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Borah P, Kshiar N, Reang D, Jyoti Nath A, Kumar Baruah K. Incidence of microplastic contamination in fishes of the Ramsar Wetland, Loktak - The world's only floating lake from the Indian Himalayan region. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 358:120928. [PMID: 38652990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitous, and their widespread prevalence in the ecosphere has generated concerns about their potential effects on terrestrial and aquatic organisms. However, studies pertaining to ecologically sensitive freshwater ecosystems, such as Ramsar wetlands, is scarce. Therefore, the study was conducted in Loktak, the world's only floating lake, and one of the largest wetland in the Indian Himalayan region. The wetland's degradation and pollution have resulted its inclusion in the Montreux Record, underscoring the need for studying this eco-sensitive freshwater system. This work investigated the (i) abundance, morphotype and size of microplastics in fish, and (ii) chemical composition of the microplastics consumed and accumulated in the fish of Loktak lake. Fish samples representing eight species were collected and analyzed for microplastics. Results revealed that ∼91% of the sampled fish ingested microplastics. Fragment was identified as the predominant morphotype (∼82%). Plastic polymers including polyamide (PA), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were detected. The occurrence of heavy metals - chlorine (Cl), palladium (Pd), sodium (Na), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) suggests their adhesion on the microplastics. The occurrence of microplastics in fish indicates pollution in the lake and poses a potential health risks to humans through consumption. Therefore, implementing comprehensive management approaches is imperative to mitigate this emerging pollution and uphold the ecological integrity of the Ramsar site. Substantial information on microplastics and their potential human exposure through fish consumption, particularly in the Indian Himalayan region, remains to be assessed, underscoring the need for extensive study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallabi Borah
- Department of Environmental Science, Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati-781035, India.
| | - Naphibaniarlin Kshiar
- Department of Environmental Science, Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati-781035, India.
| | - Demsai Reang
- Department of Environmental Science, Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati-781035, India.
| | - Arun Jyoti Nath
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar-788011, India.
| | - Kushal Kumar Baruah
- Department of Environmental Science, Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati-781035, India.
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2
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Primpke S, Meyer B, Falcou-Préfol M, Schütte W, Gerdts G. At second glance: The importance of strict quality control - A case study on microplastic in the Southern Ocean key species Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170618. [PMID: 38325470 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The stomach content of 60 krill specimens from the Southern Ocean were analyzed for the presence of microplastic (MP), by testing different sample volumes, extraction approaches, and applying hyperspectral imaging Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (μFTIR). Strict quality control was applied on the generated results. A high load of residual materials in pooled samples hampered the analysis and avoided a reliable determination of putative MP particles. Individual krill stomachs displayed reliable results, however, only after re-treating the samples with hydrogen peroxide. Before this treatment, lipid rich residues of krill resulted in false assignments of polymer categories and hence, false high MP particle numbers. Finally, MP was identified in 4 stomachs out of 60, with only one MP particle per stomach. Our study highlights the importance of strict quality control to verify results before coming to a final decision on MP contamination in the environment to aid the establishment of suitable internationally standardized protocols for sampling and analysis of MP in organisms including their habitats in Southern Ocean and worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Division Shelf Sea System Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade, 27498 Helgoland, Germany.
| | - Bettina Meyer
- Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Division Polar Biological Oceanography, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany; Carl-von-Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Ammerländer Heerstraße 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity (HIFMB) at the Carl-von-Ossietzky University, Oldenburg 26111, Germany.
| | - Mathilde Falcou-Préfol
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Division Shelf Sea System Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade, 27498 Helgoland, Germany; Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Division Polar Biological Oceanography, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany; Nantes Université, 1 Quai de Tourville, 44035 Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | - Wyona Schütte
- Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Division Polar Biological Oceanography, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany; Carl-von-Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Ammerländer Heerstraße 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Gunnar Gerdts
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Division Shelf Sea System Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade, 27498 Helgoland, Germany
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3
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Di Fiore C, Ishikawa Y, Wright SL. A review on methods for extracting and quantifying microplastic in biological tissues. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 464:132991. [PMID: 37979423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Literature about the occurrence of microplastic in biological tissues has increased over the last few years. This review aims to synthesis the evidence on the preparation of biological tissues, chemical identification of microplastic and accumulation in tissues. Several microplastic's extraction approaches from biological tissues emerged (i.e., alkaline, acids, oxidizing and enzymatic). However, criteria used for the selection of the extraction method have yet to be clarified. Similarly, analytical methodologies for chemical identification often does not align with the size of particles. Furthermore, sizes of microplastics found in biological tissues are likely to be biologically implausible, due to the size of the biological barriers. From this review, it emerged that further assessment are required to determine whether microplastic particles were truly internalized, were in the vasculature serving these organs, or were an artefact of the methodological process. The importance of a standardisation of quality control/quality assurance emerged. Findings arose from this review could have a broad implication, and could be used as a basis for further investigations, to reduce artifact results and clearly assess the fate of microplastics in biological tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Di Fiore
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, via De Sanctis, I-86100 Campobasso, Italy.
