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Cole M, Gomiero A, Jaén-Gil A, Haave M, Lusher A. Microplastic and PTFE contamination of food from cookware. Sci Total Environ 2024; 929:172577. [PMID: 38641111 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are a prolific environmental contaminant that have been evidenced in human tissues. Human uptake of microplastic occurs via inhalation of airborne fibres and ingestion of microplastic-contaminated foods and beverages. Plastic and PTFE-coated cookware and food contact materials may release micro- and nanoplastics into food during food preparation. In this study, the extent to which non-plastic, new plastic and old plastic cookware releases microplastics into prepared food is investigated. Jelly is used as a food simulant, undergoing a series of processing steps including heating, cooling, mixing, slicing and storage to replicate food preparation steps undertaken in home kitchens. Using non-plastic cookware did not introduce microplastics to the food simulant. Conversely, using new and old plastic cookware resulted in significant increases in microplastic contamination. Microplastics comprised PTFE, polyethylene and polypropylene particulates and fibrous particles, ranging 13-318 μm. Assuming a meal was prepared daily per the prescribed methodology, new and old plastic cookware may be contributing 2409-4964 microplastics per annum into homecooked food. The health implications of ingesting microplastics remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Cole
- Marine Ecology & Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - Alessio Gomiero
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway
| | - Adrián Jaén-Gil
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway
| | - Marte Haave
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway; SALT Lofoten AS, Pb. 91, Fiskergata 23, 8301 Svolvær, Norway
| | - Amy Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
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2
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Kida M, Musiał M, Pochwat K, Ziembowicz S, Koszelnik P, Strojny W, Pizzo H, Bodog M. Modeling of microplastics degradation in aquatic environments using an experimental plan. J Hazard Mater 2024; 471:134396. [PMID: 38669920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to apply advanced predictive modeling techniques to understand the degradation process of microplastics in aquatic environments. Utilizing a Fractional Factorial Central Composite Experimental Plan, this study seeks to develop precise predictive statistical models that enable forecasting the quantity of pollutants generated during the degradation of microplastics under various environmental conditions. This tool was applied to model changes in DOC (dissolved organic carbon) and DEHP (bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) values during the degradation of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. The methods were developed using data derived from laboratory tests conducted using the GC-MS technique. The obtained approximating functions, considering factors such as degradation time, water temperature, and particle size, significantly reduced the analysis time. A two-stage verification of the approximating functions was conducted, considering the accuracy of the function form, its adequacy, the statistical significance of input variables, and their correlation with DOC and DEHP. The employed a Fractional Factorial Central Composite Experimental Plan allowed for the simultaneous reduction in the number of experiments and prediction of the influence of variables on the output values. Precise predictive models support understanding of the microplastic degradation process, facilitating the development of effective strategies for managing this pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Kida
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland.
| | - Michał Musiał
- Department of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Kamil Pochwat
- Department of Infrastructure and Water Management, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Sabina Ziembowicz
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Piotr Koszelnik
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Wojciech Strojny
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Ave Powstańców Warszawy 6, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Henrique Pizzo
- Municipal Water and Sewage Company, Monsenhor Gustavo Freire St., 75, Juiz de Fora 36016-470, Brazil
| | - Marinela Bodog
- Departament of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Protection, University of Oradea, 26 Magheru Boulevard, 410183 Oradea, Bihor, Romania
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3
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Chen Y, Niu L, Li Y, Wang Y, Shen J, Zhang W, Wang L. Distribution characteristics and microbial synergistic degradation potential of polyethylene and polypropylene in freshwater estuarine sediments. J Hazard Mater 2024; 471:134328. [PMID: 38643575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The microbial degradation of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) resins in rivers and lakes has emerged as a crucial issue in the management of microplastics. This study revealed that as the flow rate decreased longitudinally, ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), heavy fraction of organic carbon (HFOC), and small-size microplastics (< 1 mm) gradually accumulated in the deep and downstream estuarine sediments. Based on their surface morphology and carbonyl index, these sediments were identified as the potential hot zone for PE/PP degradation. Within the identified hot zone, concentrations of PE/PP-degrading genes, enzymes, and bacteria were significantly elevated compared to other zones, exhibiting strong intercorrelations. Analysis of niche differences revealed that the accumulation of NH4+-N and HFOC in the hot zone facilitated the synergistic coexistence of key bacteria responsible for PE/PP degradation within biofilms. The findings of this study offer a novel insight and comprehensive understanding of the distribution characteristics and synergistic degradation potential of PE/PP in natural freshwater environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Lihua Niu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Yingjie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jiayan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Wenlong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Linqiong Wang
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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4
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Wang Q, Chen H, Gu W, Wang S, Li Y. Biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microplastics by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae). Sci Total Environ 2024; 927:172243. [PMID: 38582118 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Globally, over 287 million tons of plastic are disposed in landfills, rivers, and oceans or are burned every year. The results are devastating to our ecosystems, wildlife and human health. One promising remedy is the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larvae), which has proved capable of degrading microplastics (MPs). This paper presents a new investigation into the biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) film and polystyrene (PS) foam by the Tenebrio molitor larvae. After a 35 - day feeding period, both pristine and aged MPs can be consumed by larvae. Even with some inhibitions in larvae growth due to the limited nutrient supply of aged MPs, when compared with pristine MPs, the aged MPs were depolymerized more efficiently in gut microbiota based on gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. With the change in surface chemical properties, the metabolic intermediates of aged MPs contained more oxygen-containing functional groups and shortened long-chain alkane, which was confirmed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). High-throughput sequencing revealed that the richness and diversity of gut microbes were restricted in the MPs-fed group. Although MPs had a negative effect on the relative abundance of the two dominant bacteria Enterococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae, the aged MPs may promote the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and Streptococcaceae. Redundancy analysis (RDA) further verified that the aged MPs are effectively biodegraded by yellow mealworm. This work provides new insights into insect-mediated mechanisms of aged MP degradation and promising strategies for MP sustainable and efficient solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China.
| | - Huijuan Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Wanqing Gu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Shurui Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
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5
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Wang Y, Jing S, Hou P, Ni R, Niu L, Wanger TC, Liu W, Liu K. Soil erosion is a major drive for nano & micro-plastics to enter riverine systems from cultivated land. Water Res 2024; 256:121597. [PMID: 38614030 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Nano and micro-plastics (NMPs, particles diameter <5 mm), as emerging contaminants, have become a major concern in the aquatic environment because of their adverse consequences to aquatic life and potentially human health. Implementing mitigation strategies requires quantifying NMPs mass emissions and understanding their sources and transport pathways from land to riverine systems. Herein, to access NMPs mass input from agricultural soil to riverine system via water-driven soil erosion, we have collected soil samples from 120 cultivated land in nine drainage basins across China in 2021 and quantified the residues of six common types of plastic, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), and polystyrene (PS). NMPs (Σ6plastics) were detected in all samples at concentrations between 3.6 and 816.6 μg/g dry weight (median, 63.3 μg/g) by thermal desorption/pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Then, based on the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation model, we estimated that about 22,700 tonnes of NMPs may enter the Chinese riverine system in 2020 due to agricultural water-driven soil erosion, which occurs primarily from May to September. Our result suggested that over 90% of the riverine NMPs related to agricultural soil erosion in China are attributed to 36.5% of the country's total cultivated land, mainly distributed in the Yangtze River Basin, Southwest Basin, and Pearl River Basin. The migration of NMPs due to water-driven soil erosion cannot be ignored, and erosion management strategies may contribute to alleviating plastic pollution issues in aquatic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Siyuan Jing
- Sustainable Agricultural Systems & Engineering Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China
| | - Peiyu Hou
- Division of Environment and Resources, College of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China
| | - Rui Ni
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lili Niu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China
| | - Thomas Cherico Wanger
- Sustainable Agricultural Systems & Engineering Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China; ChinaRiceNetwork.org, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Division of Environment and Resources, College of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China.
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6
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Nguyen HHT, Kim E, Imran M, Choi YH, Kwak DH, Ameen S. Microplastic contaminants detection in aquatic environment by hydrophobic cerium oxide nanoparticles. Chemosphere 2024; 357:141961. [PMID: 38615954 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, demanding immediate attention. The reported research work offers an effective and low cost method towards the detection of toxic MPs. In this study, hydrophobic cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) are synthesized and applied as promising electrode material for the detection of two different types of MPs, i.e. polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Through electrochemical analyses, such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), hydrophobic CeO2 NPs modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) based sensor demonstrated remarkable sensitivity of ∼0.0343 AmLmg-1cm-2 and detection limit of ∼0.226 mgmL-1, with promising correlation coefficient (R2) towards the detection of PE (∼27-32 μm). Furthermore, hydrophobic CeO2 NPs modified GCE exhibited promising stability and reproducibility towards PE (∼27-32 μm), suggesting the promising potential of hydrophobic CeO2 NPs as electrode materials for an electrochemical microplastics detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Hue Thi Nguyen
- Department of Bio-Active Material Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Kim
- Advanced Materials and Devices Laboratory, Department of Bio-Convergence Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Advanced Science Campus, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohammad Imran
- Department of Bio-Active Material Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials and Devices Laboratory, Department of Bio-Convergence Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Advanced Science Campus, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Ho Choi
- Department of Bio-Convergence Science, Jeonbuk National University, Cheomdan-ro, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Heui Kwak
- Department of Bio-Active Material Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea; Department of Bio-Convergence Science, Jeonbuk National University, Cheomdan-ro, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sadia Ameen
- Advanced Materials and Devices Laboratory, Department of Bio-Convergence Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Advanced Science Campus, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea.
