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Šaravanja A, Pušić T, Dekanić T. Microplastics in Wastewater by Washing Polyester Fabrics. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15072683. [PMID: 35408015 PMCID: PMC9000408 DOI: 10.3390/ma15072683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have become one of the most serious environmental hazards today, raising fears that concentrations will continue to rise even further in the near future. Micro/nanoparticles are formed when plastic breaks down into tiny fragments due to mechanical or photochemical processes. Microplastics are everywhere, and they have a strong tendency to interact with the ecosystem, putting biogenic fauna and flora at risk. Polyester (PET) and polyamide (PA) are two of the most important synthetic fibres, accounting for about 60% of the total world fibre production. Synthetic fabrics are now widely used for clothing, carpets, and a variety of other products. During the manufacturing or cleaning process, synthetic textiles have the potential to release microplastics into the environment. The focus of this paper is to explore the main potential sources of microplastic pollution in the environment, providing an overview of washable polyester materials.
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Kılıç E, Yücel N. Microplastic occurrence in the gastrointestinal tract and gill of bioindicator fish species in the northeastern Mediterranean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 177:113556. [PMID: 35314392 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is an extremely emerging problem and its potential threats to the aquatic organisms were investigated worldwide. In this study, four different commercial fish species (Mullus barbatus (Linnaeus, 1758), Mullus surmuletus (Linnaeus, 1758), Mugil cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758), Saurida undosquamis (Richardson, 1848)) were used as a bioindicator to assess the microplastic pollution in the northeastern Mediterranean. The frequency of occurrence in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and gill was varied between 66-100% and 68-90%, respectively. The highest microplastic abundance was detected at the GIT of M. cephalus sampled from Asi River estuary. The majority of extracted microplastics were fiber, black in color and less than 1 mm in size. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated the most common polymer type as polyethylene. This study is the first study examining the microplastic existence in gill and results obtained in this study improve the knowledge about the relationship of microplastic ingestion in fish and environmental conditions in the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Kılıç
- Iskenderun Technical University, Faculty of Marine Science and Technology, Department of Water Resources Management and Organization, Hatay, Turkey.
| | - Nebil Yücel
- Iskenderun Technical University, Faculty of Marine Science and Technology, Department of Water Resources Management and Organization, Hatay, Turkey.
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53
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Ahmed R, Hamid AK, Krebsbach SA, He J, Wang D. Critical review of microplastics removal from the environment. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 293:133557. [PMID: 35016952 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Globally, microplastics pollution has become a serious environmental threat due to their multitude sources, widespread occurrence, persistence, and adverse effects to ecosystem and the human health. Addressing this multifaceted threat requires innovative technologies that can efficiently remove microplastics from the environment. In this review, we first overviewed the source, occurrence, and potential adverse impacts of microplastics to human health. We then identified promising technologies for microplastics removal, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches. A detailed analysis of the advantages and limitations of different techniques was provided. We concluded this review with the current challenges and future research priorities, which will guide us through the path addressing microplastics contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riaz Ahmed
- Institute of Environmental Engineering and Management, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Sindh, 76020, Pakistan
| | - Ansley K Hamid
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, United States
| | - Samuel A Krebsbach
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, United States
| | - Jianzhou He
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States.
| | - Dengjun Wang
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, United States.
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54
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Geyer R, Gavigan J, Jackson AM, Saccomanno VR, Suh S, Gleason MG. Quantity and fate of synthetic microfiber emissions from apparel washing in California and strategies for their reduction. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 298:118835. [PMID: 35051547 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic microfibers have been identified as the most prevalent type of microplastic in samples from aquatic, atmospheric, and terrestrial environments across the globe. Apparel washing has shown to be a major source of microfiber pollution. We used California as a case study to estimate the magnitude and fate of microfiber emissions, and to evaluate potential mitigation approaches. First, we quantified synthetic microfiber emissions and fate from apparel washing in California by developing a material flow model which connects California-specific data on synthetic fiber consumption, apparel washing, microfiber generation, and wastewater and biosolid management practices. Next, we used the model to assess the effectiveness of different interventions to reduce microfiber emissions to natural environments. We estimate that in 2019 as much as 2.2 kilotons (kt) of synthetic microfibers were generated by apparel washing in California, a 26% increase since 2008. The majority entered terrestrial environments (1.6 kt), followed by landfills (0.4 kt), waterbodies (0.1 kt), and incineration (0.1 kt). California's wastewater treatment network was estimated to divert 95% of microfibers from waterbodies, mainly to terrestrial environments and primarily via land application of biosolids. Our analysis also reveals that application of biosolids on agricultural lands facilitates a directional flow of microfibers from higher-income urban counties to lower-income rural communities. Without interventions, annual synthetic microfiber emissions to California's natural environments are expected to increase by 17% to 2.1 kt by 2026. Further increasing the microfiber retention efficiency at the wastewater treatment plant would increase emissions to terrestrial environments, which suggests that microfibers should be removed before entering the wastewater system. In our model, full adoption of in-line filters in washing machines decreased annual synthetic microfiber emissions to natural environments by 79% to 0.5 kt and offered the largest reduction of all modeled scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Geyer
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA.
| | - Jenna Gavigan
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA
| | - Alexis M Jackson
- The Nature Conservancy, 830 S Street, Sacramento, CA, 95811, USA
| | | | - Sangwon Suh
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA
| | - Mary G Gleason
- The Nature Conservancy, 830 S Street, Sacramento, CA, 95811, USA
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55
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Athey SN, Erdle LM. Are We Underestimating Anthropogenic Microfiber Pollution? A Critical Review of Occurrence, Methods, and Reporting. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:822-837. [PMID: 34289522 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic microfibers, a ubiquitous environmental contaminant, can be categorized as synthetic, semisynthetic, or natural according to material of origin and production process. Although natural fibers, such as cotton and wool, originated from natural sources, they often contain chemical additives, including colorants (e.g., dyes, pigments) and finishes (e.g., flame retardants, antimicrobial agents, ultraviolet light stabilizers). These additives are applied to textiles during production to give textiles desired properties like enhanced durability. Anthropogenically modified "natural" and semisynthetic fibers are sufficiently persistent to undergo long-range transport and accumulate in the environment, where they are ingested by biota. Although most research and communication on microfibers have focused on the sources, pathways, and effects of synthetic fibers in the environment, natural and semisynthetic fibers warrant further investigation because of their abundance. Because of the challenges in enumerating and identifying natural and semisynthetic fibers in environmental samples and the focus on microplastic or synthetic fibers, reports of anthropogenic microfibers in the environment may be underestimated. In this critical review, we 1) report that natural and semisynthetic microfibers are abundant, 2) highlight that some environmental compartments are relatively understudied in the microfiber literature, and 3) report which methods are suitable to enumerate and characterize the full suite of anthropogenic microfibers. We then use these findings to 4) recommend best practices to assess the abundance of anthropogenic microfibers in the environment, including natural and semisynthetic fibers. By focusing exclusively on synthetic fibers in the environment, we are neglecting a major component of anthropogenic microfiber pollution. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:822-837. © 2021 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha N Athey
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa M Erdle
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The 5 Gyres Institute, Santa Monica, California, USA
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56
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Maity S, Guchhait R, Sarkar MB, Pramanick K. Occurrence and distribution of micro/nanoplastics in soils and their phytotoxic effects: A review. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2022; 45:1011-1028. [PMID: 35060135 DOI: 10.1111/pce.14248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Some recent studies have reviewed the occurrence and phytotoxicity of micro/nanoplastics, but their distribution in the soil environment, mechanisms of uptake by roots and the mode of action are unclear. Thus, this review comprehensively represents the relative abundance of micro/nanoplastics in different soil types and their toxicities in plants with insights into their partitioning to different soil matrices, uptake mechanisms, and the mode of action. Partitioning of micro/nanoplastics to different soil matrices (like-soil particles, naturally occurring soil organic matters, pore waters and soil fauna) could modify their bioavailability to plants. The small micro/nanoplastic particles can be taken up by roots through the apoplastic and symplastic pathways. In this regard, cellular endocytosis and aquaporin might play a significant role. The shape of the polymers can also regulate their uptake, and the polymers with spherical shapes are more easily absorbed by roots than the polymers with other shapes. Bioaccumulation of micro/nanoplastic induces oxidative stress, which, in turn, causes alterations of gene expressions and different metabolic pathways responsible for plant growth, biomass production and synthesis of secondary metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhendu Maity
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU) Lab, Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
| | - Rajkumar Guchhait
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU) Lab, Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
- Department of Zoology, Mahishadal Raj College, Purba Medinipur, India
| | | | - Kousik Pramanick
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU) Lab, Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
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57
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58
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Arias AH, Alfonso MB, Girones L, Piccolo MC, Marcovecchio JE. Synthetic microfibers and tyre wear particles pollution in aquatic systems: Relevance and mitigation strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 295:118607. [PMID: 34883149 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Evidence shows that the majority of aquatic field microplastics (MPs) could be microfibers (MFs) which can be originated directly from massive sources such as textile production and shedding from garments, agricultural textiles and clothes washing. In addition, wear and tear of tyres (TRWPs) emerges as a stealthy major source of micro and nanoplastics, commonly under-sampled/detected in the field. In order to compile the current knowledge in regards to these two major MPs sources, concentrations of concern in aquatic environments, their distribution, bulk emission rates and water mitigation strategies were systematically reviewed. Most of the aquatic field studies presented MFs values above 50%. MPs concentrations varied from 0.3 to 8925 particles m-3 in lakes, from 0.69 to 8.7 × 106 particles m-3 in streams and rivers, from 0.16 to 192000 particles m-3 estuaries, and from 0 to 4600 particles m-3 in the ocean. Textiles at every stage of production, use and disposal are the major source of synthetic MFs to water. Laundry estimates showed an averaged release up to 279972 tons year-1 (high washing frequency) from which 123000 tons would annually flow through untreated effluents to rivers, streams, lakes or directly to the ocean. TRWPs in the aquatic environments showed concentrations up to 179 mg L-1 (SPM) in runoff river sediments and up to 480 mg g-1 in highway runoff sediments. Even though average TRWR emission is of 0.95 kg year-1 per capita (10 nm- 500 μm) there is a general scarcity of information about their aquatic environmental levels probably due to no-availability or inadequate methods of detection. The revision of strategies to mitigate the delivering of MFs and TRWP into water streams illustrated the importance of domestic laundry retention devices, Waste Water Treatment Plants (WWTP) with at least a secondary treatment and stormwater and road-runoff collectors quality improvement devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés H Arias
