation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:114707-114721. [PMID: 37897575 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30526-4] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Contamination of ecosystems by microplastics (MPs) has been reported intensively worldwide in the recent decade. A trend of reports indicated their presence in the atmosphere; food items and soil ecosystems are rising continuously. Literature evidenced that MPs are abundant in seawater, beach sand, drinking water, agricultural soils, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent, and the atmosphere. The greater abundance of MPs in the environment has led to their invasion of seafood, human-consumed food items such as table salts, beverages, takeout food containers, and disposable cups, marine biological lives, and creating serious health hazards in humans. Moreover, the absence of guidelines and specifications for controlling MPs in the environment makes the situation alarming, and the human toxicity data of MPs is scarce. Thereby, the toxicity assessment of MPs in humans is of greater concern. This review compiles the updated information on the potential sources of MPs in different components of the environment (viz. soil, water, and air), their analysis methods, effects on human health, and remediation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanish Goyal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhwinder Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Ghanshyam Das Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Sant Kumar Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India.
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27
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Doğan N. Native bacterial cellulose films based on kombucha pellicle as a potential active food packaging. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 60:2893-2904. [PMID: 37711573 PMCID: PMC10497472 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-023-05808-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The production of kombucha involves the synthesis of a bacterial cellulose-based native film by a microbial consortium, typically regarded as a waste by-product in commercial kombucha manufacturing. In this study, films were successfully obtained using the microbial consortium of kombucha, combined with infusions of black tea, green tea, rosehip, coffee, and licorice. These films exhibited a flexible rubbery-like structure and demonstrated inherent biological activity. Comparative analysis revealed that the licorice-based films exhibited a regular and less porous structure, while the green and black tea-based films displayed a porous structure, resulting in higher water permeability and swelling. Remarkably, green tea-based films showcased notable antioxidant activity (DPPH: %74.22 ± 2.05, ABTS: %81.59 ± 2.39) and exhibited antimicrobial properties against E. coli, S. aureus, and B. cereus, owing to their high phenolic content (1.62 ± 0.04 μg GAE/g). The antimicrobial efficacy of green tea-based films surpassed that of the other films against pathogenic microorganisms. By enhancing their hydrophobic properties, these innovative films hold promising potential as cost-effective, active, and environmentally friendly materials for food packaging applications. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-023-05808-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurcan Doğan
- Department of Food Technology, Bogazliyan Vocational School,, Yozgat Bozok University, 66400 Yozgat, Turkey
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28
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Sun X, Anoopkumar AN, Madhavan A, Binod P, Pandey A, Sindhu R, Awasthi MK. Degradation mechanism of microplastics and potential risks during sewage sludge co-composting: A comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122113. [PMID: 37379875 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) as a kind of emerging contaminants, widely exists in various kinds of medium, sewage sludge (SS) is no exception. In the sewage treatment process, a large number of microplastics will be deposited in SS. More seriously, microplastics in sewage sludge can migrate to other environmental media and threaten human health. Therefore, it is necessary to remove MPs from SS. Among the various restorations, aerobic composting is emerging as a green microplastic removal method. There are more and more reports of using aerobic compost to degrade microplastics. However, there are few reports on the degradation mechanism of MPs in aerobic composting, hindering the innovation of aerobic composting methods. Therefore, in this paper, the degradation mechanism of MPs in SS is discussed based on the environmental factors such as physical, chemical and biological factors in the composting process. In addition, this paper expounds the MPs in potential hazards, and combined with the problems in the present study were studied the outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwei Sun
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712 100, China
| | - A N Anoopkumar
- Centre for Research in Emerging Tropical Diseases (CRET-D), Department of Zoology, University of Calicut, Malappuram, Kerala, India
| | - Aravind Madhavan
- School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam, 690525, Kerala, India
| | - Parameswaran Binod
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Trivandrum, 695019, Kerala, India
| | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR- Indian Institute for Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), 31 MG Marg, Lucknow, 226 001, India; Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, Uttar Pradesh, India; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Raveendran Sindhu
- Department of Food Technology, TKM Institute of Technology, Kollam, 691505, Kerala, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712 100, China.
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29
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Lin YD, Huang PH, Chen YW, Hsieh CW, Tain YL, Lee BH, Hou CY, Shih MK. Sources, Degradation, Ingestion and Effects of Microplastics on Humans: A Review. TOXICS 2023; 11:747. [PMID: 37755757 PMCID: PMC10534390 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Celluloid, the predecessor to plastic, was synthesized in 1869, and due to technological advancements, plastic products appear to be ubiquitous in daily life. The massive production, rampant usage, and inadequate disposal of plastic products have led to severe environmental pollution. Consequently, reducing the employment of plastic has emerged as a pressing concern for governments globally. This review explores microplastics, including their origins, absorption, and harmful effects on the environment and humans. Several methods exist for breaking down plastics, including thermal, mechanical, light, catalytic, and biological processes. Despite these methods, microplastics (MPs, between 1 and 5 mm in size) continue to be produced during degradation. Acknowledging the significant threat that MPs pose to the environment and human health is imperative. This form of pollution is pervasive in the air and food and infiltrates our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. It is essential to assess the potential hazards that MPs can introduce. There is evidence suggesting that MPs may have negative impacts on different areas of human health. These include the respiratory, gastrointestinal, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems, the liver and organs, the skin, and even the placenta and placental barrier. It is encouraging to see that most of the countries have taken steps to regulate plastic particles. These measures aim to reduce plastic usage, which is essential today. At the same time, this review summarizes the degradation mechanism of plastics, their impact on human health, and plastic reduction policies worldwide. It provides valuable information for future research on MPs and regulatory development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Duan Lin
- Department of Seafood Science, College of Hydrosphere, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; (Y.-D.L.); (C.-Y.H.)
| | - Ping-Hsiu Huang
- School of Food, Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, No.4, Meicheng Road, Higher Education Park, Huai’an 223003, China;
| | - Yu-Wei Chen
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; (Y.-W.C.); (C.-W.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
| | - Chang-Wei Hsieh
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; (Y.-W.C.); (C.-W.H.)
