201
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Railo S, Talvitie J, Setälä O, Koistinen A, Lehtiniemi M. Application of an enzyme digestion method reveals microlitter in Mytilus trossulus at a wastewater discharge area. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 130:206-214. [PMID: 29866549 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The ingestion of microlitter by blue mussels (450) was studied at a wastewater recipient area in the Baltic Sea. The mussel soft tissues were digested using enzymatic detergents and the detected litter particles characterized with FT-IR imaging spectroscopy. Microlitter concentration in seawater and WWTP effluent were also measured. Microlitter was found in 66% of the mussels. Mussels from the WWTP recipient had higher microlitter content compared to those collected at the reference site. Plastics made up 8% of all the analysed microlitter particles. The dominating litter types were fibres (~90% of all microlitter), 42% of which were cotton, 17% linen, 17% viscose and 4% polyester. The risk of airborne contamination during laboratory work was lowered when mussels were digested with their shells on instead of dissecting them first. The approach was found applicable and gentle to both non-synthetic and synthetic materials including fragile fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saana Railo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 65, FI-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland; Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Julia Talvitie
- Department of Built Environment, Aalto University, PO Box 15200, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland; Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Outi Setälä
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arto Koistinen
- SIB Labs, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maiju Lehtiniemi
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
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202
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Lares M, Ncibi MC, Sillanpää M, Sillanpää M. Occurrence, identification and removal of microplastic particles and fibers in conventional activated sludge process and advanced MBR technology. WATER RESEARCH 2018; 133:236-246. [PMID: 29407704 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2018.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 476] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are acting as routes of microplastics (MPs) to the environment, hence the urgent need to examine MPs in wastewaters and different types of sludge through sampling campaigns covering extended periods of time. In this study, the efficiency of a municipal WWTP to remove MPs from wastewater was studied by collecting wastewater and sludge samples once in every two weeks during a 3-month sampling campaign. The WWTP was operated based on the conventional activated sludge (CAS) process and a pilot-scale membrane bioreactor (MBR). The microplastic particles and fibers from both water and sludge samples were identified by using an optical microscope, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) microscope and Raman microscope. Overall, the retention capacity of microplastics in the studied WWTP was found to be 98.3%. Most of the MP fraction was removed before the activated sludge process. The efficiency of an advanced membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology was also examined. The main related finding is that MBR permeate contained 0.4 MP/L in comparison with the final effluent of the CAS process (1.0 MP/L). According to this study, both microplastic fibers and particles are discharged from the WWTP to the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirka Lares
- Lappeenranta University of Technology, School of Engineering Science, Laboratory of Green Chemistry, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland.
| | - Mohamed Chaker Ncibi
- Lappeenranta University of Technology, School of Engineering Science, Laboratory of Green Chemistry, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Markus Sillanpää
- Finnish Environment Institute, Laboratory Centre, Ecotoxicology and Risk Assessment, Ultramariinikuja 4, FI-00430 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Sillanpää
- Lappeenranta University of Technology, School of Engineering Science, Laboratory of Green Chemistry, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Florida International University, Miami FL-33174, USA
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203
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Moro L, Pezzotti G, Turemis M, Sanchís J, Farré M, Denaro R, Giacobbe MG, Crisafi F, Giardi MT. Fast pesticide pre-screening in marine environment using a green microalgae-based optical bioassay. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 129:212-221. [PMID: 29680540 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study evaluates an optical bioassay based on green photosynthetic microalgae as a promising alternative for monitoring of relevant seawater pollutants. Photosystem II fluorescence parameters from several microalgae species were examined in the presence of three common marine pesticides that act as photosynthesis inhibitors. The three pollutants were detected within 10 min in concentrations between ng/L-μg/L. The different algae species showed slightly diverse pesticide sensitivities, being Chlorella mirabilis the most sensitive one. Potential interferences due to oil-spill pollutants were discarded. The lipid content was characterized to identify microorganisms with suitable mechanisms that could facilitate stress acclimatization. C. mirabilis presented elevated content of unsaturated lipids, showing a promising potential for biosensing in saline stress conditions. The optimized microalgae-based bioassay was preliminarily incorporated into a marine buoy for autonomous pre-screening of pesticides in coastal areas, demonstrating its suitability for real-time monitoring of marine water and quantitative evaluation of total biotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moro
- Biosensor Srl, Via degli Olmetti 44, 00060 Formello, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gianni Pezzotti
- Biosensor Srl, Via degli Olmetti 44, 00060 Formello, Rome, Italy.
| | - Mehmet Turemis
- Biosensor Srl, Via degli Olmetti 44, 00060 Formello, Rome, Italy.
| | - Josep Sanchís
- Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), c/ Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Marinella Farré
- Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), c/ Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Renata Denaro
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment (IAMC-CNR), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Grazia Giacobbe
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment (IAMC-CNR), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
| | - Francesca Crisafi
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment (IAMC-CNR), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Teresa Giardi
- Biosensor Srl, Via degli Olmetti 44, 00060 Formello, Rome, Italy; Crystallography Institute, CNR Area della Ricerca di Roma, Via Salaria km 29,300, 00015 Monterotondo, Rome, Italy.
