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Albaseer SS, Al-Hazmi HE, Kurniawan TA, Xu X, Abdulrahman SAM, Ezzati P, Habibzadeh S, Hollert H, Rabiee N, Lima EC, Badawi M, Saeb MR. Microplastics in water resources: Global pollution circle, possible technological solutions, legislations, and future horizon. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173963. [PMID: 38901599 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173963] [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: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Beneath the surface of our ecosystems, microplastics (MPs) silently loom as a significant threat. These minuscule pollutants, invisible to the naked eye, wreak havoc on living organisms and disrupt the delicate balance of our environment. As we delve into a trove of data and reports, a troubling narrative unfolds: MPs pose a grave risk to both health and food chains with their diverse compositions and chemical characteristics. Nevertheless, the peril extends further. MPs infiltrate the environment and intertwine with other pollutants. Worldwide, microplastic levels fluctuate dramatically, ranging from 0.001 to 140 particles.m-3 in water and 0.2 to 8766 particles.g-1 in sediment, painting a stark picture of pervasive pollution. Coastal and marine ecosystems bear the brunt, with each organism laden with thousands of microplastic particles. MPs possess a remarkable ability to absorb a plethora of contaminants, and their environmental behavior is influenced by factors such as molecular weight and pH. Reported adsorption capacities of MPs vary greatly, spanning from 0.001 to 12,700 μg·g-1. These distressing figures serve as a clarion call, demanding immediate action and heightened environmental consciousness. Legislation, innovation, and sustainable practices stand as indispensable defenses against this encroaching menace. Grasping the intricate interplay between microplastics and pollutants is paramount, guiding us toward effective mitigation strategies and preserving our health ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed S Albaseer
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Department Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | | | - Xianbao Xu
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sameer A M Abdulrahman
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Education and Sciences-Rada'a, Albaydha University, Albaydha, Yemen
| | - Peyman Ezzati
- ERA Co., Ltd, Science and Technology Center, P.O. Box: 318020, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sajjad Habibzadeh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran
| | - Henner Hollert
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Department Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Eder C Lima
- Institute of Chemistry - Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Michael Badawi
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, Laboratoire Lorrain de Chimie Moléculaire, F-57000 Metz, France
| | - Mohammad Reza Saeb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, J. Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland.
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Tang B, Hung W, Salam M, Zhang L, Yang Y, Niu J, Li H, Zhang L. Suspended particulate matter-biofilm aggregates benefit microcystin removal in turbulent water but trigger toxicity toward Daphnia magna. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 263:122150. [PMID: 39084089 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122150] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Suspended particulate matter (SPM) and biofilm are critical in removing contaminants in aquatic environments, but the environmental behavior and ecological toxicity of SPM-biofilm aggregates modulated by turbulence intensities are largely unknown. This study determined the removal pathways of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) by SPM and its biofilm under different turbulence intensities (2.25 × 10-3, 1.01 × 10-2, and 1.80 × 10-2 m2/s3). Then, we evaluated the toxicity of SPM-biofilm aggregates to Daphnia magna. The results revealed that SPM contributed to the adsorption of MC-LR, and the removal of MC-LR can be accelerated with biofilm formation on SPM, with 95.66 % to 97.45 % reduction in MC-LR concentration under the studied turbulence intensities. Higher turbulence intensity triggered more frequent contact of SPM and MC-LR, formed compact but smaller clusters of SPM-biofilm aggregates, and enhanced the abundance of mlrA and mlrB; thus benefiting the adsorption, biosorption, and biodegradation of MC-LR. Furthermore, the SPM-biofilm aggregates formed in turbulent water triggered oxidative stress to Daphnia magna, while a weak lethal toxic effect was identified under moderate turbulence intensity. The results indicate that the toxicity of SPM-biofilm aggregates fail to display a linear relationship with turbulence intensity. These findings offer new perspectives on understanding the environmental behavior and ecological outcomes of SPM and its biofilms in turbulent aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingran Tang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Wei Hung
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Muhammad Salam
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Lixue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Yongchuan Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Junfeng Niu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, PR China
| | - Hong Li
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China.
| | - Lilan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China.
