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Reuse of Water in Laundry Applications with Micro- and Ultrafiltration Ceramic Membrane. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12020223. [PMID: 35207144 PMCID: PMC8879327 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12020223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This study compares the performance of a microfiltration membrane, made by silicon carbide (SiC) and an ultrafiltration membrane, made by zirconia (ZrO2), in the treatment of wastewater from a washing machine designed to clean industrial tents. The filtration of deionized water, containing model microplastics (i.e., nylon fiber), was performed. This was followed by the filtration of real wastewater from a single washing cycle of industrial tents, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) textile. The filtration parameters of the membranes and physical-chemical parameters of the wastewater, including the concentration of microplastics in the shape of tent fibers (PVC), were calculated before and after filtration. The microfiltration membrane manifested a greater decrease in permeability (95%) compared to the ultrafiltration membrane (37%). The resulting water quality in terms of Total Solids, turbidity, and microplastics concentration was better for the ultrafiltration. This is evident from 99.2% versus 98.55% removal efficiency of microplastics from the laundering wastewater, respectively.
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52
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Zhang J, Choi CE. Improved Settling Velocity for Microplastic Fibers: A New Shape-Dependent Drag Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:962-973. [PMID: 34963046 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c06188] [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] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are abundant in aquatic environments and are an emerging environmental concern. The prediction of their settling velocities is central to predictions of the residence time and concentration depth profiles of microplastics in aquatic environments. The main scientific challenge in improving the current understanding of the settling motions of microplastics is that existing drag models are deficient at reasonably predicting the settling velocities of various microplastics, especially microplastic fibers. This is because the shape factors used in the existing drag models cannot morphologically distinguish fibers from fragments and films. In this study, a new shape factor, specifically the Aschenbrenner shape factor, is proposed as a vehicle to explicitly distinguish among the morphologies of fibers, films, and fragments. With this new shape factor, a new drag model is developed and then systematically evaluated against the unique set of data provided by new experiments conducted in this study along with four other published data sets in the literature. The proposed model allows the prediction of the terminal settling velocity of microplastic fibers more accurately than existing drag models. Moreover, the new model has also shown its applicability to microplastic films and fragments. Notwithstanding, the new model appears deficient at reasonably predicting the terminal settling velocity of weathered microplastics in the field, which requires further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Zhang
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Clarence Edward Choi
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong SAR
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53
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Wang X, Zhu L, Liu K, Li D. Prevalence of microplastic fibers in the marginal sea water column off southeast China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 804:150138. [PMID: 34517308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) fibers are present in all environmental media, yet little is known about their distribution, sources, and transport in the water column of marginal seas. In this study, we conducted an intensive sampling campaign in the marginal sea water column off southeast China, which is an area that is greatly influenced by high MP emissions. We found that hydrological effects largely regulated the spatial variations of MP fiber distribution and that MP fibers likely were not entering the South China Sea through terrestrial input from southeast China during the summer monsoon. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers were pervasive in the surface water (SW) (89.47%), subsurface chlorophyll maximum layer (SCML) (92.65%), and bottom water (BW) (94.29%) of the water column during the sampling period. Approximately 32% of MP fibers in the samples were smaller than 330 μm. The abundance of MP fibers in SW was significantly lower than that in the SCML and BW. Based on this observation, we estimated the inventory of MP fibers in the SW, SCML, and BW of the sampling area to be 1.377-1.378, 2.820-2.825, and 2.627-2.629 metric tons, respectively. These results improved our understanding of the source-to-sink process of MP fiber contamination in the water column of marginal seas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lixin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Daoji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China.