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Yang Z, Zhang J, Haruka N, Murat C, Arakawa H. Spectral analysis of environmental microplastic polyethylene (PE) using average spectra. Sci Total Environ 2024; 927:171871. [PMID: 38531446 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
In this study, microplastic samples from surface seawater of Tokyo Bay were collected, polyethylene (PE) microplastics were used to calculate carbonyl index (CI), and average spectra of PE were analyzed and compared with a previous study applying agitation during chemical treatment. It was found that PE and polypropylene (PP) were the predominant polymer type in the samples. Among PE samples, fragments were the most commonly observed shape, with white being the dominant color. Deviations were found in the average spectra among different shapes and colors when compared to the standard PE spectrum. A comparison of the average spectra between the two datasets suggests that pronounced peaks related to oxidation are most likely resulted from agitation during the chemical treatment. Additionally, it was found a closer spectral resemblance between the sample spectra and the spectrum of standard sample of oxidized PE (PEOx) than with the standard PE spectrum, suggesting that using the oxidized PE as a reference spectrum might be more effective for identification. These findings highlight the complex factors affecting the spectral properties of microplastics and highlight the importance of understanding these variations to enhance the accuracy of microplastic identification workflows and understanding of environmental fate of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijiang Yang
- Faculty of Marine Resources and Environment, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Faculty of Marine Resources and Environment, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Nakano Haruka
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga, Fukuoka 816-8580, Japan.
| | - Celik Murat
- Faculty of Marine Resources and Environment, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Hisayuki Arakawa
- Faculty of Marine Resources and Environment, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Konan 4-5-7, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
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8
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Panczyk T, Nieszporek K, Wolski P. Modeling the degradation of polypropylene and polystyrene under shock compression and mechanical cleaving using the ReaxFF force field. Chemosphere 2024; 357:142056. [PMID: 38641294 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) underwent a comprehensive investigation into their mechanical and chemical degradation through reactive molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations utilized the ReaxFF force field for CHO (carbon-hydrogen-oxygen) systems in the combustion branch. The study included equilibrium simulations to determine densities and melting temperatures, non-equilibrium simulations for stress-strain and Young moduli determination, mechanical cleaving to identify surface species resulting from material fragmentation, and shock compression simulations to elucidate chemical reactions activated by some external energy sources. The results indicate that material properties such as densities, phase transition temperatures, and Young moduli are accurately reproduced by the ReaxFF-CHO force field. The reactive dynamics analysis yielded crucial insights into the surface composition of fragmented polymers. Both polymers exhibited backbone breakage, leaving -CH2· and -CH·- radicals as terminals. PP demonstrated substantial fragmentation, while PS showed a tendency to develop crosslinks. A detailed analysis of chemical reactions resulting from increasing activation due to increasing value of compression pressure is presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Panczyk
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Niezapominajek 8, 30239 Cracow, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Nieszporek
- Department of Theoretical Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University in Lublin pl. Maria Curie-Sklodowska 3, 20031, Lublin, Poland
| | - Pawel Wolski
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Niezapominajek 8, 30239 Cracow, Poland
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Wang L, Chang R, Ren Z, Meng X, Li Y, Gao M. Mature compost promotes biodegradable plastic degradation and reduces greenhouse gas emission during food waste composting. Sci Total Environ 2024; 926:172081. [PMID: 38554961 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Mature compost can promote the transformation of organic matter (OM) and reduce the emission of polluting gases during composting, which provides a viable approach to reduce the environmental impacts of biodegradable plastics (BPs). This study investigated the impact of mature compost on polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) degradation, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, and microbial community structure during composting under two treatments with mature compost (MC) and without (CK). Under MC, visible plastic rupture was advanced from day 14 to day 10, and a more pronounced rupture was observed at the end of composting. Compared with CK, the degradation rate of PBAT in MC was increased by 4.44 % during 21 days of composting. Thermobifida, Ureibacillus, and Bacillus, as indicator species under MC treatment, played an important role in PBAT decomposition. Mature compost reduced the total global warming potential (GWP) by 25.91 % via inhibiting the activity of bacteria related to the production of CH4 and N2O. Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa (FAPROTAX) further revealed that mature compost addition increased relative abundance of bacteria related to multiple carbon (C) cycle functions such as methylotrophy, hydrocarbon degradation and cellulolysis, inhibited nitrite denitrification and denitrification, thus alleviating the emission of GHGs. Overall, mature compost, as an effective additive, exhibits great potential to simultaneously mitigate BP and GHG secondary pollution in co-composting of food waste and PBAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ruixue Chang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhiping Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xin Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yanming Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Miao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources Collection and Preservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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10
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Ebbesen LG, Strange MV, Gunaalan K, Paulsen ML, Herrera A, Nielsen TG, Shashoua Y, Lindegren M, Almeda R. Do weathered microplastics impact the planktonic community? A mesocosm approach in the Baltic Sea. Water Res 2024; 255:121500. [PMID: 38554636 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants of increasing concern in aquatic systems. However, little is still known about the impacts of weathered MPs on plankton at the community level after long-term exposure. In this study, we investigated the effects of weathered MPs on the structure and dynamics of a Baltic Sea planktonic community during ca. 5 weeks of exposure using a mesocosm approach (2 m3) mimicking natural conditions. MPs were obtained from micronized commercial materials of polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyamide (nylon) previously weathered by thermal ageing and sunlight exposure. The planktonic community was exposed to 2 μg L-1 and 2 mg L-1 of MPs corresponding to measured particle concentrations (10-120 μm) of 680 MPs L-1 and 680 MPs mL-1, respectively. The abundance and composition of all size classes and groups of plankton and chlorophyll concentrations were periodically analyzed throughout the experiment. The population dynamics of the studied groups showed some variations between treatments, with negative and positive effects of MPs exhibited depending on the group and exposure time. The abundance of heterotrophic bacteria, pico- and nanophytoplankton, cryptophytes, and ciliates was lower in the treatment with the higher MP concentration than in the control at the last weeks of the exposure. The chlorophyll concentration and the abundances of heterotrophic nanoflagellates, Astromoeba, dinoflagellate, diatom, and metazooplankton were not negatively affected by the exposure to MPs and, in some cases, some groups showed even higher abundances in the MP treatments. Despite these tendencies, statistical analyses indicate that in most cases there were no statistically significant differences between treatments over the exposure period, even at very high exposure concentrations. Our results show that weathered MPs of the studied conventional plastic materials have minimal or negligible impact on planktonic communities after long-term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linea Gry Ebbesen
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Markus Varlund Strange
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Kuddithamby Gunaalan
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | | | - Alicia Herrera
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Torkel Gissel Nielsen
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Yvonne Shashoua
- Environmental Archaeology and Materials Science, National Museum of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Martin Lindegren
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Rodrigo Almeda
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
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11
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Ceccanti C, Davini A, Lo Piccolo E, Lauria G, Rossi V, Ruffini Castiglione M, Spanò C, Bottega S, Guidi L, Landi M. Polyethylene microplastics alter root functionality and affect strawberry plant physiology and fruit quality traits. J Hazard Mater 2024; 470:134164. [PMID: 38583200 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Strawberry, a globally popular crop whose fruit are known for their taste and health benefits, were used to evaluate the effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) on plant physiology and fruit quality. Plants were grown in 2-L pots with natural soil mixed with PE-MPs at two concentrations (0.2% and 0.02%; w/w) and sizes (⌀ 35 and 125 µm). Plant physiological responses, root histochemical and anatomical analyses as well as fruit biometric and quality features were conducted. Plants subjected to ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% PE-MPs exhibited the most severe effects in terms of CO2 assimilation due to stomatal limitations, along with the highest level of oxidative stress in roots. Though no differences were observed in plant biomass, the impact on fruit quality traits was severe in ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% MPs treatment resulting in a drop in fruit weight (-42%), soluble solid (-10%) and anthocyanin contents (-25%). The smallest sized PE-MPs, adsorbed on the root surface, impaired plant water status by damaging the radical apparatus, which finally resulted in alteration of plant physiology and fruit quality. Further research is required to determine if these alterations also occur with other MPs and to understand more deeply the MPs influence on fruit physio-chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ceccanti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - A Davini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - E Lo Piccolo
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, viale delle Idee 30, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze, Italy.
| | - G Lauria
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - V Rossi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Ruffini Castiglione
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Spanò
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Bottega
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - L Guidi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Landi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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12
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Salawu OA, Olivares CI, Adeleye AS. Adsorption of PFAS onto secondary microplastics: A mechanistic study. J Hazard Mater 2024; 470:134185. [PMID: 38579582 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are abundant in aquatic systems. The ecological risks of MPs may arise from their physical features, chemical properties, and/or their ability to concentrate and transport other contaminants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS have been extracted from MPs found in natural waters. Still, there needs to be a mechanistic investigation of the effect of PFAS chemistry and water physicochemical properties on how PFAS partition onto secondary MPs. Here, we studied the influence of pH, natural organic matter (NOM), ionic strength, and temperature on the adsorption of PFAS on MPs generated from PET water bottles. The adsorption of PFAS to the MPs was thermodynamically spontaneous at 25 °C, based on Gibb's free energy (ΔG = -16 to -23 kJ/mol), primarily due to increased entropy after adsorption. Adsorption reached equilibrium within 7-9 h. Hence, PFAS will partition to the surface of secondary PET MPs within hours in fresh and saline waters. Natural organic matter decreased the capacity of secondary PET MPs for PFAS through electrosteric repulsion, while higher ionic strength favored PFAS adsorption by decreasing electrostatic repulsion. Increased pH increased electrostatic repulsion, which negated PFAS adsorption. The study provides fundamental information for developing models to predict interactions between secondary MPs and PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omobayo A Salawu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA; The Water-Energy Nexus Centre, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA
| | - Christopher I Olivares
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA; The Water-Energy Nexus Centre, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA
| | - Adeyemi S Adeleye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA; The Water-Energy Nexus Centre, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA; Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027-6623, United States.
