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Garai S, Bhattacharjee C, Sarkar S, Moulick D, Dey S, Jana S, Dhar A, Roy A, Mondal K, Mondal M, Mukherjee S, Ghosh S, Singh P, Ramteke P, Manna D, Hazra S, Malakar P, Banerjee H, Brahmachari K, Hossain A. Microplastics in the soil-water-food nexus: Inclusive insight into global research findings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173891. [PMID: 38885699 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Nuisance imposed by biotic and abiotic stressors on diverse agroecosystems remains an area of focus for the scientific fraternity. However, emerging contaminants such as microplastics (MP) have imposed additional dimension (alone or in combinations with other stressors) in agroecosystems and keep escalating the challenges to achieve sustainability. MP are recognized as persistent anthropogenic contaminants, fetch global attention due to their unique chemical features that keeps themselves unresponsive to the decaying process. This review has been theorized to assess the current research trends (along with possible gap areas), widespread use of MP, enhancement of the harshness of heavy metals (HMs), complex interactions with physico-chemical constituents of arable soil, accumulation in the edible parts of field crops, dairy products, and other sources to penetrate the food web. So far, the available review articles are oriented to a certain aspect of MP and lack a totality when considered from in soil-water-food perspective. In short, a comprehensive perspective of the adverse effects of MP on human health has been assessed. Moreover, an agro-techno-socio-health prospective-oriented critical assessment of policies and remedial measures linked with MP has provided an extra edge over other similar articles in influential future courses of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Garai
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chandrima Bhattacharjee
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sukamal Sarkar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
| | - Debojyoti Moulick
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal -741235, India
| | - Saikat Dey
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Soujanya Jana
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anannya Dhar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anirban Roy
- Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Krishnendu Mondal
- Dhaanyaganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Sargachhi, West Bengal, India
| | - Mousumi Mondal
- School of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddhartha Mukherjee
- Division of Agriculture, Faculty Centre for Agriculture, Rural and Tribal Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Samrat Ghosh
- Emergent Ventures India, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Puja Singh
- Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College, Birsa Agricultural University, Khuntpani, Chaibasa, Jharkhand, India
| | - Pratik Ramteke
- Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, MS 444104, India
| | - Dipak Manna
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreyasee Hazra
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Hirak Banerjee
- Regional Research Station (CSZ), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kakdwip, West Bengal, India
| | - Koushik Brahmachari
- Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Akbar Hossain
- Division of Soil Science, Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
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Li M, Wang Z, Zhu L, Zhu Y, Yi J, Fu X. Research advances on microplastics contamination in terrestrial geoenvironment: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173259. [PMID: 38761947 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The contamination of microplastics in terrestrial geoenvironment (CMTG) is widespread and severe and has, received considerable attention. However, studies on CMTG are in their initial stages. The literature on CMTG published in the past decade was analyzed through bibliometric analysis, such as the annual publications, countries with the highest contributions, prolific authors, and author keywords. The sources, compositions, migrations and environmental impacts of CMTG are summarized, and possible future directions are proposed. This study analyzed the annual publications, countries with the highest contributions, prolific authors, and author keywords related to microplastics. The results demonstrated that 15,306 articles were published between 2014 and 2023. China is the leading country in terms of the total number of publications. The main sources of CMTG include landfills, agricultural non-point sources, sewage treatment systems and transportation systems. The composition of the CMTG exhibits significantly temporal and spatial variability from different sources. The migration paths of the CMTG were within the soil, groundwater seepage and wind transportation of suspended particles. Microplastics increase soil cohesion, decrease porosity, reduce pore scale, decrease air circulation, and increase water retention capacity, and the exudation of highly water-soluble additives in microplastics can cause secondary contamination of geological entities. Microplastics have an adverse effect on plant growth, animal digestion, microbial activity, energy and lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and respiratory diseases in humans. It is recommended to develop more efficient and convenient quantitative testing methods for microplastics, formulate globally harmonized testing and evaluation standards, include microplastic testing in testing programs for contaminated soils, and develop efficient methods for the remediation of microplastic contaminated geological bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingdong Li
- School of Civil and Architectural Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China; State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China.
| | - Zhicheng Wang
- School of Civil and Architectural Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Liping Zhu
- School of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China; State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Yating Zhu
- School of Civil and Architectural Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Jinxiang Yi
- School of Civil and Architectural Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Xiaojie Fu
- School of Civil and Architectural Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
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3
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Li Y, Ding BH, Geng X. Effect of biochar on microplastics penetration treatment within soil porous medium under the wetting-drying cycles and optimisation of soil-biochar mixing format. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173194. [PMID: 38744391 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Plant-based biochar was demonstrated promising capability in adsorbing microplastic particles (MPs) within soil porous mediums. However, biochar's function in mitigating MPs' vertical penetration during wetting-drying cycles, typical of seasonal precipitation and evaporation, remains uncertain. Furthermore, few studies have investigated the structures of how biochar combines with soil. This study conducted column tests to assess the MPs retention capabilities of soil-biochar porous media under saturated and wetting-drying conditions. The water retention and hydrophilic properties were investigated to elucidate the impact of wetting-drying cycles. Additionally, different biochar-soil structures were compared to optimise the structural design. Without biochar, wetting-drying cycles resulted in 8.74 % more MPs escaping from samples. However, incorporating 15 % biochar led to only around 2 % more MPs in effluent. Biochar significantly enhanced soil's MP absorption capacity and mitigated the negative effects of wetting-drying cycles. Biochar's alveolate morphology provides ample adsorption sites and creates complex flow paths. The hydrophilic groups of biochar and capillarity by micropores facilitated slower water release during drying, preventing crack propagation and flush on MP particles. This effect was more pronounced with higher biochar content and lower porosity. Moreover, layer structure was found to improve MPs removal, benefiting the long-term performance and management of the biochar functional layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Li
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, UK
| | | | - Xueyu Geng
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, UK.
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Li Y, Tang Y, Qiang W, Xiao W, Lian X, Yuan S, Yuan Y, Wang Q, Liu Z, Chen Y. Effect of tire wear particle accumulation on nitrogen removal and greenhouse gases abatement in bioretention systems: Soil characteristics, microbial community, and functional genes. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118574. [PMID: 38452911 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118574] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Tire wear particles (TWPs), as predominant microplastics (MPs) in road runoff, can be captured and retained by bioretention systems (BRS). This study aimed to investigate the effect of TWPs accumulation on nitrogen processes, focusing on soil characteristics, microbial community, and functional genes. Two groups of lab-scale bioretention columns containing TWPs (0 and 100 mg g-1) were established. The removal efficiencies of NH4+-N and TN in BRS significantly decreased by 7.60%-24.79% and 1.98%-11.09%, respectively, during the 101 days of TWPs exposure. Interestingly, the emission fluxes of N2O and CO2 were significantly decreased, while the emission flux of CH4 was substantially increased. Furthermore, prolonged TWPs exposure significantly influenced the contents of soil organic matter (increased by 27.07%) and NH4+-N (decreased by 42.15%) in the planting layer. TWPs exposure also significantly increased dehydrogenase activity and substrate-induced respiration rate, thereby promoting microbial metabolism. Microbial sequencing results revealed that TWPs decreased the relative abundance of nitrifying bacteria (Nitrospira and Nitrosomonas) and denitrifying bacteria (Dechloromonas and Thauera), reducing the nitrification rate by 42.24%. PICRUSt2 analysis further indicated that TWPs changed the relative abundance of functional genes related to nitrogen and enzyme-coding genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Li
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Yinghui Tang
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Weibo Qiang
- Central & Southern China Municipal Engineering Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd., Wuhan, 430010, China
| | - Wenyu Xiao
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Xiaoke Lian
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Shaochun Yuan
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China; Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering of Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Qinyi Wang
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China; Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering of Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China
| | - Yao Chen
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China; Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulic Engineering of Chongqing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, 400074, China.
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Habumugisha T, Zhang Z, Uwizewe C, Yan C, Ndayishimiye JC, Rehman A, Zhang X. Toxicological review of micro- and nano-plastics in aquatic environments: Risks to ecosystems, food web dynamics and human health. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116426. [PMID: 38718727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116426] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The increase of micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) in aquatic environments has become a significant concern due to their potential toxicological effects on ecosystems, food web dynamics, and human health. These plastic particles emerge from a range of sources, such as the breakdown of larger plastic waste, consumer products, and industrial outputs. This review provides a detailed report of the transmission and dangers of MNPs in aquatic ecosystems, environmental behavior, and interactions within aquatic food webs, emphasizing their toxic impact on marine life. It explores the relationship between particle size and toxicity, their distribution in different tissues, and the process of trophic transfer through the food web. MNPs, once consumed, can be found in various organs, including the digestive system, gills, and liver. Their consumption by lower trophic level organisms facilitates their progression up the food chain, potentially leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification, thereby posing substantial risks to the health, reproduction, and behavior of aquatic species. This work also explores how MNPs, through their persistence and bioaccumulation, pose risks to aquatic biodiversity and disrupt trophic relationships. The review also addresses the implications of MNPs for human health, particularly through the consumption of contaminated seafood, highlighting the direct and indirect pathways through which humans are exposed to these pollutants. Furthermore, the review highlights the recommendations for future research directions, emphasizing the integration of ecological, toxicological, and human health studies to inform risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to address the global challenge of plastic pollution in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Théogène Habumugisha
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China
| | - Zixing Zhang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China
| | - Constance Uwizewe
- Key Laboratory of Physical Oceanography, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, PR China
| | - Changzhou Yan
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China
| | | | - Abdul Rehman
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China.