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54
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Amobonye A, Bhagwat P, Raveendran S, Singh S, Pillai S. Environmental Impacts of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: A Current Overview. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:768297. [PMID: 34975796 PMCID: PMC8714882 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.768297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing distribution of miniaturized plastic particles, viz. microplastics (100 nm–5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 100 nm), across the various ecosystems is currently a subject of major environmental concern. Exacerbating these concerns is the fact that microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) display different properties from their corresponding bulk materials; thus, not much is understood about their full biological and ecological implications. Currently, there is evidence to prove that these miniaturized plastic particles release toxic plastic additives and can adsorb various chemicals, thereby serving as sinks for various poisonous compounds, enhancing their bioavailability, toxicity, and transportation. Furthermore, there is a potential danger for the trophic transfer of MNPs to humans and other higher animals, after being ingested by lower organisms. Thus, this paper critically analyzes our current knowledge with regard to the environmental impacts of MNPs. In this regard, the properties, sources, and damaging effects of MNPs on different habitats, particularly on the biotic components, were elucidated. Similarly, the consequent detrimental effects of these particles on humans as well as the current and future efforts at mitigating these detrimental effects were discussed. Finally, the self-cleaning efforts of the planet via a range of saprophytic organisms on these synthetic particles were also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Amobonye
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Prashant Bhagwat
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sindhu Raveendran
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Trivandrum, India
| | - Suren Singh
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Santhosh Pillai
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
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55
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Belišová N, Konečná B, Bachratá N, Ryba J, Potočárová A, Tamáš M, Phuong AL, Púček O, Kopáček J, Mackul’ak T. Sorption of SARS-CoV-2 Virus Particles to the Surface of Microplastics Released during Washing Processes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:281. [PMID: 35010541 PMCID: PMC8750602 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The research aims at washing processes as possible sources of microplastics, specifical microfibers in wastewater, and the behavior of the virus particles SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater after the washing process as well as their ability to sorb to the surface of microfibers, released from washing processes. The conclusions of the research point to the ability of the virus to attach to possible solid impurities such as textile fibers (microfibers) occurring in the sewer and to the ability of wash water to influence their possible occurrence in the sewer. The highest efficiency (more than 99%) of removal virus particles was after washing process, using liquid washing powder, and washing soda. These findings may gradually contribute to a better understanding of the behavior of the virus particles in the sewer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Belišová
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (N.B.); (M.T.); (O.P.); (T.M.)
| | - Barbora Konečná
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, SK-811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Nikoleta Bachratá
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (N.B.); (M.T.); (O.P.); (T.M.)
| | - Jozef Ryba
- Department of Polymer Processing, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Alena Potočárová
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, SK-811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Michal Tamáš
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (N.B.); (M.T.); (O.P.); (T.M.)
| | - Anh Le Phuong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Chemistry and Technology, Centria University of Applied Science, Talonpojankatu 2, 671 00 Kokkola, Finland;
| | - Ondrej Púček
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (N.B.); (M.T.); (O.P.); (T.M.)
| | - Juraj Kopáček
- Biomedical Research Center–SAV, Institute of Virology, Dúbravská Cesta 9, SK-835 05 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Tomáš Mackul’ak
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, SK-812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (N.B.); (M.T.); (O.P.); (T.M.)
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56
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Yang T, Luo J, Nowack B. Characterization of Nanoplastics, Fibrils, and Microplastics Released during Washing and Abrasion of Polyester Textiles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:15873-15881. [PMID: 34784483 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c04826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (defined here as plastic particles smaller than 1000 nm) released during the daily use of plastic products are gaining increasing attention due to their potential effects on human and environmental health. Formation of nanoplastics has been reported so far for diverse plastic products under varying conditions of use. The washing of synthetic textiles has been identified as an important source of microplastic fibers (MPF) released to the environment. In addition, abrasion of textiles was shown to induce further fragmentation of fibers and subsequent formation of much smaller and shorter fibrils. The aim of this work was to identify whether washing and wearing of textiles also results in the formation of nanoplastics. We designed washing and abrasion experiments to investigate the morphology, number, and size of micro- and nanoplastics released from polyester textiles. Using a combination of techniques including scanning transmission X-ray microspectroscopy (STXM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), we were able to quantify nanoplastics (average hydrodynamic diameter 173-188 nm), microplastic fibrils (diameter 3 ± 1 μm, length 20-160 μm), and MPFs (diameter 16 ± 7 μm, length up to 5 mm). The presence of polyester nanoplastics was confirmed by the near edge X-ray absorption fine spectra (NEXAFS) of the nanoparticles in the abrasion and washing samples for particles larger than 100 nm. We estimated that in the abraded samples, 1 g of fleece textile released an average of 2.1× 1011 nanoplastic particles (1.4 mg), 1.4 × 104 MPFs (1.0 mg), and 5.3 × 105 fibrils (0.5 mg) based on SEM images and NTA. In the nonabraded samples, 1 g of textile released an average of 3.3 × 1011 nanoplastic particles (2.1 mg), 2.8 × 103 MPFs (0.2 mg), and no fibrils. The present study is the first to show a significant release of polyester nanoplastics during the washing and abrasion of synthetic textiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yang
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Jialuo Luo
- Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
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57
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Choi S, Kwon M, Park MJ, Kim J. Characterization of Microplastics Released Based on Polyester Fabric Construction during Washing and Drying. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13244277. [PMID: 34960828 PMCID: PMC8709424 DOI: 10.3390/polym13244277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
With the increasing production of synthetic materials, more microplastic fibers are being generated while washing clothes. Consequently, these particles are increasingly detected in the aquatic environment. Synthetic fibers produced via washing have a relatively high contribution to microplastic pollution. Hence, recent research on reducing the release of microplastic fibers is attracting considerable attention. In this study, fabric-specific analysis was performed by strictly controlling various factors, and each washing and drying process was improved by focusing on the mechanical factors affecting microplastic release. Furthermore, the mass of the collected microplastic fibers and their length distribution were measured. Fabric construction, including chemical composition and yarn type, impacted the microplastics released during washing and drying. Differences in the mechanical factors during washing helped to identify the physical factors affecting microplastic release. These results on the release of microplastics may provide a basis for developing a filter system that can minimize the unintended environmental consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sola Choi
- Material & Component Convergence R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
- Human Tech Convergence Program, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Miyeon Kwon
- Material & Component Convergence R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
| | - Myung-Ja Park
- Human Tech Convergence Program, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.-J.P.); (J.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2220-1192 (M.-J.P.); +82-31-8040-6221 (J.K.)