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13
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Huang M, Han K, Liu W, Wang Z, Liu X, Guo Q. Advancing microplastic surveillance through photoacoustic imaging and deep learning techniques. J Hazard Mater 2024; 470:134188. [PMID: 38579587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination presents a significant global environmental threat, yet scientific understanding of its morphological distribution within ecosystems remains limited. This study introduces a pioneering method for comprehensive microplastic assessment and environmental monitoring, integrating photoacoustic imaging and advanced deep learning techniques. Rigorous curation of diverse microplastic datasets enhances model training, yielding a high-resolution imaging dataset focused on shape-based discrimination. The introduction of the Vector-Quantized Variational Auto Encoder (VQVAE2) deep learning model signifies a substantial advancement, demonstrating exceptional proficiency in image dimensionality reduction and clustering. Furthermore, the utilization of Vector Quantization Microplastic Photoacoustic imaging (VQMPA) with a proxy task before decoding enhances feature extraction, enabling simultaneous microplastic analysis and discrimination. Despite inherent limitations, this study lays a robust foundation for future research, suggesting avenues for enhancing microplastic identification precision through expanded sample sizes and complementary methodologies like spectroscopy. In conclusion, this innovative approach not only advances microplastic monitoring but also provides valuable insights for future environmental investigations, highlighting the potential of photoacoustic imaging and deep learning in bolstering sustainable environmental monitoring efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Huang
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China
| | - Kaitai Han
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China
| | - Wu Liu
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China
| | - Zijun Wang
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China
| | - Qianjin Guo
- Academy of Artificial Intelligence, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China; School of Mechanical Engineering & Hydrogen Energy Research Centre, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing 102617, China.
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14
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Talang RPN, Polruang S, Sirivithayapakorn S. Influencing factors of microplastic generation and microplastic contamination in urban freshwater. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30021. [PMID: 38707367 PMCID: PMC11068644 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This research analyzes data on the microplastic (MP) contamination in the environmental systems (atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere) and the levels of MPs in freshwater of cities with different levels of national income. This study investigates the influencing factors of MP generation, i.e., mismanaged plastic waste, untreated wastewater, number of registered motor vehicles, and stormwater runoff. The statistical correlations between the MP contamination in urban freshwater and the four influencing factors of MP generation are determined by linear regression. The results indicate that MPs are most abundant in aquatic systems (i.e., hydrosphere) and pose a serious threat to the human food chain. The regression analysis shows a strong correlation between mismanaged plastic waste and microfragment smaller than 300 μm in particle size in urban freshwater with high goodness-of-fit (R2 = 0.8091). A strong relationship with high goodness-of-fit also exists between untreated wastewater and microfragment of 1000-5000 μm in particle size (R2 = 0.9522). The key to mitigate the MP contamination in urban freshwater is to replace improper plastic waste management and wastewater treatment with proper management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutjaya Prateep Na Talang
- Environmental Modeling Consultant Center, Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Sucheela Polruang
- Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Thailand
| | - Sanya Sirivithayapakorn
- Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Thailand
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15
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Li G, Pei Z, Li Y, Yang R, Wang P, Liang Y, Zhang J, Zhang Q, Jiang G. A high-precision, effective method for extraction and identification of small-sized microplastics from soil. Talanta 2024; 272:125802. [PMID: 38368834 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
A growing evidence showed that the terrestrial ecosystem was a greater sink for microplastics (MPs) compared with ocean. Owing to the limitation of pretreatment methods, there are few reports on the identification of small-sized MPs(<60 μm) in soil currently, which may led to an underestimation of the environmental risk of MPs in soil system. In this study, we established an efficient pretreatment method for MPs in soils by developing a novel device, Plastic Flotation and Separator system (PFSS). The device integrated the suspension, digestion and filtration procedures into one system, reducing the losses of pretreatment process. It was shown that the recovery of MPs with size of 45 μm was 90%, significantly surpassing that of the traditional pretreatment methods in this particle size range. Combined with the SEM-Raman technique, MPs with small size were accurately determined. This work provides an effective method for the extraction and determination of MPs in soils and is of significance for the risk assessment of MPs in soil system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Taishan Institute for Eco-Environment, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Zhiguo Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Yingming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Ruiqiang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Taishan Institute for Eco-Environment, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Pu Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China
| | - Yong Liang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China
| | - Jilong Zhang
- State Nuclear Security Technology Center, Beijing, 102445, China
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
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16
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Li Y, Xu G, Yu Y. Freeze-thaw aged polyethylene and polypropylene microplastics alter enzyme activity and microbial community composition in soil. J Hazard Mater 2024; 470:134249. [PMID: 38603909 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
In cold regions, microplastics (MPs) in the soil undergo freeze-thaw (FT) aging process. Little is known about how FT aged MPs influence soil physico-chemical properties and microbial communities. Here, two environmentally relevant concentrations (50 and 500 mg/kg) of 50 and 500 µm polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) MPs treated soils were subjected to 45-day FT cycles (FTCs). Results showed that MPs experienced surface morphology, hydrophobicity and crystallinity alterations after FTCs. After 45-day FTCs, the soil urease (SUE) activity in control (MPs-free group that underwent FTCs) was 33.49 U/g. SUE activity in 50 µm PE group was reduced by 19.66 %, while increased by 21.16 % and 37.73 % in 500 µm PE and PP groups compared to control. The highest Shannon index was found in 50 µm PP-MPs group at 50 mg/kg, 2.26 % higher than control (7.09). Compared to control (average weighted degree=8.024), all aged MPs increased the complexity of network (0.19-1.43 %). Bacterial biomarkers of aged PP-MPs were associated with pollutant degradation. Aged PP-MPs affected genetic information, cellular processes, and disrupted the biosynthesis of metabolites. This study provides new insights into the potential hazards of MPs after FTCs on soil ecosystem in cold regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Li
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guanghui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
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17
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Li Y, Shi X, Zeng M, Qin P, Fu M, Luo S, Tang C, Mo C, Yu F. Effect of polyethylene microplastics on antibiotic resistance genes: A comparison based on different soil types and plant types. J Hazard Mater 2024; 472:134581. [PMID: 38743972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are two types of contaminants that are widely present in the soil environment. MPs can act as carriers of microbes, facilitating the colonization and spread of ARGs and thus posing potential hazards to ecosystem safety and human health. In the present study, we explored the microbial networks and ARG distribution characteristics in different soil types (heavy metal (HM)-contaminated soil and agricultural soil planted with different plants: Bidens pilosa L., Ipomoea aquatica F., and Brassica chinensis L.) after the application of MPs and evaluated environmental factors, potential microbial hosts, and ARGs. The microbial communities in the three rhizosphere soils were closely related to each other, and the modularity of the microbial networks was greater than 0.4. Moreover, the core taxa in the microbial networks, including Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Myxococcota, were important for resisting environmental stress. The ARG resistance mechanisms were dominated by antibiotic efflux in all three rhizosphere soils. Based on the annotation results, the MP treatments induced changes in the relative abundance of microbes carrying ARGs, and the G1-5 treatment significantly increased the abundance of MuxB in Verrucomicrobia, Elusimicrobia, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Acidobacteria. Path analysis showed that changes in MP particle size and dosage may indirectly affect soil enzyme activities by changing pH, which affects microbes and ARGs. We suggest that MPs may provide surfaces for ARG accumulation, leading to ARG enrichment in plants. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that MPs, as potentially persistent pollutants, can affect different types of soil environments and that the presence of ARGs may cause substantial environmental risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Xinwei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Meng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Peiqing Qin
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Mingyue Fu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Shiyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Chijian Tang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Cuiju Mo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Fangming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China.