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Parameswarappa Jayalakshmamma M, Na Nagara V, Borgaonkar A, Sarkar D, Obropta C, Boufadel M. Temporal and spatial distribution of microplastics in green infrastructures: Rain gardens. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142543. [PMID: 38866339 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Rain gardens, a type of green infrastructure (GI), have been recognized for mitigating flooding and improving water quality from minor storms by trapping stormwater pollutants. Yet, the capability of these systems to retain microplastics (MPs) from stormwater, especially in size <125 μm, remains inadequately understood. This study investigated the spatial and temporal distributions of MPs in three rain gardens located in Newark, New Jersey, USA. The rain gardens have been in operation for ∼7 years and located in different land uses: low-density residential (Site 1), commercial (Site 2), and high-density residential (Site 3). The sediment samples were collected during May 2022, August 2022, and February 2023 at various soil depths and horizontal distances of rain gardens. The MPs were quantified and characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer and a Raman microscope. The overall mean concentration varied between sampling sites, with 469 ± 89.8 pkg-1 in Site 1, 604 ± 91.4 pkg-1 in Site 2, and 997 ± 64.3 pkg-1 in Site 3, with Polypropylene as the dominant polymer, followed by nylon and polyethylene. In the vertical direction, larger MPs (250 μm-5 mm) were effectively retained within the top 5 cm and their concentration declined exponentially with the increasing depths. Small-sized MPs (1-250 μm) were prevalent at deeper depths (≥ 10 cm), and no MPs were found below 15 cm. In the horizontal direction, the highest MP concentration was observed near the stormwater inlet, and the concentration decreased away from the inlet. Over the nine-month period, a notable increase in concentration was observed at all sites. These findings contribute valuable knowledge towards developing effective measures for retaining MPs from stormwater and monitoring GIs in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Parameswarappa Jayalakshmamma
- Center for Natural Resources, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 MLK Blvd., Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Viravid Na Nagara
- Center for Natural Resources, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 MLK Blvd., Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Ashish Borgaonkar
- School of Applied Engineering and Technology, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 MLK Blvd., Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Dibyendu Sarkar
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Ocean Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, 1 Castle Point Terrace, Hoboken, NJ, 07030, USA
| | - Christopher Obropta
- Water Resources Research Institute Environmental Engineering, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Michel Boufadel
- Center for Natural Resources, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 MLK Blvd., Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
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Heinze WM, Steinmetz Z, Klemmensen NDR, Vollertsen J, Cornelis G. Vertical distribution of microplastics in an agricultural soil after long-term treatment with sewage sludge and mineral fertiliser. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124343. [PMID: 38852659 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Sewage sludge applications release contaminants to agricultural soils, such as potentially toxic metals and microplastics (MPs). However, factors determining the subsequent mobility of MPs in long-term field conditions are poorly understood. This study aimed to understand the vertical distribution of MPs in soils amended with sewage sludge in comparison to conventional mineral fertiliser for 24 years. The depth-dependent MP mass and number concentrations, plastic types, sizes and shapes were compared with the distribution of organic carbon and metals to provide insights into potentially transport-limiting factors. Polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene mass concentrations were screened down to 90 cm depth via pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. MP number concentrations, additional plastic types, sizes, and shapes were analysed down to 40 cm depth using micro-Fourier transform-infrared imaging. Across all depths, MP numbers were twice and mass concentrations 8 times higher when sewage sludge was applied, with a higher share of textile-related plastics, more fibres and on average larger particles than in soil receiving mineral fertiliser. Transport of MPs beyond the plough layer (0-20 cm) is often assumed negligible, but substantial MP numbers (42 %) and mass (52 %) were detected down to 70 cm in sewage sludge-amended soils. The initial mobilization of MPs was shape- and size-dependent, because the fractions of fragmental-shaped and relatively small MPs increased directly below the plough layer, but not at greater depths. The sharp decline of total MP concentrations between 20 and 40 cm depth resembled that of metals and organic matter suggesting similar transport limitations. We hypothesize that the effect of soil management, such as ploughing, on soil compactness and subsequent transport by bioturbation and via macropores drives vertical MP distribution over long time scales. Risk assessment in soils should therefore account for considerable MP displacement to avoid underestimating soil exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Mareile Heinze
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Soil and Environment, Box 7014, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Zacharias Steinmetz
- RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, iES Landau, Institute for Environmental Sciences, Environmental and Soil Chemistry Lab, Fortstraße 7, 76829, Landau, Germany.
| | - Nanna Dyg Rathje Klemmensen
- Aalborg University, Department of the Built Environment, Division of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Aalborg University, Department of the Built Environment, Division of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Geert Cornelis
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Soil and Environment, Box 7014, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Rullander G, Lorenz C, Strömvall AM, Vollertsen J, Dalahmeh SS. Bark and biochar in horizontal flow filters effectively remove microplastics from stormwater. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124335. [PMID: 38848957 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Organic materials such as bark and biochar can be effective filter materials to treat stormwater. However, the efficiency of such filters in retaining microplastics (MPs) - an emerging stormwater pollutant - has not been sufficiently studied. This study investigated the removal and transport of a mixture of MPs commonly associated with stormwater. Different MP types (polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene) were mixed into the initial 2 cm material of horizontal bark and biochar filters of 25, 50, and 100 cm lengths. The MP types consisted of spherical and fragmented shapes in size ranges of 25-900 μm. The filters were subjected to a water flow of 5 mL/min for one week, and the total effluents were analyzed for MPs by μFTIR imaging. To gain a deeper insight, one 100 cm bark filter replica was split into 10 cm segments, and MPs in each segment were extracted and counted. The results showed that MPs were retained effectively, >97%, in all biochar and bark filters. However, MPs were detected in all effluents regardless of filter length. Effluent concentrations of 5-750 MP/L and 35-355 MP/L were measured in bark and biochar effluents, respectively, with >91% of the MP counts consisting of small-sized (25 μm) polyamide spherical particles. Combining all data, a decrease in average MP concentration was noticed with longer filters, likely attributed to channeling in a 25 and 50-cm filter. The analyses of MPs in the bark media revealed that most MPs were retained in the 0-10 cm segment but that some MPs were transported further, with 19% of polyamide retained in the 80-90 cm segment. Overall, this study shows promising results for bark and biochar filters to retain MPs, while highlighting the importance of systematic packing of filters to reduce MP emissions to the environment from polluted stormwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Rullander
- Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE-752 36, Sweden.
| | - Claudia Lorenz
- Environmental Dynamics, Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Universitetsvej 1, 11.2 DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ann-Margret Strömvall
- Water Environment Technology, Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Aalborg University, Department of The Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg Øst, Denmark
| | - Sahar S Dalahmeh
- Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE-752 36, Sweden
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Jiang Y, Yang Y, Zhan C, Cheng B. Impacts of rainfall and lakeshore soil properties on microplastics in inland freshwater: A case study in Donghu Lake, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024; 26:891-901. [PMID: 38591146 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00500c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has garnered global attention in recent years. Although anthropogenic factors have been extensively studied for their impacts on MP pollution, there is still a lack of research on the relationship between non-anthropogenic factors and MP occurrence in inland freshwater. This study investigated MP pollution in Donghu Lake, the largest urban freshwater lake in China, to examine the effects of rainfall and lakeshore soil properties on MP pollution. The MP abundance in the surface water of Donghu Lake was 5.84 ± 2.95 items per L under the equilibrium state. However, during and after rainfall, the MP abundances significantly increased to 8.27 ± 5.65 items per L and 7.60 ± 4.04 items per L, respectively (p < 0.05). This increase could be attributed to an increase in the amount of MPs transported to the lake via atmospheric deposition and rainfall runoff, as well as the re-suspension of MP debris in sediment during stronger hydrodynamics. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between MP abundance and lakeshore soil particle size. It suggested that a high proportion of large-sized soil particles created large pores that enabled MPs to be deposited in the surface layer of soil to migrate to deeper layers. As a result, the amount of MPs in the surface soil and transported to the lake via surface runoff was low. It is of practical significance to understand the sources and distribution impact factors of MPs in urban lakes. The fate and effects of MPs retained in the inland freshwater environments should receive more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Yinuo Yang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chenxi Zhan
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Bo Cheng
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
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Li F, Huang D, Wang G, Cheng M, Chen H, Zhou W, Xiao R, Li R, Du L, Xu W. Microplastics/nanoplastics in porous media: Key factors controlling their transport and retention behaviors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171658. [PMID: 38490411 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Till now, microplastics/nano-plastics(M/NPs) have received a lot of attention as emerging contaminant. As a typical but complex porous medium, soil is not only a large reservoir of M/NPs but also a gateway for M/NPs to enter groundwater. Therefore, the review of the factors controlling the transport behavior of M/NPs in porous media can provide important guidance for the risk assessment of M/NPs in soil and groundwater. In this study, the key factors controlling the transport behavior of M/NPs in porous media are systematically divided into three groups: (1) nature of M/NPs affecting M/NPs transport in porous media, (2) nature of flow affecting M/NPs transport in porous media, (3) nature of porous media affecting M/NPs transport. In each group, the specific control factors for M/NPs transport in porous media are discussed in detail. In addition to the above factors, some substances (colloids or pollutants) present in natural porous media (such as soil or sediments) will co-transport with M/NPs and affect its mobility. According to the different properties of co-transported substances, the mechanism of promoting or inhibiting the migration behavior of M/NPs in porous media was discussed. Finally, the limitations and future research directions of M/NPs transport in porous media are pointed out. This review can provide a useful reference for predicting the transport of M/NPs in natural porous media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Danlian Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.
| | - Guangfu Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Min Cheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Haojie Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Ruihao Xiao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Ruijin Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Li Du
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Wenbo Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
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11
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Yang X, Chen Y, Liu T, Zhang L, Wang H, Chen M, He Q, Liu G, Ju F. Plastic particles affect N 2O release via altering core microbial metabolisms in constructed wetlands. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 255:121506. [PMID: 38552486 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/24/2024]
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs) have been proven to effectively immobilize plastic particles. However, little is known about the differences in the impact of varying sized plastic particles on nitrous oxide (N2O) release, as well as the intervention mechanisms in CWs. Here, we built a lab-scale wetland model and introduced plastic particles of macro-, micro-, and nano-size at 100 μg/L for 370 days. The results showed that plastic particles of all sizes reduced N2O release in CWs, with the degrees being the strongest for the Nano group, followed by Micro and Macro groups. Meanwhile, 15N- and 18O-tracing experiment revealed that the ammoxidation process contributed the most N2O production, followed by denitrification. While for every N2O-releasing process, the contributing proportion of N2O in nitrification-coupled denitrification were most significantly cut down under exposing to macro-sized plastics and had an obvious increase in nitrifier denitrification in all groups, respectively. Finally, we revealed the three mechanism pathways of N2O release reduction with macro-, micro-, and nano-sized plastics by impacting carbon assimilation (RubisCO activity), ammonia oxidation (gene amo abundance and HAO activity), and N-ion transmembrane and reductase activities, respectively. Our findings thus provided novel insights into the potential effects of plastic particles in CWs as an eco-technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Campus B, 83 Shabeijie, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China; Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Section of Sanitary Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft 2628 CN, the Netherlands; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Geological Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Campus B, 83 Shabeijie, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China; National Centre for International Research of Low-Carbon and Green Buildings, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.
| | - Tao Liu
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Campus B, 83 Shabeijie, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China; National Centre for International Research of Low-Carbon and Green Buildings, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China; Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China; Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Mengli Chen
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Campus B, 83 Shabeijie, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China; National Centre for International Research of Low-Carbon and Green Buildings, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qiang He
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Campus B, 83 Shabeijie, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China; National Centre for International Research of Low-Carbon and Green Buildings, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Section of Sanitary Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft 2628 CN, the Netherlands
| | - Feng Ju
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China; Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China.