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida, 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Avenida Alem 1253, B8000DIC, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
| | - María B Alfonso
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida, 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga, 816-8580, Japan
| | - Lautaro Girones
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida, 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - María C Piccolo
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida, 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Geografía y Turismo, Universidad Nacional del Sur, 12 de Octubre 1198, B8000CTX, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Jorge E Marcovecchio
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida, 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Universidad Tecnológica Nacional-Facultad Regional Bahía Blanca (UTN-FRBB),11 de Abril 461, B8000LMI, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Universidad de la Fraternidad de Agrupaciones Santo Tomás de Aquino, Gascón, 3145, B7600FNK, Mar del Plata, Argentina; Academia Nacional de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (ANCEFN), Av. Alvear 1711, C1014 AAE, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Gao L, Wang Z, Peng X, Su Y, Fu P, Ge C, Zhao J, Yang L, Yu H, Peng L. Occurrence and spatial distribution of microplastics, and their correlation with petroleum in coastal waters of Hainan Island, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 294:118636. [PMID: 34890740 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the distribution, abundance, morphology, and composition of microplastics (MPs) in surface seawater and sediment of Hainan Island were systematically investigated. Seawater and sediment samples were collected from six functional zones, including harbor, industrial district, sparsely populated area, tourist area, residential area, and aquaculture area. The abundance of MPs in seawater was 0.46-19.32 items/L, with an average of 2.59 ± 0.43 items/L, which were similar to those detected in the South China Sea (e.g., Nansha (1.25-3.20 items/L) and Xisha (2.57 ± 1.78 items/L)). The highest level was detected in Qinglan Bay Estuary, and the lowest was in Sanya West Island. The abundance of MPs in sediment was 41.18-750.63 items/kg, with an average of 372.47 ± 62.10 items/kg; the highest concentration was detected at Tanmen Port, and the lowest was in Lingao sea area. It was detected that the MPs with smaller size exhibited a higher concentration in seawater. MPs were commonly black and white, and predominantly linear and fragmented in shape. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was the dominant polymer, which might be derived from laundry wastewater. The petroleum concentration was 0.02-0.21 mg/L in the investigated area, with harbors being the most severely polluted areas. Furthermore, this study also found that MPs pollution was positively correlated with petroleum in seawater, indicating similarities between MPs and petroleum-based sources of pollution. This study identifies the contamination and characteristics of MPs and their correlation with petroleum in Hainan Island, the biggest island in the South China Sea, providing important data for further research on protecting marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Gao
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China
| | - Zezheng Wang
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China
| | - Xianzhi Peng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Resources Utilization and Protection of Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuanyuan Su
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China
| | - Pengcheng Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resources Utilization in South China Sea, China
| | - Chengjun Ge
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China
| | - Jinjin Zhao
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Liang Yang
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Huamei Yu
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China
| | - Licheng Peng
- College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, China.
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60
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Tian L, Skoczynska E, Siddhanti D, van Putten RJ, Leslie HA, Gruter GJM. Quantification of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics and nanoplastics in sands, indoor dust and sludge using a simplified in-matrix depolymerization method. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113403. [PMID: 35151075 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An effective 3-step method for the quantification of mass of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics and nanoplastics (PET MNPs) in complex environmental matrices was developed based on a simplified in-matrix depolymerization. Liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with ultraviolet (UV) detection was used for detection and quantification. Recoveries for PET-spiked sand samples were 99 ± 2% (1 mg/L) and 93 ± 7% (30 mg/L). The limit of quantification (LOQ) for PET was 0.4 μg/g for sand, 1 mg/g for indoor dust and 0.2 μg/g for wet sludge. This method was applied to seven beach sand samples, 20 indoor dust samples and one sewage sludge sample. PET MNPs levels in sand samples were all below the limit of detection (LOD) of LC-UV (0.1 μg/g). The concentrations of PET MNPs in indoor dust samples ranged from 1.2 to 305 mg/g and the PET MNPs in liquid sludge was 1.5 mg/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Tian
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), Universiteit van Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ewa Skoczynska
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), Universiteit van Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Deepti Siddhanti
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), Universiteit van Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Heather A Leslie
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan M Gruter
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), Universiteit van Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Avantium Support BV, Zekeringstraat 29, 1014 BV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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61
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Bai X, Li F, Ma L, Li C. Weathering of geotextiles under ultraviolet exposure: A neglected source of microfibers from coastal reclamation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 804:150168. [PMID: 34520917 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Geotextiles are a group of polymeric materials widely used in coastal reclamation projects. However, long-term exposure to solar illumination deteriorates the performance of geotextiles, resulting in physicochemical changes and high risks of releasing microfibers. This study investigated the photoaging behavior of geotextiles and evaluated the capacity of geotextiles to release microfibers in coastal reclamation areas through a combination of field research and laboratory experiments. A field survey in the coastal reclamation area of Yancheng (China) confirmed that many geotextiles made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) existed on the beach, which was accompanied by a high value of carbonyl index of 0.70-0.93. The results from laboratory experiments revealed that ultraviolet exposure activated the photooxidative process and promoted the breakdown of PET geotextiles. Data of scanning electron microscope and laser particle analyzer showed that, initially, particles with the size of less than 1 μm were generated on the surface of geotextiles, followed by fragments with sizes of 1-100 μm falling off with the passage of time. The number of particles on the surface was calculated using Image-Pro Plus software and the maximum particle density was found to be around 2.52 million particles·mm-2. In addition, based upon the conversion of irradiance between the simulated solar and natural solar, it was roughly estimated that the annual emissions of PET geotextile fibers in coastal reclamation areas were 0.24-0.79 million tons all over the world. It is inferred that polymer-made geotextile is a significant source of microplastic pollution in reclamation zones of coastal areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Fengjie Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Lingyu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; Shanghai Waterway Engineering Design and Consulting Co., Ltd, Pudong Avenue No. 850, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Chang Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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Wei L, Wang D, Aierken R, Wu F, Dai Y, Wang X, Fang C, Zhao L, Zhen Y. The prevalence and potential implications of microplastic contamination in marine fishes from Xiamen Bay, China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113306. [PMID: 35090291 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The wide presence of microplastics (MPs) in the ocean leads their exposure on marine fish. MP contamination was reported for the gastrointestinal tracts and gills of 117 marine fishes attributed to nine species from Xiamen Bay, a special economic zone in China. Among species, MP abundance ranged from 1.07 items individual-1 to 8.00 items individual -1. Fibers dominated MP shapes, accounting for 59.03% of all MPs. Polymer composition was dominated by polyamide (26.97%) and rayon (17.56%). MPs were most commonly (55.22%) transparent, and most (77.61%) were < 1 mm in size. Our report represents the first of MP contamination in wild marine fish from Xiamen Bay, which we determine to be at an intermediate to slightly higher level compared with levels reported elsewhere, and provides further insights into potential risks of MPs pose to fish and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Wei
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China; Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Daling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Reyilamu Aierken
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Fuxing Wu
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yufei Dai
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Xianyan Wang
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Chao Fang
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Liyuan Zhao
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Yu Zhen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao 266237, China.
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Atici AA. The first evidence of microplastic uptake in natural freshwater mussel, Unio stevenianus from Karasu River, Turkey. Biomarkers 2021; 27:118-126. [PMID: 34918612 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2021.2020335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Microplastic pollution is a major problem that threatens freshwater mussels as well as marine bivalves, since these filter-feeding organisms are directly exposed to microplastics in the water column. There is no study on the microplastic contamination of Unio stevenianus as a bioindicator organism. The aim of this study is to determine the microplastic contamination in U. stevenianus. MATERIALS AND METHODS In total, 32 U. stevenianus were obtained from three different sites from Karasu River, in October 2020. The soft tissue of each mussel was digested and filtered. The filters with microplastics were observed under a stereomicroscope. RESULTS A total of 1,253 microplastics, ranging from 0.81 to 6.69 items/gram (mean 2.85 ± 1.27 items/g) and 13.00 to 84.73 items/individual (mean 39.15 ± 16.95 items/individual), were extracted from soft tissues of mussel for all stations. The dominant of the detected microplastics consisted of fragment (48.8%) followed by fiber (47.5%) types, and ˂0.1 mm size (44.8%), irregular shape (48.7%) and black coloured (48.8%) items were the most uptaked microplastics. CONCLUSION This study indicated that U. stevenianus has a lot of pollution where there are a lot of microplastics in the river.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ataman Altug Atici
- Department of Fisheries Basic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
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Particle Characterization of Washing Process Effluents by Laser Diffraction Technique. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14247781. [PMID: 34947374 PMCID: PMC8704885 DOI: 10.3390/ma14247781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The dominant type of polymer particles in water, sediment, and various organisms partly derives from natural and synthetic fibres released in the washing process. Pollution of aquatic recipients with these particles poses an interdisciplinary problem throughout the world. Wastewater from washing represents a dispersion system with different particle sizes that is also loaded with the source of the particles. Due to this complex system, the qualification and quantification of this type of pollution is difficult. In this paper, the laser diffraction technique was applied to characterize particles in effluents from washing and rinsing materials made of a mixture of cotton and polyester. The results obtained through the analysis prove that the laser diffraction technique is acceptable for the characterization of a composite effluent sample. The advanced statistical technique of multivariate analysis confirmed the interrelationship of the parameters of this complex dispersion system.