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204
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Dris R, Gasperi J, Rocher V, Tassin B. Synthetic and non-synthetic anthropogenic fibers in a river under the impact of Paris Megacity: Sampling methodological aspects and flux estimations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 618:157-164. [PMID: 29128764 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Processed fibers are highly present in our daily life and can be either natural, artificial (regenerated cellulose) and synthetic (made with petrochemicals). Their widespread use lead inevitably to a high contamination of environment. Previous studies focus on plastic particles regardless of their type or shape as long as they are comprised between 330μm and 5mm. On the contrary, this study focuses exclusively on fibers using a smaller mesh size net (80μm) to sample freshwater. Moreover, all processed organic fibers are considered, irrespective to their nature. First, the short term temporal variability of the fibers in the environment was assessed. While exposing the sampling net during 1min a coefficient of variation of approx. 45% (with n=6) was determined. It was of only 26% (n=6) when the exposure was of 3min. The assessment of the distribution through the section showed a possible difference in concentrations between the middle of the water surface and the river banks which could be attributed to the intense river traffic within the Paris Megacity. The vertical variability seems negligible as turbulence and current conditions homogenize the distribution of the fibers. A monthly monitoring showed concentrations of 100.6±99.9fibers·m-3 in the Marne River and of: 48.5±98.5, 27.9±26.3, 27.9±40.3 and 22.1±25.3fibers·m-3 from the upstream to downstream points in the Seine River. Once these concentrations are converted into fluxes, it seems that the impact generated by the Paris Megacity cannot be distinguished. Investigations on the role of sedimentation and deposition on the banks are required. This study helped fill some major knowledge gaps regarding the fibers in rivers, their sampling, occurrence, spatial-temporal distribution and fluxes. It is encouraged that future studies include both synthetic and none synthetic fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Dris
- Université Paris-Est, Laboratoire Eau, Environnement, Systèmes Urbains (LEESU), UMR MA 102 - AgroParisTech, 61 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, Créteil Cedex, France.
| | - Johnny Gasperi
- Université Paris-Est, Laboratoire Eau, Environnement, Systèmes Urbains (LEESU), UMR MA 102 - AgroParisTech, 61 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, Créteil Cedex, France
| | - Vincent Rocher
- Syndicat Interdépartemental Pour l'Assainissement de l'Agglomération Parisienne, Direction du Développement et de la Prospective, 82 Avenue Kléber, Colombes, France
| | - Bruno Tassin
- Université Paris-Est, Laboratoire Eau, Environnement, Systèmes Urbains (LEESU), UMR MA 102 - AgroParisTech, 61 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, Créteil Cedex, France.
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205
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Gago J, Carretero O, Filgueiras AV, Viñas L. Synthetic microfibers in the marine environment: A review on their occurrence in seawater and sediments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:365-376. [PMID: 29475673 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this review is to summarize information on microfibers in seawater and sediments from available scientific information. Microfibers were found in all reviewed documents. An heterogeneous approach is observed, with regard to sampling methodologies and units. Microfibers in sediments range from 1.4 to 40 items per 50mL or 13.15 to 39.48 items per 250g dry weight. In the case of water, microfibers values ranges from 0 to 450items·m-3 or from 503 to 459,681items·km-2. Blue is the most common color in seawater and sediments, followed by transparent and black in the case of seawater, and black and colorful in sediments. Related with polymer type, polypropylene is the most common in water and sediments, followed by polyethylene in water and polyester in water and sediments. Some polymers were described only in water samples: high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene and cellophane, whilst only rayon was reported in sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gago
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390 Vigo, Spain.
| | - O Carretero
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - A V Filgueiras
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - L Viñas
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390 Vigo, Spain
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206
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Sources and Fate of Microplastics in Urban Areas: A Focus on Paris Megacity. THE HANDBOOK OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-61615-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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207
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Conkle JL, Báez Del Valle CD, Turner JW. Are We Underestimating Microplastic Contamination in Aquatic Environments? ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2018; 61:1-8. [PMID: 29043380 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-017-0947-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Plastic debris, specifically microplastic in the aquatic environment, is an escalating environmental crisis. Efforts at national scales to reduce or ban microplastics in personal care products are starting to pay off, but this will not affect those materials already in the environment or those that result from unregulated products and materials. To better inform future microplastic research and mitigation efforts this study (1) evaluates methods currently used to quantify microplastics in the environment and (2) characterizes the concentration and size distribution of microplastics in a variety of products. In this study, 50 published aquatic surveys were reviewed and they demonstrated that most (~80%) only account for plastics ≥ 300 μm in diameter. In addition, we surveyed 770 personal care products to determine the occurrence, concentration and size distribution of polyethylene microbeads. Particle concentrations ranged from 1.9 to 71.9 mg g-1 of product or 1649 to 31,266 particles g-1 of product. The large majority ( > 95%) of particles in products surveyed were less than the 300 μm minimum diameter, indicating that previous environmental surveys could be underestimating microplastic contamination. To account for smaller particles as well as microfibers from synthetic textiles, we strongly recommend that future surveys consider methods that materials < 300 μm in diameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy L Conkle
- Department of Physical & Environmental Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5892, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78412, USA.
| | | | - Jeffrey W Turner
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5858, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78412, USA
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208
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Bagaev A, Mizyuk A, Khatmullina L, Isachenko I, Chubarenko I. Anthropogenic fibres in the Baltic Sea water column: Field data, laboratory and numerical testing of their motion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 599-600:560-571. [PMID: 28494282 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.04.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Distribution of microplastics particles (MPs) in the water column is investigated on the base of 95 water samples collected from various depths in the Baltic Sea Proper in 2015-2016. Fibres are the prevalent type of MPs: 7% of the samples contained small films; about 40% had (presumably) paint flakes, while 63% contained coloured fibres in concentrations from 0.07 to 2.6 items per litre. Near-surface and near-bottom layers (defined as one tenth of the local depth) have 3-5 times larger fibre concentrations than intermediate layers. Laboratory tests demonstrated that sinking behaviour of a small and flexible fibre can be complicated, with 4-fold difference in sinking velocity for various random fibres' curvature during its free fall. Numerical tests on transport of fibres in the Baltic Sea Proper were performed using HIROMB reanalysis data (2007) for the horizontal velocity field and laboratory order-of-magnitude estimates for the sinking velocity of fibres. The model takes into account (i) motion of fibres together with currents, (ii) their very slow sinking, and (iii) their low re-suspension threshold. Sensitivity of the final distribution of fibres to variations of those parameters is examined. These experiments are the first step towards modelling of transport of fibres in marine environment and they seem to reproduce the main features of fibres distribution quite well.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bagaev
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia.