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - You-Lin Tain
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Bao-Hong Lee
- Department of Horticulture, National Chiayi University, Chiayi 60004, Taiwan;
| | - Chih-Yao Hou
- Department of Seafood Science, College of Hydrosphere, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; (Y.-D.L.); (C.-Y.H.)
| | - Ming-Kuei Shih
- Graduate Institute of Food Culture and Innovation, National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, Kaohsiung 812301, Taiwan
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30
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Zhang ZA, Qin X, Zhang Y. Using Data-Driven Methods and Aging Information to Quantitatively Identify Microplastic Environmental Sources and Establish a Comprehensive Discrimination Index. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37465930 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
The global distribution of microplastics (MPs) across various environmental compartments has garnered significant attention. However, the differences in the characteristics of MPs in different environments remain unclear, and there is still a lack of quantitative analysis of their environmental sources. In addition, the inclusion of aging in source apportionment is a novel approach that has not been widely explored. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of the literature from the past 10 years and extracted conventional and aging characteristic data of MPs from 321 sampling points across 7 environmental compartments worldwide. We established a data-driven analysis framework using these data sets to identify different MP communities across environmental compartments, screen key MP features, and develop an environmental source analysis model for MPs. Our results indicate significant differences in the characteristics of MP communities across environments. The key features of differentiation were identified using the LEfSe method and include the carbonyl index, hydroxyl index, fouling index, proportions of polypropylene, white, black/gray, and film/sheet. These features were screened for each environmental compartment. An environmental source identification model was established based on these features with an accuracy of 75.1%. In order to accurately represent the single/multisource case in a more probabilistic manner, we proposed the MP environmental source index (MESI) to provide a probability estimation of the sample having multiple sources. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of MP migration trends and fluxes in the plastic cycle and inform effective prevention and control strategies for MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan-Ao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Xinran Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
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31
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Conowall P, Schreiner KM, Minor EC, Hrabik T, Schoenebeck CW. Variability of microplastic loading and retention in four inland lakes in Minnesota, USA. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 328:121573. [PMID: 37044256 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution (plastic particles < 5 mm) has potentially harmful impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the factors that impact microplastic loading and distribution within aquatic ecosystems is crucial for assessing potential threats from microplastics. Here we examine the extent of microplastic pollution in the surface waters and sediments of four small inland lakes in Minnesota, USA that represent a range of human impacts as well as a variety of watershed and lake characteristics. Surface water particulates and benthic sediments were collected in the summers of 2019 and 2020 to examine the loading of microplastics into these lakes and their distribution throughout the ecosystems. Lower size cut offs were set at 330 μm for surface water particulate samples and 250 μm for sediment samples. Watershed to surface area ratio (WS:SA) and urban development were the most influential factors on microplastic loading. Surface water microplastic concentrations ranged from 27,000 microplastics km-2 in Elk Lake (small WS:SA and minimally developed) to 152,000 microplastics km-2 in White Iron Lake (large WS:SA and low development). Concentrations in benthic sediments ranged from 30 microplastics kg-1 dry sediment in White Iron Lake (forested watershed) to 270 microplastics kg-1 dry sediment in Peltier Lake (urbanized watershed) and were not directly correlated to surface water concentrations. Results from this study highlight the characteristics of small lakes that influence spatial and temporal variability in microplastic loading, retention, and deposition of microplastics to sediments. Further, this study demonstrates the difficulties of accurately predicting microplastic loading and the importance of comprehensive sampling to account for the variability of microplastic loading and distribution in smaller inland lakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Conowall
- Large Lakes Observatory, University of Minnesota Duluth, 2205 E 5th St, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
| | - Kathryn M Schreiner
- Large Lakes Observatory, University of Minnesota Duluth, 2205 E 5th St, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA; Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr., Duluth, MN, 55812, USA.