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Bellaj M, Naboulsi A, Aziz K, Regti A, El Himri M, El Haddad M, El Achaby M, Abourriche A, Gebrati L, Kurniawan TA, Aziz F. Bio-based composite from chitosan waste and clay for effective removal of Congo red dye from contaminated water: Experimental studies and theoretical insights. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 255:119089. [PMID: 38788787 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119089] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Water pollution due to dyes in the textile industry is a serious environmental problem. During the finishing stage, Congo red (CR) dye, water-soluble, is released into wastewater, polluting the water body. This study explores the effectiveness of utilizing a composite composed of Safi raw clay and chitosan to remove an anionic dye from synthetic wastewater. The chitosan was extracted from crab shells. Its removal performance was compared to that of natural clay. Both the composite and raw clay were used to remove target pollutant. The effects of the chitosan load in the composite, size particles, initial dye concentration, contact time, pH, and temperature on the dye's elimination were tested in batch modes. The composite with 30% (w/w) of chitosan exhibited the highest dye removal. At pH 2, an adsorption capacity of 84.74 mg/g was achieved, indicating that the grafting of the polymer onto clay surface enhances its efficacity and stability in acidic environments. This finding was supported by characterization data obtained from X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses. Under optimized conditions of 20 mg dose, pH 2, 30 min of reaction time, and 20 mg/L of dye concentration, about 92% of dye removal was achieved. The Langmuir isotherm model represents dye adsorption by the composite, while dye removal was controlled by pseudo-second-order model. Thermodynamic data of the adsorption (ΔH = +8.82 kJ/mol; ΔG <0) suggested that the dye adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. The findings provide insights into the dye elimination by the adsorbent, indicating that the removal occurred via attractive colombic forces, as confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) analysis. Overall, the composite of natural clays and chitosan waste is a promising and innovative adsorbent for treating wastewater containing recalcitrant dyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mouhsine Bellaj
- Laboratory of Materials, Process, Environment, and Quality (LMPEQ), ENSA Safi, Morocco
| | - Aicha Naboulsi
- Laboratory of Analytical and Molecular Chemistry, Faculty Poly-disciplinary of Safi, BP 4162, Safi, 46 000, Morocco
| | - Khalid Aziz
- Materials Science, Energy and Nano-Engineering (MSN) Department, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Lot 660 - Hay Moulay Rachid, 43150, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Abdelmajid Regti
- Laboratory of Analytical and Molecular Chemistry, Faculty Poly-disciplinary of Safi, BP 4162, Safi, 46 000, Morocco
| | - Mamoune El Himri
- Laboratory of Analytical and Molecular Chemistry, Faculty Poly-disciplinary of Safi, BP 4162, Safi, 46 000, Morocco
| | - Mohammadine El Haddad
- Laboratory of Analytical and Molecular Chemistry, Faculty Poly-disciplinary of Safi, BP 4162, Safi, 46 000, Morocco
| | - Mounir El Achaby
- Materials Science, Energy and Nano-Engineering (MSN) Department, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Lot 660 - Hay Moulay Rachid, 43150, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Abdelkrim Abourriche
- Laboratory of Materials, Process, Environment, and Quality (LMPEQ), ENSA Safi, Morocco
| | - Lhoucine Gebrati
- Laboratory of Materials, Process, Environment, and Quality (LMPEQ), ENSA Safi, Morocco; Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Cadi Ayyad University, B.P. 7010, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
| | | | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity Climate Changes, Semlalia Faculty of Sciences, B.P. 2390, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco; National Centre for Research and Study on Water and Energy (CNEREE), University Cadi Ayyad, Marrakech, Morocco.