| | - Juhea Kim
- Material & Component Convergence R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.-J.P.); (J.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2220-1192 (M.-J.P.); +82-31-8040-6221 (J.K.)
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58
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan D Richardson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29205, United States
| | - Thomas A Ternes
- Federal Institute of Hydrology, Am Mainzer Tor 1, Koblenz 56068, Germany
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59
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Yang J, Li L, Li R, Xu L, Shen Y, Li S, Tu C, Wu L, Christie P, Luo Y. Microplastics in an agricultural soil following repeated application of three types of sewage sludge: A field study. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117943. [PMID: 34426179 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics were investigated in an agricultural soil to which three types of sludge were repeatedly applied: fresh municipal sludge (FSS1), fresh mixed sludge (mainly industrial sludge) (FSS2), and dry heat-treated municipal sludge (DSS). The percentages of microplastics <1.0 mm were 24.3 and 28.7-59.1 % in unamended and amended soils, respectively. Particles of this size accounted for 47.1-60.0 % of microplastics in different sludges and polymers of particle size <100 μm occurred in all soil samples and sludges examined. Fibers were the commonest microplastic type, ranging from 66.7 to 82.5 % in soil and 89.4-97.2 % in sludges. Polyester (PES) and polypropylene (PP) accounted for ~80 % of the total microplastics found in soil and poly-(styrene:acrylate) (PS-AC) microspheres were found in all sludge-amended soil samples examined. There was also a pronounced weathering effect on the surfaces of the microplastics in soil. Nine years of repeated sludge application led to the accumulation of microplastics in the soil. The abundance of microplastics was significantly higher in the municipal sludge (149.2 ± 52.5 particles kg-1) than in the mixed (68.6 ± 21.5 particles kg-1) or dried (73.1 ± 15.4 particles kg-1) sludge and this was related to the microplastic abundance in the sludges. This field study confirms that sludges are drivers of soil microplastic pollution and measures are required to minimize the inputs of microplastics to agricultural land.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Ruijie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; CAS Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Li Xu
- Beijing Research Center for Agricultural Standards and Testing, Beijing Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Yichen Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Simin Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chen Tu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Longhua Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Peter Christie
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yongming Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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60
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Kim D, Kim H, An YJ. Effects of synthetic and natural microfibers on Daphnia magna-Are they dependent on microfiber type? AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 240:105968. [PMID: 34583288 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Microfibers, which are sourced from textiles and some products from the fishery industry, are the biggest contributors to microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems. In addition to these synthetic microfibers, naturally derived microfibers can also be found in aquatic environments. However, there are limited studies on the ecotoxicity of natural microfibers. To shed light on this topic, this study assessed and compared the toxicity of natural and synthetic microfibers on Daphnia magna, using lyocell, polyester (PET) and polypropylene (PP) microfibers. To evaluate the adverse effect of microfibers on D. magna, after effects including depuration, food intake, growth, mortality, and immobilization rate were continually observed for up to 96 h after the initial 48 h of exposure to the microfibers. Immobilization rate decreased in the following order: PP, PET, and lyocell. However, the depuration of microfibers in the lyocell and PET treatment groups was similar, with higher mortality rates than in the PP treatment group. Furthermore, despite the high rates of food intake following exposure, the lyocell and PET exposed groups exhibited growth inhibition during the same period. This growth inhibition corresponded with, and was likely due to, reductions in the length of gut microvilli, probably an expression of gut damage, which is believed to have reduced nutrient absorption in the affected individuals. Based on the results of this study, it was confirmed that even natural microfibers, and not just synthetic microfibers, can have adverse effects on aquatic organisms. This study confirmed not only the toxicity of microfibers, but also the consequences of their after effects. These results could be the basis for future research on the after effects of microplastics on aquatic organisms and provide directions for further microplastic ecotoxicity studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dokyung Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Haemi Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Youn-Joo An
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea.