| | - Yukari Ishikawa
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Environment and Health, Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie L Wright
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Environment and Health, Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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4
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Janani R, Bhuvana S, Geethalakshmi V, Jeyachitra R, Sathishkumar K, Balu R, Ayyamperumal R. Micro and nano plastics in food: A review on the strategies for identification, isolation, and mitigation through photocatalysis, and health risk assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 241:117666. [PMID: 37984787 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, it has become increasingly evident that microplastic pollutant heavily contaminates water sources, posing a potential threat to both human and wildlife. These plastic pollutants do not get degraded efficiently by natural processes and the existing traditional treatment methods are incapable of fully eradicating them. In this regard, degradation of microplastic contaminants through photocatalytic methods has emerged as a powerful technique. Unfortunately, only a limited number of investigations have been reported in the field of photocatalytic degradation of microplastics. This comprehensive assessment focuses on the detailed analysis of the latest cutting edge engineered technologies aimed at efficiently separating, identifying microplastic contaminants present in food samples and degrading them through photocatalysis. Moreover, detailed information on various instrumental techniques that can be adopted to analyze the isolated micro sized plastic particles has been discussed. The assessment and degradation of these micro contaminants through photocatalytic methods is still in juvenile stage and there are lot of rooms to be explored. The need for profound contemplation on methods to degrade them through photocatalytic approaches as well as their possible health risks to humans motivated us to bring out this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Janani
- Department of Physics, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - S Bhuvana
- Department of Physics, Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641048, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - V Geethalakshmi
- Department of Chemistry, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Jeyachitra
- Department of Physics, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kuppusamy Sathishkumar
- Rhizosphere Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India
| | - Ranjith Balu
- Department of Materials Physics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602105, India
| | - Ramamoorthy Ayyamperumal
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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Nuamah F, Tulashie SK, Debrah JS, Pèlèbè ROE. Microplastics in the Gulf of Guinea: An analysis of concentrations and distribution in sediments, gills, and guts of fish collected off the coast of Ghana. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 234:116567. [PMID: 37422113 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) accumulate in marine environments, impacting marine organism health. This study examined MPs in sediment and two pelagic fish species (S. maderensis and I. africana) in Ghana's Gulf of Guinea. The study found an average concentration of 0.144 ± 0.061 items/g (dry weight) in the sediment, with pellets and transparent particles being the most common types. The concentration of MPs in contaminated fish ranged from 8.35 to 20.95, with fibers and pellets being the most abundant plastic-type in fish. Individual organ concentrations of MPs varied. In fish gills, concentrations ranged from 1 to 26 MPs/individual for I. africana and 1-22 MPs/individual for S. maderensis. Concentrations in the fish guts ranged from 1 to 29 MPs/individual for I. africana and 2-24 MPs/individual for S. maderensis. Results from the study highlight the importance of both gills and guts as important organs in terms of microplastic contamination and emphasize the significance of monitoring microplastic contamination in fish gills and guts. This offers valuable insight into the impact of MPs on the marine environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Nuamah
- Centre for Coastal Management (Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience, ACECoR), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana; University of Cape Coast, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, School of Physical Sciences, Chemistry Department, Industrial Chemistry Unit, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Samuel Kofi Tulashie
- Centre for Coastal Management (Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience, ACECoR), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana; University of Cape Coast, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, School of Physical Sciences, Chemistry Department, Industrial Chemistry Unit, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Joseph Sefah Debrah
- University of Cape Coast, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Ghana
| | - Rodrigue Orobiyi Edéya Pèlèbè
- Centre for Coastal Management (Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience, ACECoR), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana; Research Laboratory in Aquaculture and Aquatic Ecotoxicology (LaRAEAq), Faculty of Agronomy, University of Parakou, Parakou, Benin