| | - A Mizyuk
- Marine Hydrophysical Institute of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kapitanskaya str., 31, Sevastopol 299011, Russia
| | - L Khatmullina
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia
| | - I Isachenko
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia
| | - I Chubarenko
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia
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209
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Kalčíková G, Alič B, Skalar T, Bundschuh M, Gotvajn AŽ. Wastewater treatment plant effluents as source of cosmetic polyethylene microbeads to freshwater. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 188:25-31. [PMID: 28865790 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.08.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics in the environment are either a product of the fractionation of larger plastic items or a consequence of the release of microbeads, which are ingredients of cosmetics, through wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents. The aim of this study was to estimate the amount of microbeads that may be released by the latter pathways to surface waters using Ljubljana, Slovenia as a case study. For this purpose, microbeads contained in cosmetics were in a first step characterized for their physical properties and particle size distribution. Subsequently, daily emission of microbeads from consumers to the sewerage system, their fate in biological WWTPs and finally their release into surface waters were estimated for Ljubljana. Most of the particles found in cosmetic products were <100 μm. After application, microbeads are released into sewerage system at an average rate of 15.2 mg per person per day. Experiments using a lab-scale sequencing batch biological WWTP confirmed that on average 52% of microbeads are captured in activated sludge. Particle size analyses of the influent and effluent confirmed that smaller particles (up to 60-70 μm) are captured within activated sludge while bigger particles were detected in the effluent. Applying these data to the situation in Ljubljana indicates that about 112,500,000 particles may daily be released into the receiving river, resulting in a microbeads concentration of 21 particles/m3. Since polyethylene particles cannot be degraded and thus likely accumulate, the data raise concerns about potential effects in aquatic ecosystems in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Kalčíková
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - B Alič
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - T Skalar
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - M Bundschuh
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7050, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Žgajnar Gotvajn
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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210
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Ziajahromi S, Kumar A, Neale PA, Leusch FDL. Impact of Microplastic Beads and Fibers on Waterflea (Ceriodaphnia dubia) Survival, Growth, and Reproduction: Implications of Single and Mixture Exposures. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:13397-13406. [PMID: 29059522 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b03574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
There is limited knowledge regarding the adverse effects of wastewater-derived microplastics, particularly fibers, on aquatic biota. In this study, we examined the acute (48 h) and chronic (8 d) effects of microplastic polyester fibers and polyethylene (PE) beads on freshwater zooplankton Ceriodaphnia dubia. We also assessed the acute response of C. dubia to a binary mixture of microplastic beads and fibers for the first time. Acute exposure to fibers and PE beads both showed a dose-dependent effect on survival. An equitoxic binary mixture of beads and fibers resulted in a toxic unit of 1.85 indicating less than additive effects. Chronic exposure to lower concentrations did not significantly affect survival of C. dubia, but a dose-dependent effect on growth and reproduction was observed. Fibers showed greater adverse effects than PE beads. While ingestion of fibers was not observed, scanning electron microscopy showed carapace and antenna deformities after exposure to fibers, with no deformities observed after exposure to PE beads. While much of the current research has focused on microplastic beads, our study shows that microplastic fibers pose a greater risk to C. dubia, with reduced reproductive output observed at concentrations within an order of magnitude of reported environmental levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Ziajahromi
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University , Gold Coast, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Anupama Kumar
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation , Waite Road, Urrbrae, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - Peta A Neale
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University , Gold Coast, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Frederic D L Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University , Gold Coast, Queensland 4222, Australia
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211
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Salvador Cesa F, Turra A, Baruque-Ramos J. Synthetic fibers as microplastics in the marine environment: A review from textile perspective with a focus on domestic washings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 598:1116-1129. [PMID: 28482459 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.04.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 345] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of plastic materials in the environment has been, for long, a matter of discussion. Smaller particles, named microplastics (<5mm), gained attention more recently and are now the focus of many studies, especially for their particularities regarding sources, characteristics and effects (e.g., surface-area-to-volume ratio which can increase their potential to transport toxic substances). Fibers from textile materials are a subgroup of microplastics and can be originated from domestic washings, as machine filters and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are not specifically designed to retain them. Once in the environment, fibers can reach concentrations up to thousands of particles per cubic meter, being available to be ingested by a broad range of species. In this scenario, this review adds and details the textile perspective to the microplastics exploring nomenclature, characteristics and factors influencing emission, but also evidencing gaps in knowledge needed to overcome this issue. Preliminarily, general information about marine litter and plastics, followed by specific aspects regarding textile fibers as microplastics, were introduced. Then fiber sources to microplastic pollution were discussed, mainly focusing on domestic washings that pass through WWTPs. Studies that reveal domestic washing as microplastic sources are scarce and there is a considerable lack of standardization in methods as well as incorporation of textile aspects in experimental design. Knowledge gaps include laundry parameters (e.g., water temperature, use of chemicals) and textile articles characteristics (e.g., yarn type, fabric structure) orchestrated by consumers' choice. The lack of information on the coverage and efficiency of sewage treatment systems to remove textile fibers also prevent a global understanding of such sources. The search of alternatives and applicable solutions should come from an integrated, synergic and global perspective, of both environmental and textile area, which still need to be fostered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Salvador Cesa
- University of São Paulo, School of Arts, Sciences and Humanities, Av. Arlindo Bettio, 1000, 03828-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alexander Turra
- University of São Paulo, Oceanographic Institute, Praca do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Julia Baruque-Ramos
- University of São Paulo, School of Arts, Sciences and Humanities, Av. Arlindo Bettio, 1000, 03828-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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212
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Talvitie J, Mikola A, Koistinen A, Setälä O. Solutions to microplastic pollution - Removal of microplastics from wastewater effluent with advanced wastewater treatment technologies. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 123:401-407. [PMID: 28686942 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 509] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Conventional wastewater treatment with primary and secondary treatment processes efficiently remove microplastics (MPs) from the wastewater. Despite the efficient removal, final effluents can act as entrance route of MPs, given the large volumes constantly discharged into the aquatic environments. This study investigated the removal of MPs from effluent in four different municipal wastewater treatment plants utilizing different advanced final-stage treatment technologies. The study included membrane bioreactor treating primary effluent and different tertiary treatment technologies (discfilter, rapid sand filtration and dissolved air flotation) treating secondary effluent. The MBR removed 99.9% of MPs during the treatment (from 6.9 to 0.005 MP L-1), rapid sand filter 97% (from 0.7 to 0.02 MP L-1), dissolved air flotation 95% (from 2.0 to 0.1 MP L-1) and discfilter 40-98.5% (from 0.5 - 2.0 to 0.03-0.3 MP L-1) of the MPs during the treatment. Our study shows that with advanced final-stage wastewater treatment technologies WWTPs can substantially reduce the MP pollution discharged from wastewater treatment plants into the aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Talvitie
- Department of Built Environment, Aalto University, PO Box 15200, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland.