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61
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Royer SJ, Wiggin K, Kogler M, Deheyn DD. Degradation of synthetic and wood-based cellulose fabrics in the marine environment: Comparative assessment of field, aquarium, and bioreactor experiments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 791:148060. [PMID: 34119782 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As global production of textiles rapidly grows, there is urgency to understand the persistence of fabrics in the marine environment, particularly from the microfibers they shed during wearing and washing. Here, we show that fabrics containing polyester (one of the most common plastics) remained relatively intact (viz., with a limited biofilm) after >200 days in seawater off the Scripps Oceanography pier (La Jolla, CA), in contrast to wood-based cellulose fabrics that fell apart within 30 days. We also show similar results under experimental aquaria (in open circuit with the pier waters) as well as bioreactor settings (in close circuit, using microbial inoculum from the North Sea, off Belgium), using nonwoven fabrics and individual fibers, respectively. The fact that fibers released from synthetic textiles remain persistent and non-biodegradable despite their small (invisible) size, highlights concern for the growing industry that uses polyester from recycled plastics to make clothing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah-Jeanne Royer
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Kara Wiggin
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Dimitri D Deheyn
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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62
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Xue J, Samaei SHA, Chen J, Doucet A, Ng KTW. What have we known so far about microplastics in drinking water treatment? A timely review. FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2021; 16:58. [PMID: 34697577 PMCID: PMC8527969 DOI: 10.1007/s11783-021-1492-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been widely detected in drinking water sources and tap water, raising the concern of the effectiveness of drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) in protecting the public from exposure to MPs through drinking water. We collected and analyzed the available research articles up to August 2021 on MPs in drinking water treatment (DWT), including laboratory- and full-scale studies. This article summarizes the major MP compositions (materials, sizes, shapes, and concentrations) in drinking water sources, and critically reviews the removal efficiency and impacts of MPs in various drinking water treatment processes. The discussed drinking water treatment processes include coagulation-flocculation (CF), membrane filtration, sand filtration, and granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration. Current DWT processes that are purposed for particle removal are generally effective in reducing MPs in water. Various influential factors to MP removal are discussed, such as coagulant type and dose, MP material, shape and size, and water quality. It is anticipated that better MP removal can be achieved by optimizing the treatment conditions. Moreover, the article framed the major challenges and future research directions on MPs and nanoplastics (NPs) in DWT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinkai Xue
- Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Canada
| | - Seyed Hesam-Aldin Samaei
- Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Canada
| | - Jianfei Chen
- Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Canada
| | - Ariana Doucet
- Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Canada
| | - Kelvin Tsun Wai Ng
- Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Canada
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63
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Shen M, Zeng Z, Song B, Yi H, Hu T, Zhang Y, Zeng G, Xiao R. Neglected microplastics pollution in global COVID-19: Disposable surgical masks. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 790:148130. [PMID: 34091337 PMCID: PMC8164515 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
There have been many studies on the microplastic pollution, influence and control mechanisms of different plastic products. The potential harm of microplastic pollution to the environment has been confirmed. With the outbreak and spread of the COVID-19 in the world, disposable surgical masks as effective and cheap protective medical equipment have been widely used by the public. Disposable masks have been a new social norm, but they must have a sense of environmental responsibilities. The random disposal of masks may result in new and greater microplastic pollution, because masks made of polymer materials would release microplastics after entering the environment. Current results showed that masks are a potential and easily overlooked source of environmental microplastics. The release amount of microplastics in the static water by one mask was 360 items, and with the increase of vibration rate, the release amount also increased. The addition of organic solvents (detergent and alcohol) in water would increase the release of microplastics from masks. When the mask became fragments, the ability to release microplastic fibers into the environment was greatly improved due to the increase of exposure area. After two months of natural weathering, the masks become very fragile pieces and microplastics. A fully weathered mask could release several billions of microplastic fibers into the aquatic environment once these fragile fragments enter the water without reservation. The rapid growth of mask production and consumption and improper disposable is worrying. It is urgent to understand the potential environmental risks and significance of masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, PR China
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Huan Yi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Yaxin Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, PR China.