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12
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Gao J, Wang L, Wu WM, Luo J, Hou D. Microplastic generation from field-collected plastic gauze: Unveiling the aging processes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133615. [PMID: 38325096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Accumulation of plastic debris in the environment is a matter of global concern. As plastic ages, it generates microplastic (MP) particles with high mobility. Understanding how MPs are generated is crucial to controlling this emerging contaminant. In this study, we utilized high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic gauze, collected from urban settings, as a representative example of plastic waste. The plastic gauze was subjected to various aging conditions, including freeze-thaw cycling, mechanical abrasion, and UV irradiation. Following aging, the plastic gauze was rinsed with water, and the number of generated MPs were quantified. It was found that aged plastic gauze generated up to 334 million MP particles per m2 (> 10 µm) during rinsing, a number two orders of magnitude higher than unaged plastic. Fragmentation occurred in two dimensions for bulk MPs of all morphotypes. However, specific aging approaches (i.e., mechanical abrasion and UV irradiation) generated spheres and fibers via pseudo-3D fragmentation. Additionally, changes in molecular weight, size distribution, and surface oxidation characteristics unveiled a complex pattern (i.e., irregular changes with exposure time). This complexity underscores the intricate nature of plastic debris aging processes in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-4020, USA
| | - Jian Luo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0355, USA
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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13
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Jansen MAK, Andrady AL, Bornman JF, Aucamp PJ, Bais AF, Banaszak AT, Barnes PW, Bernhard GH, Bruckman LS, Busquets R, Häder DP, Hanson ML, Heikkilä AM, Hylander S, Lucas RM, Mackenzie R, Madronich S, Neale PJ, Neale RE, Olsen CM, Ossola R, Pandey KK, Petropavlovskikh I, Revell LE, Robinson SA, Robson TM, Rose KC, Solomon KR, Andersen MPS, Sulzberger B, Wallington TJ, Wang QW, Wängberg SÅ, White CC, Young AR, Zepp RG, Zhu L. Plastics in the environment in the context of UV radiation, climate change and the Montreal Protocol: UNEP Environmental Effects Assessment Panel, Update 2023. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2024; 23:629-650. [PMID: 38512633 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-024-00552-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This Assessment Update by the Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) considers the interactive effects of solar UV radiation, global warming, and other weathering factors on plastics. The Assessment illustrates the significance of solar UV radiation in decreasing the durability of plastic materials, degradation of plastic debris, formation of micro- and nanoplastic particles and accompanying leaching of potential toxic compounds. Micro- and nanoplastics have been found in all ecosystems, the atmosphere, and in humans. While the potential biological risks are not yet well-established, the widespread and increasing occurrence of plastic pollution is reason for continuing research and monitoring. Plastic debris persists after its intended life in soils, water bodies and the atmosphere as well as in living organisms. To counteract accumulation of plastics in the environment, the lifetime of novel plastics or plastic alternatives should better match the functional life of products, with eventual breakdown releasing harmless substances to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel A K Jansen
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Anthony L Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Janet F Bornman
- Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.
| | | | - Alkiviadis F Bais
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastazia T Banaszak
- Unidad Académica Sistemas Arrecifales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - Paul W Barnes
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environment Program, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Laura S Bruckman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rosa Busquets
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kingston University London, Kingston Upon Thames, UK
| | | | - Mark L Hanson
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Samuel Hylander
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Robyn M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Roy Mackenzie
- Centro Universitario Cabo de Hornos, Universidad de Magallanes, Puerto Williams, Chile
- Millennium Institute Biodiversity of Antarctic and Subantarctic Ecosystems BASE, Santiago, Chile
- Cape Horn International Center CHIC, Puerto Williams, Chile
| | - Sasha Madronich
- UV-B Monitoring and Research Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Patrick J Neale
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, MD, USA
| | - Rachel E Neale
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine M Olsen
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachele Ossola
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | | | - Irina Petropavlovskikh
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
- Ozone and Water Vapor Division, NOAA ESRL Global Monitoring Laboratory, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Laura E Revell
- School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Sharon A Robinson
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - T Matthew Robson
- UK National School of Forestry, University of Cumbria, Ambleside Campus, Ambleside, UK
- Organismal & Evolutionary Ecology, Viikki Plant Science Centre, Faculty of Biological & Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kevin C Rose
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Keith R Solomon
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Mads P Sulbæk Andersen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Barbara Sulzberger
- Retired From Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dubendorf, Switzerland
| | - Timothy J Wallington
- Center for Sustainable Systems, School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qing-Wei Wang
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Sten-Åke Wängberg
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Richard G Zepp
- ORD/CEMM, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Liping Zhu
- State Key Lab for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Xu L, Wang Y, Wei F, Dai Z, Zhang M. Transport behavior of microplastics in soil‒water environments and its dependence on soil components. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123542. [PMID: 38355087 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123542] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a global concern, and the transport behavior of MPs in soil-water systems is vital in determining their distribution and potential risks to the subsurface environment. To reveal the role of various soil components on MP migration, the downward transport behavior of polystyrene (PS) MPs were explored in this study via column experiments with mono or multi-soil components as porous media. Compared with the selected soil mineral volcanic rock (VR) and fine river sand (RS), condensed soil organic matter (SOM) resulted in higher transport efficiencies for PS microparticles, with greater than 90% total mass recovery under the experimental conditions. The more surface charges of SOM than minerals contribute to the high migration efficiency of PS MPs, and electrostatic repulsion is assumed a significant driving mechanism in the migration of negatively charged PS particles in soils. The ionic strength of porewater influenced the PS migration behaviors by altering the electrostatic interactions between the MPs and soil grains. The uniform mixing of SOM with mineral grains significantly enhanced the transport efficiency of PS MPs in the columns. The results provide supports for the prediction and prevention of the risks of MPs to the subsurface environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Xu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
| | - Yuhao Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Zhixi Dai
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
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15
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Zhang S, Shen C, Zhang F, Wei K, Shan S, Zhao Y, Man YB, Wong MH, Zhang J. Microplastics removal mechanisms in constructed wetlands and their impacts on nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon) removal: A critical review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170654. [PMID: 38331284 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170654] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are now prevalent in aquatic ecosystems, prompting the use of constructed wetlands (CWs) for remediation. However, the interaction between MPs and CWs, including removal efficiency, mechanisms, and impacts, remains a subject requiring significant investigation. This review investigates the removal of MPs in CWs and assesses their impact on the removal of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The analysis identifies crucial factors influencing the removal of MPs, with substrate particle size and CWs structure playing key roles. The review highlights substrate retention as the primary mechanism for MP removal. MPs hinder plant nitrogen uptake, microbial growth, community composition, and nitrogen-related enzymes, reducing nitrogen removal in CWs. For phosphorus and carbon removal, adverse effects of MPs on phosphorus elimination are observed, while their impact on carbon removal is minimal. Further research is needed to understand their influence fully. In summary, CWs are a promising option for treating MPs-contaminated wastewater, but the intricate relationship between MPs and CWs necessitates ongoing research to comprehend their dynamics and potential consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaochen Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Cheng Shen
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China.
| | - Fuhao Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Kejun Wei
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Shengdao Shan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Yaqian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an 710048, PR China
| | - Yu Bon Man
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China.
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16
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Yang X, Xu N, Wang X, Yang L, Sun S. Mechanisms of increased small nanoplastic particle retention in water-saturated sand media with montmorillonite and diatomite: Particle sizes, water components, and modelling. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133056. [PMID: 38008050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
The processes by which small nanoplastics (NPs) accumulate in soil are unclear. To clarify the different deposition processes that affect small NPs (< 30 nm) compared to larger NPs in the soil environment, due to their interaction with clays as major soil components, the transport behavior of two-sized NPs (20 and 80 nm) with two clays (diatomite (Diat) and montmorillonite (Mont)) in NaCl and CaCl2 solutions were investigated in water-saturated quartz sand columns. The experimental results showed that more 20 nm NPs could enter the lattice structure of Diat than Mont in NaCl solution. This contributed to the stronger deposition of 20 nm NPs by Diat on sand, which was associated with a lower k1d/k1 value (obtained from two-site kinetic attachment model). In contrast, 80 nm NPs had a stronger reversible retention than 20 nm NPs with Mont, even though both sizes of NPs-Mont displayed a similar transportability. In CaCl2 solution, the larger NPs-Mont hetero-aggregates formed with a stronger suppressed depth of φmax based on Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theory. Thus, Mont had a stronger transport inhibition than Diat for both NPs sizes, with a lower k1d/k1. These findings could benefit in predicting the size-based deposition of NPs in a heterogenous soil environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrong Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Nan Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China.
| | - Xuelian Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Li Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Siyi Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
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17
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Fan R, Li B, Liu Q, Liu Q, Cui J, Bai R, Wang Y, Elias R, Li C, He W. Comparative evaluation of soil accumulation of light stabilizers from biodegradable mulching films versus conventional polyethylene ones. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133302. [PMID: 38141305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133302] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Light stabilizers are commonly used as additives in mulching films and have environmental persistence, bioaccumulation and ecotoxicity. However, their occurrence and distribution in mulching films and accumulation in mulched soils are seldom reported. This study firstly presents a comprehensive screening of 19 light stabilizers in 65 mulching films and 30 farmland soils collected in China, of which five and eight light stabilizers were 100% detected, respectively. The light stabilizer concentration in biodegradable mulching films was significantly higher than that in polyethylene ones, with median concentrations of 1.75 × 106 μg/kg and 4.86 × 103 μg/kg, respectively. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the light stabilizer concentration in mulching films and in soils. This indicates that mulching films play a critical role in the accumulation of light stabilizers in farmland soils, and biodegradable mulching films significantly increase benzotriazole light stabilizers in soils. Although the light stabilizer concentration in farmland soil is relatively low, the sustainable quantities of mulching film input and the long-term accumulation will still pose a threat to the ecological environment and organism health. Consequently, our work reveals the occurrence and environmental risk of light stabilizers in mulching films and farmland soils and brings attention to light stabilizers in the soil environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Fan
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bingru Li
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Qiuyun Liu
- The BioComposites Centre, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Jixiao Cui
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China
| | - Runhao Bai
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Robert Elias
- The BioComposites Centre, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Cheng Li
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
| | - Wenqing He
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China.