| | - Elizabeth C Minor
- Large Lakes Observatory, University of Minnesota Duluth, 2205 E 5th St, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA; Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr., Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
| | - Thomas Hrabik
- Department of Biology, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1035 Kirby Dr., Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
| | - Casey W Schoenebeck
- Sentinel Lakes Program, Fisheries Research Unit, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 23070 North Lakeshore Drive, Glenwood, MN, 56334, USA
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Gupta DK, Vishwakarma A, Singh A. Release of microplastics from disposable face mask in tropical climate. REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE 2023; 61:102847. [PMID: 36741923 PMCID: PMC9884611 DOI: 10.1016/j.rsma.2023.102847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Outbreak of COVID 19 has caused an abrupt surge in the consumption of disposable face masks around the world. WHO has stated that wearing a face mask in public reduces the chances of being exposed to COVID 19 virus. With unchecked disposal of these used masks, a new kind of pollutant has emerged in the environment. Since these masks are generally made of polypropylene and polyurethane material, they can be considered as a potential source of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. In this study, we have evaluated the release of MPs particles from these face masks (namely from N95 and surgical masks) in deionized (DI) water and tap water over the span of 1 to 180 days. More specifically, a systematic study has been carried out to see the effect of temperature on release of MPs in water. MPs particles released in tap water (837 ± 113 particles/piece in 30 days) were significantly higher than that in DI water (564 ± 37 particles/piece in 30 days). When these masks were kept at a constant temperature of 45 °C for 30 Days, highest amount of MPs release (N95 899 ± 65 particles, Surgical 1038 ± 65 particles/piece) was observed as compared to other conditions. Most of the MPs particles released were polypropylene which were transparent and white in case of N95 while for surgical mask they were found to be of blue and white colour. With the aging of masks in water, quantity of MPs release was increased with simultaneous reduction in their size. Our study indicates that these disposable face masks are emerging to be a prominent source of MPs release in the environment and more hazardous for the tropical climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Kumar Gupta
- Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal, 462026, India
- Department of Civil Engineering, University Institute of Technology RGPV, Bhopal, 462033, India
| | - Amit Vishwakarma
- Department of Civil Engineering, University Institute of Technology RGPV, Bhopal, 462033, India
| | - Archana Singh
- Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal, 462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, 201002, India
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Wang Y, Wang Z, Lu X, Zhang H, Jia Z. Simulation and Characterization of Nanoplastic Dissolution under Different Food Consumption Scenarios. TOXICS 2023; 11:550. [PMID: 37505516 PMCID: PMC10385994 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11070550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Understanding of the potential leaching of plastic particles, particularly nanoplastics (NPs), from food packaging is crucial in assessing the safety of the packaging materials. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate potential exposure risks by simulating the release of NPs from various plastic packaging materials, including polypropylene (PP), general casting polypropylene (GCPP) or metalized casting polypropylene (MCPP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU), under corresponding food consumption scenarios. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to identify and characterize the NPs leached from plastic packaging. The presence of separated NPs was observed in PP groups subjected to 100 °C hot water, GCPP plastic sterilized at a high temperature (121 °C), and PE plastic soaked in 100 °C hot water, exhibited a distorted morphology and susceptibility to aggregation. The findings suggest that the frequent consumption of takeaway food, hot beverages served in disposable paper cups, and foods packaged with GCPP materials may elevate the risk of ingestion of NPs. This reminds us that food packaging can serve as an important avenue for human exposure to NPs, and the results can offer valuable insights for food safety management and the development of food packaging materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Zhongtang Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Zhenzhen Jia
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
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Altunışık A. Prevalence of microplastics in commercially sold soft drinks and human risk assessment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 336:117720. [PMID: 36907066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the increasing global plastic production and use in recent years, the amount of microplastic (MP) accumulating in the environment has also increased. This microplastic pollution potential has been documented mostly in studies of the sea or seafood. The presence of microplastics in terrestrial foods has therefore attracted less attention, despite the potential for future major environmental risks. Some of these researches are related to bottled water, tap water, honey, table salt, milk, and soft drinks. However, the presence of microplastics in soft drinks has not yet been evaluated in the European continent, including Türkiye. Hence, the current study focused on the presence and distribution of microplastics in ten soft drink brands in Türkiye since the water utilized in the bottling process of soft drinks originates from different water supply sources. Using FTIR stereoscopy and stereomicroscope examination, MPs were detected in all of these brands. According to the microplastic contamination factor (MPCF) classification, 80% of the soft drink samples indicated a high level of contamination with microplastics. The study's findings showed that each liter of consumed soft drinks exposes people to about nine microplastic particles, which is a moderate dose when compared to exposure levels in earlier research. It has been determined that bottle-production processes and the substrates used for food production may be the main sources of these microplastics. The chemical components of these microplastic polymers were polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), and fibers were the dominant shape. Compared to adults, children were subjected to higher microplastic loads. The study's preliminary data on MP contamination of soft drinks may be useful for further evaluating the risks exposure to microplastics poses to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Altunışık
- University of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
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Song YK, Hong SH, Eo S, Shim WJ. Fragmentation of nano- and microplastics from virgin- and additive-containing polypropylene by accelerated photooxidation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 327:121590. [PMID: 37030603 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastic is ubiquitous in the environment, where it gradually weathers and fragments into nanoplastics (NPs) and microplastics (MPs); however, the weathering process and fragmentation rate are poorly understood. In this study, we quantitatively determined the abundances and size distributions of NPs and MPs produced from virgin polypropylene (PP) and additive-containing PP (PPa) sheets via photooxidation with water in a simulated sunlight chamber followed by vortexing. The fragmentation rate of PP and PPa were approximately 1.1 × 108 particles/cm2 and 1.0 × 108 particles/cm2, respectively, during 176 days of exposure in the chamber (corresponding to 2.7 years of exposure in an outdoor environment in the Republic of Korea). However, quadratic regression analysis of the relationship between total particles produced and exposure duration revealed that the PP fragmentation rate was faster than the PPa fragmentation rate after a sunlight exposure duration equivalent to 2.7 years. Furthermore, the mechanical stress of vortexing after photooxidation played an important role in the production of MPs; it had a smaller role in the production of NPs. The sizes of fragmented particles produced by photooxidation and mechanical stress followed a power law distribution, with a scaling exponent of α = 2.87 ± 0.15, which was similar to a three-dimensional fragmentation pattern. This study provides valuable insights into the weathering and fragmentation processes of plastics. Further studies on the environmental fate and impact of NP and MP production from plastic weathering and fragmentation, as well as the potential influence of plastic additives on these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Kyoung Song
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi, 53201, South Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi, 53201, South Korea; University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, South Korea
| | - Soeun Eo
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi, 53201, South Korea; University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, South Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi, 53201, South Korea; University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, South Korea.