| | - Anna Mikola
- Department of Built Environment, Aalto University, PO Box 15200, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland
| | - Arto Koistinen
- University of Eastern Finland Sib Labs, PO Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Outi Setälä
- Finnish Environment Institute, Marine Research Center, PO Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
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213
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Pietrelli L, Di Gennaro A, Menegoni P, Lecce F, Poeta G, Acosta ATR, Battisti C, Iannilli V. Pervasive plastisphere: First record of plastics in egagropiles (Posidonia spheroids). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 229:1032-1036. [PMID: 28778793 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The ability of Posidonia oceanica spheroids (egagropiles, EG) to incorporate plastics was investigated along the central Italy coast. Plastics were found in the 52.84% of the egagropiles collected (n = 685). The more represented size of plastics has range within 1-1.5 cm, comparable to the size of natural fibres. Comparing plastics occurring both in EG and in surrounding sand, Polyethylene, Polyester and Nylon were the most abundant polymers in EG, while PSE, PE, PP and PET were the most represented in sand. In particular PE and PP were significantly more represented in sand, while PE, Nylon, Polyester and microfibers (as pills) were more represented in EG. Within plastics found in EG, 26.9% were microfibers as small pills (<1 cm), mainly composed of polyamide, polyester, cotton and PET mixing. These microfibers might be produced by discharges from washing machines and currently represents an emerging pollutant with widespread distribution in marine and freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessia Di Gennaro
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Poeta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Alicia T R Acosta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- Torre Flavia LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Via Tiburtina, 691, 00159 Rome, Italy
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214
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Cheung PK, Fok L. Characterisation of plastic microbeads in facial scrubs and their estimated emissions in Mainland China. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 122:53-61. [PMID: 28591661 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Plastic microbeads are often added to personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs) as an abrasive agent in exfoliants. These beads have been reported to contaminate the aquatic environment and are sufficiently small to be readily ingested by aquatic organisms. Plastic microbeads can be directly released into the aquatic environment with domestic sewage if no sewage treatment is provided, and they can also escape from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) because of incomplete removal. However, the emissions of microbeads from these two sources have never been estimated for China, and no regulation has been imposed on the use of plastic microbeads in PCCPs. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to estimate the annual microbead emissions in Mainland China from both direct emissions and WWTP emissions. Nine facial scrubs were purchased, and the microbeads in the scrubs were extracted and enumerated. The microbead density in those products ranged from 5219 to 50,391 particles/g, with an average of 20,860 particles/g. Direct emissions arising from the use of facial scrubs were estimated using this average density number, population data, facial scrub usage rate, sewage treatment rate, and a few conservative assumptions. WWTP emissions were calculated by multiplying the annual treated sewage volume and estimated microbead density in treated sewage. We estimated that, on average, 209.7 trillion microbeads (306.9 tonnes) are emitted into the aquatic environment in Mainland China every year. More than 80% of the emissions originate from incomplete removal in WWTPs, and the remaining 20% are derived from direct emissions. Although the weight of the emitted microbeads only accounts for approximately 0.03% of the plastic waste input into the ocean from China, the number of microbeads emitted far exceeds the previous estimate of plastic debris (>330 μm) on the world's sea surface. Immediate actions are required to prevent plastic microbeads from entering the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Kwan Cheung
- Department of Geography, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Lincoln Fok
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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215
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Sillanpää M, Sainio P. Release of polyester and cotton fibers from textiles in machine washings. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:19313-19321. [PMID: 28669092 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9621-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely spread in the environment, which along with still increasing production have aroused concern of their impacts on environmental health. The objective of this study is to quantify the number and mass of two most common textile fibers discharged from sequential machine washings to sewers. The number and mass of microfibers released from polyester and cotton textiles in the first wash varied in the range 2.1 × 105 to 1.3 × 107 and 0.12 to 0.33% w/w, respectively. Amounts of released microfibers showed a decreasing trend in sequential washes. The annual emission of polyester and cotton microfibers from household washing machines was estimated to be 154,000 (1.0 × 1014) and 411,000 kg (4.9 × 1014) in Finland (population 5.5 × 106). Due to the high emission values and sorption capacities, the polyester and cotton microfibers may play an important role in the transport and fate of chemical pollutants in the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Sillanpää
- Laboratory Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Hakuninmaantie 6, FI-00430, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Pirjo Sainio
- Laboratory Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Hakuninmaantie 6, FI-00430, Helsinki, Finland
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216
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Gewert B, Ogonowski M, Barth A, MacLeod M. Abundance and composition of near surface microplastics and plastic debris in the Stockholm Archipelago, Baltic Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 120:292-302. [PMID: 28527744 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.04.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We collected plastic debris in the Stockholm Archipelago using a manta trawl, and additionally along a transect in the Baltic Sea from the island of Gotland to Stockholm in a citizen science study. The samples were concentrated by filtration and organic material was digested using hydrogen peroxide. Suspected plastic material was isolated by visual sorting and 59 of these were selected to be characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Polypropylene and polyethylene were the most abundant plastics identified among the samples (53% and 24% respectively). We found nearly ten times higher abundance of plastics near central Stockholm than in offshore areas (4.2×105plastics km-2 compared to 4.7×104plastics km-2). The abundance of plastic debris near Stockholm was similar to urban areas in California, USA, and the overall abundance in the Stockholm Archipelago was similar to plastic abundance reported in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Gewert
- Stockholm University, Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Svante Arrhenius väg 8, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Martin Ogonowski
- Stockholm University, Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Svante Arrhenius väg 8, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden; Aquabiota Water Research, Löjtnantsgatan 25, SE-115 50, Sweden.
| | - Andreas Barth
- Stockholm University, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Svante Arrhenius väg 16C, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Matthew MacLeod
- Stockholm University, Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Svante Arrhenius väg 8, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden.