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18
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Santucci L, Fernández-Severini MD, Rimondino GN, Colombo CV, Prieto G, Forero-López AD, Carol ES. Assessment of meso- and microplastics distribution in coastal sediments and waters at the middle estuary of the Rio De La Plata, Argentina (SW Atlantic Ocean). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:170026. [PMID: 38218486 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Estuarine coastal water and sediments collected from multiple locations within the middle Río de la Plata (RDLP) estuary were analyzed in order to identify the presence of microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) and mesoplastics (MePs, 5-25 mm) in one of the most significant estuaries in the Southwestern Atlantic. The present study represents one of the first researches to survey MPs and MePs contamination in key stations at RDLP estuary. Average concentrations of 14.17 ± 5.50 MPs/L and 10.00 MePs/L were detected in water samples, while 547.83 ± 620.06 MPs/kg (dry weight) and 74.23 ± 47.29 MePs/kg d.w. were recorded in sediments. The greatest abundances were observed in the more anthropized areas, near urban settlements. Fibers were the most conspicuous plastic items in water and sediments, followed by fragments. On the other hand, surface sediments, and 50 cm and 100 cm-depth sediments also presented MPs and MePs indicating they could serve as a stratigraphic indicator for recently formed sediments. The main polymer type identified were acrylic fibers, followed by polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Besides, SEM-EDX detected the presence of Si, Fe, Ti, Al and Cl onto the plastics' surface. These elements may serve as additives to enhance the plastics' properties, such as in the case of Ti, or they could originate from the environment, like biogenic Si or Fe, and Al possibly as a component of the suspended particles or sediments adhered to the micro or meso plastics. Finally, the results of the present study showed that MPs and MePs are commonly found in waters and also tend to be trapped in sediments of the RDLP estuary supporting the assertion that these areas play a substantial role in influencing the transport, dispersion, and buildup of MPs in estuarine regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Santucci
- Centro de Investigaciones Geológicas (CIG), CONICET/UNLP, CCT-La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M D Fernández-Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G N Rimondino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - C V Colombo
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Prieto
- Departamento de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina (IFISUR), Universidad Nacional del Sur, CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - A D Forero-López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - E S Carol
- Centro de Investigaciones Geológicas (CIG), CONICET/UNLP, CCT-La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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McIlwraith HK, Dias M, Orihel DM, Rennie MD, Harrison AL, Hoffman MJ, Provencher JF, Rochman CM. A Multicompartment Assessment of Microplastic Contamination in Semi-remote Boreal Lakes. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38415806 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination is ubiquitous across the globe, even in remote locations. Still, the sources and pathways of microplastics to such locations are largely unknown. To investigate microplastic contamination in a semi-remote location, we measured microplastic concentrations in nine oligotrophic lakes within and around the International Institute for Sustainable Development-Experimental Lakes Area in northwestern Ontario, Canada. Our first objective was to establish ambient concentrations of microplastics in bottom sediments, surface water, and atmospheric deposition in semi-remote boreal lakes. Across all lakes, mean shallow and deep sediment microplastic concentrations, near-surface water microplastic concentrations from in situ filtering, and dry atmospheric microplastic deposition rates were 551 ± 354 particles kg-1 , 177 ± 103 particles kg-1 , 0.2 ± 0.3 particles L-1 , and 0.4 ± 0.2 particles m-2 day-1 , respectively. Our second objective was to investigate whether microplastic contamination of these lakes is driven by point sources including local runoff and direct anthropogenic inputs or nonpoint sources such as atmospheric deposition. Lakes were selected based on three levels of anthropogenic activity-low, medium, and high-though activity levels were minimal across all study lakes compared with highly populated areas. Whereas a positive correlation would indicate that point sources were a likely pathway, we observed no relationship between the level of anthropogenic activity and microplastic contamination of surface water. Moreover, the composition of microplastics in surface water and atmospheric deposition were similar, comprising mostly polyester and acrylic fibers. Together, these results suggest that atmospheric deposition may be the main pathway of microplastics to these remote boreal lakes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-13. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley K McIlwraith
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Minoli Dias
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diane M Orihel
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael D Rennie
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
- International Institute for Sustainable Development-Experimental Lakes Area, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anna L Harrison
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthew J Hoffman
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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20
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Wang Y, Hou P, Liu K, Hayat K, Liu W. Depth distribution of nano- and microplastics and their contribution to carbon storage in Chinese agricultural soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169709. [PMID: 38159746 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The extensive and prolonged utilization of plastic materials in agriculture has primarily led to the accumulation of nano- and microplastics (NMPs, ≤5 mm) in farmland soils. The spatial-vertical distribution of NMPs mass concentrations and their impact on the national agricultural soil carbon reservoir remain unexamined. In this study, we quantified the residual mass concentrations of six prevalent plastic types in farmland soils around China using the double-shot model of thermal desorption/pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD/Py-GC-MS). The results showed that median NMPs concentrations were 79.81 μg/g in the topsoil layer (0-15 cm), 57.17 μg/g in the middle soil layer (15-30 cm), and 32.90 μg/g in the bottom soil layer (30-45 cm). Overall, agricultural soil NMPs levels declined from the surface to deeper soil layers; however, some regions exhibit an opposite trend. Furthermore, our estimations indicate that carbon sourced from NMPs contributes to the agricultural soil carbon pool within a range from 0.004 % to 5.606 %, depending on the soil depth. As a hallmark of sustainable agricultural soil management, it is noteworthy that the concealed and continuously expanding carbon contribution of NMPs has an impact on soil carbon storage, albeit at a relatively low level. Our data serves as a foundational reference point and enables a precise evaluation of future contributions of NMPs to the storage of carbon in agricultural soils within China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Peiyu Hou
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kashif Hayat
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China.
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21
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Cheng H, Xu H, Guo M, Zhu T, Cai W, Miao L, Ji S, Tang G, Liu X. Spatiotemporal dynamics and modeling of thiacloprid in paddy multimedia systems with the effect of wetting-drying cycles. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123187. [PMID: 38123113 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123187] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The widespread presence of thiacloprid (THI), a neonicotinoid, raises concerns for human health and the aquatic environment due to its persistence, toxicity, and bioaccumulation. The fate of THI in paddy multimedia systems is mainly governed by irrigation practices, but the potential impacts remain poorly documented. This study investigated the effects of water management practices on THI spatiotemporal dynamics in paddy multimedia systems by combining soil column experiments and a non-steady-state multimedia model. The results indicated the wetting-drying cycle (WDC) irrigation reduced THI occurrences in environmental phases (i.e., soil, interstitial water, and overlying water) and accelerated the THI loss through the THI aerobic degradation process. THI occurrences in the soil and water phases decreased from 18.8% for conventional flooding (CF) treatment to 9.2% for severe wetting-drying cycle (SW) treatment after 29 days, while the half-lives shortened from 11.1 days to 7.3 days, respectively. Meanwhile, the WDC decreased THI outflow from leakage water, which reduced the THI risk of leaching. There was no significant difference in THI plant uptake and volatilization between CF and WDC treatments. The mean proportions of THI fate in paddy multimedia systems followed the order: THI degradation (57.7%), outflow from leakage water (25.5%), occurrence in soil (12.4%), plant uptake (3.4%), occurrence in interstitial water (0.7%), occurrence in overlying water (0.3%), volatilization (<0.1%) after 29 days. The sensitivity analysis identified the soil organic carbon partition coefficient (KOC) as the most sensitive parameter affecting THI's fate. In addition, the topsoil layers of 0-4 cm were the main sink of THI, holding 67% of THI occurrence in the soil phase. The THI occurrence in interstitial water was distributed evenly throughout the soil profile. These findings made beneficial theoretical supplements and provided valuable empirical evidence for water management practices to reduce the THI ecological risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haomiao Cheng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China.
| | - Hanyang Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China
| | - Min Guo
- Agricultural College, Yangzhou University, 225009, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tengyi Zhu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China
| | - Wei Cai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China
| | - Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Shu Ji
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China
| | - Guanlong Tang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Hydraulic Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225127, China; Huaxin Design Group CO., Ltd., Wuxi, 214072, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
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Liu S, Yang X, Shi B, Liu Z, Yan X, Zhou Y, Liang T. Utilizing machine learning algorithm for finely three-dimensional delineation of soil-groundwater contamination in a typical industrial park, North China: Importance of multisource auxiliary data. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168598. [PMID: 37981145 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Intensive industrial activities cause soil contamination with wide variations and even perturb groundwater safety. Precision delineation of soil contamination is the foundation and precondition for soil quality assurance in the practical environmental management process. However, spatial non-stationarity phenomenon of soil contamination and heterogeneous sampling are two key issues that affect the accuracy of contamination delineation model. Taking a typical industrial park in North China as the research object, we constructed a random forest (RF) model for finely characterizing the distribution of soil contaminants using sparse-biased drilling data. Results showed that the R2 values of arsenic and 1,2-dichloroethane predicted by RF (0.8896 and 0.8973) were greatly higher than those of inverse distance weighted model (0.2848 and 0.2908), indicating that RF was more adaptable to actual non-stationarity sites. The back propagation neural network algorithm was utilized to establish a three-dimensional visualization of the contamination parcel of subsoil-groundwater system. Multiple sources of environmental data, including hydrogeological conditions, geochemical characteristics and anthropogenic industrial activities were integrated into the model to optimize the prediction accuracy. The feature importance analysis revealed that soil particle size was dominant for the migration of arsenic, while the migration of 1,2-dichloroethane highly depended on vertical permeability coefficients of the soil. Contaminants migrated downwards with soil water under gravity-driven conditions and penetrated through the subsoil to reach the saturated aquifer, forming a contamination plume with groundwater flow. Our findings afford a new idea for spatial analysis of soil-groundwater contamination at industrial sites, which will provide valuable technical support for maintaining sustainable industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Biling Shi
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhaoshu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiulan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yaoyu Zhou
- College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Tao Liang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
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23
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Shah T, Khan Z, Asad M, Imran A, Niazi MBK, Dewil R, Ahmad A, Ahmad P. Straw incorporation into microplastic-contaminated soil can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by enhancing soil enzyme activities and microbial community structure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 351:119616. [PMID: 38042071 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119616] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination poses a substantial threat to agroecosystems, disrupting soil properties, nutrient cycles, and microbial communities and ultimately affecting plant growth and ecosystem resilience. The effects of straw addition on the storage of soil organic carbon (SOC) and greenhouse gas emissions have been extensively explored, but these effects have not been examined in the context of MP contamination. To assess the impacts of legume straw and polyethylene microplastics on SOC fractions and carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, 7-month soil incubation experiments were performed. The results revealed that the inclusion of legume straw in soil considerably increased microbial SOC compared to the control. However, straw addition to MP-contaminated soil reduced microbial SOC compared to that in soil containing only straw. In contrast, the addition of straw to MP-contaminated soil elevated (+44%) the SOC mineral relative to the sole application of straw. Intriguingly, straw incorporation into MP-contaminated soil reduced microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen relative to soil containing only straw. Straw addition to MP-contaminated soil enhanced the nitrification activity and reduced the relative expression of AOBamoABC gene compared to sole straw-incorporated soil and the control. Greenhouse gas emissions were also modulated; for instance, straw incorporation into MP-contaminated soil reduced CO2 and N2O emissions by -11% and -46%, compared to straw incorporation alone. The urease and phosphatase activities were decreased (-58% and -12%) in the MP-polluted soil with straw incorporation compared with those in the soil in which only straw was applied. However, invertase and catalase activities were upregulated in the straw-incorporated soil contaminated with MPs. Straw addition in the MP-polluted soil considerably enhanced (+2%) the microbial community structure (indicated by PLFA) compared to the sole straw application. These results provide a comprehensive perspective on the role of legume straw incorporation in addressing MP pollution, showcasing its potential for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Shah
- Plant Science Research Unit United States department for Agriculture -Agricultural Research Service, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Zeeshan Khan
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asad
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Imran
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal Khan Niazi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Raf Dewil
- Department of Chemical Engineering, KU Leuven, Belgium; Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ajaz Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Parvaiz Ahmad
- Department of Botany, GDC, Pulwama, 192301, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
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Abstract
Understanding the effects of plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems is a priority in environmental research. A central aspect of this suite of pollutants is that it entails particles, in addition to chemical compounds, and this makes plastic quite different from the vast majority of chemical environmental pollutants. Particles can be habitats for microbial communities, and plastics can be a source of chemical compounds that are released into the surrounding environment. In the aquatic literature, the term 'plastisphere' has been coined to refer to the microbial community colonizing plastic debris; here, we use a definition that also includes the immediate soil environment of these particles to align the definition with other concepts in soil microbiology. First, we highlight major differences in the plastisphere between aquatic and soil ecosystems, then we review what is currently known about the soil plastisphere, including the members of the microbial community that are enriched, and the possible mechanisms underpinning this selection. Then, we focus on outlining future prospects for research on the soil plastisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias C Rillig
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany.