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Kutralam-Muniasamy G, Shruti VC, Pérez-Guevara F, Roy PD, Elizalde-Martínez I. Common laboratory reagents: Are they a double-edged sword in microplastics research? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 875:162610. [PMID: 36894090 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Understanding and communicating instances of microplastic contamination is critical for enabling plastic-free transitions. While microplastics research uses a variety of commercial chemicals and laboratory liquids, the impact of microplastics on these materials remains unknown. To fill this knowledge gap, the current study investigated microplastics abundance and their characteristics in laboratory waters (distilled, deionized, and Milli-Q), salts (NaCl and CaCl2), chemical solutions (H2O2, KOH and NaOH), and ethanol from various research laboratories and commercial brands. The mean abundance of microplastics in water, salt, chemical solutions, and ethanol samples was 30.21 ± 30.40 (L-1), 24.00 ± 19.00 (10 g-1), 187.00 ± 45.00 (L-1), and 27.63 ± 9.53 (L-1), respectively. Data comparisons revealed significant discrepancies between the samples in terms of microplastic abundance. Fibers (81 %) were the most common microplastics, followed by fragments (16 %) and films (3 %); 95 % of them were <500 μm, with the smallest and largest particle sizes recorded being 26 μm and 2.30 mm, respectively. Microplastic polymers discovered included polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, nylon, acrylic, paint chips, cellophane, and viscose. These findings lay the groundwork for identifying common laboratory reagents as a potential contributor to microplastic contamination in samples, and we offer solutions that should be integrated into data processing to produce accurate results. Taken together, this study shows that commonly used reagents not only play a key role in the microplastic separation process but also contain microplastic contamination themselves, requiring the attention of researchers to promote quality control during microplastic analysis and commercial suppliers in formulating novel prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - V C Shruti
- Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Del. Coyoacán, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Priyadarsi D Roy
- Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Del. Coyoacán, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - I Elizalde-Martínez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Centro Mexicano para la Producción más Limpia (CMP+L), Av. Acueducto s/n, Col. Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340 México City, Mexico
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Monira S, Roychand R, Hai FI, Bhuiyan M, Dhar BR, Pramanik BK. Nano and microplastics occurrence in wastewater treatment plants: A comprehensive understanding of microplastics fragmentation and their removal. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 334:139011. [PMID: 37230299 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nano/microplastic (NP/MP) pollution is a growing concern for the water environment. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered the major recipients of MP before discharging into local waterbodies. MPs enter WWTPs mainly from synthetic fibers through washing activities and personal care products. To control and prevent NP/MP pollution, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics, fragmentation mechanisms, and the effectiveness of the current treatment processes used in WWTPs for NP/MP removal. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to (i) understand the detailed mapping of NP/MP in the WWTP, (ii) understand the fragmentation mechanisms of MP into NP, and (iii) investigate the removal efficiency of NP/MP by existing processes in the WWTP. This study found that fiber is the dominant shape of MP, and polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene are the major polymer type of MP in wastewater samples. Crack propagation and mechanical breakdown of MP due to water shear forces induced by treatment facilities (e.g., pumping, mixing, and bubbling) could be the major causes for NP generation in the WWTP. Conventional wastewater treatment processes are ineffective for the complete removal of MPs. Although these processes are capable of removing ∼95% of MPs, they tend to accumulate in sludge. Thus, a significant number of MPs may still be released into the environment from WWTPs on a daily basis. Therefore, this study suggested that using DAF process in the primary treatment unit can be an effective strategy to control MP in the initial stage before it goes to the secondary and tertiary stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirajum Monira
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Rajeev Roychand
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Faisal Ibney Hai
- School of Civil, Mining and Environmental Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Muhammed Bhuiyan
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Bipro Ranjan Dhar
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Vinay, Surana D, Ghosh P, Kumar M, Varjani S, Kumar V, Mannina G. Contemporary Drift in Emerging Micro(nano)plastics Removal and Upcycling Technologies from Municipal Wastewater Sludge: Strategic Innovations and Prospects. CURRENT POLLUTION REPORTS 2023; 9:174-197. [PMID: 37292232 PMCID: PMC10201030 DOI: 10.1007/s40726-023-00261-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Annually, huge amounts of microplastics (MPs) are added to farmlands through sewage sludge (SS)/biosolid applications as a fertilizer. Most research emphasizes the enormity of the problem and demonstrates the fate, impacts, and toxicity of MPs during SS treatment processes and land applications. None has addressed the management strategies. To address the gaps, the current review evaluates the performance analysis of conventional and advanced sludge treatment methods in eliminating MPs from sludge. Recent Findings The review uncovers that the occurrence and characteristics of MPs in SS are highly governed by factors such as population density, speed and level of urbanization, citizens' daily habits, and treatment units in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Furthermore, conventional sludge treatment processes are ineffective in eliminating MPs from SS and are accountable for the increased small-sized MPs or micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) along with altered surface morphology facilitating more co-contaminant adsorption. Simultaneously, MPs can influence the operation of these treatment processes depending on their size, type, shape, and concentration. The review reveals that research to develop advanced technology to remove MPs efficiently from SS is still at a nascent stage. Summary This review provides a comprehensive analysis of MPs in the SS, by corroborating state-of-the-knowledge, on different aspects, including the global occurrence of MPs in WWTP sludge, impacts of different conventional sludge treatment processes on MPs and vice versa, and efficiency of advanced sludge treatment and upcycling technologies to eliminate MPs, which will facilitate the development of mitigation measures from the systematic and holistic level. Graphical Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay