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18
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McConnel G, Lawson J, Cañas-Carrell JE, Brelsfoard CL. The effects of nano- and microplastic ingestion on the survivorship and reproduction of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae). Environ Entomol 2024:nvae038. [PMID: 38728422 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvae038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are pervasive environmental pollutants that are commonly ingested by organisms at different trophic levels. While the effects of MPs on aquatic organisms have been extensively studied, the impacts of MP ingestion on the host fitness of terrestrial organisms, mainly insects, have been relatively unexplored. This study investigates the effects of MP and NP ingestion on the survivorship and reproduction of 2 medically important mosquito species, Aedes aegypti Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae) and Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae). Larval and pupal survivorship of Ae. albopictus were not significantly affected by particle size or concentration, but there was a reduction of Ae. aegypti pupal survivorship associated with the ingestion of 0.03 µm NPs. In addition, there was little observed impact of 0.03 µm NP and 1.0 µm MP ingestion on adult survivorship, fecundity, and longevity. To further investigate the effects of MP ingestion on mosquito fitness, we also examined the effects of MPs of varying shape, size, and plastic polymer type on Ae. aegypti immature and adult survivorship. The data suggest that the polymer type and shape did not impact Ae. aegypti immature or adult survivorship. These findings highlight that understanding the effects of microplastic ingestion by mosquitoes may be complicated by the size, composition, and amount ingested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella McConnel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, 1207 S. Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Jordann Lawson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main Street, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jaclyn E Cañas-Carrell
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, 1207 S. Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Corey L Brelsfoard
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main Street, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
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19
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Cao Y, Bi L, Chen Q, Liu Y, Zhao H, Jin L, Peng R. Understanding the links between micro/nanoplastics-induced gut microbes dysbiosis and potential diseases in fish: A review. Environ Pollut 2024:124103. [PMID: 38734053 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
At present, the quantity of micro/nano plastics in the environment is steadily rising, and their pollution has emerged as a global environmental issue. The tendency of their bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms (especially fish) has intensified people's attention to their persistent ecotoxicology. This review critically studies the accumulation of fish in the intestines of fish through active or passive intake of micro / nano plastics, resulting in their accumulation in intestinal organs and subsequent disturbance of intestinal microflora. The key lies in the complex toxic effect on the host after the disturbance of fish intestinal microflora. In addition, this review pointed out the characteristics of micro / nano plastics and the effects of their combined toxicity with adsorbed pollutants on fish intestinal microorganisms, in order to fully understand the characteristics of micro / nano plastics and emphasize the complex interaction between MNPs and other pollutants. We have an in-depth understanding of MNPs-induced intestinal flora disorders and intestinal dysfunction, affecting the host's systemic system, including immune system, nervous system, and reproductive system. The review also underscores the imperative for future research to investigate the toxic effects of prolonged exposure to MNPs, which are crucial for evaluating the ecological risks posed by MNPs and devising strategies to safeguard aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cao
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Liuliu Bi
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yinai Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Libo Jin
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Renyi Peng
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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20
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Seong T, Onizuka D, Satuito G, Kim HJ. Impact of nano- and micro-sized polystyrene beads on larval survival and growth of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas. J Hazard Mater 2024; 469:133952. [PMID: 38447367 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
This study successionally monitored how nano- and micro-sized polystyrene beads (MNPs) influence larval mortality, growth, and attachment behavior of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas related to MNP diameter and concentration. D-shaped larvae were sequentially exposed to three-diameter MNPs (0.55, 3.00, 6.00 µm) at five concentrations (0, 0.1, 1.0, 10, 20 μg/mL), and their mortality, growth stages and attachment were observed daily until they die. In addition, MNP intake and accumulation in larvae at each growth stage were determined using fluorescent beads. Deterioration in larval growth and survival was observed under all the exposure conditions, while significant negative effects on the growth parameters were defined with smaller MNPs at lower concentrations. Fluorescent signals were detected in larval digestive tracts at all except D-shaped larval stage, and on the mantle and foot in pediveligers. Therefore, MNP intake adversely affects larval physiological conditions by the synchronal effects of MNP size and concentration. Our findings highlight the implications of MNP characteristics on Pacific oyster larvae, emphasizing the interplay between size, concentration, and physiological responses, crucial for mitigating nanoparticle pollution in marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taekyoung Seong
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Daiki Onizuka
- Faculty of Fisheries, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Glenn Satuito
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; Faculty of Fisheries, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; Faculty of Fisheries, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan.
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21
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Lim JH, Kang JW. Assessing biofilm formation and resistance of vibrio parahaemolyticus on UV-aged microplastics in aquatic environments. Water Res 2024; 254:121379. [PMID: 38422694 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
UV degradation of marine microplastics (MPs) could increase their vector potential for pathogenic bacteria and threaten human health. However, little is known about how the degree of UV aging affects interactions between MPs and pathogens and how various types of MPs differ in their impact on seafood safety. This study investigated five types of UV-aged MPs and their impact on Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a seafood pathogen. MPs exposed to UV for 60 days showed similar physicochemical changes such as surface cracking and hydrophobicity reduction. Regardless of the type, longer UV exposure of MPs resulted in more biofilm formation on the surface under the same conditions. V. parahaemolyticus types that formed biofilms on the MP surface showed 1.4- to 5.0-fold upregulation of virulence-related genes compared to those that did not form biofilms, independently of UV exposure. However, longer UV exposure increased resistance of V. parahaemolyticus on MPs to chlorine, heat, and human gastrointestinal environment. This study implies that the more UV degradation occurs on MPs, the more microbial biofilm formation is induced, which can significantly increase virulence and environmental resistance of bacteria regardless of the type of MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hwan Lim
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Dongguk University-Seoul, 32, Dongguk-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Won Kang
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Dongguk University-Seoul, 32, Dongguk-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10326, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Oxborrow DG, Dong C, Lin IF. Simulation clinic waste audit assessment and recommendations at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. J Dent Educ 2024; 88:623-630. [PMID: 38343343 DOI: 10.1002/jdd.13470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dentistry produces waste contributing to climate change and adverse health outcomes, thus reducing waste is essential; however, there has been minimal emphasis on sustainability or climate action in dentistry. Waste audits quantify the type and amount of waste produced and may inform waste reduction strategies. We conducted a waste audit to identify areas of potential waste reduction and recommend interventions to reduce waste. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a waste audit of garbage produced during a typical 4-hour pre-clinical restorative dentistry simulation exercise. The sample was composed of 72 second-year dental students. This exercise is part of a standard curriculum with a uniform format regarding supplies used and participants. Potentially infectious materials were not used during this exercise. RESULTS In total, 26.6 kg of waste was discarded. Plastic was the largest contributor by mass (57.5%), followed by paper barriers (19.6%), then impression materials (6.5%). We found 894 gloves and 70 masks discarded. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, we categorized waste reduction opportunities into policy changes, purchasing sustainable materials, and increasing awareness through education. Specific suggested actions include: relaxing glove and gown requirements during laboratory simulations; replacing single use items with more sustainable options; increasing use of intraoral scanners; and posting informational signage with examples of what can be recycled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delbert G Oxborrow
- Department of Oral Surgery, University of Washington School of Dentistry, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Chao Dong
- Department of Oral Surgery, University of Washington School of Dentistry, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ivy F Lin
- Department of Oral Surgery, University of Washington School of Dentistry, Seattle, Washington, USA
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23
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Deakin K, Savage G, Jones JS, Porter A, Muñoz-Pérez JP, Santillo D, Lewis C. Sea surface microplastics in the Galapagos: Grab samples reveal high concentrations of particles <200 μm in size. Sci Total Environ 2024; 923:171428. [PMID: 38438045 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in the oceans is increasing, yet most global sea surface data is collected using plankton nets which limits our knowledge of the smaller and more bioaccessible size fraction of microplastics (<5 mm). We sampled the biodiverse coastal waters of the Galapagos Island of San Cristobal, comparing two different microplastic sampling methodologies; 1 l whole seawater grab samples filtered to 1.2 μm and sea surface plankton tows with a net mesh size of 200 μm. Our data reveal high concentrations of microplastics in Galapagos coastal waters surrounding the urban area, averaging 11.5 ± 1.48 particles l-1, with a four-order of magnitude increase in microplastic abundance observed using grab sampling compared with 200 μm plankton nets. This increase was greater when including anthropogenic cellulose particles, averaging 19.8 ± 1.86 particles l-1. Microplastic and anthropogenic cellulose particles smaller than 200 μm comprised 44 % of the particles from grab samples, suggesting previous estimates of microplastic pollution based on plankton nets likely miss and therefore underestimate these smaller particles. The particle characteristics and distribution of these smaller particles points strongly to a local input of cellulosic fibres in addition to the microplastic particles transported longer distances via the Humbolt current found across the surface seawater of the Galapagos. Improving our understanding of particle characteristics and distributions to highlight likely local sources will facilitate the development of local mitigation and management plans to reduce the input and impacts of microplastics to marine species, not just in the Galapagos but globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Deakin
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Georgie Savage
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Jen S Jones
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK; Galapagos Conservation Trust, 7-14 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YR, UK
| | - Adam Porter
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Juan Pablo Muñoz-Pérez
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador; School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast UniSC, Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4RN, UK
| | - Ceri Lewis
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
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24
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Yu Y, Wang Z, Yao B, Zhou Y. Occurrence, bioaccumulation, fate, and risk assessment of emerging pollutants in aquatic environments: A review. Sci Total Environ 2024; 923:171388. [PMID: 38432380 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Significant concerns on a global scale have been raised in response to the potential adverse impacts of emerging pollutants (EPs) on aquatic creatures. We have carefully reviewed relevant research over the past 10 years. The study focuses on five typical EPs: pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), drinking water disinfection byproducts (DBPs), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), and microplastics (MPs). The presence of EPs in the global aquatic environment is source-dependent, with wastewater treatment plants being the main source of EPs. Multiple studies have consistently shown that the final destination of most EPs in the water environment is sludge and sediment. Simultaneously, a number of EPs, such as PFASs, MPs, and BFRs, have long-term environmental transport potential. Some EPs exhibit notable tendencies towards bioaccumulation and biomagnification, while others pose challenges in terms of their degradation within both biological and abiotic treatment processes. The results showed that, in most cases, the ecological risk of EPs in aquatic environments was low, possibly due to potential dilution and degradation. Future research topics should include adding EPs detection items for the aquatic environment, combining pollution, and updating prediction models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuange Yu
- College of Environment and Ecology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay/Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Bin Yao
- College of Environment and Ecology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yaoyu Zhou
- College of Environment and Ecology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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25