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217
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Hernandez E, Nowack B, Mitrano DM. Polyester Textiles as a Source of Microplastics from Households: A Mechanistic Study to Understand Microfiber Release During Washing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:7036-7046. [PMID: 28537711 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b01750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 319] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic fibers make up a large proportion of microplastics found in the environment, especially in urban areas. There is good reason to consider synthetic textiles a major source of microplastic fibers, and it will not diminish since the use of synthetic fabrics, especially polyester, continues to increase. In this study we provide quantitative data regarding the size and mass of microplastic fibers released from synthetic (polyester) textiles during simulated home washing under controlled laboratory conditions. Consideration of fabric structure and washing conditions (use of detergents, temperature, wash duration, and sequential washings) allowed us to study the propensity of fiber shedding in a mechanistic way. Thousands of individual fibers were measured (number, length) from each wash solution to provide a robust data set on which to draw conclusions. Among all the variables tested, the use of detergent appeared to affect the total mass of fibers released the most, yet the detergent composition (liquid or powder) or overdosing of detergent did not significantly influence microplastic release. Despite different release quantities due to the addition of a surfactant (approximately 0.025 and 0.1 mg fibers/g textile washed, without and with detergent, respectively), the overall microplastic fiber length profile remained similar regardless of wash condition or fabric structure, with the vast majority of fibers ranging between 100 and 800 μm in length irrespective of wash cycle number. This indicates that the fiber staple length and/or debris encapsulated inside the fabric from the yarn spinning could be directly responsible for releasing stray fibers. This study serves as a first look toward understanding the physical properties of the textile itself to better understand the mechanisms of fiber shedding in the context of microplastic fiber release into laundry wash water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Hernandez
- Empa , Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Technology and Society Laboratory, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Empa , Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Technology and Society Laboratory, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Empa , Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Technology and Society Laboratory, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Eawag , Swiss Federal Institute for Aquatic Science and Technology, Process Engineering, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
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218
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Näkki P, Setälä O, Lehtiniemi M. Bioturbation transports secondary microplastics to deeper layers in soft marine sediments of the northern Baltic Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:255-261. [PMID: 28427773 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.03.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are observed to be present on the seafloor ranging from coastal areas to deep seas. Because bioturbation alters the distribution of natural particles on inhabited soft bottoms, a mesocosm experiment with common benthic invertebrates was conducted to study their effect on the distribution of secondary MPs (different-sized pieces of fishing line<1mm). During the study period of three weeks, the benthic community increased MP concentration in the depth of 1.7-5.1cm in the sediment. The experiment revealed a clear vertical gradient in MP distribution with their abundance being highest in the uppermost parts of the sediment and decreasing with depth. The Baltic clam Macoma balthica was the only study animal that ingested MPs. This study highlights the need to further examine the vertical distribution of MPs in natural sediments to reliably assess their abundance on the seafloor as well as their potential impacts on benthic communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinja Näkki
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland; Tvärminne Zoological Station, University of Helsinki, J.A. Palménin tie 260, FI-10900 Hanko, Finland.
| | - Outi Setälä
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maiju Lehtiniemi
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
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219
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Peng J, Wang J, Cai L. Current understanding of microplastics in the environment: Occurrence, fate, risks, and what we should do. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2017; 13:476-482. [PMID: 28440924 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution has been documented in the global environment, including at sea, in freshwater and in atmospheric fallout. Ingestion of microplastics by multiple kinds of organisms has been reported and has received increasing attention, because microplastics not only act as a source of toxic chemicals but also a sink for toxic chemicals. To better understand the great concerns about microplastics and associated toxic chemicals potential exposed to the organisms ingesting the debris, we should know more about the occurrence, fate, and risks of microplastics in the environment. What we should do depends on this better understanding. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:476-482. © 2017 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinping Peng
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jundong Wang
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liqi Cai
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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220
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Ziajahromi S, Neale PA, Rintoul L, Leusch FDL. Wastewater treatment plants as a pathway for microplastics: Development of a new approach to sample wastewater-based microplastics. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 112:93-99. [PMID: 28160700 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 578] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater effluent is expected to be a pathway for microplastics to enter the aquatic environment, with microbeads from cosmetic products and polymer fibres from clothes likely to enter wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). To date, few studies have quantified microplastics in wastewater. Moreover, the lack of a standardized and applicable method to identify microplastics in complex samples, such as wastewater, has limited the accurate assessment of microplastics and may lead to an incorrect estimation. This study aimed to develop a validated method to sample and process microplastics from wastewater effluent and to apply the developed method to quantify and characterise wastewater-based microplastics in effluent from three WWTPs that use primary, secondary and tertiary treatment processes. We applied a high-volume sampling device that fractionated microplastics in situ and an efficient sample processing procedure to improve the sampling of microplastics in wastewater and to minimize the false detection of non-plastic particles. The sampling device captured between 92% and 99% of polystyrene microplastics using 25 μm-500 μm mesh screens in laboratory tests. Microplastic type, size and suspected origin in all studied WWTPs, along with the removal efficiency during the secondary and tertiary treatment stages, was investigated. Suspected microplastics were characterised using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, with between 22 and 90% of the suspected microplastics found to be non-plastic particles. An average of 0.28, 0.48 and 1.54 microplastics per litre of final effluent was found in tertiary, secondary and primary treated effluent, respectively. This study suggests that although low concentrations of microplastics are detected in wastewater effluent, WWTPs still have the potential to act as a pathway to release microplastics given the large volumes of effluent discharged to the aquatic environment. This study focused on a single sampling campaign, with long-term monitoring recommended to further characterise microplastics in wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Ziajahromi