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Sulaiman RNR, Bakar AA, Ngadi N, Kahar INS, Nordin AH, Ikram M, Nabgan W. Microplastics in Malaysia's Aquatic Environment: Current Overview and Future Perspectives. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2023; 7:2300047. [PMID: 37635702 PMCID: PMC10448155 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202300047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has adversely affected the aquatic ecosystem, living creatures, and human health. Several studies in Malaysia have provided baseline information on the existence of microplastics in surface water, ingestion by marine life and sediment. Also, humans are exposed to microplastic due to consumption of contaminated abiotic and biotic products, such as processed seafood. Nonetheless, knowledge is still scarce among Malaysian on the potential remediation and pollution management of microplastics, which poses a significant challenge to preserve a good environmental status. Green technologies also other alternative to mitigate the contamination of microplastics for sustainable future. Hence, this review aims to provide an overview of microplastic's occurrence, fate, and implications in Malaysia's aquatic environment. Detection of microplastics from the water surface, ingestion by aquatics, and sediment samples are highlighted. Available different treatment processes toward microplastic remediation are also discussed. Additionally, the potential challenges, current perspective for plastic management in Malaysia, as well as green strategies for reducing microplastic contamination are also put forward. The goal of this work is to improve the understanding of the seriousness of microplastic contamination in aquatic environments, thus encouraging key concerns that need to be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aznizam Abu Bakar
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy EngineeringUniversiti Teknologi MalaysiaSkudaiJohor81310Malaysia
| | - Norzita Ngadi
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy EngineeringUniversiti Teknologi MalaysiaSkudaiJohor81310Malaysia
| | | | - Abu Hassan Nordin
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy EngineeringUniversiti Teknologi MalaysiaSkudaiJohor81310Malaysia
- Faculty of Applied SciencesUniversiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)ArauPerlis02600Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Ikram
- Solar Cell Application Research LabDepartment of PhysicsGovernment College University LahoreLahorePunjab54000Pakistan
| | - Walid Nabgan
- Departament d'Enginyeria QuímicaUniversitat Rovira i VirgiliAv Països Catalans 26Tarragona43007Spain
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7
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Matupang DM, Zulkifli HI, Arnold J, Lazim AM, Ghaffar MA, Musa SM. Tropical sharks feasting on and swimming through microplastics: First evidence from Malaysia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114762. [PMID: 36870137 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic can be degraded into microplastic (<5 mm) and has been polluting worldwide marine environment and negatively impact human health. Microplastics in marine organisms are still understudied in Malaysia, let alone from a subclass Elasmobranchii. Five tropical shark species (Carcharhinus dussumieri, Carcharhinus sorrah, Chiloscyllium hasseltii, Chiloscyllium punctatum, and Scoliodon laticaudus) were examined for the presence of microplastics. 74 sharks were sampled from the local wet market and 100 % of samples contained microplastics. A total of 2211 plastic particles were found in gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) and gills, where 29.88 ± 2.34 particles per shark (mean ± SEM). Black (40.07 %) and fiber (84.44 %) microplastics were the most dominant. Extracted microplastic sizes ranged from 0.007 mm to 4.992 mm. This study suggests that microplastic uptake is gender-related for some shark species. A subsample of microplastics (10 %) was used for polymer type identification, where polyester was recorded the highest (43.95 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Matupang
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Haziq I Zulkifli
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jonathan Arnold
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Azwan Mat Lazim
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mazlan Abd Ghaffar
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia; Climate Change Adaptation Laboratory, Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Syafiq M Musa
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Marine Ecosystem Research Centre (EKOMAR), Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
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8
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Dawson AL, Santana MFM, Nelis JLD, Motti CA. Taking control of microplastics data: A comparison of control and blank data correction methods. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 443:130218. [PMID: 36367473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although significant headway has been achieved regarding method harmonisation for the analysis of microplastics, analysis and interpretation of control data has largely been overlooked. There is currently no consensus on the best method to utilise data generated from controls, and consequently many methods are arbitrarily employed. This study identified 6 commonly implemented strategies: a) No correction; b) Subtraction; c) Mean Subtraction; d) Spectral Similarity; e) Limits of detection/ limits of quantification (LOD/LOQ) or f) Statistical analysis, of which many variations are possible. Here, the 6 core methods and 45 variant methods (n = 51) thereof were used to correct a dummy dataset using control data. Most of the methods tested were too inflexible to account for the inherent variation present in microplastic data. Only 7 of the 51 methods tested (six LOD/LOQ methods and one statistical method) showed promise, removing between 96.3 % and 100 % of the contamination data from the dummy set. The remaining 44 methods resulted in deficient corrections for background contamination due to the heterogeneity of microplastics. These methods should be avoided in the future to avoid skewed results, especially in low abundance samples. Overall, LOD/LOQ methods or statistical analysis comparing means are recommended for future use in microplastic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Dawson
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 306 Carmody Rd, St Lucia, Queensland 4067, Australia.