| | - Shin Woong Kim
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Yong-Guan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
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Li K, Xiu X, Hao W. Microplastics in soils: Production, behavior process, impact on soil organisms, and related toxicity mechanisms. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 350:141060. [PMID: 38159733 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.141060] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a hot ecological issue of global concern and MP pollution in soil is becoming increasingly serious. Studies have shown that MPs have adverse effects on soil biology and ecological functions. Although MPs are evident in soils, identifying their source, abundance, and types is difficult because of the complexity and variability of soil components. In addition, the effects of MPs on soil physicochemical properties (PCP), including direct effects such as direct interaction with soil particles and indirect effects such as the impact on soil organisms, have not been reported in a differentiated manner. Furthermore, at present, the soil ecological effects of MPs are mostly based on biological toxicity reports of their exudate or size effects, whereas the impact of their surface-specific properties (such as environmentally persistent free radicals, surface functional groups, charge, and curvature) on soil ecological functions is not fully understood. Considering this, this paper reviews the latest research findings on the production and behavioral processes of MPs in soil, the effects on soil PCP, the impacts on different soil organisms, and the related toxic mechanisms. The above discussion will enhance further understanding of the behavioral characteristics and risks of MPs in soil ecosystems and provide some theoretical basis for further clarification of the molecular mechanisms of the effects of MPs on soil organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, China.
| | - Xiaojia Xiu
- Changwang School of Honors, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China
| | - Wanqi Hao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, China
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26
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Wahl A, Davranche M, Rabiller-Baudry M, Pédrot M, Khatib I, Labonne F, Canté M, Cuisinier C, Gigault J. Condition of composted microplastics after they have been buried for 30 years: Vertical distribution in the soil and degree of degradation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132686. [PMID: 37866145 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics in soils are a growing concern. Composting household wastes can introduce microplastics to agroecosystems, because when unsorted compost is used as a fertilizer, the plastic debris it contains degrades to microplastics. This paper examines the distribution and degradation of microplastics in agricultural soil samples to investigate their potential mobility. The source of microplastics was a household waste compost added to the soil more than 30 years before the study. The microplastics were sorted from a plot-composite soil and characterised by Attenuated Total Reflectance combined with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The microplastics are present in the cultivated depth but have not been transferred deeper (2.9 g kg-1 in the 0-5 cm soil depth against 0.9 g kg-1 in the 30-35 cm soil depth). Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and Polyvinylchloride (PVC) were identified in the forms of heterogeneous fragments, films, and fibres and accounted for 90% of the total microplastics. Advanced degradation observed was mainly assumed to be due to composting, though the plastic may have degraded further in the soil matrix. Highly degraded plastics are a greater danger for further leaching of contaminants into soil and our food supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Wahl
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Mélanie Davranche
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Murielle Rabiller-Baudry
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR (Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes) - UMR 6226, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Mathieu Pédrot
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Imane Khatib
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Fabian Labonne
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Marion Canté
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Candice Cuisinier
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Julien Gigault
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, Geosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, F-35000 Rennes, France; TAKUVIK CNRS/ULaval, UMI3376, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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27
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Zhang G, Cui J, Song J, Ji Y, Zuo Y, Jia H, Yin X. Transport of polystyrene nanoplastics with different functional groups in goethite-coated saturated porous media: Effects of low molecular weight organic acids and physicochemical properties. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:423-433. [PMID: 37722171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
The influence of low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs) and goethite on the migration of nanoplastics in the soil environment remains poorly understood. To elucidate the mechanism of influence, the study investigated the impact of LMWOAs on the migration ability of functionalized polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs-NH2/COOH) in quartz sand (QS) and goethite (α-FeOOH)-coated quartz sand (FOS). We investigated the effect of changes in iron valence induced by LMWOAs on the migration of PSNPs. The results revealed that the migration ability of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) declined as the ionic strength (IS) increased and the pH decreased, primarily due to the compression of the double layer and protonation reactions. The migration of PSNPs is facilitated by LMWOAs through distinct mechanisms in the two media. Specifically, LMWOAs were adsorbed on the FOS and QS surfaces through complexation and hydrogen bonding, respectively. At pH 4.0, LMWOAs exhibit redox activity, resulting in the generation of additional Fe(III). This redox process enhances the electrostatic attraction between the media and PSNPs, thereby reducing the competition at specific points and spatial resistance associated with LMWOAs. In contrast to FOS, LMWOAs at pH 4.0 reduced the migration ability of PSNPs in QS, following the trend of MA > TA > CA. This difference was attributed to the pKa of LMWOAs and the weak hydrogen bonding on the QS surface. The relevant mathematical models effectively validate the migration results. The above conclusions suggest that LMWOAs can alter the valence state of iron on the surface of goethite, thereby influencing the migration of plastic particles in environmental media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangcai Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jiahao Cui
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jie Song
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yantian Ji
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yajie Zuo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Hongtao Jia
- College of Resources and Environment, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Xianqiang Yin
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangling 712100, China.
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Berenstein G, Córdoba P, Díaz YB, González N, Ponce MB, Montserrat JM. Macro, meso, micro and nanoplastics in horticultural soils in Argentina: Abundance, size distribution and fragmentation mechanism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167672. [PMID: 37832668 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Soil contamination with plastics is a major worldwide concern. However, data on plastic pollution in horticultural soils from Latin America is scarce. Furthermore, there is limited information on the fragmentation process that plastics undergo in environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated the abundance of macro, meso, micro and nano plastics in a previously studied horticultural soil (2015) from Buenos Aires, that has not been used for any productive activity since. Although the mass of macroplastics was conserved, the number of plastic fragments per square meter increased significantly, indicating a possible natural fragmentation process. Black polyethylene (PE) mulch film was the most abundant plastic found. For this material, when considering the mass of plastic fragments per square meter, the relative abundance was, in decreasing order: macroplastics (65.1-79.1 %) > mesoplastics (15.6-24.8 %) > microplastics (5.3-12.4 %) > nanoplastics (0.1 %). However, when considering the number of plastic items per square meter, the order was: microplastics (2383-3815) > mesoplastics (1019-1076) > nanoplastics (509-550) > macroplastics (25-46). The size distribution of plastic debris was analyzed using the natural logarithm of abundance versus the square root of the mean decile area, with good linear correlations (0.7749 < R2 < 0.9785). These results provide evidence for an ongoing dynamic fragmentation process (Mott model). We hypothesize that the breakdown of plastic into smaller pieces could be explained by a random fragmentation process based on soil volume changes between natural hydration/dehydration states. These data suggest that soil under natural conditions could act as an 'environmental plastic grinder'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Berenstein
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Paulina Córdoba
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Yamila B Díaz
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás González
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Ponce
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier M Montserrat
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
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Bodor A, Feigl G, Kolossa B, Mészáros E, Laczi K, Kovács E, Perei K, Rákhely G. Soils in distress: The impacts and ecological risks of (micro)plastic pollution in the terrestrial environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115807. [PMID: 38091673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115807] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have revolutionised human industries, thanks to their versatility and durability. However, their extensive use, coupled with inadequate waste disposal, has resulted in plastic becoming ubiquitous in every environmental compartment, posing potential risks to the economy, human health and the environment. Additionally, under natural conditions, plastic waste breaks down into microplastics (MPs<5 mm). The increasing quantity of MPs exerts a significant burden on the soil environment, particularly in agroecosystems, presenting a new stressor for soil-dwelling organisms. In this review, we delve into the effects of MP pollution on soil ecosystems, with a specific attention to (a) MP transport to soils, (b) potential changes of MPs under environmental conditions, (c) and their interaction with the physical, chemical and biological components of the soil. We aim to shed light on the alterations in the distribution, activity, physiology and growth of soil flora, fauna and microorganisms in response to MPs, offering an ecotoxicological perspective for environmental risk assessment of plastics. The effects of MPs are strongly influenced by their intrinsic traits, including polymer type, shape, size and abundance. By exploring the multifaceted interactions between MPs and the soil environment, we provide critical insights into the consequences of plastic contamination. Despite the growing body of research, there remain substantial knowledge gaps regarding the long-term impact of MPs on the soil. Our work underscores the importance of continued research efforts and the adoption of standardised approaches to address plastic pollution and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Bodor
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kolossa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Laczi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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30
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Qiu Y, Zhou S, Zhang C, Chen L, Qin W, Zhang Q. Vertical distribution and weathering characteristic of microplastics in soil profile of different land use types. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166902. [PMID: 37709069 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
After deposition on the topsoil, microplastics (MPs) may be vertically migrated to deeper soil layers over time or eventually enter the groundwater system, leading to more widespread environmental and ecological issues. However, the vertical distribution of MPs in natural soils are not yet fully understood. In this study, we collected soil profiles (0-100 cm) from four different land use types on the west bank of Taihu Lake in China to investigate the vertical distribution and weathering characteristics of MPs. The average abundance of soil MPs followed the pattern of paddy field (490 ± 82 items/kg) > dryland (356 ± 55 items/kg) > tea garden (306 ± 32 items/kg) > woodland (171 ± 27 items/kg) in the 0-10 cm layer, and the abundance of MPs decreased linearly with soil depth (r = -0.89, p < 0.01). Compared to tea garden and woodland, MPs in dryland and paddy field have migrated to deeper soil layers (80-100 cm). The carbonyl index of polyethylene and polypropylene MPs increased significantly with soil depth (r = 0.96, p < 0.01), with values of 0.58 ± 0.30 and 0.54 ± 0.33, respectively. The significant negative correlation between MPs size and carbonyl index confirmed that small-sized MPs in deeper soil layers originated from the weathering and fragmentation of MPs in topsoil. The results of structural equation model showed that roots and soil aggregates may act as filters during the vertical migration of MPs. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the environmental fate of MPs in soil and the assessment of associated ecological risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Qiu
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Shenglu Zhou
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China.