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64
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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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65
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Impact of Chitosan Pretreatment to Reduce Microfibers Released from Synthetic Garments during Laundering. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13182480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Sewage treatment can remove more than 90% of microplastics, yet large amounts of microplastics are discharged into the ocean. Because microfibers (MFs), primarily generated from the washing of synthetic clothes, are the most abundant type of microplastics among various microplastics detected in the sewage treatment, reducing the amount of MFs entering these treatment plants is necessary. This study aimed to test whether the amount of MFs released from the washing process can be reduced by applying a chitosan pretreatment to the garments before washing. Before the chitosan pretreatment, the polyester clothes released 148 MFs/L, whereas 95% of MFs were reduced after the chitosan pretreatment with 0.7% of chitosan solution. The chitosan pretreatment was applied to other types of garments, such as polyamide and acrylic garments, by treating them with 0.7% of chitosan solution; subsequently, MFs reduced by 48% and 49%, respectively. A morphology analysis conducted after washing revealed that chitosan coating on the polyamide and acrylic were more damaged than on polyester, suggesting that the binding strength of polyamide and acrylic with chitosan was weaker than that of polyester garment. Thus, the results suggested that the chitosan pretreatment might be a promising solution for reducing the amount of MFs generated in the laundering process.
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66
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How Relevant Are Direct Emissions of Microplastics into Freshwater from an LCA Perspective? SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13179922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitous in ecosystems and a lot of research is being performed to understand their environmental fate and effects on organisms. However, the release and impact of MP has so far not been considered in LCA studies. This is due to missing information on the inventory side about microplastic releases and missing Characterization Factors to quantify the effects of MP. The goal of this study was to elucidate the relevance of MP release into freshwaters from an LCA perspective, by using worst-case assumptions. In accordance with the USEtox framework, an interim and simplified Characterization Factor for the impact category of freshwater ecotoxicity was calculated to be 3231 PAF·m3·d·kg−1. Applying this Characterization Factor, two LCA case studies were conducted, one on a polyester T-Shirt and one with a shower gel containing microplastics. The results show a small contribution of microplastics to the freshwater ecotoxicity for a scenario with state-of-the-art wastewater treatment. Different scenarios varying in microplastic release and removal during wastewater treatment and a sensitivity analysis of the Characterization Factor allowed identifying the potential range of the microplastic contribution to the overall ecotoxicity. In conclusion, the inclusion of microplastic release into LCA only marginally influences the overall environmental effects of the two products in the LCA case studies.
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67
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Choi S, Kwon M, Park MJ, Kim J. Analysis of Microplastics Released from Plain Woven Classified by Yarn Types during Washing and Drying. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13172988. [PMID: 34503028 PMCID: PMC8433951 DOI: 10.3390/polym13172988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics reach the aquatic environment through wastewater. Larger debris is removed in sewage treatment plants, but filters are not explicitly designed to retain sewage sludge’s microplastic or terrestrial soils. Therefore, the effective quantification of filtration system to mitigate microplastics is needed. To mitigate microplastics, various devices have been designed, and the removal efficiency of devices was compared. However, this study focused on identifying different fabrics that shed fewer microplastics. Therefore, in this study, fabric-specific analyses of microplastics of three different fabrics during washing and drying processes were studied. Also, the change in the generation of microplastics for each washing process of standard washing was investigated. The amount of microplastics released according to the washing process was analyzed, and the collected microplastics’ weight, length, and diameter were measured and recorded. According to the different types of yarn, the amount of microplastic fibers produced during washing and drying varied. As the washing processes proceed, the amount of microplastics gradually decreased. The minimum length (>40 µm) of micro-plastics generated were in plain-woven fabric. These results will be helpful to mitigate microplastics in the production of textiles and in selecting built-in filters, and focusing on the strict control of other parameters will be useful for the development of textile-based filters, such as washing bags.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sola Choi
- Department of Material & Component Convergence R&D, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
- Human Tech Convergence Program, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Miyeon Kwon
- Department of Material & Component Convergence R&D, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
| | - Myung-Ja Park
- Human Tech Convergence Program, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.-J.P.); (J.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2220-1192 (M.-J.P.); +82-31-9082-6221 (J.K.)
| | - Juhea Kim
- Department of Material & Component Convergence R&D, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 15588, Korea; (S.C.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.-J.P.); (J.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2220-1192 (M.-J.P.); +82-31-9082-6221 (J.K.)