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Mohan AV, Raja S. Unveiling the Tiny Invaders: A deep dive into microplastics in shrimp - Occurrence, detection and unraveling the ripple effects. Saudi J Biol Sci 2024; 31:103981. [PMID: 38595960 PMCID: PMC11002877 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2024.103981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture is a rapidly expanding food sector worldwide; it is the farming of fish, shellfish, and other marine organisms. Microplastics (MPs) are small pieces of plastic with a diameter of less than 5 mm that end up in the marine environment. MPs are fragments of large plastics that take years to degrade but can frustrate into small pieces, and some commercially available MPs are used in the production of toothpaste, cosmetics, and aircraft. MPs are emerging contaminants; they are ingested by marine species. These MPs have effects on marine species such as growth retardation and particle translocation to other parts of the body. Recently, MPs accumulation has been observed in shrimps, as well as in a wide range of other scientific reports. So, in this study, we review the presence, accumulation, and causes of MPs in shrimp. These plastics can trophic transfer to other organisms, changes in plastic count, effects on the marine environment, and impacts of MPs on human health were also discussed. It also improves our understanding of the importance of efficient plastic waste management in the ocean, as well as the impact of MPs on marine biota and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrutha Vellore Mohan
- Aquaculture Biotechnology Laboratory, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudhakaran Raja
- Aquaculture Biotechnology Laboratory, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
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26
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Mansfield I, Reynolds SJ, Lynch I, Matthews TJ, Sadler JP. Birds as bioindicators of plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments: A 30-year review. Environ Pollut 2024; 348:123790. [PMID: 38537798 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global concern that has grown ever more acute in recent years. Most research has focused on the impact of plastic pollution in marine environments. However, plastic is increasingly being detected in terrestrial and freshwater environments with key inland sources including landfills, where it is accessible to a wide range of organisms. Birds are effective bioindicators of pollutants for many reasons, including their high mobility and high intra- and interspecific variation in trophic levels. Freshwater and terrestrial bird species are under-represented in plastic pollution research compared to marine species. We reviewed 106 studies (spanning from 1994 onwards) that have detected plastics in bird species dwelling in freshwater and/or terrestrial habitats, identifying knowledge gaps. Seventy-two studies focused solely on macroplastics (fragments >5 mm), compared to 22 microplastic (fragments <5 mm) studies. A further 12 studies identified plastics as both microplastics and macroplastics. No study investigated nanoplastic (particles <100 nm) exposure. Research to date has geographical and species' biases while ignoring nanoplastic sequestration in free-living freshwater, terrestrial and marine bird species. Building on the baseline search presented here, we urge researchers to develop and validate standardised field sampling techniques and laboratory analytical protocols such as Raman spectroscopy to allow for the quantification and identification of micro- and nanoplastics in terrestrial and freshwater environments and the species therein. Future studies should consistently report the internalised and background concentrations, types, sizes and forms of plastics. This will enable a better understanding of the sources of plastic pollution and their routes of exposure to birds of terrestrial and freshwater environments, providing a more comprehensive insight into the potential impacts on birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mansfield
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - S J Reynolds
- School of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; The Army Ornithological Society (AOS), c/o Prince Consort Library, Knollys Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 1PS, UK
| | - I Lynch
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - T J Matthews
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - J P Sadler
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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27
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Ta AT, Babel S, Nguyen LTP, Sembiring E. Microplastic Pollution in High Population Density Zones of Selected Rivers from Southeast Asia. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2024; 112:73. [PMID: 38691196 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-024-03901-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Southeast Asia (SEA) faces significant environmental challenges due to rapid population growth and economic activity. Rivers in the region are major sources of plastic waste in oceans. Concerns about their contribution have grown, but knowledge of microplastics in the area is still limited. This article compares microplastic levels in sediment and water from urban zones of three major rivers in SEA: Chao Phraya River (Thailand), Saigon River (Vietnam), and Citarum River (Indonesia). The study reveals that in all three rivers, microplastics were found, with the highest concentrations in Chao Phraya's water (80 ± 60 items/m3) and Saigon's sediment (9167 ± 4559 items/kg). The variations in microplastic sizes and concentrations among these rivers may be attributed to environmental factors and the exposure duration of plastic to the environment. Since these rivers are important water supply sources, rigorous land-use regulations and raising public awareness are crucial to mitigate plastic and microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Tuan Ta
- School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Sandhya Babel
- School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand.
| | - Loan Thi Phuong Nguyen
- Faculty of Environment, School of Technology, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Emenda Sembiring
- Bandung Institute of Technology, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia
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28
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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. Environ Sci Technol 2024. [PMID: 38685194 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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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29
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Brťková H, Růžičková J, Slamová K, Raclavská H, Kucbel M, Šafář M, Gikas P, Juchelková D, Švédová B, Flodrová Š. Plastic particles in urban compost and their grain size distribution. Environ Pollut 2024; 351:124025. [PMID: 38670428 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Gathering information on plastic particles in composts and the processes they undergo is important in terms of potentially limiting their further entry into the environment, for example, in improving the fertilising properties of soils. Microplastics (MPs) were determined in composts produced from urban greenery. They are present in decreasing order: polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene. The determination of polymers and additives used to improve their properties was performed by pyrolysis and gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (Py-GC/MS). Additives and microplastics are most concentrated in composts in the 0.315-0.63 and 0.63-1.25 mm grain size class, together with the carbon contained in the compost dry matter. Additives form 0.11-0.13% of MPs in dry matter of compost. The average concentration of microplastics in the particle size class from 0.63 to 1.25 mm is 2434 ± 224 mg/kg; in the total sample of composts, it is 1368 ± 286 mg/kg of P-MPs. For composts with particle size <2.5 mm, a relationship between the C/N ratio and the plastic particle concentration was statistically significant. It documents a similar behaviour of lignocellulose and plastic particles during the degradation processes. A relationship between the concentration of polymer markers and additives in the compost dry matter and their concentrations in the leachate has been demonstrated. The leachability from compost is higher for additives than for chemical compounds originating from the decomposition of the main components of MPs. The suitability of the use of the compost for agricultural purposes was monitored by the germination index (GI) for watercress. The lowest value of the GI was determined in the particle size class from 0.63 to 1.25 mm. The leachability of polymer markers and additives alone cannot explain the low GI value in this grain size class. The GI value is also influenced by the leachability of chemical compounds characterised by the value of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and water-leachable nitrogen (Nw). A statistically significant dependence between DOC/Nw and the germination index value was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Brťková
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Růžičková
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Karolina Slamová
- Institute of Foreign Languages, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Raclavská
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Kucbel
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic.
| | - Michal Šafář
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Petros Gikas
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Kounoupidiana, Akrotiri, 731 00 Chania, Greece
| | - Dagmar Juchelková
- Department of Electronics, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Švédová
- Centre CEET/ENET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Flodrová
- Department of Power Engineering, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava-Poruba, Moravian-Silesian Region, 708 00, Czech Republic
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30
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Groß M, Mail M, Wrigley O, Debastiani R, Scherer T, Amelung W, Braun M. Plastic Fruit Stickers in Industrial Composting─Surface and Structural Alterations Revealed by Electron Microscopy and Computed Tomography. Environ Sci Technol 2024; 58:7124-7132. [PMID: 38599582 PMCID: PMC11044595 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Often large quantities of plastics are found in compost, with price look-up stickers being a major but little-explored component in the contamination path. Stickers glued to fruit or vegetable peels usually remain attached to the organic material despite sorting processes in the composting plant. Here, we investigated the effects of industrial composting on the structural alterations of these stickers. Commercial polypropylene (PP) stickers on banana peels were added to a typical organic material mixture for processing in an industrial composting plant and successfully resampled after a prerotting (11 days) and main rotting step (25 days). Afterward, both composted and original stickers were analyzed for surface and structural changes via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and micro- and nano-X-ray computed tomography (CT) combined with deep learning approaches. The composting resulted in substantial surface changes and degradation in the form of microbial colonization, deformation, and occurrence of cracks in all stickers. Their pore volumes increased from 16.7% in the original sticker to 26.3% at the end of the compost process. In a similar way, the carbonyl index of the stickers increased. Micro-CT images additionally revealed structural changes in the form of large adhesions that penetrated the surface of the sticker. These changes were accompanied by delamination after 25 days of composting, thus overall hinting at the degradation of the stickers and the subsequent formation of smaller microplastic pieces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Groß
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Mail
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Olivia Wrigley
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Rafaela Debastiani
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Torsten Scherer
- Institute
of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Kaiserstr. 12, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Karlsruhe
Nano Micro Facility (KNMFi), Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Wulf Amelung
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Melanie Braun
- Institute
of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and
Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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31
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Bryant M, Ren J, Sharma VK, Ma X. Mutual Effects and Uptake of Organic Contaminants and Nanoplastics by Lettuce in Co-Exposure. ACS Agric Sci Technol 2024; 4:463-470. [PMID: 38638684 PMCID: PMC11022170 DOI: 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Organic contaminants, such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, are commonly found in agricultural systems. With the growing use of plastic products, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly detected in these agricultural systems, necessitating research into their interactions and joint effects to truly understand their impact. Unfortunately, while there has been a long history of research into the uptake of organic pollutants by plants, similar research with MNPs is only beginning, and studies on their mutual effects and plant uptake are extremely rare. In this study, we examined the effects of three agriculturally relevant organic pollutants with distinctive hydrophobicity as measured by log KOW (trimethoprim: 0.91, atrazine: 2.61, and ibuprofen: 3.97) and 500 nm polystyrene nanoplastics on their uptake and accumulation by lettuce at two different salinity levels. Our results showed that nanoplastics increased the shoot concentration of ibuprofen by 77.4 and 309% in nonsaline and saline conditions, respectively. Alternatively, organic co-contaminants slightly lowered the PS NPs uptake in lettuce with a more pronounced decrease in saline water. These results underscore the impactful interactions of hydrophobic organic pollutants and increasing MNPs on a dynamic global environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael
Taylor Bryant
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Jianhong Ren
- Department
of Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M
University-Kingsville, Kingsville, Texas 78363, United States
| | - Virender K. Sharma
- Department
of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Xingmao Ma
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
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32
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Jing X, Shao Y, Wang H, Han G, Zhang J, Wang N, Xu J, Liu L, Chen G. Aging of polypropylene plastic and impacts on microbial community structure in constructed wetlands. Environ Pollut 2024; 347:123433. [PMID: 38278405 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a substantial surge in the usage of disposable plastic masks, generating a significant volume of waste and contributing to environmental pollution. Wetland ecosystems function as crucial repositories for terrestrial pollutants and are highly effective in retaining disposable masks composed mainly of PP material. These masks can endure extended periods in wetlands, experiencing natural degradation that may have potential implications on wetland ecosystems. Our findings demonstrate the natural aging process of disposable masks, resulting in the generation of microplastics (MPs) ranging in diameter from 10 to 30 μm over a 180-day timeframe. Examination of 16S rDNA data unveiled temporal fluctuations in microbial diversity in the wetland ecosystem. Initially, microbial diversity displayed a modest incline, which was succeeded by a subsequent decrease. With the progressive accumulation of plastic within the wetland, an ongoing decline in microbial diversity linked to nitrogen transformation was observed. This study provides valuable insights into the retention of disposable masks by wetlands amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, along with their consequential effects on wetland ecosystems, specifically pertaining to nitrogen cycling. It underscores the urgency of augmenting the safeguarding measures for wetland ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Jing
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Yuanyuan Shao
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China.