- Environmental Risk Assessment and Management (EnRAM) Lab, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-110016, India
| | - Deepti Surana
- Environmental Risk Assessment and Management (EnRAM) Lab, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-110016, India
| | - Pooja Ghosh
- Environmental Risk Assessment and Management (EnRAM) Lab, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-110016, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale Delle Scienze, Ed.8, Palermo, 90128 Italy
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007 India
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Environmental Risk Assessment and Management (EnRAM) Lab, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-110016, India
| | - Giorgio Mannina
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale Delle Scienze, Ed.8, Palermo, 90128 Italy
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Talukdar A, Bhattacharya S, Bandyopadhyay A, Dey A. Microplastic pollution in the Himalayas: Occurrence, distribution, accumulation and environmental impacts. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162495. [PMID: 36868287 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been reported from various ecosystems including lakes, ponds, wetlands, mountains, and forests globally. Recent research works showed microplastic deposition and accumulation in the Himalayan mountains and adjoining ecosystems, rivers and streams. Fine particles of microplastic originating from different anthropogenic sources can travel long distances, even upwards (altitudinally) through atmospheric transport and can pollute remote and pristine locations situated in the Himalayas. Precipitation also plays a vital role in influencing deposition and fallout of microplastics in the Himalayas. Microplastics can be trapped in the snow in glaciers for a long time and can be released into freshwater rivers by snow melting. Microplastic pollution in Himalayan rivers such as the Ganga, Indus, Brahmaputra, Alaknanda, and Kosi has been researched on both the upper and lower catchments. Additionally, Himalayan region draws many domestic and international tourists throughout the year, resulting in generation of massive and unmanageable volume of plastics wastes and finally ending up in the open landscapes covering forests, river streams and valley. Fragmentation of these plastic wastes can lead to microplastic formation and accumulation in the Himalayas. This paper discusses and explains occurrence and distribution of microplastics in the Himalayan landscapes, possible adverse effects of microplastic on local ecosystems and human population and policy intervention needed to mitigate microplastic pollution in the Himalayas. A knowledge gap was noticed regarding the fate of microplastics in the freshwater ecosystems and their control mechanisms in the Indian Himalayas. Regulatory approaches for microplastics management in the Himalayas sit within the broader plastics/solid waste management and can be implemented effectively by following integrated approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayan Bhattacharya
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bihar 803116, India.
| | | | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
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Hossain S, Ahmad Shukri ZN, Waiho K, Ibrahim YS, Minhaz TM, Kamaruzzan AS, Abdul Rahim AI, Draman AS, Khatoon H, Islam Z, Kasan NA. Microplastics pollution in mud crab (Scylla sp.) aquaculture system: First investigation and evidence. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 329:121697. [PMID: 37088255 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) occurrence in farmed aquatic organisms has already been the prime priority of researchers due to the food security concerns for human consumption. A number of commercially important aquaculture systems have already been investigated for MPs pollution but the mud crab (Scylla sp.) aquaculture system has not been investigated yet even though it is a highly demanded commercial species globally. This study reported the MPs pollution in the mud crab (Scylla sp.) aquaculture system for the first time. Three different stations of the selected aquafarm were sampled for water and sediment samples and MPs particles in the samples were isolated by the gravimetric analysis (0.9% w/v NaCl solution). MP abundance was visualized under a microscope along with their size, shape, and color. A subset of the isolated MPs was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for the surface and chemical characterization respectively. The average MPs concentration was 47.5 ± 11.875 particles/g in sediment and 127.92 ± 14.99 particles/100 L in the water sample. Fibrous-shaped (72.17%) and transparent-colored (59.37%) MPs were dominant in all the collected samples. However, smaller MPs (>0.05-0.5 mm) were more common in the water samples (47.69%) and the larger (>1-5 mm) MPs were in the sediment samples (47.83%). SEM analysis found cracks and roughness on the surface of the MPs and nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene MPs were identified by FTIR analysis. PLI value showed hazard level I in water and level II in sediment. The existence of deleterious MPs particles in the mud crab aquaculture system was well evident. The other commercial mud crab aquafarms must therefore be thoroughly investigated in order to include farmed mud crabs as an environmentally vulnerable food security concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahadat Hossain
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zuhayra Nasrin Ahmad Shukri
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Khor Waiho
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tashrif Mahmud Minhaz
- Freshwater Sub Station, Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Saidpur, 5310, Nilphamari, Bangladesh
| | - Amyra Suryatie Kamaruzzan
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Ideris Abdul Rahim
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Shuhaimi Draman
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Helena Khatoon
- Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Zahidul Islam
- Marine Fisheries and Technology Station, Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Cox's Bazar Sadar, 4700, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh
| | - Nor Azman Kasan
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