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Kurniawan TA, Mohyuddin A, Othman MHD, Goh HH, Zhang D, Anouzla A, Aziz F, Casila JC, Ali I, Pasaribu B. Beyond surface: Unveiling ecological and economic ramifications of microplastic pollution in the oceans. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2024; 96:e11070. [PMID: 39005104 DOI: 10.1002/wer.11070] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Every year, the global production of plastic waste reaches a staggering 400 million metric tons (Mt), precipitating adverse consequences for the environment, food safety, and biodiversity as it degrades into microplastics (MPs). The multifaceted nature of MP pollution, coupled with its intricate physiological impacts, underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies and legislative frameworks. Such measures, alongside advancements in technology, hold promise in averting ecological catastrophe in the oceans. Mandated legislation represents a pivotal step towards restoring oceanic health and securing the well-being of the planet. This work offers an overview of the policy hurdles, legislative initiatives, and prospective strategies for addressing global pollution due to MP. Additionally, this work explores innovative approaches that yield fresh insights into combating plastic pollution across various sectors. Emphasizing the importance of a global plastics treaty, the article underscores its potential to galvanize collaborative efforts in mitigating MP pollution's deleterious effects on marine ecosystems. Successful implementation of such a treaty could revolutionize the plastics economy, steering it towards a circular, less polluting model operating within planetary boundaries. Failure to act decisively risks exacerbating the scourge of MP pollution and its attendant repercussions on both humanity and the environment. Central to this endeavor are the formulation, content, and execution of the treaty itself, which demand careful consideration. While recognizing that a global plastics treaty is not a panacea, it serves as a mechanism for enhancing plastics governance and elevating global ambitions towards achieving zero plastic pollution by 2040. Adopting a life cycle approach to plastic management allows for a nuanced understanding of possible trade-offs between environmental impact and economic growth, guiding the selection of optimal solutions with socio-economic implications in mind. By embracing a comprehensive strategy that integrates legislative measures and technological innovations, we can substantially reduce the influx of marine plastic litter at its sources, safeguarding the oceans for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Changes, Semlalia Faculty of Sciences, B.P. 2390, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Joan C Casila
- Land and Water Resources Engineering Division, Institute of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology, University of the Philippines-Los Baños, Los Baños, Philippines
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Buntora Pasaribu
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Padjadjaran University, Jatinangor, Indonesia
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Al-Hazmi HE, Hassan GK, Kurniawan TA, Śniatała B, Joseph TM, Majtacz J, Piechota G, Li X, El-Gohary FA, Saeb MR, Mąkinia J. Technological solutions to landfill management: Towards recovery of biomethane and carbon neutrality. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120414. [PMID: 38412730 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120414] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Inadequate landfill management poses risks to the environment and human health, necessitating action. Poorly designed and operated landfills release harmful gases, contaminate water, and deplete resources. Aligning landfill management with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reveals its crucial role in achieving various targets. Urgent transformation of landfill practices is necessary to address challenges like climate change, carbon neutrality, food security, and resource recovery. The scientific community recognizes landfill management's impact on climate change, evidenced by in over 191 published articles (1998-2023). This article presents emerging solutions for sustainable landfill management, including physico-chemical, oxidation, and biological treatments. Each technology is evaluated for practical applications. The article emphasizes landfill management's global significance in pursuing carbon neutrality, prioritizing resource recovery over end-of-pipe treatments. It is important to note that minimizing water, chemical, and energy inputs in nutrient recovery is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Water reuse, energy recovery, and material selection during manufacturing are vital. The potential of water technologies for recovering macro-nutrients from landfill leachate is explored, considering feasibility factors. Integrated waste management approaches, such as recycling and composting, reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. It is conclusively evident that the water technologies not only facilitate the purification of leachate but also enable the recovery of valuable substances such as ammonium, heavy metals, nutrients, and salts. This recovery process holds economic benefits, while the conversion of CH4 and hydrogen into bioenergy and power generation through microbial fuel cells further enhances its potential. Future research should focus on sustainable and cost-effective treatment technologies for landfill leachate. Improving landfill management can mitigate the adverse environmental and health effects of inadequate waste disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. Narutowicza 11/12, Gdańsk, 80-233, Poland.
| | - Gamal K Hassan
- Water Pollution Research Department, National Research Centre, 33 Bohouth St, Giza, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Egypt.