| | - Marina F M Santana
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia; AIMS@JCU, Division of Research and Innovation, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Joost L D Nelis
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 306 Carmody Rd, St Lucia, Queensland 4067, Australia
| | - Cherie A Motti
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; AIMS@JCU, Division of Research and Innovation, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
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Jin M, Liu J, Yu J, Zhou Q, Wu W, Fu L, Yin C, Fernandez C, Karimi-Maleh H. Current development and future challenges in microplastic detection techniques: A bibliometrics-based analysis and review. Sci Prog 2022; 105:368504221132151. [PMID: 36263507 PMCID: PMC10306156 DOI: 10.1177/00368504221132151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been considered a new type of pollutant in the marine environment and have attracted widespread attention worldwide in recent years. Plastic particles with particle size less than 5 mm are usually defined as microplastics. Because of their similar size to plankton, marine organisms easily ingest microplastics and can threaten higher organisms and even human health through the food chain. Most of the current studies have focused on the investigation of the abundance of microplastics in the environment. However, due to the limitations of analytical methods and instruments, the number of microplastics in the environment can easily lead to overestimation or underestimation. Microplastics in each environment have different detection techniques. To investigate the current status, hot spots, and research trends of microplastics detection techniques, this review analyzed the papers related to microplastics detection using bibliometric software CiteSpace and COOC. A total of 696 articles were analyzed, spanning 2012 to 2021. The contributions and cooperation of different countries and institutions in this field have been analyzed in detail. This topic has formed two main important networks of cooperation. International cooperation has been a common pattern in this topic. The various analytical methods of this topic were discussed through keyword and clustering analysis. Among them, fluorescent, FTIR and micro-Raman spectroscopy are commonly used optical techniques for the detection of microplastics. The identification of microplastics can also be achieved by the combination of other techniques such as mass spectrometry/thermal cracking gas chromatography. However, these techniques still have limitations and cannot be applied to all environmental samples. We provide a detailed analysis of the detection of microplastics in different environmental samples and list the challenges that need to be addressed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiqing Jin
- College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinsong Liu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Environment Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingwei Zhou
- College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weihong Wu
- College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Fu
- College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengliang Yin
- National Engineering Laboratory for Medical Big Data Application Technology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical Big Data Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Carlos Fernandez
- School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Hassan Karimi-Maleh
- School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Quchan University of Technology, Quchan, Iran
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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10
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Do VM, Dang TT, Le XTT, Nguyen DT, Phung TV, Vu DN, Pham HV. Abundance of microplastics in cultured oysters (Crassostrea gigas) from Danang Bay of Vietnam. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 180:113800. [PMID: 35659663 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113800] [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: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on determination of quantity, shape, size and polymer types of microplastics in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) cultured in Danang Bay, Vietnam. Visual verification and chemical identification of microplastics was carried out by μFT-IR spectra using Nicolet iN10 MX Infrared Imaging Microscope. The average abundance of microplastic in oysters was 1.88 ± 1.58 particles/g (wet weight) and 18.54 ± 10.08 particles/individual. The prevalent shape of microplastics included three main forms as fragment, fiber and bead corresponding to 73.71; 25.84 and 0.45%, respectively. Additionally, the size of microplastics was a range of 22.4-1318.8 μm, and the most common size was less than 100 μm, accounted for 77.30%. Fifteen polymer types were detected while Nylon was the most abundant polymer type with 50.56%. In this study, microplastics accumulation with their abundance and polymeric structures could be considered as reliable evidence for further studies on assessment of their potential risk to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Manh Do
- Institute of Environmental Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam; Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
| | - Thi Thom Dang
- Institute of Environmental Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam; Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Xuan Thanh Thao Le