| | - Hongbo Wang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Guolan Han
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Jingtao Xu
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Lei Liu
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Gao Chen
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China; State Key Laboratory of Nutrient Use and Management, Jinan, 250100, China
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33
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Wang Y, van Putten RJ, Tietema A, Parsons JR, Gruter GJM. Polyester biodegradability: importance and potential for optimisation. Green Chem 2024; 26:3698-3716. [PMID: 38571729 PMCID: PMC10986773 DOI: 10.1039/d3gc04489k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
To reduce global CO2 emissions in line with EU targets, it is essential that we replace fossil-derived plastics with renewable alternatives. This provides an opportunity to develop novel plastics with improved design features, such as better reusability, recyclability, and environmental biodegradability. Although recycling and reuse of plastics is favoured, this relies heavily on the infrastructure of waste management, which is not consistently advanced on a worldwide scale. Furthermore, today's bulk polyolefin plastics are inherently unsuitable for closed-loop recycling, but the introduction of plastics with enhanced biodegradability could help to combat issues with plastic accumulation, especially for packaging applications. It is also important to recognise that plastics enter the environment through littering, even where the best waste-collection infrastructure is in place. This causes endless environmental accumulation when the plastics are non-(bio)degradable. Biodegradability depends heavily on circumstances; some biodegradable polymers degrade rapidly under tropical conditions in soil, but they may not also degrade at the bottom of the sea. Biodegradable polyesters are theoretically recyclable, and even if mechanical recycling is difficult, they can be broken down to their monomers by hydrolysis for subsequent purification and re-polymerisation. Additionally, both the physical properties and the biodegradability of polyesters are tuneable by varying their building blocks. The relationship between the (chemical) structures/compositions (aromatic, branched, linear, polar/apolar monomers; monomer chain length) and biodegradation/hydrolysis of polyesters is discussed here in the context of the design of biodegradable polyesters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Albert Tietema
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - John R Parsons
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan M Gruter
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Avantium Support BV Zekeringstraat 29 1014 BV Amsterdam The Netherlands
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34
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Lima AR, Sammarro Silva KJ, Aguiar ASN, de Souza M, Lima THN, Blanco KC, Bagnato VS, Dias LD. Impact of PVC microplastics in photodynamic inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA. Water Sci Technol 2024; 89:2105-2117. [PMID: 38678412 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic processes have found widespread application in therapies. These processes involve photosensitizers (PSs) that, when excited by specific light wavelengths and in the presence of molecular oxygen, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), that target cells leading to inactivation. Photodynamic action has gained notable attention in environmental applications, particularly against pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) that pose a significant challenge to public health. However, environmental matrices frequently encompass additional contaminants and interferents, including microplastics (MPs), which are pollutants of current concern. Their presence in water and effluents has been extensively documented, highlighting their impact on conventional treatment methods, but this information remains scarce in the context of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) setups. Here, we described the effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microparticles in PDI targeting Staphylococcus aureus and its methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), using curcumin as a PS under blue light. The presence of PVC microparticles does not hinder ROS formation; however, depending on its concentration, it can impact bacterial inactivation. Our results underscore that PDI remains a potent method for reducing bacterial concentrations in water and wastewater containing ARB, even in highly contaminated scenarios with MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ramos Lima
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil E-mail:
| | - Kamila Jessie Sammarro Silva
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Antônio Sérgio Nakao Aguiar
- Grupo de Química Teórica e Estrutural de Anápolis, Universidade Estadual de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil; Laboratório de Novos Materiais, Universidade Evangélica de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil
| | - Mariana de Souza
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Thalita Hellen Nunes Lima
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Kate Cristina Blanco
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
- Laboratory of Environmental Biophotonics, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Lucas Danilo Dias
- Laboratório de Novos Materiais, Universidade Evangélica de Goiás, Anápolis, GO, Brazil
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35
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Mutlu T, Minaz M, Baytaşoğlu H, Gedik K. Monitoring of microplastic pollution in sediments along the Çoruh River Basin, NE Türkiye. J Contam Hydrol 2024; 263:104334. [PMID: 38493707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a research issue on the world agenda. Monitoring studies are essential for MP content in aquatic environments since it is the final accumulation point. The present study focused on MP characterizations in sediment samples taken from 20 different stations on the Çoruh River, the major river in the North East of Türkiye. Accordingly, the potential anthropogenic pollution from settlements near the four stations (2, 15, 18, and 20) exceeding 400 MP kg-1 was estimated. On the other hand, stations (1, 3, 9, 11, and 13) far from settlements with quite low MP abundance were also observed. The polymer structures of the detected MPs are generally PE and PET, and their shapes are mostly fiber. This situation raises suspicion that MPs originate from primary use waste such as water bottles and packaging materials. In general, the fiber MPs are smaller than the fragments because of the river's high water flow rate and the low strength of the fiber MPs. In light of these results, the current monitoring data in the region will create awareness and guidance regarding MP pollution in settlements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanju Mutlu
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Türkiye
| | - Mert Minaz
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Rize, Türkiye.
| | - Hazel Baytaşoğlu
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Rize, Türkiye
| | - Kenan Gedik
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Türkiye.
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36
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Zhang Z, Zhang Q, Yang H, Cui L, Qian H. Mining strategies for isolating plastic-degrading microorganisms. Environ Pollut 2024; 346:123572. [PMID: 38369095 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste is a growing global pollutant. Plastic degradation by microorganisms has captured attention as an earth-friendly tactic. Although the mechanisms of plastic degradation by bacteria, fungi, and algae have been explored over the past decade, a large knowledge gap still exists regarding the identification, sorting, and cultivation of efficient plastic degraders, primarily because of their uncultivability. Advances in sequencing techniques and bioinformatics have enabled the identification of microbial degraders and related enzymes and genes involved in plastic biodegradation. In this review, we provide an outline of the situation of plastic degradation and summarize the methods for effective microbial identification using multidisciplinary techniques such as multiomics, meta-analysis, and spectroscopy. This review introduces new strategies for controlling plastic pollution in an environmentally friendly manner. Using this information, highly efficient and colonizing plastic degraders can be mined via targeted sorting and cultivation. In addition, based on the recognized rules and plastic degraders, we can perform an in-depth analysis of the associated degradation mechanism, metabolic features, and interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyao Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Qi Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Huihui Yang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Li Cui
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, PR China
| | - Haifeng Qian
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China.
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37
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Alhusban Z. Microplastic infiltration into mobile sediments. Sci Total Environ 2024; 919:170847. [PMID: 38354816 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the dynamics of microplastic infiltration into non-stationary sandy sediments, a pressing environmental concern due to the rising prevalence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. An annular flume was used to simulate riverine bedform motion, examining the suspension and infiltration of denser-than-water microplastic particles, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), and polylactide (PLA). The experiments focused on various particle sizes (ranging from 0.2 to 5 mm in diameter) and bedform migration speeds, known as celerities. The findings indicate that particle size is a significant factor influencing the depth of infiltration and distribution within sediment layers, whereas the impact of bedform celerities and particle densities appears less significant. This research provides novel insights into the behavior of microplastics in dynamic sedimentary environments, highlighting the intricate interaction between microplastic characteristics and sedimentary processes. The results contribute to an enhanced understanding of microplastic distribution and accumulation in riverine systems, offering crucial data for developing predictive models and formulating potential remediation strategies for microplastic pollution.
