Analysis of photocatalytic degradation of polyamide microplastics in metal salt solution by high resolution mass spectrometry

Chemical methods to remove microplastics from wastewater: A review

Microplastics (Mps) have emerged as a pervasive environmental concern, with their presence detected not only in freshwater ecosystems but also in drinking and bottled water sources. While extensive research has centered on understanding the origins, migration patterns, detection techniques, and ecotoxicological impacts of these contaminants, there remains a notable research gap about the strategies for Mps removal. This study reviews existing literature on chemical approaches for mitigating microplastic contamination within wastewater systems, focusing on coagulation precipitation, electrocoagulation, and advanced oxidation methods. Each approach is systematically explored, encompassing their respective mechanisms and operational dynamics. Furthermore, the comparative analysis of these three techniques elucidates their strengths and limitations in the context of MPs removal. By shedding light on the intricate mechanisms underlying these removal methods, this review contributes to the theoretical foundation of microplastic elimination from wastewater and identifies future research trajectories and potential challenges.

Are you drowned in microplastic pollution? A brief insight on the current knowledge for early career researchers developing novel remediation strategies

Microplastics (MPs) composed of different polymers with various shapes, within a vast granulometric distribution (1 μm - 5 mm) and with a wide variety of physicochemical surface and bulk characteristics spiral around the globe, with different atmospheric, oceanic, cryospheric, and terrestrial residence times, while interacting with other pollutants and biota. The challenges of microplastic pollution are related to the complex relationships between the microplastic generation mechanisms (physical, chemical, and biological), their physicochemical properties, their interactions with other pollutants and microorganisms, the changes in their properties with aging, and their small sizes that facilitate their diffusion and transportation between the air, water, land, and biota, thereby promoting their ubiquity. Early career researchers (ERCs) constitute an essential part of the scientific community committed to overcoming the challenges of microplastic pollution with their new ideas and innovative scientific perspectives for the development of remediation technologies. However, because of the enormous amount of scientific information available, it may be difficult for ERCs to determine the complexity of this environmental issue. This mini-review aims to provide a quick and updated overview of the essential insights of microplastic pollution to ERCs to help them acquire the background needed to develop highly innovative physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, as well as valorization proposals and environmental education and awareness campaigns. Moreover, the recommendations for the development of holistic microplastic pollution remediation strategies presented here can help ERCs propose technologies considering the environmental, social, and practical dimensions of microplastic pollution while fulfilling the current government policies to manage this plastic waste.