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Nawab J, Khan H, Ghani J, Zafar MI, Khan S, Toller S, Fatima L, Hamza A. New insights into the migration, distribution and accumulation of micro-plastic in marine environment: A critical mechanism review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 330:138572. [PMID: 37088212 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely distributed in the marine environment, posing a significant threat to marine biota. The contribution of anthropogenic and terrestrial sources to the aquatic ecosystem has led to an increase in MPs findings, and their abundance in aquatic biota has been reported to be of concern. MPs are formed mainly via photo degradation of macroplastics (large plastic debris), and their release into the environment is a result of the degradation of additives. Eco-toxicological risks are increasing for marine organisms, due to the ingestion of MPs, which cause damage to gastrointestinal (GI) tracts and stomach. Plastics with a size <5 mm are considered MPs, and they are commonly identified by Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transfer infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Laser direct infrared (LDIR). The size, density and additives are the main factors influencing the abundance and bioavailability of MPs. The most abundant type of MPs found in fishes are fiber, polystyrenes, and fragments. These microscale pellets cause physiological stress and growth deformities by targeting the GI tracts of fishes and other biota. Approximately 80% MPs come from terrestrial sources, either primary, generated during different products such as skin care products, tires production and the use of MPs as carrier for pharmaceutical products, or secondary plastics, disposed of near coastal areas and water bodies. The issue of MPs and their potential effects on the marine ecosystem require proper attention. Therefore, this study conducted an extensive literature review on assessing MPs levels in fishes, sediments, seawater, their sources, and effects on marine biota (especially on fishes), chemo-physical behavior and the techniques used for their identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed Nawab
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Kohat University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan.
| | - Haris Khan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Junaid Ghani
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mazhar Iqbal Zafar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Sardar Khan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Kohat University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan; Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Simone Toller
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laraib Fatima
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 2300, Pakistan
| | - Amir Hamza
- Department of Soil & Environmental Sciences, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
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Zhang T, Sun Z, Chen Z, Tang J, Shao C, Sun Y, Feng Z. Distribution of microplastics in different tissues of major commercial catches in different functional areas of the South Yellow Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 882:163597. [PMID: 37080308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The microplastic (MP) pollution in different tissues of six commercial catches, including (Miichthys miiuy, Eleutheronema tetradactylum, Collichthys lucidus, Mugil cephalus, Portunus trituberculatus and Exopalaemon carinicauda) in Haizhou Bay (nori farming area), Yancheng offshore (wind power construction area) and the Nantong marine ranch area of the South Yellow Sea was investigated. MPs are ubiquitous in commercial catches; the average abundance of MPs is 5.19 ± 3.64 items/individual. There are significant differences in the level of MP pollution in commercial catches among functional sea areas. The level of MP pollution in commercial catches in Haizhou Bay and Yancheng offshore is higher than that in the Nantong marine ranch areas. This difference may be related to intense anthropogenic activities such as engineering construction and mariculture. In addition to the presence in digestive tract, MPs in the skin and gills of fish and in the gills of shrimp and crabs cannot be ignored. The main shape, color and material of MPs are fiber, black-gray and celluloid (CP), respectively. Since commercial catches are consumed by humans, the potential risks of MPs in these catches to human health and marine ecology are of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Institute of Marine Resources Development, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Zhongwei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Ziluo Chen
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Jiawei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Chen Shao
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Yixin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecosystems and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Jiangsu Institute of Marine Resources Development, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China.
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43
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Zheng Y, Zhu J, Li J, Li G, Shi H. Burrowing invertebrates induce fragmentation of mariculture Styrofoam floats and formation of microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 447:130764. [PMID: 36682250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Secondary microplastics originate from the fragmentation of large plastics, and weathering is supposed to be the main cause of fragmentation. In this study, we investigated burrows and burrowing invertebrates on Styrofoam floats from the mariculture areas of China's coastal waters. Various burrows were found on the submerged surface of Styrofoam floats and could be divided into 'I', 'S', 'J', and 'Y' types based on the burrow entrance number and passage curvature. Different invertebrate species, including 5 isopods, 8 clamworms, and 12 crabs, were found inside the burrows. Micro-foams were found in the bodies of these burrowers, with an average abundance of 4.2 ± 0.3 (isopod), 6.9 ± 2.0 (clamworm), and 3.0 ± 0.5 (crab) micro-foams per individual. In the laboratory, we observed the boring process of crabs in abandoned floats. Field and laboratory evidence suggested that these invertebrates bored various burrows. The total volume of crab burrows on a 3-year-used float was estimated to be 2.6 × 103 cm3, producing 4.1 × 108 microplastics. This study highlights the critical role of bioerosion in destroying man-made substrates and prompting microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jingmin Zhu
- School of Fishery, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China
| | - Jiji Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China
| | - Guoliang Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Ocean College, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Huahong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
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Dimassi SN, Hahladakis JN, Daly Yahia MN, Ahmad MI, Sayadi S, Al-Ghouti MA. Insights into the degradation mechanism of PET and PP under marine conditions using FTIR. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 447:130796. [PMID: 36669417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastics possess diverse functional properties that have made them extremely desirable. However, due to poor waste management practices, large quantities eventually end up in the oceans where their degradation begins. Hence, it is imperative to understand and further investigate the dynamics of this process. Currently, most relevant studies have been carried out under benign and/or controlled weather conditions. This study investigates the natural degradation of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in more extreme environments. Simulated and real marine conditions, both in the laboratory (indoors) and outdoors were applied for a duration of 140 days and results were assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray analysis. SEM micrographs revealed variations in the morphologies of both plastic types. Degradation signs were shown in both plastic types, under all conditions. Findings indicated that microplastics (MPs) degraded faster than macroplastics, with PP MPs having higher weight loss (49%) than PET MPs (1%) when exposed to outdoor marine conditions. Additionally, the degradation rates of MPs-PP were higher than MPs-PET for outdoor and indoor treatments, with 1.07 × 10-6 g/d and 4.41 × 10-7 g/d, respectively. FTIR combined with PCA was efficient in determining the most degraded plastic types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarra N Dimassi