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38
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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. Environ Pollut 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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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39
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Tamura Y, Takai Y, Miyamoto H, SeokHyun L, Liu Y, Qiu X, Kang LJ, Simasaki Y, Shindo C, Suda W, Ohno H, Oshima Y. Alteration of shoaling behavior and dysbiosis in the gut of medaka (Oryzias latipes) exposed to 2-μm polystyrene microplastics. Chemosphere 2024; 353:141643. [PMID: 38447901 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
There is global concern that microplastics may harm aquatic life. Here, we examined the effects of fine polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs, 2-μm diameter, 0.1 mg/L, 2.5 × 107 particles/L) on the behavior and the microbiome (linked to brain-gut interaction) of a fish model using medaka, Oryzias latipes. We found that shoaling behavior was reduced in PS-MP-exposed medaka compared with control fish during the exposure period, but it recovered during a depuration period. There was no difference in swimming speed between the PS-MP-exposed and control groups during the exposure period. Analysis of the dominant bacterial population (those comprising ≥1% of the total bacterial population) in the gut of fish showed that exposure to PS-MPs tended to increase the relative abundance of the phylum Fusobacteria and the genus Vibrio. Furthermore, structural-equation modeling of gut bacteria on the basis of machine-learning data estimated strong relationship involved in the reduction of the functional bacterial species of minority (<1% of the total bacterial population) such as the genera Muribaculum (an undefined role), Aquaspirillum (a candidate for nitrate metabolism and magnetotactics), and Clostridium and Phascolarctobacterium (potential producers of short-chain fatty acids, influencing behavior by affecting levels of neurotransmitters) as a group of gut bacteria in association with PS-MP exposure. Our results suggest that fish exposure to fine microplastics may cause dysbiosis and ultimately cause social behavior disorders linked to brain-gut interactions. This effect could be connected to reduction of fish fitness in the ecosystem and reduced fish survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yui Tamura
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuki Takai
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hirokuni Miyamoto
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan; Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, Matsudo, Chiba, 271-8501, Japan
| | - Lee SeokHyun
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yangqing Liu
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Xuchun Qiu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Lk Joon Kang
- School of Interdisciplinary Science and Innovation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yohei Simasaki
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Chie Shindo
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Wataru Suda
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohno
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Yuji Oshima
- Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan; Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan.
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40
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Dailianis S, Rouni M, Ainali NM, Vlastos D, Kyzas GZ, Lambropoulou DA, Bikiaris DN. New insights into the size-independent bioactive potential of pristine and UV-B aged polyethylene microplastics. Sci Total Environ 2024; 918:170616. [PMID: 38311086 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigates the morphological, physicochemical, and structural changes occurred by the UV-B aging process of low-density polyethylene microplastics (LDPE MPs), as well as the bioactive potential of both pristine and UVaged MPs towards healthy peripheral blood lymphocytes. Specifically, LDPE MPs (100-180 μm) prepared by mechanical milling of LDPE pellets, were UV-B irradiated for 120 days (wavelength 280 nm; temperature 25 °C; relative humidity 50 %) and further examined for alterations in their particle size and surface, their functional groups, thermal stability, and crystallinity (by means of SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD patterns, and TGA measurements, respectively). In parallel, isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes were treated with different concentrations (25-500 μg mL-1) of either pristine or aged MPs (UVfree and UV120d LDPE MPs) for assessing the cytogenotoxic (by means of trypan blue exclusion test and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay using cytochalasin-B) and oxidative effects (using the DCFH-DA staining) in both cases. According to the results, UVfree and UV120d-LDPE MPs, with a size ranging from 100 to 180 μm, can differentially promote cytogenotoxic and oxidative alterations in human lymphocytes. In fact, UVfree LDPE MPs not being able to be internalized by cells due to their size, could indirectly promote the onset of mild oxidative and cytogenotoxic damage in human peripheral lymphocytes, via a dose-dependent but size-independent manner. The latter is more profound in case of the irregular-shaped UV120d-LDPE MPs, bearing improved dispersibility and sharp edges (by means of cracks and holes), as well as oxygen-containing and carbonyl groups. To our knowledge, the present findings provide new data regarding the bioactive behavior of pristine and UV-B aged LDPE MPs, at least in the in vitro biological model tested, thus giving new evidence for their size-independent and/or indirect mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Dailianis
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece.
| | - Maria Rouni
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitris Vlastos
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-65404 Kavala, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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41
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Sorasan C, Taladriz-Blanco P, Rodriguez-Lorenzo L, Espiña B, Rosal R. New versus naturally aged greenhouse cover films: Degradation and micro-nanoplastics characterization under sunlight exposure. Sci Total Environ 2024; 918:170662. [PMID: 38316311 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The understanding of microplastic degradation and its effects remains limited due to the absence of accurate analytical techniques for detecting and quantifying micro- and nanoplastics. In this study, we investigated the release of nanoplastics and small microplastics in water from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) greenhouse cover films under simulated sunlight exposure for six months. Our analysis included both new and naturally aged (used) cover films, enabling us to evaluate the impact of natural aging. Additionally, photooxidation effects were assessed by comparing irradiated and non-irradiated conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) confirmed the presence of particles below 1 μm in both irradiated and non-irradiated cover films. NTA revealed a clear effect of natural aging, with used films releasing more particles than new films but no impact of photooxidation, as irradiated and non-irradiated cover films released similar amounts of particles at each time point. Raman spectroscopy demonstrated the lower crystallinity of the released PE nanoplastics compared to the new films. Flow cytometry and total organic carbon data provided evidence of the release of additional material besides PE, and a clear effect of both simulated and natural aging, with photodegradation effects observed only for the new cover films. Finally, our results underscore the importance of studying the aging processes in both new and used plastic products using complementary techniques to assess the environmental fate and safety risks posed by plastics used in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Sorasan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, E-28871 Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Taladriz-Blanco
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal; Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers, 4, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Laura Rodriguez-Lorenzo
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Begoña Espiña
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, E-28871 Madrid, Spain
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42
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Li X, Li G, Wang J, Li X, Yang Y, Song D. Elucidating polyethylene microplastic degradation mechanisms and metabolic pathways via iron-enhanced microbiota dynamics in marine sediments. J Hazard Mater 2024; 466:133655. [PMID: 38310843 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The extensive use of plastics has given rise to microplastics, a novel environmental contaminant that has sparked considerable ecological and environmental concerns. Biodegradation offers a more environmentally friendly approach to eliminating microplastics, but their degradation by marine microbial communities has received little attention. In this study, we used iron-enhanced marine sediment to augment the natural bacterial community and facilitate the decomposition of polyethylene (PE) microplastics. The introduction of iron-enhanced sediment engendered an augmented bacterial biofilm formation on the surface of polyethylene (PE), thereby leading to a more pronounced degradation effect. This novel observation has been ascribed to the oxidative stress-induced generation of a variety of oxygenated functional groups, including hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (-CO), and ether (-C-O) moieties, within the microplastic substrate. The analysis of succession in the community structure of sediment bacteria during the degradation phase disclosed that Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas emerged as the principal bacterial players in PE degradation. These taxa were directly implicated in oxidative metabolic pathways facilitated by diverse oxidase enzymes under iron-facilitated conditions. The present study highlights bacterial community succession as a new pivotal factor influencing the complex biodegradation dynamics of polyethylene (PE) microplastics. This investigation also reveals, for the first time, a unique degradation pathway for PE microplastics orchestrated by the multifaceted marine sediment microbiota. These novel insights shed light on the unique functional capabilities and internal biochemical mechanisms employed by the marine sediment microbiota in effectively degrading polyethylene microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xionge Li
- College of Marine and Environmental, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Guangbi Li
- College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- College of Marine and Environmental, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- College of Marine and Environmental, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yuru Yang
- College of Marine and Environmental, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Donghui Song
- College of Marine and Environmental, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300457, China.