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - Peta A Neale
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Llew Rintoul
- School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Frederic D L Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
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221
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Wang J, Peng J, Tan Z, Gao Y, Zhan Z, Chen Q, Cai L. Microplastics in the surface sediments from the Beijiang River littoral zone: Composition, abundance, surface textures and interaction with heavy metals. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 171:248-258. [PMID: 28024210 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.12.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 413] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
While large quantities of studies on microplastics in the marine environment have been widely carried out, few were available in the freshwater environment. The occurrence and characteristics, including composition, abundance, surface texture and interaction with heavy metals, of microplastics in the surface sediments from Beijiang River littoral zone were investigated. The concentrations of microplastics ranged from 178 ± 69 to 544 ± 107 items/kg sediment. SEM images illustrated that pits, fractures, flakes and adhering particles were the common patterns of degradation. Chemical weathering of microplastics was also observed and confirmed by μ-FTIR. EDS spectra displayed difference in the elemental types of metals on the different surface sites of individual microplastic, indicating that some metals carried by microplastics were not inherent but were derived from the environment. The content of metals (Ni, Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn and Ti) in microplastics after ultrasonic cleaning has been analyzed by ICP-MS. Based on data from the long-term sorption of metals by microplastics and a comparison of metal burden between microplastics, macroplastics and fresh plastic products, we suggested that the majority of heavy metals carried by microplastics were derived from inherent load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jundong Wang
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 51006, China
| | - Jinping Peng
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 51006, China.
| | - Zhi Tan
- Dongguan Environmental Monitoring Central Station, Dongguan, 523009, China
| | - Yifan Gao
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 51006, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhan
- Dongguan Environmental Monitoring Central Station, Dongguan, 523009, China
| | - Qiuqiang Chen
- Dongguan Environmental Monitoring Central Station, Dongguan, 523009, China
| | - Liqi Cai
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 51006, China
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222
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Zobkov M, Esiukova E. Microplastics in Baltic bottom sediments: Quantification procedures and first results. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 114:724-732. [PMID: 27810093 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.10.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics in the marine environment are known as a global ecological problem but there are still no standardized analysis procedures for their quantification. The first breakthrough in this direction was the NOAA Laboratory Methods for quantifying synthetic particles in water and sediments, but fibers numbers have been found to be underestimated with this approach. We propose modifications for these methods that will allow us to analyze microplastics in bottom sediments, including small fibers. Addition of an internal standard to sediment samples and occasional empty runs are advised for analysis quality control. The microplastics extraction efficiency using the proposed modifications is 92±7%. Distribution of microplastics in bottom sediments of the Russian part of the Baltic Sea is presented. Microplastic particles were found in all of the samples with an average concentration of 34±10 items/kg DW and have the same order of magnitude as neighbor studies reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Zobkov
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia.
| | - E Esiukova
- Atlantic Branch of P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospect Mira, 1, Kaliningrad 236022, Russia
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223
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Mahon AM, O'Connell B, Healy MG, O'Connor I, Officer R, Nash R, Morrison L. Microplastics in Sewage Sludge: Effects of Treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:810-818. [PMID: 27936648 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b04048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 454] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) are receptors for the cumulative loading of microplastics (MPs) derived from industry, landfill, domestic wastewater and stormwater. The partitioning of MPs through the settlement processes of wastewater treatment results in the majority becoming entrained in the sewage sludge. This study characterized MPs in sludge samples from seven WWTPs in Ireland which use anaerobic digestion (AD), thermal drying (TD), or lime stabilization (LS) treatment processes. Abundances ranged from 4196 to 15 385 particles kg-1 (dry weight). Results of a general linear mixed model (GLMM) showed significantly higher abundances of MPs in smaller size classes in the LS samples, suggesting that the treatment process of LS shears MP particles. In contrast, lower abundances of MPs found in the AD samples suggests that this process may reduce MP abundances. Surface morphologies examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed characteristics of melting and blistering of TD MPs and shredding and flaking of LS MPs. This study highlights the potential for sewage sludge treatment processes to affect the risk of MP pollution prior to land spreading and may have implications for legislation governing the application of biosolids to agricultural land.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Mahon
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - B O'Connell
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - M G Healy
- Civil Engineering, National University of Ireland , Galway, Ireland
| | - I O'Connor
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - R Officer
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - R Nash
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - L Morrison