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Tiller R, Booth A, Kubowicz S, Jahren S. Co-production of future scenarios of policy action plans in a science-policy-industry interface - The case of microfibre pollution from waste water treatment plants in Norway. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113062. [PMID: 34744010 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
One of the ambitions of the UN Decade of Ocean Science is stakeholder interaction to co-produce new ideas and solutions for policy action plans to ensure that environmental challenges are mitigated in a timely manner. Regulations around the release of microfibres are largely lacking, and we are at an excellent point of departure to test integrative methods of such co-production. We co-designed conceptual maps and Bayesian Belief Networks with probabilistic future scenarios within both inter- and intra-sectoral workshops with industry and scientific stakeholders to gain comparable results of policy action scenarios for curbing the challenge of microfibre pollution within this context. We found that when scientists worked on this alone, their focus was different than when working together with industry directly. Scientists focused on methods for avoiding release into the environment from a technical vantage point, whereas industry emphasized regulatory requirements needed to avoid ambiguity within the sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tiller
- SINTEF Ocean, Brattørkaia 17C, 7010 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Andy Booth
- SINTEF Ocean, Brattørkaia 17C, 7010 Trondheim, Norway.
| | | | - Susie Jahren
- AION by AkerBiomarine, Oksenøyveien 10, P.O. Box 496, 1327 Lysaker, Norway.
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66
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Vivekanand AC, Mohapatra S, Tyagi VK. Microplastics in aquatic environment: Challenges and perspectives. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 282:131151. [PMID: 34470176 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics in the aquatic environment has become a growing concern globally. Microplastics pose a hazard to the ecological system, and their presence, particularly in the water, has an adverse impact on human health and the ecosystem. Microplastics are released into the environment directly from everyday used plastic items, degradation of plastics, industries, and wastewater treatment plants. Once these contaminants enter the water, aquatic life feeds on them, and microplastics enter the food chain and cause severe health hazards. An assessment of microplastics' ecological risks is essential; however, it is challenging in the present scenario due to limited information available. To fill these knowledge gaps, this paper comprehensively reviews the sources and transport of microplastics in the water environment and their environmental and health effects, global policy frameworks, analytical techniques for microplastic detection, and control strategies to prevent microplastics release in the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanjeeb Mohapatra
- NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 1-Create Way, #15-02 Create Tower, 138602, Singapore
| | - Vinay Kumar Tyagi
- Environmental Biotechnology Group (EBiTG), Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
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Periyasamy AP. Evaluation of microfiber release from jeans: the impact of different washing conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:58570-58582. [PMID: 34115293 PMCID: PMC8536618 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14761-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic particles are a burgeoning population crisis in the marine environment. This research examines the emission of microfibers from three different jeans (garments) during domestic washing. The jeans types, washing temperature, washing duration, spin speed, detergent types, and addition of conditioner are the main factors for this research work. The average length and diameter of the microfibers for the 100% PET jeans (jeans-P) has 7800 ± 4000 μm and 11.9±3.2 μm and for polyester/cotton jeans (jeans-PB) has 4900 ± 2200 μm 17.4±4.8 μm, respectively. The maximum microfiber released was observed in the rigorous washing treatment (90 min, 60°C, 1400 rpm, powder detergent with the presence of conditioner). The surmised number of microfibers discharged from the 1 kg wash load of jeans-P was calculated within the extent of 2300000-4900000 microfibers, and it is varied by the washing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aravin Prince Periyasamy
- Textile Chemistry, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, Espoo, 02150, Finland.
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68
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Glover CM, Liu Y, Liu J. Assessing the risk from trace organic contaminants released via greywater irrigation to the aquatic environment. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 205:117664. [PMID: 34583205 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Onsite non-potable reuse of greywater reduces the energy costs associated with the transport of wastewater and the stress on traditional source waters. However, greywater contains trace organic contaminants (TOrCs) that can be harmful to the aquatic environment when released via irrigation. In this work, the risk associated with TOrCs was evaluated for two potential irrigation scenarios, the use of untreated greywater and the use of greywater treated via conventional activated sludge. Risk quotient (RQ) ratios were calculated using the maximum concentration of each compound in the untreated or treated greywater divided by the relevant aquatic predicted no effect concentration. The TOrCs with RQs > 0.1 or 1 were classified as moderate and high priority, respectively. A review of greywater literature showed that a total of 350 compounds have been detected, with 132 classified as moderate or high priority in untreated greywater. Post-treatment 44 TOrCs remained as high priority due to high concentrations in greywater and/or poor removal during treatment, but only 14 of them were detected in multiple geographic locations. The final list of 14 TOrCs includes plasticizers/flame retardants (di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, bisphenol A, and triphenyl phosphate), surfactants/preservatives/fragrances (4-nonylphenol, benzyldimethyl dodecylammonium chloride, tonalide, methylparaben, and 2-6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol), UV-filters (benzophenone-3 and octocrylene), and pharmaceuticals/antibiotics (acetaminophen, trimethoprim, caffeine, and triclosan). This subset of TOrCs would be useful surrogates to monitor during greywater treatment for irrigation as potential hazards for nearby aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin M Glover
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0C3, Canada.
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0C3, Canada.
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Volgare M, De Falco F, Avolio R, Castaldo R, Errico ME, Gentile G, Ambrogi V, Cocca M. Washing load influences the microplastic release from polyester fabrics by affecting wettability and mechanical stress. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19479. [PMID: 34593897 PMCID: PMC8484352 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98836-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics released from textiles during the washing process represent the most prevalent type of microparticles found in different environmental compartments and ecosystems around the world. Release of microfibres during the washing process of synthetic textiles is due to the mechanical and chemical stresses that clothes undergo in washing machines. Several washing process parameters, conditions, formulations of laundering additives have been correlated to microfibre release and some of them have been identified to affect microfibre release during washing process, while no correlation has been evaluated between microfibre release and washing load. In the present study, microfibre release was evaluated as function of the washing load in a real washing process, indicating a progressive decrease of microfibre release with increasing washing load. The quantity of released microfibres increased by around 5 times by decreasing the washing load due to a synergistic effect between water-volume to fabric ratio and mechanical stress during washing. Moreover, the higher mechanical stress to which the fabric is subjected in the case of a low washing load, hinders the discrimination of the effect on the release of other washing parameters like the type of detergent and laundry additives used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Volgare
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, P.Le Tecchio, 80, 80125, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca De Falco
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy. .,School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, Devon, UK.
| | - Roberto Avolio
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Rachele Castaldo
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Maria Emanuela Errico
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Gennaro Gentile
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Veronica Ambrogi
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, P.Le Tecchio, 80, 80125, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy.
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Expósito N, Rovira J, Sierra J, Folch J, Schuhmacher M. Microplastics levels, size, morphology and composition in marine water, sediments and sand beaches. Case study of Tarragona coast (western Mediterranean). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 786:147453. [PMID: 33964765 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mediterranean Sea has been proposed as the sixth greatest accumulation zone for marine litter and the most affected regarding to microplastics (MPs). Tarragona (Catalonia, NE Spain) coastal region suffers high pressure due to urbanization, tourism, industrial harbour and petrochemical/plastic industries. The present study aims to quantify and characterize in size, morphology and composition the MPs present in sandy beaches, marine sediments, and surface seawaters of Tarragona coastal region. MPs mean abundance were 1.30 items/m3 in surface seawaters, 32.4 items/kg in marine sediments, and 10.7 items/kg in sandy beaches. Polyester fibres were dominant MPs in bottom sediments and seawater meanwhile polyethylene and polypropylene fragments were the main MPs in beaches. The fibres balls associated with bottom sediments, organic matter and plankton were abundant, masking the real quantity of fibres in each reservoir. The abundance by volume of seawater MPs was higher to those found in oceanic areas and similar to other areas of Mediterranean Sea, corroborating that Western Mediterranean Sea as a region of MPs accumulation. MPs composition and abundance suggested the input of numerous land-base-sources, WWTP (wastewater treatment plants) effluents discharges, and emissaries as the most important. Marine MPs pollution were studied from an integrative point of view, that includes superficial sea water, sand from beaches and sediments. The dynamics of MPs in Tarragona coast were characterized by seawater as the media that receive and facilitate dispersion and fragmentation. The shoreline acts as an intermediate reservoir with constant weathering and active exchange with seawater surface and the sediments acts as a significant sink for medium MPs sizes. It is necessary to develop protocols and guidelines for MPs analysis to obtain harmonized and comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Expósito
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Sierra
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Soil Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jaume Folch
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
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71
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Adams JK, Dean BY, Athey SN, Jantunen LM, Bernstein S, Stern G, Diamond ML, Finkelstein SA. Anthropogenic particles (including microfibers and microplastics) in marine sediments of the Canadian Arctic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 784:147155. [PMID: 34088044 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We report the first Canadian Arctic-wide study of anthropogenic particles (APs, >125 μm), including microfibers (synthetic, semi-synthetic and anthropogenically modified cellulose) and microplastics, in marine sediments from 14 sites. Samples from across the Canadian Arctic were collected between 2014 and 2017 from onboard the CCGS Amundsen. Samples were processed using density separation with calcium chloride (CaCl2). APs >125 μm were identified and a subset (22%) were characterized using Raman spectroscopy. Following blank-correction, microfiber numbers were corrected using Raman data in a novel approach to subtract possible "natural" cellulose microfibers with no anthropogenic signal via Raman spectroscopy, to estimate the proportion of cellulose microfibers that are of confirmed anthropogenic origin. Of all microfibers examined by Raman spectroscopy, 51% were anthropogenic cellulose, 11% were synthetic polymers, and 7% were extruded fibers emitting a dye signal. The remaining 31% of microfibers were identified as cellulosic but could not be confirmed as anthropogenic and thus were excluded from the final concentrations. Concentrations of confirmed APs in sediments ranged from 0.6 to 4.7 particles g-1 dry weight (dw). Microfibers comprised 82% of all APs, followed by fragments at 15%. Total microfiber concentrations ranged from 0.4 to 3.2 microfibers g-1 dw, while microplastic (fragments, foams, films and spheres) concentrations ranged from 0 to 1.6 microplastics g-1 dw. These concentrations may exceed those recorded in urban areas near point sources of plastic pollution, and indicate that the Canadian Arctic is a sink for APs, including anthropogenic cellulose fibers. Overall, we provide an important benchmark of AP contamination in Canadian Arctic marine sediments against which to measure temporal trends, including the effects of source reduction strategies and climate change, both of which will likely alter patterns of accumulation of anthropogenic particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Adams
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1, Canada
| | - Bethany Y Dean
- Air Quality Processes Research Section, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 6248 Eighth Line, Egbert, ON L0L1N0, Canada
| | - Samantha N Athey
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1, Canada
| | - Liisa M Jantunen
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1, Canada; Air Quality Processes Research Section, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 6248 Eighth Line, Egbert, ON L0L1N0, Canada
| | - Sarah Bernstein
- Air Quality Processes Research Section, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 6248 Eighth Line, Egbert, ON L0L1N0, Canada
| | - Gary Stern
- University of Manitoba, 586 Wallace Bld, 125 Dysart Rd. Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Miriam L Diamond
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1, Canada; School of the Environment, University of Toronto, 33 Willcocks St., Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E8, Canada
| | - Sarah A Finkelstein
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B1, Canada.