- Institute of Environmental Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Duy Thanh Nguyen
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Vi Phung
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Technology for Environmental Quality and Food Safety Control (KLATEFOS), VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Dinh Ngo Vu
- Viet Tri University of Industry, 9 Tien Son street, Tien Cat Sub-district, VietTri City, Phu Tho Province, Viet Nam
| | - Hung Viet Pham
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Technology for Environmental Quality and Food Safety Control (KLATEFOS), VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
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11
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Caldwell J, Taladriz-Blanco P, Lehner R, Lubskyy A, Ortuso RD, Rothen-Rutishauser B, Petri-Fink A. The micro-, submicron-, and nanoplastic hunt: A review of detection methods for plastic particles. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 293:133514. [PMID: 35016963 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic particle pollution has been shown to be almost completely ubiquitous within our surrounding environment. This ubiquity in combination with a variety of unique properties (e.g. density, hydrophobicity, surface functionalization, particle shape and size, transition temperatures, and mechanical properties) and the ever-increasing levels of plastic production and use has begun to garner heightened levels of interest within the scientific community. However, as a result of these properties, plastic particles are often reported to be challenging to study in complex (i.e. real) environments. Therefore, this review aims to summarize research generated on multiple facets of the micro- and nanoplastics field; ranging from size and shape definitions to detection and characterization techniques to generating reference particles; in order to provide a more complete understanding of the current strategies for the analysis of plastic particles. This information is then used to provide generalized recommendations for researchers to consider as they attempt to study plastics in analytically complex environments; including method validation using reference particles obtained via the presented creation methods, encouraging efforts towards method standardization through the reporting of all technical details utilized in a study, and providing analytical pathway recommendations depending upon the exact knowledge desired and samples being studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Caldwell
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Taladriz-Blanco
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland; Water Quality Group, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), A v. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330, Braga, Portugal
| | - Roman Lehner
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland; Sail & Explore Association, Kramgasse 18, 3011, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andriy Lubskyy
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Diego Ortuso
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Alke Petri-Fink
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland; Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland.
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12
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Song X, Wu X, Song X, Zhang Z. Oil extraction following digestion to separate microplastics from mussels. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 289:133187. [PMID: 34890625 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Mussels are often used as biological indicators for monitoring marine microplastic pollution. The crucial procedure during monitoring is the separation of microplastics from mussel samples. We investigated the separation efficiencies of six combinations of two digestion solutions (10% KOH and 30% H2O2) and three extraction solutions (NaCl, oil in H2O, and oil in NaCl) for mussels with low- and high-density microplastics. After KOH digestion, no polyethylene terephthalate (PET) could be extracted using the three extraction solutions, which might be due to the degradation of PET. After H2O2 digestion, the total extraction recovery rates of polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and PET for oil in H2O and oil in NaCl solution ranged from 95.6% ± 5.09%-100%, which were higher than those of the saturated NaCl solution (51.1% ± 17.1%-67.8% ± 13.9%). The first extraction recovery rates of oil in NaCl solution for PP, PET, and PVC were higher than those of oil in H2O. In this study, extraction by oil in NaCl solution after 30% H2O2 digestion was suggested to separate microplastics from mussels. This method is conducive to promoting the standardization of microplastic monitoring in mussels and might be suitable for large-scale monitoring of marine microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Song
- Center for Environmental Metrology, National Institute of Metrology PR China, PR China
| | - Xiaofeng Wu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Quality Control in Environmental Monitoring, China National Environmental Monitoring Center, PR China
| | - Xiaoping Song
- Center for Environmental Metrology, National Institute of Metrology PR China, PR China
| | - Zhengdong Zhang
- Center for Environmental Metrology, National Institute of Metrology PR China, PR China.