| | - Chuchu Zhang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Long Chen
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Wendong Qin
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Exploitation and Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanjing 210024, China
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Krishna ABS, Madhu M, Jayadev A. Investigation of microplastics and microplastic communities in selected river and lake basin soils of Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala, India. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 196:66. [PMID: 38117399 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12219-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Riparian areas are highly dynamic bio-geophysical settings with a surge of waste deposition predominantly including land-based plastic discards. These polymer discards are destined to be the prime constitution of marine "plastisphere." The polymer fate is determined by waterbodies, where the chances of plastic retention are higher, eventually mediating the formation of microplastics (MPs) in years or decades. Such formed MPs are a potential threat to the aqua bio-regime. A systematic investigation of three waterbody basin soils (Karamana River, Killiyar, and Akkulam-Veli Lake) showed the presence of MPs in all the samples analyzed with varying sizes, shapes, colors, and compositions. MPs of the shapes flakes, fragments, filaments, sheets, foams, and fibers were observed with dimensions 0.3-4.7 mm. Most of the particles were white in hue (WT), followed by colorless (CL), light yellow (L.Y), light brown (L.B), orange (OR), red (RD), and blue (BL), respectively. The polymer communities were identified as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and nylon. The highest average MP density was identified in the basin of Killiyar (799 ± 0.09 pieces/kg) followed by Karamana River (671 ± 3.45 pieces/kg), indicating the closeness of the sampling station to the city center compared to Akkulam-Veli Lake (486 ± 58.55 pieces/kg). The majority of the sampling sites belonged to the slopy areas and came under the highly urbanized land category. A close association was observed between particle abundance and urban activity. The study foresees possible threats inflicted by MP abundance upon the area-wide hydro-biological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana B S Krishna
- Research Center and Post Graduate Department of Environmental Sciences, All Saints' College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Maha Madhu
- Research Center and Post Graduate Department of Environmental Sciences, All Saints' College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Ayona Jayadev
- Research Center and Post Graduate Department of Environmental Sciences, All Saints' College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
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32
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Xu J, Zuo R, Shang J, Wu G, Dong Y, Zheng S, Xu Z, Liu J, Xu Y, Wu Z, Huang C. Nano- and micro-plastic transport in soil and groundwater environments: Sources, behaviors, theories, and models. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166641. [PMID: 37647954 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing use of plastics, nano- and micro-plastic (NMP) pollution has become a hot topic in the scientific community. Ubiquitous NMPs, as emerging contaminants, are becoming a global issue owing to their persistence and potential toxicity. Compared with studies of marine and freshwater environments, investigations into the sources, transport properties, and fate of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments remain at a primary stage. Hence, the promotion of such research is critically important. Here, we integrate existing information and recent advancements to compile a comprehensive evaluation of the sources and transport properties of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments. We first provide a systematic description of the various sources and transport behaviors of NMPs. We then discuss the theories (e.g., clean-bed filtration and Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theories) and models (e.g., single-site and dual-site kinetic retention and transport models) of NMP transport through saturated porous media. Finally, we outline the potential limitations of current research and suggest directions for future research. Overall, this review intends to assimilate and outline current knowledge and provide a useful reference frame to determine the sources and transport properties of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Rui Zuo
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Jinhua Shang
- Jinan Rail Transit Group Co., Ltd, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Guanlan Wu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Yanan Dong
- Jinan Rail Transit Group Co., Ltd, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Shida Zheng
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Zuorong Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jingchao Liu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yunxiang Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Ziyi Wu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Chenxi Huang
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
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33
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Dinh KV, Albini D, Orr JA, Macaulay SJ, Rillig MC, Borgå K, Jackson MC. Winter is coming: Interactions of multiple stressors in winter and implications for the natural world. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2023; 29:6834-6845. [PMID: 37776127 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Winter is a key driver of ecological processes in freshwater, marine and terrestrial ecosystems, particularly in higher latitudes. Species have evolved various adaptive strategies to cope with food limitations and the cold and dark wintertime. However, human-induced climate change and other anthropogenic stressors are impacting organisms in winter in unpredictable ways. In this paper, we show that global change experiments investigating multiple stressors have predominantly been conducted during summer months. However, effects of anthropogenic stressors sometimes differ between winter and other seasons, necessitating comprehensive investigations. Here, we outline a framework for understanding the different effects of anthropogenic stressors in winter compared to other seasons and discuss the primary mechanisms that will alter ecological responses of organisms (microbes, animals and plants). For instance, while the magnitude of some anthropogenic stressors can be greater in winter than in other seasons (e.g. some pollutants), others may alleviate natural winter stress (e.g. warmer temperatures). These changes can have immediate, delayed or carry-over effects on organisms during winter or later seasons. Interactions between stressors may also vary with season. We call for a renewed research direction focusing on multiple stressor effects on winter ecology and evolution to fully understand, and predict, how ecosystems will fare under changing winters. We also argue the importance of incorporating the interactions of anthropogenic stressors with winter into ecological risk assessments, management and conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuong V Dinh
- Section for Aquatic Biology and Toxicology, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dania Albini
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James A Orr
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Matthias C Rillig
- Plant Ecology, Institut für Biologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg-Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrine Borgå
- Section for Aquatic Biology and Toxicology, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Shen L, Wang Y, Liu R, Yang Y, Liu Y, Xing B. Aging characteristics of degradable and non-biodegradable microplastics and their adsorption mechanism for sulfonamides. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:166452. [PMID: 37607636 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
As emerging pollutants, microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics (ATs) became a research hotspot in recent years. To evaluate the carrier effect of degradable and non-biodegradable MPs in the aquatic environment, the adsorption behaviors of polyamide (PA) and polylactic acid (PLA) towards two sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) were investigated. Both chemical and photo-aging were used to handle the virgin MPs. Compared with PA, PLA was aged more drastically, showing the obvious grooves, notches and folds. However, due to the higher temperature during chemical aging, the tiny KPLA (PLA aged by K2S2O8) particles were agglomerated and the specific surface area was reduced to nearly 95 %. For PA, the oxidation of chemical aging was stronger than photo-aging. After aging, the hydrophilicity and polarity of MPs increased. In the adsorption experiments, the adsorption capacity of PA towards SAs was 1.7 times higher than that of PLA. Aging process enabled the adsorption capacity of PLA increased 1.22-3.18 times. Overall, the adsorption capacity of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) by both MPs was superior to sulfamerazine (SMR). These results would help to understand the carrier effects and potential ecological risks of MPs towards co-existing contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lezu Shen
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
| | - Ruihan Liu
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yanni Yang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yingnan Liu
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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35
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Verma KK, Song XP, Xu L, Huang HR, Liang Q, Seth CS, Li YR. Nano-microplastic and agro-ecosystems: a mini-review. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1283852. [PMID: 38053770 PMCID: PMC10694274 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1283852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Plastics' unavoidable and rampant usage causes their trash to be extensively dispersed in the atmosphere and land due to its numerous characteristics. Because of extensive plastic usage and increased manufacturing, there is insufficient recycling and a large accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. In addition to their wide availability in the soil and atmosphere, micro- and nanoplastics are becoming contaminants worldwide. Agro-ecosystem functioning and plant development are being negatively impacted in several ways by the contamination of the environment and farmland soils with MPs (<5 mm) and nanoplastics (<1 µm). The contributions of some recyclable organic waste and plastic film mulching and plastic particle deposition in agroecosystems may be substantial; therefore, it is crucial to understand any potentially hazardous or undesirable impacts of these pollutants on agroecosystems. The dissolution of bioplastics into micro- and nano-particles (MBPs and NBPs) has not been considered in recent studies, which focus primarily on agro-ecosystems. It is essential to properly understand the distribution, concentration, fate, and main source of MPs, NPS, MBPs, and NBPs in agroecosystems. Based on the limited findings, understanding the knowledge gap of environmental impact from micro and nanoplastic in farming systems does not equate to the absence of such evidence. It reveals the considerations for addressing the gaps to effectively protect global food safety and security in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishan K. Verma
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiu-Peng Song
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hai-Rong Huang
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiang Liang
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | | | - Yang-Rui Li
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biotechnology and Genetic Improvement (Guangxi), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Genetic Improvement, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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36
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Priya AK, Muruganandam M, Imran M, Gill R, Vasudeva Reddy MR, Shkir M, Sayed MA, AlAbdulaal TH, Algarni H, Arif M, Jha NK, Sehgal SS. A study on managing plastic waste to tackle the worldwide plastic contamination and environmental remediation. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 341:139979. [PMID: 37659517 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139979] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 50 years, the emergence of plastic waste as one of the most urgent environmental problems in the world has given rise to several proposals to address the rising levels of contaminants associated with plastic debris. Worldwide plastic production has increased significantly over the last 70 years, reaching a record high of 359 million tonnes in 2020. China is currently the world's largest plastic producer, with a share of 17.5%. Of the total marine waste, microplastics account for 75%, while land-based pollution accounts for responsible for 80-90%, and ocean-based pollution 10-20% only in overall pollution problems. Even at small dosages (10 μg/mL), microplastics have been found to cause toxic effects on human and animal health. This review examines the sources of microplastic contamination, the prevalent reaches of microplastics, their impacts, and the remediation methods for microplastic contamination. This review explains the relationship between the community composition and the presence of microplastic particulate matter in aquatic ecosystems. The interaction between microplastics and emerging pollutants, including heavy metals, has been linked to enhanced toxicity. The review article provided a comprehensive overview of microplastic, including its fate, environmental toxicity, and possible remediation strategies. The results of our study are of great value as they illustrate a current perspective and provide an in-depth analysis of the current status of microplastics in development, their test requirements, and remediation technologies suitable for various environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Priya
- Department of Chemical Engineering, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Tamilnadu, India; Project Prioritization, Monitoring & Evaluation and Knowledge Management Unit, ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation (ICAR-IISWC), Dehradun, India.
| | - M Muruganandam
- Project Prioritization, Monitoring & Evaluation and Knowledge Management Unit, ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation (ICAR-IISWC), Dehradun, India
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) Technology and Innovation Center, Riyadh 11551, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rana Gill
- University Centre for Research & Development, Electronics & Communication Department Chandigarh University Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | | | - Mohd Shkir
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia.
| | - M A Sayed
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - T H AlAbdulaal
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - H Algarni
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Arif
- Applied Science and Humanities Section, University Polytechnic, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India.