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Ramasamy R, Subramanian RB. Synthetic textile and microfiber pollution: a review on mitigation strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:41596-41611. [PMID: 34100210 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14763-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microfiber pollution is one of the recent threats to sustainability. Due to the increased use of synthetic textiles, microplastic fiber release to the environment has increased exponentially. This review aims to analyze the existing literature to identify the potential preventive measures to control microfiber pollution. The review consolidates the findings under the textile properties and laundry product category. The review results show that the use of finer count yarns with filaments and compact structures reduces microfiber shedding. Similarly, mechanical finishes like shearing and raising increase the microfiber release as they damage the fabric structure. A significant increment is noted in microfiber reduction percentage after the chemical (coating) finishing process. In the case of commercial products, the available external laundry filters are reported as more efficient than the in-drum devices in the market. An analysis of the existing regulatory norms showed that very few countries had developed their laws, and no global regulation and standards were found to test microfiber pollution. In the case of laundry filters, though they filter microfiber effectively, they do not prevent it, so it can be a control measure and not a solution for the issue. Out of the review results, it is identified that controlling the textile parameter is the only effective strategy to prevent the microfiber shedding from the synthetic textile. A proper production method and parameter will yield a textile that sheds lesser or no microfiber. However, no detailed research works are found in correlating these parameters together and indicate the potential scope for future research.
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73
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Vassilenko E, Watkins M, Chastain S, Mertens J, Posacka AM, Patankar S, Ross PS. Domestic laundry and microfiber pollution: Exploring fiber shedding from consumer apparel textiles. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250346. [PMID: 34242234 PMCID: PMC8270180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic fibers are increasingly seen to dominate microplastic pollution profiles in aquatic environments, with evidence pointing to textiles as a potentially important source. However, the loss of microfibers from textiles during laundry is poorly understood. We evaluated microfiber release from a variety of synthetic and natural consumer apparel textile samples (n = 37), with different material types, constructions, and treatments during five consecutive domestic laundry cycles. Microfiber loss ranged from 9.6 mg to 1,240 mg kg-1 of textile per wash, or an estimated 8,809 to > 6,877,000 microfibers. Mechanically-treated polyester samples, dominated by fleeces and jerseys, released six times more microfibers (161 ± 173 mg kg-1 per wash) than did nylon samples with woven construction and filamentous yarns (27 ± 14 mg kg-1 per wash). Fiber shedding was positively correlated with fabric thickness for nylon and polyester. Interestingly, cotton and wool textiles also shed large amounts of microfibers (165 ± 44 mg kg-1 per wash). The similarity between the average width of textile fibers here (12.4 ± 4.5 μm) and those found in ocean samples provides support for the notion that home laundry is an important source of microfiber pollution. Evaluation of two marketed laundry lint traps provided insight into intervention options for the home, with retention of up to 90% for polyester fibers and 46% for nylon fibers. Our observation of a > 850-fold difference in the number of microfibers lost between low and high shedding textiles illustrates the strong potential for intervention, including more sustainable clothing design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mathew Watkins
- Ocean Wise Conservation Association, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephen Chastain
- Ocean Wise Conservation Association, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joel Mertens
- Sustainable Apparel Coalition, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Anna M. Posacka
- Ocean Wise Conservation Association, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shreyas Patankar
- Ocean Wise Conservation Association, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter S. Ross
- Ocean Wise Conservation Association, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Dalu T, Banda T, Mutshekwa T, Munyai LF, Cuthbert RN. Effects of urbanisation and a wastewater treatment plant on microplastic densities along a subtropical river system. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:36102-36111. [PMID: 33686602 PMCID: PMC8277625 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13185-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Global freshwaters are increasingly threatened by pollutants emanating from human activities around watersheds. Microplastic pollution is an increasing problem for rivers worldwide, potentially threatening ecological integrity, ecosystem services and human health. We present quantifications and characterisations of sediment microplastic pollution in a subtropical river system in southern Africa, and relate distributions to wastewater treatment works, abiotic variables and urban environments. We additionally apply several diversity indices to decipher how microplastic types differ across the river system seasonally. Over two thousand microplastic particles were found across five sites and three seasons in the river system, comprising microbeads of various colours and microfibres. Microplastic concentrations were highest and most diverse in the hot-wet (mean range 76.0 ± 10.0-285.5 ± 44.5 microplastic kg-1) season as compared to the cool-dry (16.5 ± 4.5-27.0 ± 5.0 microplastic kg-1) and hot-dry (13.0 ± 4.0-29.0 ± 10.0 microplastic kg-1) seasons, and were mostly dominated by microfibres. However, no clear patterns were found in relation to wastewater treatment operations spatially, or in relation to abiotic variables in the river system. This study therefore finds a diverse range of microplastic types widely distributed in the river system that differ across seasons. Our results provide important, novel insights into plastic pollution in an understudied area of the Global South, and point to extensive pollution from sources outside of wastewater treatment works.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatenda Dalu
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit, 1200, South Africa.
| | - Thabiso Banda
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Ecology and Resource Management, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Thendo Mutshekwa
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Ecology and Resource Management, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Linton F Munyai
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Ecology and Resource Management, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Ross N Cuthbert
- GEOMAR, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Ozeanforschung Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
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Cai Y, Mitrano DM, Hufenus R, Nowack B. Formation of Fiber Fragments during Abrasion of Polyester Textiles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:8001-8009. [PMID: 34061503 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c00650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Fiber fragments are one of the dominant types of microplastics in environmental samples, suggesting that synthetic textiles are a potential source of microplastics to the environment. Whereas the release of microplastics during washing of textiles is already well studied, much less is known about the release during abrasion processes. The abrasion of textiles may induce fibrillation of fibers and therefore result in the formation of much finer fiber fragments. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of abrasion of synthetic textiles on the formation of microplastic fibers and fibrils. Fleece and interlock textile swatches made of polyester were abraded using abrasion tests with a Martindale tester. The microplastic fibers and fibrils formed during abrasion were extracted from the textiles and characterized in terms of number, length, and diameter. The microplastic fibers demonstrated the same diameter than the fibers found in the textiles (fleece: 12.3 μm; interlock: 12.7 μm), while fibrils with a much smaller diameter (fleece: 2.4 μm; interlock: 4.9 μm) were also found. The number of fibrils formed during abrasion in both textiles was higher than the number of microplastic fibers. The majority of the extracted microplastic fibers had a length between 200 and 800 μm, while most fibrils were between 30 and 150 μm, forming two distinct fiber fragment morphologies. The number of microplastic fibers formed during abrasion was 5 to 30 times higher than the number of microplastic fibers that could be extracted from non-abraded samples. The number of fibrils increased after abrasion by more than a factor of 200 for both fabric types. The fibrils formed during abrasion have diameters that fall within the inhalable size for airborne particles. The potential release of fibrils into air during wear of textiles thus raises questions about the human exposure to these materials. Since the Martindale tester can simulate a daily application scenario of textiles over a prolonged period only in a limited way, future studies are needed to establish the correlation between the test results with a real-world scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Cai
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen 9014, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Universitätstrasse 16, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
- Process Engineering Department, Eawag-Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - Rudolf Hufenus
- Laboratory for Advanced Fibers, Empa-Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen 9014, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen 9014, Switzerland
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76
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Vieira KS, Baptista Neto JA, Crapez MAC, Gaylarde C, Pierri BDS, Saldaña-Serrano M, Bainy ACD, Nogueira DJ, Fonseca EM. Occurrence of microplastics and heavy metals accumulation in native oysters Crassostrea Gasar in the Paranaguá estuarine system, Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 166:112225. [PMID: 33677332 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of contaminants in the marine environment is considered a global threat to marine organisms. Heavy metals and microplastics are two distinct classes of pollutants but there are interactions between these two stressors that are still poorly understood. We examined the potential relationship between heavy metals (Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, Hg, Pb) and microplastic particles in oysters sampled along the Paranaguá Estuarine System. The results suggested high levels of As and Zn in the bivalves, which are destined for human consumption. Microplastic particles were found in oysters from all sampled locations, demonstrating the spread of this pollutant in the marine environment and its ability to bioaccumulate in oysters. However, our data did not demonstrate a direct relationship between microplastics and heavy metals, suggesting that these particles are not the main route for heavy metal contamination of oysters in the Paranaguá Estuarine System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khauê Silva Vieira
- Laboratory of Marine Geology, Institute of Geosciences, Department of Geology and Geophysics/LAGEMAR, Fluminense Federal University, Avenida Litorânea s/n, 24210-340 Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - José Antônio Baptista Neto
- Laboratory of Marine Geology, Institute of Geosciences, Department of Geology and Geophysics/LAGEMAR, Fluminense Federal University, Avenida Litorânea s/n, 24210-340 Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Miriam Araujo Carlos Crapez