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13
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Jaafar N, Azfaralariff A, Musa SM, Mohamed M, Yusoff AH, Lazim AM. Occurrence, distribution and characteristics of microplastics in gastrointestinal tract and gills of commercial marine fish from Malaysia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 799:149457. [PMID: 34375867 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles with size below 5 mm, prevalence in marine environments and the occurrence have been reported in commercial marine fish worldwide. Microplastics' abilities to absorb various marine contaminants raised considerable concern on their role as a vector to spread harmful pollutants to the alienated environment. This study focussed on the occurrence of microplastics in gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and gills of 158 fishes across 16 species from two locations in Malaysia coastal waters. Microplastics were detected approximately 86% in the GIT and 92% in the gills of examined fish. High incident of microplastics was detected in fishes from the area that is close to an urban area with average microplastics incident reaching up to 9.88 plastics items/individuals. Meanwhile, only 5.17 microplastics per individual were recorded in fishes from a less urbanised area. Isolated microplastics comprised 80.2% of fibres, 17.7% of fragments and the remaining was derived from filaments (3.1%). Infrared and Raman spectroscopy analysis of selected microplastics revealed the chemical composition of microplastics which comprised of polyethene (PE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalates (PET). FESEM images indicate, different surface characteristics of microplastics as a result of environmental exposure. Further, elemental analysis using EDX for green PE fragments showed the uneven distribution of chromium (Cr) and iron (Fe) on the surface, suggesting the adherence of heavy metals on the surface of microplastics. Overall findings indicate the widespread distribution of microplastics in commercial marine fishes from Malaysia waters and could potentially lead to human exposure through fish consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norhazwani Jaafar
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Azfaralariff
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syafiq M Musa
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mazlan Mohamed
- Advanced Material Research Cluster (AMRC) Faculty of Bioengineering and Technology (FBET), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Kampus Jeli, Locked Bag 100, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Hafidz Yusoff
- Advanced Material Research Cluster (AMRC) Faculty of Bioengineering and Technology (FBET), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Kampus Jeli, Locked Bag 100, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Azwan Mat Lazim
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
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14
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Xu X, Zhang L, Xue Y, Gao Y, Wang L, Peng M, Jiang S, Zhang Q. Microplastic pollution characteristic in surface water and freshwater fish of Gehu Lake, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:67203-67213. [PMID: 34245413 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15338-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Much more attention has been poured into microplastic pollution in freshwater systems recently. In the present study, the pollution of microplastics (MPs) in surface water and freshwater fish (crucian carp, etc.) were investigated from Gehu Lake, which is the second largest lake in southern Jiangsu after Taihu Lake. The result manifested that the average abundance of MPs was respectively 6.33±2.67 n/L for surface water and 10.7 items per individual for freshwater fish. The distribution of MPs in Gehu Lake varied from place to place, with the highest abundance of MPs was observed in the two estuaries of the eastern part of the lake. It was speculated that topographical factors and human factors were the main factors affecting the abundance and distribution of MPs. Transparent fibers were the main type of MPs in water samples, accounting for 69.70% of all detected particles. Meanwhile, most of the MPs ingested by freshwater fish were fibers, and the main colors were transparent and blue. In addition, the dominant size of the MPs was between 0.1 to 0.5 mm in water and fish samples. Moreover, PES, man-made fiber, and PP were the dominant polymer types in the surface water and fish samples. The results of this investigation can provide basic data for the research and management of MPs in freshwater systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Xu
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingang Xue
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China.
- Changzhou Environmental Monitoring Center, Changzhou, 213001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yu Gao
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liping Wang
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingguo Peng
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shanqing Jiang
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiuya Zhang
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, Jiangsu, China
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15
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Jones JS, Porter A, Muñoz-Pérez JP, Alarcón-Ruales D, Galloway TS, Godley BJ, Santillo D, Vagg J, Lewis C. Plastic contamination of a Galapagos Island (Ecuador) and the relative risks to native marine species. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147704. [PMID: 34049146 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147704] [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: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ecuador's Galapagos Islands and their unique biodiversity are a global conservation priority. We explored the presence, composition and environmental drivers of plastic contamination across the marine ecosystem at an island scale, investigated uptake in marine invertebrates and designed a systematic priority scoring analysis to identify the most vulnerable vertebrate species. Beach contamination varied by site (macroplastic 0-0.66 items·m-2, microplastics 0-448.8 particles·m-2 or 0-74.6 particles·kg-1), with high plastic accumulation on east-facing beaches that are influenced by the Humboldt Current. Local littering and waste management leakages accounted for just 2% of macroplastic. Microplastics (including anthropogenic cellulosics) were ubiquitous but in low concentrations in benthic sediments (6.7-86.7 particles·kg-1) and surface seawater (0.04-0.89 particles·m-3), with elevated concentrations in the harbour suggesting some local input. Microplastics were present in all seven marine invertebrate species examined, found in 52% of individuals (n = 123) confirming uptake of microplastics in the Galapagos marine food web. Priority scoring analysis combining species distribution information, IUCN Red List conservation status and literature evidence of harm from entanglement and ingestion of plastics in similar species identified 27 marine vertebrates in need of urgent, targeted monitoring and mitigation including pinnipeds, seabirds, turtles and sharks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen S Jones