| | | | - Bogna Śniatała
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. Narutowicza 11/12, Gdańsk, 80-233, Poland
| | - Tomy Muringayil Joseph
- Department of Polymer Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza 11/12 80-233, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Majtacz
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. Narutowicza 11/12, Gdańsk, 80-233, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Piechota
- GPCHEM. Laboratory of Biogas Research and Analysis, ul. Legionów 40a/3, Toruń, 87-100, Poland
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Donghua Univerisity, Dept Env. Room 4155, 2999 North Renmin Rd, Songjiang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Fatma A El-Gohary
- Water Pollution Research Department, National Research Centre, 33 Bohouth St, Giza, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohammad Reza Saeb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jacek Mąkinia
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. Narutowicza 11/12, Gdańsk, 80-233, Poland
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Kurniawan TA, Liang X, Goh HH, Dzarfan Othman MH, Anouzla A, Al-Hazmi HE, Chew KW, Aziz F, Ali I. Leveraging food waste for electricity: A low-carbon approach in energy sector for mitigating climate change and achieving net zero emission in Hong Kong (China). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 351:119879. [PMID: 38157574 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119879] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, food waste has been a global concern that contributes to climate change. To deal with the rising impacts of climate change, in Hong Kong, food waste is converted into electricity in the framework of low-carbon approach. This work provides an overview of the conversion of food waste into electricity to achieve carbon neutrality. The production of methane and electricity from waste-to-energy (WTE) conversion are determined. Potential income from its sale and environmental benefits are also assessed quantitatively and qualitatively. It was found that the electricity generation from the food waste could reach 4.33 × 109 kWh annually, avoiding equivalent electricity charge worth USD 3.46 × 109 annually (based on US' 8/kWh). An equivalent CO2 mitigation of 9.9 × 108 kg annually was attained. The revenue from its electricity sale in market was USD 1.44×109 in the 1st year and USD 4.24 ×109 in the 15th year, respectively, according to the projected CH4 and electricity generation. The modelling study indicated that the electricity production is 0.8 kWh/kg of landfilled waste. The food waste could produce electricity as low as US' 8 per kW ∙ h. In spite of its promising results, there are techno-economic bottlenecks in commercial scale production and its application at comparable costs to conventional fossil fuels. Issues such as high GHG emissions and high production costs have been determined to be resolved later. Overall, this work not only leads to GHG avoidance, but also diversifies energy supply in providing power for homes in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xue Liang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, PR China.
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre, Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Laboratory of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Hassan II University, Mohammedia, 28806, Morocco
| | - Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity & Climate Changes, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, BP 2390, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India
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Ulfat W, Mohyuddin A, Amjad M, Othman MHD, Gikas P, Kurniawan TA. Fabrication, characterization, and application of light weight thermal insulation material from combined buffing dust and plaster of paris for construction industry. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 347:119129. [PMID: 37778073 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Buffing dust, generated from tannery industries, is a source of air pollution in Pakistan. Valorization of the waste into another useful material is important to deal with the environmental pollution, while reducing waste disposal costs in landfills. To demonstrate its technological strength, this work fabricates a thermal insulation material made of plaster of Paris and the buffing dust (from tanning waste) in the form of a composite with superior mechanical properties and low thermal conductivity. Buffing dust with concentrations ranging from 5 to 20% (w/w) were loaded in the composite. The samples synthesized were made slurry of plaster of Paris, buffing dust, and water at ambient temperature. The physico-mechanical properties of composite were analyzed. It was found that the composite had better thermal insulation properties than the panels of the plaster of Paris. Its thermal conductivity was reduced to 15% after adding buffing dust (20% w/w). All the materials had physico-chemical properties like tensile strength (0.02 MPa and 0.06 MPa), density (700-400 kg/m3), water absorption (5.2-8.6%) and thermal conductivity (0.17000-0.09218 W/m-K). Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the material was thermally stable at temperatures ranging from 145 to 177 °C, while FT-IR results revealed that the composite contained O-H, N-H, and CO functional groups. SEM analysis displayed that the composite's homogeneity was reduced with low voids due to buffing dust addition, while EDX analysis showed that the composite contained 23.62% of S, 26.76% of Ca, 49.2% of O and 0.42% of C. This implies that buffing dust could be recycled to manufacture heat insulation materials for construction sector to reduce air pollution, while minimizing energy consumption. By integrating the buffing dust from tanning waste and the plaster of Paris as a composite for construction sector, this work promotes the recycling of unused waste, while saving public funds. Instead of paying landfill fees and polluting soil, the waste may be recycled at lower cost, while reducing environmental damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajad Ulfat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Amjad