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar; Food-Energy-Water-Waste Sustainability (FEWWS) program, Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - John N Hahladakis
- Food-Energy-Water-Waste Sustainability (FEWWS) program, Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar; Chemistry and Earth Sciences Department, Qatar University, College of Arts and Sciences, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mohamed Nejib Daly Yahia
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad I Ahmad
- Central Laboratories Unit, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sami Sayadi
- Biotechnology Program, Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad A Al-Ghouti
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Jaouani R, Roman C, Decaix J, Lagarde F, Châtel A. Effect of aging of microplastics on gene expression levels of the marine mussel Mytilus edulis: Comparison in vitro/in vivo exposures. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114767. [PMID: 36870134 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, effects of aging MPs of polyethylene (PE) were investigated in the marine mussel Mytilus edulis, commonly used as bioindicator of aquatic ecosystem, using both in vitro and in vivo exposures, using concentrations found in marine waters (0.008, 10 and 100 μg.L-1). Changes in gene expression levels implicated in detoxification, immune system, cytoskeletton and cell cycle control were evaluated by quantitative RT-qPCR. Results demonstrated differential expression levels depending upon the state of plastic degradation (aged vs non-aged) and way of exposure (vitro vs vivo). This study highlighted the interest of using molecular biomarkers based on analysis of gene expression pattern in an ecotoxicological context that gives indication of relative slight changes between tested conditions as compared to other biochemical approaches (e.g. enzymatic activities). In addition, in vitro analysis could be used to generate large amount of data as regards to the toxicological effects of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Jaouani
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France; Institut des Molécules et des Matériaux du Mans, UMR CNRS 6283, Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085 Le Mans Cedex, France
| | - Coraline Roman
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Justine Decaix
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institut des Molécules et des Matériaux du Mans, UMR CNRS 6283, Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085 Le Mans Cedex, France
| | - Amélie Châtel
- Biology of Organisms Stress Health Environment (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, Angers, France.
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Muhib MI, Uddin MK, Rahman MM, Malafaia G. Occurrence of microplastics in tap and bottled water, and food packaging: A narrative review on current knowledge. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:161274. [PMID: 36587673 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, microplastic has been detected in many environmental samples, including aquatic and terrestrial environments. However, few studies recently have addressed their attention to microplastic contamination in different drinking sources and food packages. This review paper has narrated those few findings in brief. Literature showed that different pieces of microplastic fragments, e.g., polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), etc. are detected in plastic drinking bottle, tap water, and food packaging containers. Microplastic fragmentation may be associated with mechanical stress, UV radiation, low plastic material quality, aging factor, and atmospheric deposition. Besides these, microplastic is a hub of different chemical compounds and can also retain other complex materials from the surroundings. This makes the microplastic contamination even more complicated and difficult to detect them accurately in a single method. Additionally, one of the common practices at the community level is the long-time repeated usage of plastic drinking bottles and food boxes that subsequently cause microplastic leaching and potential health threats to consumers. This narrative study summarizes the current scenario of microplastic contamination from drinking bottles and food containers and emphasizes doing more quality research in this subtle but highly imposed field to understand potential exposure better.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Iftakharul Muhib
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Khabir Uddin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh.
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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47
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Nakatani H, Ohshima Y, Uchiyama T, Motokucho S, Dao ATN, Kim HJ, Yagi M, Kyozuka Y. Rapid oxidative fragmentation of polypropylene with pH control in seawater for preparation of realistic reference microplastics. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4247. [PMID: 36918647 PMCID: PMC10015029 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31488-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Various tiny plastic particles were retrieved from the sea and studied using scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) analysis to prepare realistic reference microplastics (MP). Most of the MP exhibited a diameter of < 20 × 10-6 m and 0.1-0.2 molar ratios of oxygen to carbon atoms (O/C), indicating that they primarily comprised polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). It took a long time to reproduce such O/C ratios in standard laboratory weathering methods. For example, degrading of 30 × 30 × 0.060 mm PP film required 75 days for the 0.1 ratio, even with an advanced oxidation process (AOP) using a sulfate radical anion (SO4·-) initiator in distilled water at 65 °C. However, seawater drastically improved the PP degradation performance of AOP under a weak acid condition to achieve the 0.1 ratio of PP film in only 15 days. The combination of seawater and the SO4·- initiator accelerated the degradation process and showed that the MP's size could be controlled according to the degradation time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Nakatani
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan. .,Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan.