- Earth and Ocean Sciences, Schools of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland , Galway, Ireland
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224
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Mintenig SM, Int-Veen I, Löder MGJ, Primpke S, Gerdts G. Identification of microplastic in effluents of waste water treatment plants using focal plane array-based micro-Fourier-transform infrared imaging. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 108:365-372. [PMID: 27838027 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 645] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The global presence of microplastic (MP) in aquatic ecosystems has been shown by various studies. However, neither MP concentrations nor their sources or sinks are completely known. Waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered as significant point sources discharging MP to the environment. This study investigated MP in the effluents of 12 WWTPs in Lower Saxony, Germany. Samples were purified by a plastic-preserving enzymatic-oxidative procedure and subsequent density separation using a zinc chloride solution. For analysis, attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FT-IR) and focal plane array (FPA)-based transmission micro-FT-IR imaging were applied. This allowed the identification of polymers of all MP down to a size of 20 μm. In all effluents MP was found with quantities ranging from 0 to 5 × 101 m-3 MP > 500 μm and 1 × 101 to 9 × 103 m-3 MP < 500 μm. By far, polyethylene was the most frequent polymer type in both size classes. Quantities of synthetic fibres ranged from 9 × 101 to 1 × 103 m-3 and were predominantly made of polyester. Considering the annual effluxes of tested WWTPs, total discharges of 9 × 107 to 4 × 109 MP particles and fibres per WWTP could be expected. Interestingly, one tertiary WWTP had an additionally installed post-filtration that reduced the total MP discharge by 97%. Furthermore, the sewage sludge of six WWTPs was examined and the existence of MP, predominantly polyethylene, revealed. Our findings suggest that WWTPs could be a sink but also a source of MP and thus can be considered to play an important role for environmental MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Mintenig
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, P.O. Box 180, 27483 Helgoland, Germany; Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Environmental Science Group, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80115, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - I Int-Veen
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, P.O. Box 180, 27483 Helgoland, Germany
| | - M G J Löder
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, P.O. Box 180, 27483 Helgoland, Germany; Animal Ecology I, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - S Primpke
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, P.O. Box 180, 27483 Helgoland, Germany
| | - G Gerdts
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, P.O. Box 180, 27483 Helgoland, Germany
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225
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Jemec A, Horvat P, Kunej U, Bele M, Kržan A. Uptake and effects of microplastic textile fibers on freshwater crustacean Daphnia magna. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 219:201-209. [PMID: 27814536 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.10.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 312] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic fibers (MP) from textile weathering and washing are increasingly being recognized as environmental pollutants. The majority of studies on the bioavailability and effects of microplastic focused on small polystyrene spherical plastic particles, while less data are available for fibers and for other materials besides polystyrene. We investigated the ingestion and effects of ground polyethylene terephthalate (PET) textile microfibers (length range: 62-1400 μm, width 31-528 μm, thickness 1-21.5 μm) on the freshwater zooplankton crustacean Daphnia magna after a 48 h exposure and subsequent 24 h of recovery in MP free medium and algae. The majority of ingested fibers by D. magna were around 300 μm, but also some very large twisted MP fibers around 1400 μm were found inside the gut. Exposure to these fibers results in increased mortality of daphnids after 48 h only in the case where daphnids were not pre-fed with algae prior to experiment, but no effect was found when daphnids were fed before the experiments. Regardless of the feeding regime, daphnids were not able to recover from MP exposure after additional 24 h incubation period in a MP free medium with algae. The uptake and effects of PET textile MP on D. magna are presented here for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Jemec
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Petra Horvat
- National Institute of Chemistry, Department for Polymer Science, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urban Kunej
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marjan Bele
- National Institute of Chemistry, Department for Material Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Kržan
- National Institute of Chemistry, Department for Polymer Science, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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226
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McCormick AR, Hoellein TJ, London MG, Hittie J, Scott JW, Kelly JJ. Microplastic in surface waters of urban rivers: concentration, sources, and associated bacterial assemblages. Ecosphere 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Joshua Hittie
- Department of BiologyLoyola University Chicago Illinois 60660 USA
| | - John W. Scott
- Prairie Research InstituteIllinois Sustainable Technology Center Champaign Illinois 61820 USA
| | - John J. Kelly
- Department of BiologyLoyola University Chicago Illinois 60660 USA
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227
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Anderson JC, Park BJ, Palace VP. Microplastics in aquatic environments: Implications for Canadian ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 218:269-280. [PMID: 27431693 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.06.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been increasingly detected and quantified in marine and freshwater environments, and there are growing concerns about potential effects in biota. A literature review was conducted to summarize the current state of knowledge of microplastics in Canadian aquatic environments; specifically, the sources, environmental fate, behaviour, abundance, and toxicological effects in aquatic organisms. While we found that research and publications on these topics have increased dramatically since 2010, relatively few studies have assessed the presence, fate, and effects of microplastics in Canadian water bodies. We suggest that efforts to determine aquatic receptors at greatest risk of detrimental effects due to microplastic exposure, and their associated contaminants, are particularly warranted. There is also a need to address the gaps identified, with a particular focus on the species and conditions found in Canadian aquatic systems. These gaps include characterization of the presence of microplastics in Canadian freshwater ecosystems, identifying key sources of microplastics to these systems, and evaluating the presence of microplastics in Arctic waters and biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie C Anderson
- Stantec Consulting Ltd., 500-311 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3B 2B9, Canada.