- Department of Chemistry, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre, Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Petros Gikas
- Technical University of Crete, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Chania, Greece
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Kurniawan TA, Haider A, Mohyuddin A, Fatima R, Salman M, Shaheen A, Ahmad HM, Al-Hazmi HE, Othman MHD, Aziz F, Anouzla A, Ali I. Tackling microplastics pollution in global environment through integration of applied technology, policy instruments, and legislation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 346:118971. [PMID: 37729832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a serious environmental problem that affects both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Small particles with size of less than 5 mm, known as microplastics (MPs), persist in the environment and pose serious threats to various species from micro-organisms to humans. However, terrestrial environment has received less attention than the aquatic environment, despite being a major source of MPs that eventually reaches water body. To reflect its novelty, this work aims at providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of MPs pollution in the global environment and various solutions to address MP pollution by integrating applied technology, policy instruments, and legislation. This review critically evaluates and compares the existing technologies for MPs detection, removal, and degradation, and a variety of policy instruments and legislation that can support the prevention and management of MPs pollution scientifically. Furthermore, this review identifies the gaps and challenges in addressing the complex and diverse nature of MPs and calls for joint actions and collaboration from stakeholders to contain MPs. As water pollution by MPs is complex, managing it effectively requires their responses through the utilization of technology, policy instruments, and legislation. It is evident from a literature survey of 228 published articles (1961-2023) that existing water technologies are promising to remove MPs pollution. Membrane bioreactors and ultrafiltration achieved 90% of MPs removal, while magnetic separation was effective at extracting 88% of target MPs from wastewater. In biological process, one kg of wax worms could consume about 80 g of plastic/day. This means that 100 kg of wax worms can eat about 8 kg of plastic daily, or about 2.9 tons of plastic annually. Overall, the integration of technology, policy instrument, and legislation is crucial to deal with the MPs issues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahtisham Haider
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan.
| | - Rida Fatima
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Anila Shaheen
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan; Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity & Climate Changes, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, BP 2390, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
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Kurniawan TA, Othman MHD, Liang X, Goh HH, Gikas P, Kusworo TD, Anouzla A, Chew KW. Decarbonization in waste recycling industry using digitalization to promote net-zero emissions and its implications on sustainability. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 338:117765. [PMID: 36965421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Digitalization and sustainability have been considered as critical elements in tackling a growing problem of solid waste in the framework of circular economy (CE). Although digitalization can enhance time-efficiency and/or cost-efficiency, their end-results do not always lead to sustainability. So far, the literatures still lack of a holistic view in understanding the development trends and key roles of digitalization in waste recycling industry to benefit stakeholders and to protect the environment. To bridge this knowledge gap, this work systematically investigates how leveraging digitalization in waste recycling industry could address these research questions: (1) What are the key problems of solid waste recycling? (2) How the trends of digitalization in waste management could benefit a CE? (3) How digitalization could strengthen waste recycling industry in a post-pandemic era? While digitalization boosts material flows in a CE, it is evident that utilizing digital solutions to strengthen waste recycling business could reinforce a resource-efficient, low-carbon, and a CE. In the Industry 4.0 era, digitalization can add 15% (about USD 15.7 trillion) to global economy by 2030. As digitalization grows, making the waste sector shift to a CE could save between 30% and 35% of municipalities' waste management budget. With digitalization, a cost reduction of 3.6% and a revenue increase of 4.1% are projected annually. This would contribute to USD 493 billion in an increasing revenue yearly in the next decade. As digitalization enables tasks to be completed shortly with less manpower, this could save USD 421 billion annually for the next decade. With respect to environmental impacts, digitalization in the waste sector could reduce global CO2 emissions by 15% by 2030 through technological solutions. Overall, this work suggests that digitalization in the waste sector contributes net-zero emission to a digital economy, while transitioning to a sustainable world as its social impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Johor Bahru, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Xue Liang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Petros Gikas
- Technical University of Crete, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Chania, Greece
| | - Tutuk Djoko Kusworo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Diponegoro University, Semarang, 50275, Indonesia