| | - Yuina Ohshima
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Taishi Uchiyama
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Suguru Motokucho
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan.,Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Anh Thi Ngoc Dao
- Polymeri Materials Laboratory, Chemistry and Materials Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Mitsuharu Yagi
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Yusaku Kyozuka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
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48
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Lu X, He H, Wang Y, Guo Y, Fei X. Masses and size distributions of mechanically fragmented microplastics from LDPE and EPS under simulated landfill conditions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130542. [PMID: 37055960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Landfills contain significant amounts of plastic waste (PW) and microplastics (MPs). However, the contributions of various PW fragmentation processes to the quality and quantity of MPs in landfills are unclear. In this study, LDPE and EPS pieces were mixed with sand to simulate landfilled solid waste, which experienced one-dimensional abiotic compression under vertical stress of 100-800 kPa for 1-300 days. The generated MPs were stained and quantified with a fluorescent microscope. The numbers and masses of the fragmented MPs increase with the increasing compression stress and duration following linear or exponential trends. EPS has a lower stiffness than LDPE, thus generates more MPs under the same compression conditions. Stress-dependent and time-dependent fragmentation mechanisms are distinguished, the former is driven by sand-plastic porosity reduction and the latter is due to microscopic interfacial creep with minimal porosity reduction. Most of the mechanically fragmented MPs have diameters < 100 µm. The MPs size distributions follow an established power-law model, which are dependent on stress, duration, porosity reduction, and fragmentation mechanism. Our results serve as conservative estimations on long-term MPs generation in real landfills, which provide confirmative and quantitative evidence to support the previous studies reporting the varied MPs abundances and properties within landfills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhong Lu
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
| | - Hongping He
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yao Wang
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
| | - Yuliang Guo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Cleantech Loop, Clean Tech One, 637141, Singapore
| | - Xunchang Fei
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Cleantech Loop, Clean Tech One, 637141, Singapore.
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49
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Altunışık A. Microplastic pollution and human risk assessment in Turkish bottled natural and mineral waters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39815-39825. [PMID: 36602737 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-25054-6] [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: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), which arise from the deterioration of larger plastics that are frequently used in daily life and are smaller than 5 mm in size, are found in many environments and can pose a serious threat to human health. Humans ingest these microplastics unintendedly through drinking water. Although plastic pollution has been extensively investigated in a variety of water sources, research on MP contamination in bottled waters is scarce. Hence, in this study, the presence and distribution of MPs were investigated in 150 samples of bottled natural and mineral water brands in Türkiye. Using FTIR stereoscopy and stereomicroscope analysis, MPs were detected in 43 out of the 50 (86%) of these brands. Among the four types of polymers detected, the most abundant type was polyethylene (33%), polypropylene (31%), polyethylene terephthalate (25%), and polyamid (11%). In comparison to natural waters, mineral waters had larger average-sized particles (63.98 ± 4.06 vs. 104.83 ± 14.28 µm) and higher MP concentrations (4.6 ± 0.5 vs. 12.6 ± 1.6 particles/L). Although the most dominant shape was found as fiber in natural waters, fragments were more prevalent in mineral waters. The estimated daily intakes (EDI) for adults and children were expected to be 0.019 and 0.42 MP/kg/bw/day, respectively, in natural waters while EDI were 0.009 and 0.04 MP/kg/bw/day, respectively, in mineral waters. The results of the study suggest that the EDI and annual intake (EAI) are negligible when compared to other studies. The baseline data on MP contamination of bottled water provided in the present study may be significant and useful for researchers to have a better understanding of microplastic contamination exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Altunışık
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Biology Department, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
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50
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Leone G, Moulaert I, Devriese LI, Sandra M, Pauwels I, Goethals PLM, Everaert G, Catarino AI. A comprehensive assessment of plastic remediation technologies. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 173:107854. [PMID: 36878107 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107854] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The global presence of plastic litter and its accumulation in the environment has become an issue of concern to the public and policymakers. This concern has triggered innovators in past decades to design and develop a multitude of remediation technologies to prevent plastic from entering the environment, or to clean up legacy litter. This study aims to (i) systematically review the current scientific literature on plastic remediation technologies, (ii) create a 'plastic clean-up and prevention overview' illustrating 124 remediation technologies and 29 characteristics, (iii) qualitatively analyse their key characteristics (e.g., fields of application, targeted plastic), and (iv) investigate challenges and opportunities of clean-up technologies for inland waterways (e.g., canals, rivers) and ports. We identified 61 scientific publications on plastic remediation technologies, until June 2022. Thirty-four of these studies were published within the last three years, demonstrating a growing interest. The presented overview indicates that inland waterways are, so far, the preferred field of application, with 22 technologies specifically designed for cleaning up plastics from inland waterways, and 52 additional ones with the potential to be installed in these locations. Given the importance of clean-up technologies in inland waterways, we highlighted their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). Our results indicate that, despite the challenges, these technologies provide essential prospects, from improving the environmental quality to raising awareness. Our study is instrumental as it illustrates an up-to-date overview and provides a comprehensive analysis of current in design phase, testing, and in use plastic remediation technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Leone
- Ghent University, Research Group Aquatic Ecology, Ghent, Belgium; Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium; Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Aquatic Management, Brussels, Belgium; Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Ine Moulaert
- Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
| | - Lisa I Devriese
- Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
| | - Matthias Sandra
- Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
| | - Ine Pauwels
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Aquatic Management, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Gert Everaert
- Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
| | - Ana I Catarino
- Flanders Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
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