| | - Satbir S Sehgal
- Division of Research Innovation, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
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37
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Jeong E, Kim YI, Lee JY, Raza M. Microplastic contamination in groundwater of rural area, eastern part of Korea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165006. [PMID: 37385487 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants in agricultural regions owing to the widespread use of plastics in farming activities. Groundwater has a vital role in farming activities, and it can be contaminated by MPs, fragmented from plastic products used in agricultural activities. Following an appropriate sampling protocol, this study investigated the distribution of MPs in shallow to deep aquifers (well depths: 3-120 m) and cave water of an agricultural region in Korea. Our investigation found that MPs contamination can penetrate up to the deep bedrock aquifer. The abundance of MPs was lower during the wet season (0.014-0.554 particles/L) than during the dry season (0.042-1.026 particles/L), which may be attributed to the dilution effect of precipitation in the groundwater. The abundance of MPs increased as the MPs size decreased at all sampling points, and size ranges were 20.3-869.6 and 20.3-673.0 μm in the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Our findings showed lower MPs abundance compared to previous studies, and we inferred that it might be due to differences in groundwater sampling volume, low agricultural intensity, and the non-application of sludge fertilizers. Our findings suggest that repeated and long-term investigations are needed to identify better the factors that influence the results of MPs distribution in groundwater, including sampling methods and hydrogeological and hydrological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunju Jeong
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research on Microplastics in Groundwater (RMPG), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-In Kim
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research on Microplastics in Groundwater (RMPG), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Yong Lee
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research on Microplastics in Groundwater (RMPG), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Maimoona Raza
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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Rullander G, Lorenz C, Herbert RB, Strömvall AM, Vollertsen J, Dalahmeh SS. How effective is the retention of microplastics in horizontal flow sand filters treating stormwater? JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 344:118690. [PMID: 37586166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118690] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics accumulate in stormwater and can ultimately enter freshwater recipients, and pose a serious risk to aquatic life. This study investigated the effectiveness of lab-scale horizontal flow sand filters of differing lengths (25, 50 and 100 cm) in retaining four types of thermoplastic microplastics commonly occurring in stormwater runoff (polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate). Despite the differences in particle shape, size and density, the study revealed that more than 98% of the spiked microplastics were retained in all filters, with a slightly increased removal with increased filter length. At a flow rate of 1 mL/min and after one week of operation, 62-84% of the added microplastics agglomerated in the first 2 cm of the filters. The agglomerated microplastics included 96% of high-density fibers. Larger-sized particles were retained in the sand media, while microplastics smaller than 50 μm were more often detected in the effluent. Microplastics were quantified and identified using imaging based micro Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The efficient retention of microplastics in low-flow horizontal sand filters, demonstrated by the results, highlights their potential importance for stormwater management. This retention is facilitated by various factors, including microplastic agglomeration, particle sedimentation of heavy fibers and favorable particle-to-media size ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Rullander
- Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE-752 36, Sweden.
| | - Claudia Lorenz
- Aalborg University, Department of The Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg Øst, Denmark
| | - Roger B Herbert
- Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE-752 36, Sweden
| | - Ann-Margret Strömvall
- Water Environment Technology, Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Aalborg University, Department of The Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg Øst, Denmark
| | - Sahar S Dalahmeh
- Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE-752 36, Sweden
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Guo S, Zhang J, Liu J, Guo N, Zhang L, Wang S, Wang X, Zhao M, Zhang B, Chen Y. Organic fertilizer and irrigation water are the primary sources of microplastics in the facility soil, Beijing. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165005. [PMID: 37353032 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
The large-scale utilization of plastic products in agricultural facility production has resulted in considerable accumulation of microplastics in the soil. However, there is a lack of systematic research on the accumulation and distribution of microplastics in facility agriculture. This study examined the presence of microplastics in the 15 representatives of Beijing facility agriculture soil in five districts with different planting years, and assessed the potential pollution risks. The abundance of microplastics in soil layers at a depth of 0-10, 10-20, and 20-30 cm was 896.5 ± 80.0 (range, 160-2120), 630.6 ± 47.0 (180-1340), and 445.3 ± 47.0 (80-1480) items/kg, respectively. Overall, the microplastics were primarily fiber-shaped (72.2 %), white (75.9 %), 1-2 mm in size (37.9 %), and composed of polypropylene and polyethene. The risk assessment indices of the microplastics in the 0-10, 10-20, and 20-30 cm soil layers were 272.1, 289.5, and 291.6, respectively, representing a risk level of 4 in each case. Using the conditional fragmentation model, we found that the microplastics in facility soil featured low stability and small sizes, and their primary sources were organic fertilizer and irrigation water. The number of mulching years, irrigation method, and the amount of organic fertilizer applied, influenced the accumulation of microplastics in the facility soil. This study provides scientific evidence supporting the pollution levels and need for risk control related to microplastics in facility soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Guo
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China; College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jiajia Zhang
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Jiawei Liu
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China; College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ning Guo
- Beijing Cultivated Land Construction and Protection Center, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Beijing Cultivated Land Construction and Protection Center, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Shengtao Wang
- Beijing Cultivated Land Construction and Protection Center, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xuexia Wang
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Baogui Zhang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
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Wang J, Zhang X, Li X, Wang Z. Exposure pathways, environmental processes and risks of micro (nano) plastics to crops and feasible control strategies in agricultural regions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132269. [PMID: 37607458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) pollution may adversely impact agricultural ecosystems, threatening the sustainability and security of agricultural production. This drives an urgent need to comprehensively understand the environmental behavior and effects of MPs/NPs in soil and atmosphere in agricultural regions, and to seek relevant pollution prevention strategies. The rhizosphere and phyllosphere are the interfaces where crops are exposed to MPs/NPs. The environmental behavior of MPs/NPs in soil and atmosphere, especially in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere, determines their plant accessibility, bioavailability and ecotoxicity. This article comprehensively reviews the transformation and migration of MPs/NPs in soil, transportation and deposition in the atmosphere, environmental behavior and effects in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere, and plant uptake and transportation pathways. The article also summarizes the key factors controlling MPs/NPs environmental processes, including their properties, biotic and abiotic factors. Based on the sources, environmental processes and intake risks of MPs/NPs in agroecosystems, the article offers several feasible pollution prevention and risk management options. Finally, the review highlights the need for further research on MPs/NPs in agro-systems, including developing quantitative detection methods, exploring transformation and migration patterns in-situ soil, monitoring long-term field experiments, and establishing pollution prevention and control systems. This review can assist in improving our understanding of the biogeochemistry behavior of MPs/NPs in the soil-plant-atmosphere system and provide a roadmap for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaokai Zhang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China.
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41
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Ivy N, Bhattacharya S, Dey S, Gupta K, Dey A, Sharma P. Effects of microplastics and arsenic on plants: Interactions, toxicity and environmental implications. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 338:139542. [PMID: 37474031 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging pollutants that are ubiquitously present in environment. Occurrence and dispersion of microplastics in the soil can pose a considerable risk to soil health and biodiversity, including the plants grown in the soil. Uptake and bioaccumulation of microplastics can have detrimental effects on different plant species. Additionally, the co-presence of microplastics and arsenic can cause synergistic, antagonistic, or potentiating toxic impacts on plants. However, limited studies are available on the combined effects of microplastics and arsenic on plants. This paper elucidates both the individual and synergistic effects of microplastics and arsenic on plants. At the outset, the paper highlighted the presence and degradation of microplastics in soil. Subsequently, the interactions between microplastics and plants, accumulation, and influences of microplastics on plant growth and metabolism were explained with underlying mechanisms. Combined effects of microplastics and arsenic on plant growth, metabolism, and toxicity were discussed thereafter. Combined toxic effects of microplastics and arsenic on plants can have detrimental implications on environment, ecosystems and biodiversity. Further investigations on food chain and human health are needed in the context of microplastic-arsenic interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishita Ivy
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, India
| | - Sayan Bhattacharya
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, India.
| | - Satarupa Dey
- Department of Botany, Shyampur Siddheswari Mahavidyalaya, Howrah, West Bengal, India
| | - Kaushik Gupta
- Belur High School (H.S.), Howrah, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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42
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Le VR, Nguyen MK, Nguyen HL, Lin C, Rakib MRJ, Thai VA, Le VG, Malafaia G, Idris AM. Organic composts as A vehicle for the entry of microplastics into the environment: A comprehensive review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 892:164758. [PMID: 37308024 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a widespread issue that poses a threat to agroecosystems. Recent data on microplastic (MP) pollution from compost and its application to soil have highlighted the potential impact of micropollutants that may be transferred from compost. Thus, we aim with this review to elucidate the distribution-occurrence, characterization, fate/transport, and potential risk of MPs from organic compost to gain comprehensive knowledge and mitigate the adverse impacts of compost application. The concentration of MPs in compost was up to thousands of items/kg. Among micropollutants, fibers, fragments, and films are the most common, with small MPs having a higher potential to absorb other pollutants and cause harm to organisms. Various synthetic polymers, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester (PES), and acrylic polymers (AP), have been widely used of plastic items. MPs are emerging pollutants that can have diverse effects on soil ecosystems, as they can transfer potential pollutants from MPs to compost and then to the soil. Following the microbial degradation scheme, the transfer chain from plastics to compost to soil can be broken down into main stages, i.e., colonization - (bio)fragmentation - assimilation - and mineralization. Microorganisms and adding biochar play an essential role during composting, which can be an effective solution to enhance MP degradation. Findings have shown that stimulating free radical generation could promote the biodegradation efficacy of MPs and possibly remove their occurrence in compost, thereby reducing their contribution to ecosystem pollution. Furthermore, future recommendations were discussed to reduce ecosystem risks and health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Re Le
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry (HUFI), 140 Le Trong Tan Street, Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Minh-Ky Nguyen
- Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nong Lam University of Ho Chi Minh City, Hamlet 6, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam; Ph.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Hoang-Lam Nguyen
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Ph.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh.
| | - Van-Anh Thai
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Van-Giang Le
- Central Institute for Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi 111000, Viet Nam
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil.