- Laboratory of Marine Geology, Institute of Geosciences, Department of Geology and Geophysics/LAGEMAR, Fluminense Federal University, Avenida Litorânea s/n, 24210-340 Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Christine Gaylarde
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology, Oklahoma University, 770 Van Vleet Oval, Norman, OK 73019, USA
| | - Bruno da Silva Pierri
- Laboratory of Fish Nutrition/LABNUTRI, Department of Aquaculture, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Miguel Saldaña-Serrano
- Laboratory of Biomarkers of Aquatic Contamination and Immunochemistry/LABCAI, Federal University of Santa Catarina, UFSC, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Afonso Celso Dias Bainy
- Laboratory of Biomarkers of Aquatic Contamination and Immunochemistry/LABCAI, Federal University of Santa Catarina, UFSC, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Diego José Nogueira
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-970, Brazil
| | - Estefan Monteiro Fonseca
- Laboratory of Marine Geology, Institute of Geosciences, Department of Geology and Geophysics/LAGEMAR, Fluminense Federal University, Avenida Litorânea s/n, 24210-340 Niterói, RJ, Brazil
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77
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Gaylarde C, Baptista-Neto JA, da Fonseca EM. Plastic microfibre pollution: how important is clothes' laundering? Heliyon 2021; 7:e07105. [PMID: 34095591 PMCID: PMC8167216 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Plastic microfibre pollution produced by domestic and commercial laundering of synthetic textiles has recently been incriminated in the press and the scientific literature as the main source (up to 90%) of primary microplastics in the oceans. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the most common microfibre encountered. This review aims to provide updated information on worldwide plastic microfibre pollution caused by textile laundering and some possibilities for its control. Release of microfibres during domestic washing and tumble drying, their fate in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and the oceans, and their environmental effects on the aquatic biota are discussed, as well as potential control methods at the levels of textile modification and laundry procedures. Environmental effects on aquatic biota are important; as a result of their small size and length-to-diameter ratio, microfibers are more effectively incorporated by organisms than other plastic particle groups. Simulation laundering studies may be useful in the development of a Standard Test Method and modification of WWTPs may reduce microfibre release into aquatic systems. However, improvements will be necessary in textile design and appliance design, and recommendations should be made to consumers about reducing their personal impact on the environment through their laundering choices, which can include appliances, fabric care products and washing conditions. Official regulation, such as that introduced recently by the French government, may be necessary to reduce plastic microfibre release from clothes' laundering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Gaylarde
- University of Oklahoma, Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology, 770 Van Vleet Oval, Norman, OK, 73019, USA
| | - Jose Antonio Baptista-Neto
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Geologia e Geofísica, Av. General Milton Tavares de Souza, s/n, 4 Andar, Campus da Praia Vermelha, 24210-346, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
| | - Estefan Monteiro da Fonseca
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Geologia e Geofísica, Av. General Milton Tavares de Souza, s/n, 4 Andar, Campus da Praia Vermelha, 24210-346, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
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78
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Mossotti R, Dalla Fontana G, Anceschi A, Gasparin E, Battistini T. Preparation and analysis of standards containing microfilaments/microplastic with fibre shape. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 270:129410. [PMID: 33418213 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic clothing represents a primary source of environmental pollution because of shedding of microfilaments during laundry washing or in textile processes. Although many approaches can be used for the evaluation of microplastic, there are no precise guideline to follow for the analysis labs. Here, an accurate method for the preparation of microfilaments standard suspensions to facilitate lab tests and the monitoring of microplastic in different matrices was developed. Different standard suspensions were prepared by using five different synthetic threads consisting of a different number of filaments cut with a predetermined length of 0.2 mm suspended in three different volumes of water. The suspensions were filtered and the microfilaments were counted. The number of microfilaments for each polymer solution were statistically elaborated with a logit model and the results showed that the probability of detecting them is higher than 95% when the concentration of microfilaments/L is lower than 200. Moreover, a relationship between the theoretical microfilaments contained in the samples and the detection probability of the single microfilament, for each suspension volume was highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Mossotti
- STIIMA-CNR Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systemsfor Advanced Manufacturing National Research Council of Italy, C.so G. Pella 16, Biella, 13900, Italy
| | - Giulia Dalla Fontana
- STIIMA-CNR Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systemsfor Advanced Manufacturing National Research Council of Italy, C.so G. Pella 16, Biella, 13900, Italy.
| | - Anastasia Anceschi
- STIIMA-CNR Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systemsfor Advanced Manufacturing National Research Council of Italy, C.so G. Pella 16, Biella, 13900, Italy
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79
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Tian Y, Chen Z, Zhang J, Wang Z, Zhu Y, Wang P, Zhang T, Pu J, Sun H, Wang L. An innovative evaluation method based on polymer mass detection to evaluate the contribution of microfibers from laundry process to municipal wastewater. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 407:124861. [PMID: 33387971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Clothes washing releases numerous microfibers, including microplastic fibers (MPFs). Although MPFs in laundry wastewater are an important source of microplastics (MPs) in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), credible quantitative assessments of their contributions remain limited. Polyester fiber is the most important textile fiber. Its component, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polymer, can be quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The release of MPFs from polyester clothes through washing was quantified via simulation experiments, and the MPFs in two WWTPs were measured by microscopic counting and LC-MS/MS. Direct comparison of the abundances of PET MPFs in laundry wastewater and WWTP influents led to an undervalued contribution rate of 9%-11% of the PET MPFs in laundry wastewater to those in WWTP influents. However, comparison of the mass of PET MPFs in laundry wastewater and WWTPs influents revealed that the PET MPFs from laundry contributed approximately 50% of those in the WWTPs. The latter was confirmed by comparing the number of polyester fibers released during clothes washing to the calculated number of "model MPFs" in WWTPs according to the PET mass concentration. Based on the PET concentration, the annual discharge of PET MPs from WWTPs to the water environment could also be estimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Tian
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiayao Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zhengzhuofan Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yujiao Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Institute for Future Initiatives, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
| | - Hongwen Sun
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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80
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Kärkkäinen N, Sillanpää M. Quantification of different microplastic fibres discharged from textiles in machine wash and tumble drying. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:16253-16263. [PMID: 33340055 PMCID: PMC7969573 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic fibres released in synthetic cloth washing have been shown to be a source of microplastics into the environment. The annual emission of polyester fibres from household washing machines has earlier been estimated to be 150,000 kg in a country with a population of 5.5 × 106 (Finland). The objectives of this study were (1) to quantify the emissions of synthetic textile fibres discharged from five sequential machine washes (fibre number and length) and tumble dryings (fibre mass) and (2) to determine the collection efficiency of two commercial fibre traps. The synthetic fabrics were five types of polyester textiles, one polyamide and one polyacryl. The number of fibres released from the test fabrics in the first wash varied in the range from 1.0 × 105 to 6.3 × 106 kg-1. The fibre lengths showed that the fleece fabrics released, on average, longer fibres than the technical sports t-shirts. The mass of fibres ranged from 10 to 1700 mg/kg w/w in the first drying. Fibre emissions showed a decreasing trend both in sequential washes and dryings. The ratio of the fibre emissions in machine wash to tumble drying varied between the fabrics: the ratio was larger than one to polyester and polyamide technical t-shirts whereas it was much lower to the other tested textiles. GuppyFriend washing bag and Cora Ball trapped 39% and 10% of the polyester fibres discharged in washings, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niina Kärkkäinen
- Laboratory Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Mustialankatu 3, FIN-00790, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markus Sillanpää
- Laboratory Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Mustialankatu 3, FIN-00790, Helsinki, Finland.
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81
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Zambrano MC, Pawlak JJ, Daystar J, Ankeny M, Venditti RA. Impact of dyes and finishes on the aquatic biodegradability of cotton textile fibers and microfibers released on laundering clothes: Correlations between enzyme adsorption and activity and biodegradation rates. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 165:112030. [PMID: 33561711 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The presence and biodegradability of textile microfibers shed during laundering or use is an important environmental issue. In this research, the influence of common textile finishes on the persistence of cotton fibers in an aerobic aquatic environment was assessed. The biodegradation of cotton knitted fabrics with different finishes, silicone softener, durable press, water repellent, and a blue reactive dye was evaluated. The rate of biodegradation decreased with durable press and water repellant finishing treatments. In terms of the final extent of biodegradation, there was no significant difference between the samples. All samples reached more than 60% biodegradation in 102 days. The biodegradation rates were in agreement with observed trends of the same samples for cellulase mediated hydrolysis and cellulase adsorption experiments, indicating the finishes impact the initial adsorption of enzymes excreted by the microorganisms and the initial rates of biodegradation, however despite this the cellulosic material maintains its biodegradability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marielis C Zambrano
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8005, United States
| | - Joel J Pawlak
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8005, United States
| | - Jesse Daystar
- Cotton Incorporated, Cary, NC 27513, United States; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Mary Ankeny
- Cotton Incorporated, Cary, NC 27513, United States
| | - Richard A Venditti
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8005, United States.