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68
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Kameda Y, Yamada N, Fujita E. Source- and polymer-specific size distributions of fine microplastics in surface water in an urban river. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 284:117516. [PMID: 34261221 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing concern about the environmental behaviors of microplastics (MPs), in particular fine MPs (FMPs), such as their concentrations, sources, size distributions, and fragmentation by weathering in waters. However, there is little information about size distributions of MP polymer types and their relationships to their sources. Here, we analyzed concentrations, compositions, and size distributions of 18 polymer types of MPs of >20 μm by micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with a novel pretreatment method in surface waters at five sites from the headwaters to the mouth of a Japanese river, and in influent and effluent from a sewage treatment plant (STP). The microplastic concentrations ranged from 300 to 1240 particles/m3 in surface waters. Cluster analysis identified two primary sources of MPs: residential wastewater at the headwater site and non-point sources from urban areas at downstream sites; concentrations of chemical contaminants from STPs were much higher at the downstream sites. The median particle sizes (D50) of MPs increased in urban areas at the downstream sites and were larger than those in influent and effluent. These results imply the release of larger MPs from non-point sources in urban areas. The size distributions of each polymer and all MPs could be fitted significantly to the Weibull distribution function. Values of D50, shape parameters, and scale parameters estimated from the functions were useful indicators for evaluating size distributions in detail. A significant positive correlation of D50 with the tensile strengths of virgin polymers among 13 dominant polymers detected in the surface water suggests that the fragmentation properties of each polymer are influenced by its physical strength. Multidimensional analysis with concentrations, polymeric compositions, and size distributions of MPs, including FMPs, could provide useful information about their sources and their environmental behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Kameda
- Chiba Institute of Technology, 1-17-1 Tsudanuma, Narashino, Chiba, 275-0016, Japan.
| | - Naofumi Yamada
- Chiba Institute of Technology, 1-17-1 Tsudanuma, Narashino, Chiba, 275-0016, Japan
| | - Emiko Fujita
- Chiba Institute of Technology, 1-17-1 Tsudanuma, Narashino, Chiba, 275-0016, Japan
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69
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Iroegbu AC, Ray SS, Mbarane V, Bordado JC, Sardinha JP. Plastic Pollution: A Perspective on Matters Arising: Challenges and Opportunities. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:19343-19355. [PMID: 34368521 PMCID: PMC8340096 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c02760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a persistent challenge worldwide with the first reports evidencing its impact on the living and nonliving components of the environment dating back more than half a century. The rising concerns regarding the immediate and long-term consequences of plastic matter entrainment into foods and water cannot be overemphasized in light of our pursuit of sustainability (in terms of food, water, environment, and our health). Hence, some schools of thought recommend the revisitation and continuous assessment of the plastic economy, while some call for the outright ban of plastic materials, demonstrating that plastic pollution requires, more than ever, renewed, innovative, and effective approaches for a holistic solution. In this paper, dozens of reports on various aspects of plastic pollution assessment are collated and reviewed, and the impact of plastic pollution on both the living and nonliving components of the environment is discussed. Current challenges and factors hindering efforts to mitigate plastic pollution are identified to inform the presented recommendations while underscoring, for policymakers, stakeholders, and the scientific community, the exigency of finding sustainable solutions to plastic pollution that not only encompass existing challenges but also future threats presented by plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austine
Ofondu Chinomso Iroegbu
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology
Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, CSIR, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Suprakas Sinha Ray
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology
Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, CSIR, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Vuyelwa Mbarane
- State
Information Technology Agency (SITA), 459 Tsitsa Street, Erasmuskloof 0048, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - João Carlos Bordado
- Centro
de Recursos Naturais e Ambiente (CERENA), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Paulo Sardinha
- Centro
de Recursos Naturais e Ambiente (CERENA), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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70
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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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71
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Liu Y, You J, Li Y, Zhang J, He Y, Breider F, Tao S, Liu W. Insights into the horizontal and vertical profiles of microplastics in a river emptying into the sea affected by intensive anthropogenic activities in Northern China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 779:146589. [PMID: 34030263 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Studies focused only on surface water may underestimate microplastic abundance in aquatic environments. This was the first survey to investigate the vertical (surface, intermediate, and bottom waters) distribution and composition of microplastics (MPs) in the water columns and surface sediments collected from an urban seagoing river in northern China. Microplastic abundance in the water columns ranged from 5.6 to 31.4 items∙L-1 and from 2141 to 10,035 items∙kg-1 dry weight (dw) in the surface sediments. Polyethylene dominated throughout the water columns to the surface sediments, in which low- and high-density polyethylene (LDPE and HDPE) were dominant in the water columns and surface sediments, respectively. The dominant shape of MPs was fibers/lines in both the water column and the surface sediment samples. Different from the estimations, the average abundance of MPs in the surface and intermediate waters was significantly lower (p < 0.01) than that in the bottom water, which may be due to the resuspension of small-sized MPs in the bottom water. As the MPs size increased, their vertical distributions in the water columns were more affected by the water depth. The results showed that MPs were detained in the water columns of river system, and the high concentrations of MPs in the bottom water could not be neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Central Environmental Laboratory (GR-CEL), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - JinAo You