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43
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Shao Y, Hua X, Li Y, Wang D. Comparison of reproductive toxicity between pristine and aged polylactic acid microplastics in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Hazard Mater 2024; 466:133545. [PMID: 38244453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans was employed as model to compare reproductive toxicity between pristine and aged polylactic acid microplastics (PLA-MPs). Aged PLA-MPs induced by UV irradiation showed degradation reflected by decrease in size and alteration in morphological surface. Aged PLA-MPs also exhibited some certain changes of chemical properties compared to pristine PLA-MP. Compared with pristine PLA-MPs, more severe toxicity on reproductive capacity and gonad development was detected in 1-100 μg/L aged PLA-MPs. Meanwhile, aged PLA-MPs caused more severe enhancement in germline apoptosis and alterations in expressions of ced-9, ced-4, ced-3, and egl-1 governing cell apoptosis. In addition, aged PLA-MPs resulted in more severe increase in expression of DNA damage related genes (cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2) compared to pristine PLA-MPs, and the alterations in expression of ced-9, ced-4, ced-3, and egl-1 in pristine and aged PLA-MPs could be reversed by RNAi of cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2. Besides this, enhanced germline apoptosis in pristine and aged PLA-MPs exposed animals was also suppressed by RNAi of cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2. Therefore, our results suggested the more severe exposure risk of aged PLA-MPs than pristine PLA-MPs in causing reproductive toxicity, which was associated with the changed physicochemical properties and DNA damage induced germline apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Shao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Hua
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Dayong Wang
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
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44
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De Boever S, Devisscher L, Vinken M. Unraveling the micro- and nanoplastic predicament: A human-centric insight. Sci Total Environ 2024; 916:170262. [PMID: 38253106 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics are vast anthropogenic pollutants in our direct surroundings with a robust environmental stability and a potential for a long-lasting and increasing global circulation. This has raised concerns among the public and policy makers for human health upon exposure to these particles. The micro- and nanoplastic burden on humans is currently under debate, along with criticism on the experimental approaches used in hazard assessment. The present review presents an overview of the human-relevant aspects associated with the current micro-and nanoplastic burden. We focus on environmental circulation and the estimation of exposure quantities to humans, along with a state-of-the-art overview of particle accumulation in over 15 human organs and other specimen. Additionally, data regarding particle characteristics used in toxicity testing was extracted from 91 studies and discussed considering their environmental and human relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybren De Boever
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Lindsey Devisscher
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Liver Research Centre Ghent, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiteit Gent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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45
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Ahn S, Kim N, Choi Y, Kim J, Hwang H, Kim C, Lee HY, Kim S, Kim JS, Lee HH, Choi J. Peptide-Decorated Microneedles for the Detection of Microplastics. Biosensors (Basel) 2024; 14:140. [PMID: 38534247 DOI: 10.3390/bios14030140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The escalating utilization of plastics in daily life has resulted in pervasive environmental pollution and consequent health hazards. The challenge of detecting and capturing microplastics, which are imperceptible to the naked eye, is exacerbated by their diminutive size, hydrophobic surface properties, and capacity to absorb organic compounds. This study focuses on the application of peptides, constituted of specific amino acid sequences, and microneedles for the rapid and selective identification of microplastics. Peptides, due to their smaller size and greater environmental stability compared with antibodies, emerge as a potent solution to overcome the limitations inherent in existing detection methodologies. To immobilize peptides onto microneedles, this study employed microneedles embedded with gold nanorods, augmenting them with sulfhydryl (SH) groups at the peptides' termini. The sensor developed through this methodology exhibited efficient peptide binding to the microneedle tips, thereby facilitating the capture of microplastics. Raman spectroscopy was employed for the detection of microplastics, with the results demonstrating successful attachment to the microneedles. This novel approach not only facilitates localized analysis but also presents a viable strategy for the detection of microplastics across diverse environmental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyeon Ahn
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Namju Kim
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghyun Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
- Feynman Institute of Technology, Nanomedicine Corporation, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwon Kim
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeryun Hwang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Myongji University, Yongin-si 17058, Republic of Korea
| | - Cholong Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Myongji University, Yongin-si 17058, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Young Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi-si 39177, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungyoun Kim
- Division of Applied RI, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Su Kim
- Division of Applied RI, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ho Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Myongji University, Yongin-si 17058, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghoon Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
- Feynman Institute of Technology, Nanomedicine Corporation, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
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46
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Ghanadi M, Padhye LP. Revealing the long-term impact of photodegradation and fragmentation on HDPE in the marine environment: Origins of microplastics and dissolved organics. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133509. [PMID: 38232551 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The extensive usage of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) materials in marine environments raises concerns about their potential contribution to plastic pollution. Various factors contribute to the degradation of HDPE in marine environments, including UV radiation, seawater hydrolysis, biodegradation, and mechanical stress. Despite their supposed long lifespans, there is still a lack of understanding about the long-term degradation mechanisms that cause weathering of seawater-exposed HDPE products. In this research, the impact of UV radiation on the degradation of HDPE pile sleeves was studied in natural as well as laboratory settings to isolate the UV effect. After nine years of exposure to the marine environment in natural settings, the HDPE pile sleeves exhibited an increase in oxygen-containing surface functional groups and more morphological changes compared to accelerated UVB irradiation in the laboratory. This indicated that combined non-UV mechanisms may play a major role in HDPE degradation than UV irradiation alone. However, UVB irradiation was found to release dissolved organic carbon and total dissolved nitrogen from HDPE pile sleeves, reaching levels of up to 15 mg/L and 2 mg/L, respectively. Our findings underscore the significance of taking into account both UV and non-UV degradation mechanisms when evaluating the role of HDPE in contributing to marine plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahyar Ghanadi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Lokesh P Padhye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
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47
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Hu L, He L, Cai L, Wang Y, Wu G, Zhang D, Pan X, Wang YZ. Deterioration of single-use biodegradable plastics in high-humidity air and freshwaters over one year: Significant disparities in surface physicochemical characteristics and degradation rates. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133170. [PMID: 38064942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
More single-use plastics are accumulating in the environment, and likewise biodegradable plastics (BPs), which are being vigorously promoted, cannot escape the fate. Currently, studies on the actual degradation of BPs in open-air and freshwaters are underrepresented despite they are potentially headmost leakage and contamination sites for disposable BPs. Herein, we compared the degradation behavior of six BP materials and non-degradable polypropylene (PP) plastics over a 1-year in situ suspension in the high-humidity air, a eutrophic river, and an oligotrophic lake. Moreover, a 3-months laboratory incubation was performed to detect the release of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from BPs. In both air and freshwaters, poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO) degraded significantly while PP and polylactic acid (PLA) showed no signs of degradation. The average degradation rates of three poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)-based films varied: 100% in river, 55% in lake, and 10% in air. In addition to PLA, surface chemical groups, hydrophilicity, and thermal stability of BPs changed, and microplastics were found on their surfaces. Correspondingly, BPs with faster degradation rates released relatively higher amounts of DOC. Environmental microbial and chemical characteristics may contribute to differences in BP degradation besides polymer specificity. Altogether, our results indicate the need for appropriate monitoring of BPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Hu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Shaoxing Research Institute, Zhejiang University of Technology, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Linlin He
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Li Cai
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Gang Wu
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
| | - Daoyong Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Yu-Zhong Wang
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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48
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Chang B, Huang Z, Yang X, Yang T, Fang X, Zhong X, Ding W, Cao G, Yang Y, Hu F, Xu C, Qiu L, Lv J, Du W. Adsorption of Pb(II) by UV-aged microplastics and cotransport in homogeneous and heterogeneous porous media. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133413. [PMID: 38228006 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
To investigate the adsorption effects of aged microplastics (MPs) on Pb(II) and their co-transport properties in homogeneous (quartz sand) and heterogeneous (quartz sand with apple branches biochar) porous media, we explored the co-transport of UV-irradiated aged MPs and coexisting Pb(II) along with their interaction mechanisms. The UV aging process increased the binding sites and electronegativity of the aged MPs' surface, enhancing its adsorption capacity for Pb(II). Aged MPs significantly improved Pb(II) transport through homogeneous media, while Pb(II) hindered the transport of aged MPs by reducing electrostatic repulsion between these particles and the quartz sand. When biochar, with its loose and porous structure, was used as a porous medium, it effectively inhibited the transport capacity of both contaminants. In addition, since the aged MPs cannot penetrate the column, a portion of Pb(II) adsorbed by the aged MPs will be co-deposited with the aged MPs, hindering Pb(II) transport to a greater extent. The transport experiments were simulated and interpreted using two-point kinetic modeling and the DLVO theory. The study results elucidate disparities in the capacity of MPs and aged MPs to transport Pb(II), underscoring the potential of biochar application as an effective strategy to impede the dispersion of composite environmental pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bokun Chang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Zixuan Huang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Tianhuan Yang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xianhui Fang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xianbao Zhong
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Wei Ding
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Gang Cao
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yajun Yang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Feinan Hu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Chenyang Xu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Ling Qiu
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering & Northwest Research Center of Rural Renewable Energy, Exploitation and Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jialong Lv
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China.
| | - Wei Du
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China.
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49
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Liu S, Chen H, Ding Y, Zhou X, Ding Y, Liu S, Ke Z. Thermal aging of polystyrene microplastics within mussels (Mytilus coruscus) under boiling and drying processing. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133282. [PMID: 38142652 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Aged microplastics (MPs) in the environment are a growing concern due to their higher ecological toxicity compared to pristine MPs. While previous studies have explored aging behaviors of MPs under various stress conditions, little is known about their aging during food processing. In this study, we investigated the effects of different thermal food processing methods on the aging of polystyrene (PS) MPs within mussels. We subjected the mussels containing PS MPs to boiling, boiling/solar drying, boiling/hot air drying, and boiling/microwave drying treatments, all of which are common preservation methods used in industry. We analyzed the particle size, surface morphology, yellowing, crystallinity, chemical groups, and hydrophilicity of the PS MPs to understand the aging process. Results show that all processing methods led to aging of PS MPs, with boiling/microwave drying having the most significant impact, followed by boiling/hot air drying, boiling/solar drying, and boiling alone. The aged PS MPs exhibited smaller size, morphological changes, reduced crystallinity, increased yellowness index and carbonyl index, higher presence of O-containing groups, and enhanced hydrophilicity. These findings provide evidence of MPs aging during thermal food processing and emphasize the potential risks associated with this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yicheng Ding
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xuxia Zhou
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yuting Ding
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Shulai Liu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zhigang Ke
- College of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310014, China; National R&D Branch Center for Pelagic Aquatic Products Processing (Hangzhou), Hangzhou 310014, China.
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50
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Albergamo V, Wohlleben W, Plata DL. Tracking Dynamic Chemical Reactivity Networks with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry: A Case of Microplastic-Derived Dissolved Organic Carbon. Environ Sci Technol 2024; 58:4314-4325. [PMID: 38373233 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Chemical degradation testing often involves monitoring the loss of a chemical or the evolution of a single diagnostic product through time. Here, we demonstrate a novel approach to tracing complex degradation networks using mass-spectrometry-based methods and open cheminformatics tools. Ester- and ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU_Ester and TPU_Ether) microplastics (350 μm) and microplastics-derived dissolved organic carbon (MP-DOC) were photoweathered in a simulated marine environment and subsequently analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. We formula-annotated 1342 and 2344 unique features in the MP-DOC of TPU_Ester and TPU_Ether, respectively. From these, we extracted 199 and 568 plausible parent-transformation product pairs via matching of features (a) with complementary increasing and decreasing trends (Spearman's correlation coefficient between normalized intensity and time), (b) spectral similarities of at least three accurate mass MS2 fragments, and (c) at least 3 ppm agreement between the theoretical and measured change in m/z between the parent-transformation product formula. Molecular network analysis revealed that both chain scission and cross-linking reactions occur dynamically rather than degradation proceeding in a monotonic progression to smaller or more oxygenated structures. Network nodes with the highest degree of centrality were tentatively identified using in silico fragmentation and can be prioritized for toxicity screening or other physicochemical properties of interest. This work has important implications for chemical transformation tracking in complex mixtures and may someday enable improved elucidation of environmental transformation rules (i.e., structure-reactivity relationships) and fate modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Albergamo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Wendel Wohlleben
- Department of Analytical and Material Science, BASF SE, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Desirée L Plata
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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