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82
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Praveena SM, Syahira Asmawi M, Chyi JLY. Microplastic emissions from household washing machines: preliminary findings from Greater Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:18518-18522. [PMID: 32935209 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10795-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been recognized as emerging pollutants with potential ecotoxicological impact. The contribution of washing machine use to microplastics emission at the household level is still not completely understood. This study aims to characterize microplastic emissions in laundry water from household washing machines from Greater Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). Microplastics were found between 6.9E-3 and 0.183 g/m3 in laundry water at household level. Microplastic shapes of fiber and fragment consist of polyester, nylon, and acrylic with average length of 2258.59 μm and were also identified in these laundry water samples. Questionnaire survey findings demonstrated fabric properties and washing parameters both likely contribute to microplastic emissions in laundry water and, ultimately, wastewater treatment plant influent. The impact of fabric properties and washing parameter factors on microplastic emission in laundry water at the household level merits further investigation. The findings of this study demonstrated the potential of laundry water as a microplastic source at the household level within a developing country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarva Mangala Praveena
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Melati Syahira Asmawi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Josephine Liew Ying Chyi
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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83
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Braun M, Mail M, Heyse R, Amelung W. Plastic in compost: Prevalence and potential input into agricultural and horticultural soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 760:143335. [PMID: 33199003 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
To maintain and improve soil fertility, compost application is a widely recommended practice. We hypothesized that this practice is, however, also a main entry path for plastic into soil. Hence, we i) quantified the prevalence of plastic in eight composts from different composting plants and hardware stores to derive estimations about related plastic inputs into soil, and ii) characterized the properties of these plastic residues in regard to size and shape for further risk assessment. Plastic remains were analyzed via density separation (ZnCl2) and light microscopy. Testing this method recovered 80 ± 29% of spiked plastic items. Applying this method revealed that all composts contained plastic particles in detectable amounts, with contents ranging from 12 ± 8 to 46 ± 8 particles kg-1, corresponding to calculated plastic weights of 0.05 ± 0.08 to 1.36 ± 0.59 g kg-1. Because of this high variability, an a-priori discrimination of plastic loads between compost types cannot be achieved. Upscaling these loads to common recommendations in composting practice, which range from 7 to 35 t compost ha-1, suggest that compost application to agricultural fields goes along with plastic loads of 84,000 to 1,610,000 plastic items ha-1 per year (a), respectively, amounting to 0.34 to 47.53 kg plastic ha-1 a-1. Large potential inputs should thus also occur for horticultural soils, where application rates of compost usually vary between 6.48 and 19.44 t ha-1, therewith resulting in a minimum plastic contamination of 77,770 plastic items and 0.31 kg plastic ha-1 a-1, but a maximum amount of up to 894,240 plastic items and 26.4 kg plastic ha-1 a-1. We conclude that compost application must be considered as potential source of plastic for both agricultural and horticultural soils, and technical solutions are needed to minimize these contamination risks while continuing this practice as important option to secure soil health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Braun
- Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Matthias Mail
- Nees Institute for Biodiversity of Plants, University of Bonn, Venusbergweg 22, 53115 Bonn, Germany; Institute of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany; Karlsruhe Nano Micro Facility (KNMF), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Rene Heyse
- Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), Soil Science and Soil Ecology, University of Bonn, Nussallee 13, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Wulf Amelung
- 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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84
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Pedrotti ML, Petit S, Eyheraguibel B, Kerros ME, Elineau A, Ghiglione JF, Loret JF, Rostan A, Gorsky G. Pollution by anthropogenic microfibers in North-West Mediterranean Sea and efficiency of microfiber removal by a wastewater treatment plant. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 758:144195. [PMID: 33338794 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The widespread pollution from the release of microfibers is an emerging concern as they are a potential threat to the environment. Their identification in samples in terms of quantity and pathways remain a challenge as contamination can be a major source of error. A systematic study of synthetic microfibers (MFs) has been carried out in different environmental compartments of an urban area and in the surface waters of the northwestern Mediterranean. The quantity, size and type of polymer of MFs were recorded in air, in waste water from a domestic washing machine, at the inlet and outlet of the Haliotis urban wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Nice (Provence Alpes Côte-d'Azur, France) and in a variety of coastal and offshore areas. The results showed that MFs released by clothes during washing (on average of 13 × 106 MFs per m3) are an important emitter of microplastics. Despite its high removal efficiency (87.5% to 98.5%) by Haliotis, a large number of MFs, estimated at 4.3 billion, enter the marine environment daily from the treatment plant. The attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) characterization of the raw materials showed that 14 to 50% of fibers are synthetic, mostly polyester and polyamide, the remaining 35 to 72% being natural polymers (cotton, wool) or manufactured by processing natural polymers (especially cellulose). MFs were found in all environmental compartments studied and appear to be widespread in coastal and offshore surface waters with concentrations varying from 2.6 × 103 to 3.70 × 104 m-3. The sources of MFs in the marine environment are multiple, with laundry fibers discharges from WWTP and the atmospheric transport of urban fibers are among the main pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Pedrotti
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, LOV, F-O6230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France.
| | - S Petit
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, LOV, F-O6230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France; SUEZ International, 183, avenue du 18 juin 1940, 92500 Rueil-Malmaison, France
| | - B Eyheraguibel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, SIGMA Clermont, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont, Ferrand, France
| | - M E Kerros
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, LOV, F-O6230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - A Elineau
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, LOV, F-O6230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - J F Ghiglione
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne, UMR 7621, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls, Banyuls-sur-Mer, France
| | - J F Loret
- SUEZ Groupe, CIRSEE, 78 230 Le Pecq, France
| | - A Rostan
- Régie Eau d'Azur, Rimiez, Nice, France
| | - G Gorsky
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, LOV, F-O6230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France
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85
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Zambrano MC, Pawlak JJ, Daystar J, Ankeny M, Venditti RA. Impact of dyes and finishes on the microfibers released on the laundering of cotton knitted fabrics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 272:115998. [PMID: 33199065 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The influence of common textile finishes on cotton fabrics on the generation of microfibers during laundering was assessed. Microfiber release was determined to be in the range of 9000-14,000 particles per gram of cotton fabric. Cotton knitted fabrics treated with softener and durable press generate more microfibers (1.30-1.63 mg/g fabric) during laundering by mass and number than untreated fabric (0.73 mg/g fabric). The fabrics treated with softener generated the longest average microfiber length (0.86 mm), whereas durable press and water repellent treatments produced the shortest average microfiber length (0.62 and 0.63 mm, respectively). In general, the changes in the mechanical properties of the fibers and fabrics due to the finishing treatments are the main factor affecting the microfiber release. The abrasion resistance of the fabrics decreases for durable press treatments and water repellent treatments due to the brittleness in the structure originated by the crosslinking treatment. In the case of the softener treatment, the fabric surface is soft and smooth decreasing the friction coefficient between fibers favoring the fibers loosening from the textile and resulting in a high tendency for fuzz formation and microfiber release. These findings are useful for the textile industry in the design and selection of materials and treatments for the reduction of synthetic or natural microfiber shedding from textiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marielis C Zambrano
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-8005, United States
| | - Joel J Pawlak
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-8005, United States
| | - Jesse Daystar
- Cotton Incorporated, Cary, NC, 27513, United States; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, United States
| | - Mary Ankeny
- Cotton Incorporated, Cary, NC, 27513, United States
| | - Richard A Venditti
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-8005, United States.
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86
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Setyorini L, Michler-Kozma D, Sures B, Gabel F. Transfer and effects of PET microfibers in Chironomus riparius. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 757:143735. [PMID: 33310567 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies in freshwater environments have verified that microplastic particles are present in water columns, sediment, and aquatic organisms. These studies indicated that certain freshwater ecosystems may act as temporary sinks of microplastic particles, leading to accumulation in the sediment and the ingestion by benthic organisms. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the non-buoyant polymers that has been frequently found in aquatic sediments. This study aims to investigate a possible transfer of PET microfibers from aquatic to the terrestrial habitats and addressed selected effects (i.e. survival, general stress response, and growth) of PET microfibers using Chironomus riparius, a frequently applied model organism in ecotoxicological research. To assess the growth and development of C. riparius, a modified 28-day sediment chronic toxicity test was conducted, in which the main endpoint is time until emergence of the larvae. In this assay, C. riparius were exposed to artificial sediments spiked with PET microfibers. In addition, weight and head capsule lengths of the larvae were also measured. As a general stress response marker on the molecular level, Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) levels were measured in two involved life stages, i.e. larvae and adults. Using staining method, ingestion of PET microfibers was verified in the adult sample. Our results clearly demonstrated that ingested microfibers by C. riparius larvae can be carried through subsequent life stages and end up in the adults. Accordingly, this is the first proof of aquatic-terrestrial transfer of PET microfibers for C. riparius. However, toxicity test results showed that there was no significant effect on the time until emergence, weight or head capsule lengths in the organisms exposed to PET microfibers compared to control organisms. HSP70 measurements showed no significant effects between control and exposure groups in the same life stage. The result suggests that PET microfibers in the applied concentration do not exert adverse effects both on organism and subcellular level in one generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Setyorini
- Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster, Heisenbergstrasse 2, 48149 Münster, Germany; Department of Aquatic Ecology and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5, 45141 Essen, Germany.
| | - Diana Michler-Kozma
- Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster, Heisenbergstrasse 2, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Bernd Sures
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Friederike Gabel
- Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster, Heisenbergstrasse 2, 48149 Münster, Germany
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87
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Sørensen L, Groven AS, Hovsbakken IA, Del Puerto O, Krause DF, Sarno A, Booth AM. UV degradation of natural and synthetic microfibers causes fragmentation and release of polymer degradation products and chemical additives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:143170. [PMID: 33158534 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
A high proportion of the total microplastic (MP) load in the marine environment has been identified as microfibers (MFs), with polyester (PET) and polyamide (PA) typically found in the highest abundance. The potential for negative environmental impacts from MPs may be dependent on their degree of degradation in the environment, which is influenced by both intrinsic properties (polymer type, density, size, additive chemicals) and extrinsic environmental parameters. Most polymer products break down slowly through a combination of environmental processes, but UV degradation can be a significant source of degradation. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of UV irradiance on the degradation of natural (wool) and synthetic (PET and PA) MFs. Degradation of MFs was conducted in seawater under environmentally relevant accelerated exposure conditions using simulated sunlight. After 56 days of UV exposure, PA primarily exhibited changes in surface morphology with no significant fragmentation observed. PET and wool fibers exhibited both changes in surface morphology and fragmentation into smaller particles. A range of molecular degradation products were identified in seawater leachates after UV exposure, with increasing abundance over the duration of the experiment. Furthermore, a variety of additive chemicals were shown to leach from the MFs into seawater. While some of these chemicals were also susceptible to UV degradation and some are expected to biodegrade rapidly, others may be persistent and contribute to the overall load of chemical pollution in the marine environment.