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK; Galapagos Conservation Trust, 7-14 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YR, UK
| | - Adam Porter
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Juan Pablo Muñoz-Pérez
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) & UNC-Chapel Hill Galápagos Science Center (GSC), Av. Alsacio Northia, Isla San Cristobal, Galápagos, Ecuador; School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia
| | - Daniela Alarcón-Ruales
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) & UNC-Chapel Hill Galápagos Science Center (GSC), Av. Alsacio Northia, Isla San Cristobal, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology & Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Vagg
- Centre for Ecology & Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Ceri Lewis
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
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16
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Ibrahim YS, Hamzah SR, Khalik WMAWM, Ku Yusof KMK, Anuar ST. Spatiotemporal microplastic occurrence study of Setiu Wetland, South China Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 788:147809. [PMID: 34034173 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study reports the distribution of microplastics (MPs) in surface water and estuarine sediments in South and North Setiu Wetland in the South China Sea. Sampling was conducted bimonthly for one year from November 2016 to November 2017, including the northeast and southwest monsoons. Water surface and sediment samples were collected from six different sampling stations (STs). Samples were sorted based on physical analysis (optical observation) and selected particles were further analyzed by chemical characterizations. The findings of this study indicate that a total of 0.36 items/L and 5.97 items/g particles of MPs were found from characterizations surface water and dry sediment, respectively. Among the selected stations included in this research, ST3 (1.375 ± 0.347 items/L) and ST2 (14.250 ± 4.343 items/g) were individually identified as high potential MP sinking areas, exacerbated during the northeast and southwest monsoons. Transparent, film, and filament MP types were consistently found across all stations. Microplastic filaments revealed a functional group of polypropylenes based on the main peak spectrum at 2893-2955 cm-1 (CH alkyl stretching), 1458 cm-1 (CH2 bending), and 1381 cm-1 (CH3 bending). Microplastic materials were thermally decomposed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) and identified as cyclohexane and cyclohexene derivatives, as well as precursors of polymer blends. The distribution of MPs in both matrices varied according to different seasons. These findings provide useful baseline information on the distribution of MPs from the estuarine area in Malaysia and South China Sea waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Siti Rabaah Hamzah
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Mohd Afiq Wan Mohd Khalik
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Ku Mohd Kalkausar Ku Yusof
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Sabiqah Tuan Anuar
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
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17
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Halfar J, Brožová K, Čabanová K, Heviánková S, Kašpárková A, Olšovská E. Disparities in Methods Used to Determine Microplastics in the Aquatic Environment: A Review of Legislation, Sampling Process and Instrumental Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147608. [PMID: 34300059 PMCID: PMC8304247 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, i.e., microplastics, have been detected in a number of environments. The number of studies on microplastics in marine environments, fresh water, wastewater, the atmosphere, and the human body are increasing along with a rise in the amounts of plastic materials introduced into the environment every year, all contributing to a range of health and environmental issues. Although the use of primary microplastics has been gradually reduced by recent legislation in many countries, new knowledge and data on these problems are needed to understand the overall lifecycle of secondary microplastics in particular. The aim of this review is to provide unified information on the pathways of microplastics into the environment, their degradation, and related legislation, with a special focus on the methods of their sampling, determination, and instrumental analysis. To deal with the health and environmental issues associated with the abundance of microplastics in the environment, researchers should focus on agreeing on a uniform methodology to determine the gravity of the problem through obtaining comparable data, thus leading to new and stricter legislation enforcing more sustainable plastic production and recycling, and hopefully contributing to reversing the trend of high amounts of microplastics worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Halfar
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (K.B.); (K.Č.); (S.H.); (A.K.)
- Centre for Advanced and Innovative Technologies, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic;
- Correspondence:
| | - Kateřina Brožová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (K.B.); (K.Č.); (S.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Kristina Čabanová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (K.B.); (K.Č.); (S.H.); (A.K.)
- Centre for Advanced and Innovative Technologies, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic;
| | - Silvie Heviánková
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (K.B.); (K.Č.); (S.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Alena Kašpárková
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (K.B.); (K.Č.); (S.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Eva Olšovská
- Centre for Advanced and Innovative Technologies, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic;
- Nanotechnology Centre, CEET, VŠB–Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15/2172, 708 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
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