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - YuJun Li
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - JiaoDi Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yong He
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Florian Breider
- Central Environmental Laboratory (GR-CEL), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Shu Tao
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - WenXin Liu
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface and Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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Sarkar DJ, Das Sarkar S, Das BK, Praharaj JK, Mahajan DK, Purokait B, Mohanty TR, Mohanty D, Gogoi P, Kumar V S, Behera BK, Manna RK, Samanta S. Microplastics removal efficiency of drinking water treatment plant with pulse clarifier. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 413:125347. [PMID: 33601144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are recognized as ubiquitous pollutants in aquatic environments; however, very little study is done on their occurrence and fate at drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). Though, the toxic effect of microplastics on human health is not yet well established; there is global concern about their possible ill effect on the human. Hence, the present study evaluates the occurrence of microplastics at different treatment stages of a typical DWTP with pulse clarification and its removal efficiency. In the test DWTP, raw water, sourced from river Ganga, was found to contain microplastics 17.88 items/L. Cumulative microplastic removal at key treatment stages viz. pulse clarification and sand filtration was found to be 63% and 85%, respectively. The study also revealed higher microplastic abundance on the sand filter bed due to the screening effect. The most frequently occurring microplastics were fibers and films/fragments with polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene as a major chemical type. The t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding machine learning algorithm revealed a strong association between microplastic abundance with turbidity, phosphate and nitrate. The test DWTP with a pulse clarification system was having comparable microplastics removal efficiency with previously reported advanced DWTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar
- Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India.
| | - Soma Das Sarkar
- Fisheries Resource Assessment and Informatics Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Basanta Kumar Das
- Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India.
| | | | | | - Bidesh Purokait
- Indira Gandhi Water Treatment Plant, Palta, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Trupty Rani Mohanty
- Riverine and Estuarine Fisheries Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Debasmita Mohanty
- Riverine and Estuarine Fisheries Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Pranab Gogoi
- Riverine and Estuarine Fisheries Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Santhana Kumar V
- Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Bijay Kumar Behera
- Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Ranjan Kumar Manna
- Riverine and Estuarine Fisheries Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
| | - Srikanta Samanta
- Riverine and Estuarine Fisheries Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120, India
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73
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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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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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Bharath K M, S S, Natesan U, Ayyamperumal R, Kalam S N, S A, K S, C A. Microplastics as an emerging threat to the freshwater ecosystems of Veeranam lake in south India: A multidimensional approach. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128502. [PMID: 33045504 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In the current scenario, microplastic, as a contaminant, is becoming an ecological threat to the freshwater ecosystem. The present study attempted to determine the quality and quantity of microplastic contaminants in water and soil samples at Veeranam lake in Tamil Nadu, India. It is very important to mention that the Veeranam lake in Tamil Nadu, is a major urban water source of the capital district of Tamil Nadu. Using Van Veen grab-sampling equipment and trawl methods, the study detected the presence of microplastics in 28 sediment samples and 31 water samples from the collected samples. In addition to this, the density separation was performed with zinc chloride solution using the Sediment-Microplastic Isolation (SMI) unit. The quantum of total plastic particle present in surface water were in the range of 13-54 items/km2 with a mean value of 28 items/km2. In the case of sediment samples, the amount of total plastic particle was found in the range of 92-604 items/kg with a mean value of 309 items/kg. The abundance of microplastic particles in water and sediments in various shape, colour, and composition as in the order of nylons > polythene > fibres/PVC > fragments > foam > pellets; dominant colours as white > red > black > green > blue and yellow at the sampling sites. In term of percentage of contaminant distribution, the study found that the collected water and sediment samples deposited with polymer type of plastic particles were nylon (39%), polyethylene (23%), polystyrene (19%), polypropylene (15%), and polyvinyl chloride (4%). The research work is a baseline study for the proposed site of Veeranam lake for microplastics contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikanda Bharath K