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88
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Lee J, Chae KJ. A systematic protocol of microplastics analysis from their identification to quantification in water environment: A comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 403:124049. [PMID: 33265057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
With microplastics (MPs) being detected in aquatic environments, numerous studies revealed that they caused severe environmental issues, including damage to ecosystems and human health. MPs transport persistent organic pollutants by adsorbing them, and in nanoplastics this phenomenon is exacerbated by increased surface area. Despite their environmental risk, systematic protocol for qualitative and quantitative analysis are yet to be established in environmental analytical chemistry. Current analytical technologies on MP identification have technological limits with regard to detecting small sized particles (<1 µm), underestimation of MPs with organic contaminants, and physico-chemically altered particles by weathering and photo degradation. According to the published works, MPs are spread in living organisms through the food web, and are even detected in bottled water. To determine its eco-toxicity and removal by biodegradation, its accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility should be ensured by establishing a systematic protocol of MP identification. This review compares procedures, applicability, and limitations of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and thermo-analytical methods for identifying MPs. Finally, it suggests systematic protocols for MPs analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, South Korea
| | - Kyu-Jung Chae
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, South Korea.
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89
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Kim L, Kim SA, Kim TH, Kim J, An YJ. Synthetic and natural microfibers induce gut damage in the brine shrimp Artemia franciscana. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 232:105748. [PMID: 33524702 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The increasing amount of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems is a significant environmental issue, with adverse effects on marine organisms including invertebrates and vertebrates. This study examined the effects of three types of microfibers on the brine shrimp Artemia franciscana as the test species. The brine shrimps were exposed to two commonly found synthetic microfibers (polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate) and one natural fiber (lyocell). The results suggest that the polyethylene terephthalate microfibers induced high mortality in A. franciscana, while the lyocell caused the least detrimental effects. Gut damage of microfiber-exposed A. franciscana was observed using the dye leakage in the gut layer, and the results show that gut damage occurred in all exposure groups of synthetic and natural microfibers. Overall, our findings indicate that gut damage induced by all three microfibers eventually led to adverse effects and mortality of A. franciscana, highlighting the harmful effects of microfibers, regardless of polymer type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang A Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hee Kim
- Advanced Textile R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan, 426-171, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhea Kim
- Human Convergence Technology R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan, 426-171, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn-Joo An
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea.
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90
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Lenaker PL, Corsi SR, Mason SA. Spatial Distribution of Microplastics in Surficial Benthic Sediment of Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:373-384. [PMID: 33283500 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The spatial distribution, concentration, particle size, and polymer compositions of microplastics in Lake Michigan and Lake Erie sediment were investigated. Fibers/lines were the most abundant of the five particle types characterized. Microplastic particles were observed in all samples with mean concentrations for particles greater than 0.355 mm of 65.2 p kg-1 in Lake Michigan samples (n = 20) and 431 p kg-1 in Lake Erie samples (n = 12). Additional analysis of particles with size 0.1250-0.3549 mm in Lake Erie resulted in a mean concentration of 631 p kg-1. The majority of polymers in Lake Michigan samples were poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and semisynthetic cellulose (S.S. Cellulose), and in Lake Erie samples were S.S. Cellulose, polypropylene (PP), and poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). Polymer density estimates indicated that 85 and 74% of observed microplastic particles have a density greater than 1.1 g cm-3 for Lake Michigan and Lake Erie, respectively. The current study provided a multidimensional dataset on the spatial distribution of microplastics in benthic sediment from Lake Michigan and Lake Erie and valuable information for assessment of the fate of microplastics in the Great Lakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L Lenaker
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, Wisconsin 53562, United States
| | - Steven R Corsi
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, Wisconsin 53562, United States
| | - Sherri A Mason
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, State University of New York at Fredonia, 280 Central Avenue, Science Complex 340, Fredonia, New York 14063, United States
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91
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Palacios-Mateo C, van der Meer Y, Seide G. Analysis of the polyester clothing value chain to identify key intervention points for sustainability. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE 2021; 33:2. [PMID: 33432280 PMCID: PMC7787125 DOI: 10.1186/s12302-020-00447-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Clothing is one of the primary human needs, and the demand is met by the global production of thousands of tons of textile fibers, fabrics and garments every day. Polyester clothing manufactured from oil-based polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the market leader. Conventional PET creates pollution along its entire value chain-during the production, use and end-of-life phases-and also contributes to the unsustainable depletion of resources. The consumption of PET garments thus compromises the quality of land, water and air, destroys ecosystems, and endangers human health. In this article, we discuss the different stages of the value chain for polyester clothing from the perspective of sustainability, describing current environmental challenges such as pollution from textile factory wastewater, and microfibers released from clothing during the laundry cycle. We also consider potential solutions such as enhanced reuse and recycling. Finally, we propose a series of recommendations that should be applied to polyester clothing at all stages along the value chain, offering the potential for meaningful and effective change to improve the environmental sustainability of polyester textiles on a global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Palacios-Mateo
- Aachen Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne van der Meer
- Aachen Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Gunnar Seide
- Aachen Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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92
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O'Brien S, Okoffo ED, O'Brien JW, Ribeiro F, Wang X, Wright SL, Samanipour S, Rauert C, Toapanta TYA, Albarracin R, Thomas KV. Airborne emissions of microplastic fibres from domestic laundry dryers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 747:141175. [PMID: 32781315 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
An emission source of microplastics into the environment is laundering synthetic textiles and clothing. Mechanical drying as a pathway for emitting microplastics, however, is poorly understood. In this study, emissions of microplastic fibres were sampled from a domestic vented dryer to assess whether mechanical drying of synthetic textiles releases microplastic fibres into the surrounding air or are captured by the inbuilt filtration system. A blue polyester fleece blanket was repeatedly washed and dried using the 'Normal Dry' program of a common domestic dryer operated at temperatures between 56 and 59 °C for 20 min. Microfibres in the ambient air and during operation of the dryer were sampled and analysed using microscopy for particle quantification and characterisation followed by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) for chemical characterisation. Blue fibres averaged 6.4 ± 9.2 fibres in the room blank (0.17 ± 0.27 fibres/m3), 8.8 ± 8.5 fibres (0.05 ± 0.05 fibres/m3) in the procedural blank and 58 ± 60 (1.6 ± 1.8 fibres/m3) in the sample. This is the first study to measure airborne emissions of microplastic fibres from mechanical drying, confirming that it is an emission source of microplastic fibres into air - particularly indoor air.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia.
| | - Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Jake W O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Francisca Ribeiro
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, EX4 4QD Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Xianyu Wang
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Wright
- Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, Kings College London, 4.133 4th Floor Franklin-Wilkins Building, Waterloo, United Kingdom
| | - Saer Samanipour
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; Norwegian Institute of Water Research, Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway; Faculty of Science, Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park, 904 GD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Tania Yessenia Alajo Toapanta
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Rizsa Albarracin
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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93
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Shruti VC, Pérez-Guevara F, Elizalde-Martínez I, Kutralam-Muniasamy G. Reusable masks for COVID-19: A missing piece of the microplastic problem during the global health crisis. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 161:111777. [PMID: 33099058 PMCID: PMC7574683 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- V C Shruti
- Centro Mexicano para la Producción más Limpia (CMP+L), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Av. Acueducto s/n, Col. Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340, México City, Mexico
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - I Elizalde-Martínez
- Centro Mexicano para la Producción más Limpia (CMP+L), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Av. Acueducto s/n, Col. Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340, México City, Mexico
| | - Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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94
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Wakkaf T, El Zrelli R, Kedzierski M, Balti R, Shaiek M, Mansour L, Tlig-Zouari S, Bruzaud S, Rabaoui L. Characterization of microplastics in the surface waters of an urban lagoon (Bizerte lagoon, Southern Mediterranean Sea): Composition, density, distribution, and influence of environmental factors. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 160:111625. [PMID: 32905910 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Compared to open sea environments, there is still limited knowledge about microplastic levels in semi-enclosed systems such as coastal lagoons. This work aims to assess the levels of MPs in the waters of an urban lagoon (Bizerte lagoon, northern Tunisia) and to study the effects of environmental factors on their distribution and abundance. Average concentration of total MPs was found to be 453.0 ± 335.2 items m-3. The upper 25 cm water layer of the lagoon is most likely to contain ~16.99 × 109 MPs items (which correspond to a total mass of 42.47 t). Fibers were the primary MPs types encountered, and most of MPs particles identified were white and clear-colored. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the predominant polymer types in Bizerte lagoon. Among the various potential plastic sources of MPs, unmanaged domestic plastic wastes are likely to be the major source of plastic pollution in the lagoon. Several environmental factors appeared to influence the distribution and density of MPs in the lagoon waters. These information contribute to better understand the dynamics of MPs in lagoons and to develop environmental management actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takwa Wakkaf
- University of Jendouba, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Béja, Research Unit of Functional Physiology and Bio-Resources Valorization (UR17ES27), Habib Bourguiba Avenue, Béja 9000, Tunisia; University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Science of Tunis, Laboratory of Biodiversity and Parasitology of Aquatic Ecosystems (LR18ES05), University Campus, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Radhouan El Zrelli
- University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Science of Tunis, Laboratory of Biodiversity and Parasitology of Aquatic Ecosystems (LR18ES05), University Campus, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia; SADEF, 30 Rue de la Station, 68700 Aspach-Le-Bas, France
| | - Mikaël Kedzierski
- Université Bretagne Sud, IRDL, UMR CNRS 6027, Lorient F-56100, France
| | - Rafik Balti
- University of Jendouba, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Béja, Research Unit of Functional Physiology and Bio-Resources Valorization (UR17ES27), Habib Bourguiba Avenue, Béja 9000, Tunisia
| | - Moez Shaiek
- Association Méditerranée Action Nature, 1 Rue d'Istanbul, 7000 Bizerte, Tunisia; Cabinet Thetis-Conseil, 1 Rue d'Istanbul, 7000 Bizerte, Tunisia
| | - Lamjed Mansour
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabiha Tlig-Zouari
- University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Science of Tunis, Laboratory of Biodiversity and Parasitology of Aquatic Ecosystems (LR18ES05), University Campus, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- Université Bretagne Sud, IRDL, UMR CNRS 6027, Lorient F-56100, France
| | - Lotfi Rabaoui
- University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Science of Tunis, Laboratory of Biodiversity and Parasitology of Aquatic Ecosystems (LR18ES05), University Campus, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia.