| | - Bradley J Park
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 501 University Crescent, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6, Canada
| | - Vince P Palace
- Stantec Consulting Ltd., 500-311 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3B 2B9, Canada
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228
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Pirc U, Vidmar M, Mozer A, Kržan A. Emissions of microplastic fibers from microfiber fleece during domestic washing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:22206-22211. [PMID: 27658400 PMCID: PMC5099352 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7703-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are found in marine and freshwater environments; however, their specific sources are not yet well understood. Understanding sources will be of key importance in efforts to reduce emissions into the environment. We examined the emissions of microfibers from domestic washing of a new microfiber polyester fleece textile. Analyzing released fibers collected with a 200 μm filter during 10 mild, successive washing cycles showed that emission initially decreased and then stabilized at approx. 0.0012 wt%. This value is our estimation for the long-term release of fibers during each washing. Use of detergent and softener did not significantly influence emission. Release of fibers during tumble drying was approx. 3.5 times higher than during washing.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Pirc
- Gimnazija Vič, Tržaška 72, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - M Vidmar
- Gimnazija Vič, Tržaška 72, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - A Mozer
- Gimnazija Vič, Tržaška 72, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - A Kržan
- National Institute of Chemistry, Laboratory for Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Hajdrihova 19, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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229
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Hartline NL, Bruce NJ, Karba SN, Ruff EO, Sonar SU, Holden PA. Microfiber Masses Recovered from Conventional Machine Washing of New or Aged Garments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:11532-11538. [PMID: 27689236 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b03045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic textiles can shed numerous microfibers during conventional washing, but evaluating environmental consequences as well as source-control strategies requires understanding mass releases. Polyester apparel accounts for a large proportion of the polyester market, and synthetic jackets represent the broadest range in apparel construction, allowing for potential changes in manufacturing as a mitigation measure to reduce microfiber release during laundering. Here, detergent-free washing experiments were conducted and replicated in both front- and top-load conventional home machines for five new and mechanically aged jackets or sweaters: four from one name-brand clothing manufacturer (three majority polyester fleece, and one nylon shell with nonwoven polyester insulation) and one off-brand (100% polyester fleece). Wash water was filtered to recover two size fractions (>333 μm and between 20 and 333 μm); filters were then imaged, and microfiber masses were calculated. Across all treatments, the recovered microfiber mass per garment ranged from approximately 0 to 2 g, or exceeding 0.3% of the unwashed garment mass. Microfiber masses from top-load machines were approximately 7 times those from front-load machines; garments mechanically aged via a 24 h continuous wash had increased mass release under the same wash protocol as new garments. When published wastewater treatment plant influent characterization and microfiber removal studies are considered, washing synthetic jackets or sweaters as per this study would account for most microfibers entering the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niko L Hartline
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Nicholas J Bruce
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Stephanie N Karba
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Elizabeth O Ruff
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Shreya U Sonar
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Patricia A Holden
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California , Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
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230
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Ziajahromi S, Neale PA, Leusch FDL. Wastewater treatment plant effluent as a source of microplastics: review of the fate, chemical interactions and potential risks to aquatic organisms. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2016; 74:2253-2269. [PMID: 27858783 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2016.414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent has been identified as a potential source of microplastics in the aquatic environment. Microplastics have recently been detected in wastewater effluent in Western Europe, Russia and the USA. As there are only a handful of studies on microplastics in wastewater, it is difficult to accurately determine the contribution of wastewater effluent as a source of microplastics. However, even the small amounts of microplastics detected in wastewater effluent may be a remarkable source given the large volumes of wastewater treatment effluent discharged to the aquatic environment annually. Further, there is strong evidence that microplastics can interact with wastewater-associated contaminants, which has the potential to transport chemicals to aquatic organisms after exposure to contaminated microplastics. In this review we apply lessons learned from the literature on microplastics in the aquatic environment and knowledge on current wastewater treatment technologies, with the aim of identifying the research gaps in terms of (i) the fate of microplastics in WWTPs, (ii) the potential interaction of wastewater-based microplastics with trace organic contaminants and metals, and (iii) the risk for aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Ziajahromi
- Smart Water Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia E-mail:
| | - Peta A Neale
- Smart Water Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia E-mail:
| | - Frederic D L Leusch
- Smart Water Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia E-mail:
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231
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Gusmão F, Domenico MD, Amaral ACZ, Martínez A, Gonzalez BC, Worsaae K, Ivar do Sul JA, Cunha Lana PD. In situ ingestion of microfibres by meiofauna from sandy beaches. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 216:584-590. [PMID: 27321884 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Microfibres are widespread contaminants in marine environments across the globe. Detecting in situ ingestion of microfibres by small marine organisms is necessary to understand their potential accumulation in marine food webs and their role in marine pollution. We have examined the gut contents of meiofauna from six sandy beaches in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. Out of twenty taxonomic groups, three species of the common sandy beach annelid Saccocirrus displayed in situ ingestion of microfibres in all sites. Laboratory observations showed that species of Saccocirrus are able to egest microfibres with no obvious physical injury. We suggest that their non-selective microphagous suspension-feeding behaviour makes Saccocirrus more prone to ingest microfibres. Although microfibres are rapidly egested with no apparent harm, there is still the potential for trophic transfer into marine food webs through predation of Saccocirrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Gusmão
- Department of Marine Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), 11030-400 Santos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maikon Di Domenico
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Biological Institute (IB), Zoological Museum "Prof. Dr. Adão José Cardoso", Brazil; Marine Biological Section, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Benthos Lab, Centre for Marine Studies, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Brazil.
| | - A Cecilia Z Amaral
- Departamento de Biologia Animal (Zoologia), Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, R. Monteiro Lobato, 255, 13083-862 Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alejandro Martínez
- Marine Biological Section, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Italian National Research Council, Institute of Ecosystems Study, Largo, Tonolli 50, 28922, Verbania, Italy.
| | - Brett C Gonzalez
- Marine Biological Section, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Katrine Worsaae
- Marine Biological Section, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Juliana A Ivar do Sul
- Institute of Oceanography, Federal University of Rio Grande, Av. Italia, km 8 - Carreiros Rio Grande - RS, 96201-900, Brazil.
| | - Paulo da Cunha Lana
- Benthos Lab, Centre for Marine Studies, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Brazil.
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232
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Setälä O, Norkko J, Lehtiniemi M. Feeding type affects microplastic ingestion in a coastal invertebrate community. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 102:95-101. [PMID: 26700887 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.11.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Revised: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is one of the problems marine ecosystems face at present, coastal habitats and food webs being the most vulnerable as they are closest to the sources of litter. A range of animals (bivalves, free swimming crustaceans and benthic, deposit-feeding animals), of a coastal community of the northern Baltic Sea were exposed to relatively low concentrations of 10 μm microbeads. The experiment was carried out as a small scale mesocosm study to mimic natural habitat. The beads were ingested by all animals in all experimental concentrations (5, 50 and 250 beads mL(-1)). Bivalves (Mytilus trossulus, Macoma balthica) contained significantly higher amounts of beads compared with the other groups. Free-swimming crustaceans ingested more beads compared with the benthic animals that were feeding only on the sediment surface. Ingestion of the beads was concluded to be the result of particle concentration, feeding mode and the encounter rate in a patchy environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Outi Setälä
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Joanna Norkko
- Tvärminne Zoological Station, University of Helsinki, J.A. Palménin tie 260, FI-10900 Hanko, Finland
| | - Maiju Lehtiniemi
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, P. O. Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland
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