- Institute for Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai, 600025, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Srinivasalu S
- Institute for Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai, 600025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Usha Natesan
- Centre for Water Resources, Anna University, Chennai, 600025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramamoorthy Ayyamperumal
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Nirmal Kalam S
- Department of Earth Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, 608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anbalagan S
- Institute for Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai, 600025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sujatha K
- Department of Earth Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, 608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Alagarasan C
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Madras, Chennai, 600 025, Tamil Nadu, India
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76
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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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77
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Zhou Y, Wang J, Zou M, Jia Z, Zhou S, Li Y. Microplastics in soils: A review of methods, occurrence, fate, transport, ecological and environmental risks. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 748:141368. [PMID: 32798871 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The global prevalence of microplastics (MPs) poses a potential threat and unpredictable risk to the function and health of environmental systems. However, the research progress of soil MPs is restricted by the inherent technical inconformity and difficulties in analyzing particles in complex matrices. Here, we reviewed a selection of papers and then extrapolated a tentative standardized method for such analyses. The multiple sources of soil MPs in soil need to be quantified. Global monitoring data of soil MPs is far from sufficient. The interaction between MPs and different properties and environmental factors controls the migration and retention of MPs in soil. The migration behavior and key mechanisms of MPs in real-world environments remain to be determined. The presence of MPs threatens soil microbial-plant-animal ecosystem function and health, and may enter the human body through the food chain, although the extent of these hazards is currently debated. In particular, attention should be paid to the potential transport and ecotoxicological mechanisms of contaminants derived and adsorptive from MPs and of harmful microorganisms (such as pathogens) attached as biofilms. Although there exist preliminary studies on soil MPs, it is urgent to consider the diversity of MPs as a suite of contaminants and to systematically understand the sources, flux and effects of these artificial pollutants in time and space from the perspective of plastic environmental cycle. More comprehensive quantification of their environmental fate is undertaken to identify risks to global human and ecological systems. From the perspective of controlling soil MP pollution, the responsibility assignment of government manage-producer-consumer system and the strategy of remediation should be implemented. This review is helpful for providing an important roadmap and inspiration for the research methods and framework of soil MPs and facilitates the development of waste management and remediation strategies for regional soil MP contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Zhou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Junxiao Wang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Mengmeng Zou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Zhenyi Jia
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Shenglu Zhou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China.
| | - Yan Li
- College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, Jiangsu, China.
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Morgan SE, DeLouise LA. Further studies in translatable model systems are needed to predict the impacts of human microplastic exposure. OPEN ACCESS JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY 2020; 4:79-82. [PMID: 33163852 PMCID: PMC7644109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are a pervasive environmental contaminant that have been found in many media including water sources, soils, and foodstuff. Due to the worldwide presence and persistence of microplastic debris, human exposure is inevitable. Human exposure occurs predominantly through ingestion, although dermal and inhalation exposures are probable. Microplastic single exposure studies in aquatic species and fish have shown various toxic effects including those on reproduction and survival. In addition to potential intrinsic toxicity, microplastics often have chemicals adsorbed to their surfaces. Studies report that these chemicals can have innate toxicity that is modulated by the composition of microplastics. Both the impacts of microplastics alone and co-exposures with adsorbed chemicals exhibit size dependent effects. Analysis of the current literature has revealed published studies predominantly investigate the toxicity of microplastic exposure in fish and other aquatic species, with limited knowledge about the effects in mammals and cell lines. Toxicity has been shown to vary widely between taxonomic groups, suggesting inferring human health relevance will require model systems where human routes of exposure can be mimicked. Although it may be difficult to extrapolate the results from aquatic model systems to relevant human health impacts, they may suggest effects to investigate. In order to best estimate the short- and long-term impacts of human microplastic exposure, it is imperative that studies in model systems with increased similarity to human anatomy and cellular processes be done.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Morgan
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Lisa A. DeLouise
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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