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, 61431 Abha, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Plastic pollution and climate change are two major environmental focuses. Having the forming potential due to ambient plastic pollution, the environmental fate of microplastics shall be inevitably impacted by global warming. This manuscript discusses the destiny of environmental microplastics and characterizes their fate considering the framework of the planetary boundary. The major routes for microplastic discharge include the release of microplastic stored in the ice into the sea when the ice melts as a result of global temperature increase, flushing of the plastic/microplastic debris from the shorelines into the adjacent water bodies as a result of increased rainfall, redistribution of the microplastics away from the source of plastic debris as a result of increased wind, and accumulation of microplastics in the soil as a result of drought. A perspective on the impact of climate change and microplastic pollution on aquatic and soil organisms was discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Haque
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chihhao Fan
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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44
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Borriello L, Scivicco M, Cacciola NA, Esposito F, Severino L, Cirillo T. Microplastics, a Global Issue: Human Exposure through Environmental and Dietary Sources. Foods 2023; 12:3396. [PMID: 37761106 PMCID: PMC10649135 DOI: 10.3390/foods12183396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic production has grown dramatically over the years. Microplastics (MPs) are formed from the fragmentation of larger plastic debris by combining chemical, physical, and biological processes and can degrade further to form nanoplastics (NPs). Because of their size, MPs and NPs are bioavailable to many organisms and can reach humans through transport along the food chain. In addition to the risk from ingesting MPs themselves, there are risks associated with the substances they carry, such as pesticides, pathogenic microorganisms, and heavy metals, and with the additives added to plastics to improve their characteristics. In addition, bioaccumulation and biomagnification can cause a cumulative exposure effect for organisms at the top of the food chain and humans. Despite the growing scientific interest in this emerging contaminant, the potential adverse effects remain unclear. The aim of this review is to summarize the characteristics (size, shape, color, and properties) of MPs in the environment, the primary sources, and the transport pathways in various environmental compartments, and to shed more light on the ecological impact of MPs and the potential health effects on organisms and humans by identifying human exposure pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucrezia Borriello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Division of Toxicology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (L.B.); (M.S.); (N.A.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Marcello Scivicco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Division of Toxicology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (L.B.); (M.S.); (N.A.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Nunzio Antonio Cacciola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Division of Toxicology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (L.B.); (M.S.); (N.A.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Francesco Esposito
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorella Severino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Division of Toxicology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (L.B.); (M.S.); (N.A.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Teresa Cirillo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università, 100, 80055 Portici, Italy;
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Daghighi E, Shah T, Chia RW, Lee JY, Shang J, Rodríguez-Seijo A. The forgotten impacts of plastic contamination on terrestrial micro- and mesofauna: A call for research. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116227. [PMID: 37244494 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP) contamination of the terrestrial environment is a growing concern worldwide and is thought to impact soil biota, particularly the micro and mesofauna community, by various processes that may contribute to global change in terrestrial systems. Soils act as a long-term sink for MP, accumulating these contaminants and increasing their adverse impacts on soil ecosystems. Consequently, the whole terrestrial ecosystem is impacted by microplastic pollution, which also threatens human health by their potential transfer to the soil food web. In general, the ingestion of MP in different concentrations by soil micro and mesofauna can adversely affect their development and reproduction, impacting terrestrial ecosystems. MP in soil moves horizontally and vertically because of the movement of soil organisms and the disturbance caused by plants. However, the effects of MP on terrestrial micro-and mesofauna are largely overlooked. Here, we give the most recent information on the forgotten impacts of MP contamination of soil on microfauna and mesofauna communities (protists, tardigrades, soil rotifers, nematodes, collembola and mites). More than 50 studies focused on the impact of MP on these organisms between 1990 and 2022 have been reviewed. In general, plastic pollution does not directly affect the survival of organisms, except under co-contaminated plastics that can increase adverse effects (e.g. tire-tread particles on springtails). Besides, they can have adverse effects at oxidative stress and reduced reproduction (protists, nematodes, potworms, springtails or mites). It was observed that micro and mesofauna could act as passive plastic transporters, as shown for springtails or mites. Finally, this review discusses how soil micro- and mesofauna play a key role in facilitating the (bio-)degradation and movement of MP and NP through soil systems and, therefore, the potential transfer to soil depths. More research should be focused on plastic mixtures, community level and long-term experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaheh Daghighi
- BetterSoil e. V., Lise-Meitner-Straße 9, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tufail Shah
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - R W Chia
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Earth Resources, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Yong Lee
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Earth Resources, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jianying Shang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Andrés Rodríguez-Seijo
- Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Departamento de Bioloxía Vexetal e Ciencia Do Solo, Facultade de Ciencias de Ourense, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas S/n, Ourense, 32004, Spain; Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros Do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos S/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal.
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Aydın RB, Yozukmaz A, Şener İ, Temiz F, Giannetto D. Occurrence of Microplastics in Most Consumed Fruits and Vegetables from Turkey and Public Risk Assessment for Consumers. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1686. [PMID: 37629543 PMCID: PMC10455475 DOI: 10.3390/life13081686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics are transferred to humans through the food chain by consuming food contaminated with microplastics. However, the knowledge about the risks of dietary exposure for humans to these particles is very limited. Moreover, only a few studies on microplastic pollution in fruit and vegetables have been carried on. Thus, this study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in some of the most consumed fruits and vegetables (pear (Pyrus communis), apple (Malus domestica), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), onion (Allium cepa), potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus)) from Turkey and to evaluate the potential risk for consumers. Fruits and vegetable samples were purchased from different markets and fruiterer (two of each) in Muğla province, Southwest of Turkey. Microplastic extraction processes were carried out on the edible parts of the samples. According to the results obtained, a total of 210 particles (2.9 ± 1.6 particle g-1) were detected in all samples. Any significant difference occurred among the different markets. The maximum average amount of microplastic was determined in tomato samples (3.63 ± 1.39 particle g-1). The highest microplastic intake was with tomato (398,520 particles individual-1 year-1 for Estimated Annual Intake (EAI) and Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for children 68.24 particles kg-1 day-1). The occurrence of microplastics of big size, that are not allowed to pass by plant xylem transport, suggests that fresh vegetables and fruits can be contaminated with plastic, especially during the production phase, during agricultural activities and during the marketing process (transport to the market and purchasing process).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Berfin Aydın
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Aykut Yozukmaz
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - İdris Şener
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - Funda Temiz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Daniela Giannetto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
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Barili S, Bernetti A, Sannino C, Montegiove N, Calzoni E, Cesaretti A, Pinchuk I, Pezzolla D, Turchetti B, Buzzini P, Emiliani C, Gigliotti G. Impact of PVC microplastics on soil chemical and microbiological parameters. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 229:115891. [PMID: 37059323 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants whose occurrence is a global problem in natural ecosystems including soil. Among MPs, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a well-known polymer with remarkable resistance to degradation, and because its recalcitrant nature serious environmental concerns are created during manufacturing and waste disposal. The effect of PVC (0.021% w/w) on chemical and microbial parameters of an agricultural soil was tested by a microcosm experiment at different incubation times (from 3 to 360 days). Among chemical parameters, soil CO2 emission, fluorescein diacetate (FDA) activity, total organic C (TOC), total N, water extractable organic C (WEOC), water extractable N (WEN) and SUVA254 were considered, while the structure of soil microbial communities was studied at different taxonomic levels (phylum and genus) by sequencing bacterial 16S and fungal ITS2 rDNA (Illumina MiSeq). Although some fluctuations were found, chemical and microbiological parameters exhibited some significant trends. Significant (p < 0.05) variations of soil CO2 emission, FDA hydrolysis, TOC, WEOC and WEN were found in PVC-treated soils over different incubation times. Considering the structure of soil microbial communities, the presence of PVC significantly (p < 0.05) affected the abundances of specific bacterial and fungal taxa: Candidatus_Saccharibacteria, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria and Bacteroides among bacteria, and Basidiomycota, Mortierellomycota and Ascomycota among fungi. After one year of experiment, a reduction of the number and the dimensions of PVC was detected supposing a possible role of microorganisms on PVC degradation. The abundance of both bacterial and fungal taxa at phylum and genus level was also affected by PVC, suggesting that the impact of this polymer could be taxa-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Barili
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bernetti
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Ciro Sannino
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy.
| | - Nicolò Montegiove
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Calzoni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessio Cesaretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Irina Pinchuk
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniela Pezzolla
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Turchetti
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Pietro Buzzini
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Carla Emiliani
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Gigliotti
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Perugia, Italy
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48
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Zhang X, Chen R, Li Z, Yu J, Chen J, Zhang Y, Chen J, Yu Q, Qiu X. The influence of various microplastics on PBDEs contaminated soil remediation by nZVI and sulfide-nZVI: Impedance, electron-accepting/-donating capacity and aging. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163233. [PMID: 37019223 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The microplastics (MPs) existed in the environment widely has resulted in novel thinking about in-situ remediation techniques, such as nano-zero-valent iron (nZVI) and sulfided nZVI (S-nZVI), which were often compromised by various environmental factors. In this study, three common MPs such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), and polypropylene (PP) in soil were found to inhibit the degradation rate of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE209) by nZVI and S-nZVI to different degrees due to MPs inhibiting of electron transfer which is the main way to degrade BDE209. The inhibition strength was related to its impedance (Z) and electron-accepting (EAC)/-donating capacity (EDC). Based on the explanation of the inhibition mechanism, the reason for different aging degrees of nZVI and S-nZVI in different MPs was illustrated, especially in PVC systems. Furthermore, the aging of reacted MPs, functionalization and fragmentation in particular, indicated that they were involved in the degradation process. Moreover, this work provided new insights into the field application of nZVI-based materials for removing persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Ran Chen
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Zhenhui Li
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Junxia Yu
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Jinyi Chen
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Jinhong Chen
- Hainan Provincial Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Centre, Hainan, China
| | - Qianqian Yu
- School of Earth Science, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xinhong Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Wuhan 430074, China; Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Chemical Industry Pollution Control, Wuhan 430205, China.
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49
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Astner AF, Gillmore AB, Yu Y, Flury M, DeBruyn JM, Schaeffer SM, Hayes DG. Formation, behavior, properties and impact of micro- and nanoplastics on agricultural soil ecosystems (A Review). NANOIMPACT 2023; 31:100474. [PMID: 37419450 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2023.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics (MPs and NPs, respectively) in agricultural soil ecosystems represent a pervasive global environmental concern, posing risks to soil biota, hence soil health and food security. This review provides a comprehensive and current summary of the literature on sources and properties of MNPs in agricultural ecosystems, methodology for the isolation and characterization of MNPs recovered from soil, MNP surrogate materials that mimic the size and properties of soil-borne MNPs, and transport of MNPs through the soil matrix. Furthermore, this review elucidates the impacts and risks of agricultural MNPs on crops and soil microorganisms and fauna. A significant source of MPs in soil is plasticulture, involving the use of mulch films and other plastic-based implements to provide several agronomic benefits for specialty crop production, while other sources of MPs include irrigation water and fertilizer. Long-term studies are needed to address current knowledge gaps of formation, soil surface and subsurface transport, and environmental impacts of MNPs, including for MNPs derived from biodegradable mulch films, which, although ultimately undergoing complete mineralization, will reside in soil for several months. Because of the complexity and variability of agricultural soil ecosystems and the difficulty in recovering MNPs from soil, a deeper understanding is needed for the fundamental relationships between MPs, NPs, soil biota and microbiota, including ecotoxicological effects of MNPs on earthworms, soil-dwelling invertebrates, and beneficial soil microorganisms, and soil geochemical attributes. In addition, the geometry, size distribution, fundamental and chemical properties, and concentration of MNPs contained in soils are required to develop surrogate MNP reference materials that can be used across laboratories for conducting fundamental laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton F Astner
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Alexis B Gillmore
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Yingxue Yu
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Markus Flury
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Sean M Schaeffer
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Douglas G Hayes
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America.
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50
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Kedzierski M, Cirederf-Boulant D, Palazot M, Yvin M, Bruzaud S. Continents of plastics: An estimate of the stock of microplastics in agricultural soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163294. [PMID: 37028674 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
While there are estimates of the stock of microplastics in the marine environment, there are no estimates for soils. The main objective of this work is to estimate the total mass of microplastics in global agricultural soils. Microplastic abundance data from 442 sampling sites were collected from 43 articles. From these, the median of the abundance values, as well as the abundance profile of microplastics in soils were calculated. Thus, 1.5 to 6.6 Mt of microplastics would be present in soils on a global scale, i.e. one to two orders of magnitude higher than the estimated ocean surface microplastic stock. However, many limitations exist to accurately calculate these stocks. This work should therefore be considered as a first step in addressing this question. In the long term, in order to better assess this stock, it seems important to obtain more diversified data, e.g. better representing certain countries, or certain land uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaël Kedzierski
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France.
| | | | - Maialen Palazot
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | - Marion Yvin
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
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