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95
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Napper IE, Barrett AC, Thompson RC. The efficiency of devices intended to reduce microfibre release during clothes washing. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 738:140412. [PMID: 32682545 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The washing of synthetic clothes is considered to be a substantial source of microplastic to the environment. Therefore, various devices have been designed to capture microfibres released from clothing during the washing cycle. In this study, we compared 6 different devices which varied from prototypes to commercially available products. These were designed to either be placed inside the drum during the washing cycle or fitted externally to filter the effluent wastewater discharge. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of these devices at mitigating microfibre release from clothing during washing or at capturing any microfibres released in the wastewater. When compared to the amount of microfibres entering the wastewater without any device (control), the XFiltra filter was the most successful device. This device captured microfibres reducing their release to wastewater by around 78%. The Guppyfriend bag was the second most successful device, reducing microfibre release to wastewater by around 54%; it appeared to mainly work by reducing microfibre shedding from the clothing during the washing cycle. Despite some potentially promising results it is important to recognise that fibres are also released when garments are worn in everyday use. Researchers and industry need to continue to collaborate to better understand the best intervention points to reduce microfibre shedding, by considering both product design and fibre capture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen E Napper
- International Marine Litter Research Unit, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, U.K..
| | - Aaron C Barrett
- International Marine Litter Research Unit, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, U.K
| | - Richard C Thompson
- International Marine Litter Research Unit, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, U.K
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96
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Belzagui F, Gutiérrez-Bouzán C, Álvarez-Sánchez A, Vilaseca M. Textile microfibers reaching aquatic environments: A new estimation approach. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:114889. [PMID: 32505958 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Textile microfibers are one of the most important sources within primary microplastics. These have raised environmental concerns since its recent identification as pollutants. However, there are still no accurate models to assess their contribution to the microplastic pollution. Hence, in this study, a method to estimate the mass flow of microfibers detached from household laundry that reaches aquatic environments has been developed. The method considers a set of parameters related to the detachment of microfibers, which are, basically: (1) the detachment rate of microfibers from different textile garments, (2) the volume of laundry effluents, (3) the percentage of municipal water that has been treated, (4) the type of used-water treatment applied, and, (5) the proportion of front- versus top-loading washing machines. In this way, 0.28 million tons of microfibers per year were estimated to reach aquatic environments, which is approximately half than the last published valuation. Finally, hypothetical situations were simulated to evaluate the reduction of microfibers by the modification of some of the parameters at different levels (consumer, government entities, and industry). Thus, depending on the implanted alternatives, microfibers that reach the aquatic environments could be reduced between 30% and 65%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Belzagui
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain.
| | - Carmen Gutiérrez-Bouzán
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain
| | | | - Mercedes Vilaseca
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain
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97
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Zhou G, Wang Q, Zhang J, Li Q, Wang Y, Wang M, Huang X. Distribution and characteristics of microplastics in urban waters of seven cities in the Tuojiang River basin, China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 189:109893. [PMID: 32979998 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution presents an increasing concern worldwide due to the large amount and potential risks. However, data on microplastics in the freshwater environment are still limited, especially in southwest China. This study investigated the microplastics distribution, characteristics and risks in urban water of different cities in the Tuojiang River basin in southwest China. Microplastics were found in all seven cities of the Tuojiang River basin and the concentrations varied from 911.57 ± 199.73 to 3395.27 ± 707.22 items/m3, among which Ziyang urban water had the highest microplastics concentration. Fiber (34.88-65.85%) was a typical and abundant microplastic type. The small size (0.5-1 mm) (27.27-66.67%) was predominant, and white (23.30-54.29%) was the dominant color among all samples. Polypropylene was identified as the main polymer type by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphological analysis by scanning electron microscopy indicated that the surfaces of the microplastics had many cracks and a multitude of particles were adsorbed onto it. According to correlation analysis, there was a significant positive correlation between gross domestic product(P=0.015<0.05) and gross domestic product of the secondary industries(P=0.014<0.05) of cities in the Tuojiang River basin and microplastics concentrations, demonstrating impacts of the secondary industries on the microplastics pollution. In addition, water bodies with lower oxidation-reduction potential tended to have higher microplastics abundance. In the Tuojiang River basin, microplastics pollution was more serious in location where water quality was poor. The polymer risk index (H) was calculated to assess the environmental risk of microplastics in different cities, and the results showed that Fushun sites had the highest risk in regard to microplastics. This study provides a valuable reference for a better understanding of the microplastics level and source identification in southwest China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanyu Zhou
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Qingguo Wang
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Jing Zhang
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Qiansong Li
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yunqi Wang
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Meijing Wang
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xue Huang
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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98
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Belzagui F, Gutiérrez-Bouzán C, Álvarez-Sánchez A, Vilaseca M. Textile microfibers reaching aquatic environments: A new estimation approach. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:114889. [PMID: 32505958 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-45909-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Textile microfibers are one of the most important sources within primary microplastics. These have raised environmental concerns since its recent identification as pollutants. However, there are still no accurate models to assess their contribution to the microplastic pollution. Hence, in this study, a method to estimate the mass flow of microfibers detached from household laundry that reaches aquatic environments has been developed. The method considers a set of parameters related to the detachment of microfibers, which are, basically: (1) the detachment rate of microfibers from different textile garments, (2) the volume of laundry effluents, (3) the percentage of municipal water that has been treated, (4) the type of used-water treatment applied, and, (5) the proportion of front- versus top-loading washing machines. In this way, 0.28 million tons of microfibers per year were estimated to reach aquatic environments, which is approximately half than the last published valuation. Finally, hypothetical situations were simulated to evaluate the reduction of microfibers by the modification of some of the parameters at different levels (consumer, government entities, and industry). Thus, depending on the implanted alternatives, microfibers that reach the aquatic environments could be reduced between 30% and 65%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Belzagui
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain.
| | - Carmen Gutiérrez-Bouzán
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain
| | | | - Mercedes Vilaseca
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, BarcelonaTech. C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain
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99
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Synthetic microfiber emissions to land rival those to waterbodies and are growing. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237839. [PMID: 32936800 PMCID: PMC7494121 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic microfibers are found virtually everywhere in the environment, but emission pathways and quantities are poorly understood. By connecting regionalized global datasets on apparel production, use, and washing with emission and retention rates during washing, wastewater treatment, and sludge management, we estimate that 5.6 Mt of synthetic microfibers were emitted from apparel washing between 1950 and 2016. Half of this amount was emitted during the last decade, with a compound annual growth rate of 12.9%. Waterbodies received 2.9 Mt, while combined emissions to terrestrial environments (1.9 Mt) and landfill (0.6 Mt) were almost as large and are growing. Annual emissions to terrestrial environments (141.9 kt yr-1) and landfill (34.6 kt yr-1) combined are now exceeding those to waterbodies (167.2 kt yr-1). Improving access to wastewater treatment is expected to further shift synthetic microfiber emissions from waterbodies to terrestrial environments. Preventing emissions at the source would therefore be a more effective mitigation measure.
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100
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Dalla Fontana G, Mossotti R, Montarsolo A. Assessment of microplastics release from polyester fabrics: The impact of different washing conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 264:113960. [PMID: 32375087 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.113960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic fibers account for approximately 60% of the total global fiber production, and polyester (PET) and polyamide (PA) dominate. Synthetic fabrics are now widely used in clothing, upholstery, carpets and other such materials. Textiles based on these materials have the potential to release microplastics (<5 mm in size) into the environment during production and cleaning actions. These particles are released in sewage effluents, as washing machine filters and wastewater treatment plants are not specifically designed to retain them and represent an environmental pollution that continuously increases the scientific and societal concern about their effects on marine biota and ecosystems. This study was focused on the determination of the amount of microfibers release from 100% polyester fabrics, in different washing conditions (programs and temperatures), comparing the use of detergent alone vs detergent with a stain remover. Microplastics released were characterized and quantified with gravimetric analysis, different microscopic, spectroscopic and thermal techniques. Tests were carried out in replicates to assess the data reproducibility and to show statistical differences between washing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Dalla Fontana
- CNR-STIIMA, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato, C.so G. Pella 16, 13900, Biella, Italy.
| | - Raffaella Mossotti
- CNR-STIIMA, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato, C.so G. Pella 16, 13900, Biella, Italy.
| | - Alessio Montarsolo
- CNR-ISMAC, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto per lo Studio Delle Macromolecole, C.so G. Pella 16, 13900, Biella, Italy.
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