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
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Kurniawan TA, Haider A, Ahmad HM, Mohyuddin A, Umer Aslam HM, Nadeem S, Javed M, Othman MHD, Goh HH, Chew KW. Source, occurrence, distribution, fate, and implications of microplastic pollutants in freshwater on environment: A critical review and way forward. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 325:138367. [PMID: 36907482 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The generation of microplastics (MPs) has increased recently and become an emerging issue globally. Due to their long-term durability and capability of traveling between different habitats in air, water, and soil, MPs presence in freshwater ecosystem threatens the environment with respect to its quality, biotic life, and sustainability. Although many previous works have been undertaken on the MPs pollution in the marine system recently, none of the study has covered the scope of MPs pollution in the freshwater. To consolidate scattered knowledge in the literature body into one place, this work identifies the sources, fate, occurrence, transport pathways, and distribution of MPs pollution in the aquatic system with respect to their impacts on biotic life, degradation, and detection techniques. This article also discusses the environmental implications of MPs pollution in the freshwater ecosystems. Certain techniques for identifying MPs and their limitations in applications are presented. Through a literature survey of over 276 published articles (2000-2023), this study presents an overview of solutions to the MP pollution, while identifying research gaps in the body of knowledge for further work. It is conclusive from this review that the MPs exist in the freshwater due to an improper littering of plastic waste and its degradation into smaller particles. Approximately 15-51 trillion MP particles have accumulated in the oceans with their weight ranging between 93,000 and 236,000 metric ton (Mt), while about 19-23 Mt of plastic waste was released into rivers in 2016, which was projected to increase up to 53 Mt by 2030. A subsequent degradation of MPs in the aquatic environment results in the generation of NPs with size ranging from 1 to 1000 nm. It is expected that this work facilitates stakeholders to understand the multi-aspects of MPs pollution in the freshwater and recommends policy actions to implement sustainable solutions to this environmental problem.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahtisham Haider
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan.
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Umer Aslam
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Nadeem
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Mohsin Javed
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
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Kurniawan TA, Othman MHD, Liang X, Goh HH, Gikas P, Chong KK, Chew KW. Challenges and opportunities for biochar to promote circular economy and carbon neutrality. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 332:117429. [PMID: 36773474 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Biochar, derived from unused biomass, is widely considered for its potential to deal with climate change problems. Global interest in biochar is attributed to its ability to sequester carbon in soil and to remediate aquatic environment from water pollution. As soil conditioner and/or adsorbent, biochar offers opportunity through a circular economy (CE) paradigm. While energy transition continues, progress toward low-emissions materials accelerates their advance towards net-zero emissions. However, none of existing works addresses CE-based biochar management to achieve carbon neutrality. To reflect its novelty, this work provides a critical overview of challenges and opportunities for biochar to promote CE and carbon neutrality. This article also offers seminal perspectives about strengthening biomass management through CE and resource recovery paradigms, while exploring how the unused biomass can promote net zero emissions in its applications. By consolidating scattered knowledge in the body of literature into one place, this work uncovers new research directions to close the loops by implementing the circularity of biomass resources in various fields. It is conclusive from a literature survey of 113 articles (2003-2023) that biomass conversion into biochar can promote net zero emissions and CE in the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Depending on their physico-chemical properties, biochar can become a suitable feedstock for CE. Biochar application as soil enrichment offsets 12% of CO2 emissions by land use annually. Adding biochar to soil can improve its health and agricultural productivity, while minimizing about 1/8 of CO2 emissions. Biochar can also sequester CO2 in the long-term and prevent the release of carbon back into the atmosphere after its decomposition. This practice could sequester 2.5 gigatons (Gt) of CO2 annually. With the global biochar market reaching USD 368.85 million by 2028, this work facilitates biochar with its versatile characteristics to promote carbon neutrality and CE applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre, Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, 81310, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Xue Liang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Petros Gikas
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, 73100, Greece
| | - Kok-Keong Chong
- Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
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12
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Remediation technologies for contaminated groundwater due to arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), and/or fluoride (F): A critical review and way forward to contribute to carbon neutrality. Sep Purif Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2023.123474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
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