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Illuminati S, Notarstefano V, Tinari C, Fanelli M, Girolametti F, Ajdini B, Scarchilli C, Ciardini V, Iaccarino A, Giorgini E, Annibaldi A, Truzzi C. Microplastics in bulk atmospheric deposition along the coastal region of Victoria Land, Antarctica. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175221. [PMID: 39097013 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The increasing global concern over microplastic pollution has driven a surge in research efforts aimed at detecting microplastics across various ecosystems. Airborne microplastics (MPs) have been identified in remote environments worldwide, including Antarctica. However, data on bulk atmospheric deposition remain scarce. From January to December 2020, atmospheric deposition was directly collected using passive samplers placed in eight sites across Victoria Land. Using Raman Microspectroscopy, MPs were identified in six out of the seven samples collected (one sample was lost due to the extreme weather conditions). The average daily MP deposition for Victoria Land was 1.7 ± 1.1 MPs m-2 d-1, with values ranging from 0.76 to 3.44 MPs m-2 d-1. The majority (53 %) of MPs found in the atmospheric deposition were in the size class of 5-10 μm, and the main shape of MPs was fragments (95 %). The predominant plastic type was polypropylene (31 %), followed by polyethylene (19 %) and polycarbonate (12 %). Polystyrene, polyester, styrene and polyethylene terephthalate each accounted for ~6 %. Microplastics identified in the coastal sites may have local origins, potentially associated with scientific activities at research stations. Conversely, a backward trajectories analysis suggested a potential contribution of atmospheric transport to microplastic deposition at Larsen Glacier and Tourmaline Plateau, the two most remote sites of the study area, where the highest MP concentrations were detected. Our findings present the first evidence of microplastics in the Antarctic atmospheric deposition directly collected via passive samplers, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and research to assess the environmental impact of MPs, particularly in sensitive and remote ecosystems like Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Illuminati
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Valentina Notarstefano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Chiara Tinari
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Matteo Fanelli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Federico Girolametti
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Behixhe Ajdini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - C Scarchilli
- Laboratory of Observations and Measures for the environment and climate, ENEA, Roma, Italy
| | - V Ciardini
- Laboratory of Observations and Measures for the environment and climate, ENEA, Roma, Italy
| | - A Iaccarino
- Laboratory of Observations and Measures for the environment and climate, ENEA, Roma, Italy
| | - E Giorgini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Annibaldi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - C Truzzi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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2
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Wang Y, Zhu Y, Guo G, An L, Fang W, Tan Y, Jiang J, Bing X, Song Q, Zhou Q, He Z. A comprehensive risk assessment of microplastics in soil, water, and atmosphere: Implications for human health and environmental safety. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117154. [PMID: 39378647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive across ecosystems, likely posing significant environmental and health risks based on more and more evidence. In this study, we searched through the Web of Science Core Collection and obtained 1039 papers for visualization and analysis. In order to discuss the chemical composition, migration, transformation and potential risk of MPs, 135 sets of relevant data in soil, water, and atmosphere were collected in China as a typical region, which is a hotspot region for investigation of MPs. The results showed that the primary polymer categories of MPs in the environment to be polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene. The soil contains a significant quantity of MPs, averaging at 12,107.42 items·kgdw-1, while water contains averaging at 97,271.18 items m-3. The total pollution load indexes for all three environments are at risk level I. Based on current risk assessment methods, the potential ecological risk of MPs is low. However, based on the polymer components, migration and transformation patterns, and especially the complexes with other pollutants, it indicates an increasing indirect risk. Interactions with some other pollutants are likely amplify the ecological and health risks associated with MPs. Aggregative results showed that the present risk assessment models could not assess the risks of MPs well. Thus, we suggested develop a risk assessment methodology for MPs based on relevant research progress. Some factors such as the size and form of MPs, sources and distribution, bioaccumulation, social acceptance and economic costs could be considered adding in the present risk assessment models. Finally, promotion of development and application of green chemically synthesized bioplastics such as using synthetic biology to help degrade plastics would be an alternative and sustainable option to relieve the adverse environmental and health concerns of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yuanrong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Guanghui Guo
- Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wen Fang
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China; Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yidan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Juan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Xiaojie Bing
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qingshuai Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qihao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environment Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Zhongqi He
- USDA-ARS Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Allen Toussaint Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
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3
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Bhaumik S, Chakraborty P. Interactions between microplastics (MPs) and trace/toxic metals in marine environments: implications and insights-a comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34960-w. [PMID: 39365535 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34960-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) pollution is a pressing concern in today's marine environments. MPs can significantly affect marine ecosystems by altering nutrient and pollutant dynamics. This review analyses the existing literature to investigate interactions between MPs and micronutrients/pollutants, specifically trace and toxic metals in marine environments. It explores the adsorption of metals onto MP surfaces, emphasizing kinetics, isotherms, and underlying mechanisms of the process. The review highlights the potential consequences of MPs on the biogeochemical cycles of trace and toxic metals, emphasizing disruptions that could result in metal toxicity, metal limitations, reduced bioavailability, and adverse effects on primary productivity in marine ecosystems. It further underscores the need for future research to unravel the wide-ranging implications of MPs on trace and toxic metal cycling in marine ecosystems and their broader environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swastika Bhaumik
- Marine Trace Metal Biogeochemistry Laboratory, Centre for Ocean, River, Atmosphere and Land Sciences (CORAL), Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Parthasarathi Chakraborty
- Marine Trace Metal Biogeochemistry Laboratory, Centre for Ocean, River, Atmosphere and Land Sciences (CORAL), Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India.
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4
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Yang J, Peng Z, Sun J, Chen Z, Niu X, Xu H, Ho KF, Cao J, Shen Z. A review on advancements in atmospheric microplastics research: The pivotal role of machine learning. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:173966. [PMID: 38897457 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), recognized as emerging pollutants, pose significant potential impacts on the environment and human health. The investigation into atmospheric MPs is nascent due to the absence of effective characterization methods, leaving their concentration, distribution, sources, and impacts on human health largely undefined with evidence still emerging. This review compiles the latest literature on the sources, distribution, environmental behaviors, and toxicological effects of atmospheric MPs. It delves into the methodologies for source identification, distribution patterns, and the contemporary approaches to assess the toxicological effects of atmospheric MPs. Significantly, this review emphasizes the role of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies as novel and promising tools in enhancing the precision and depth of research into atmospheric MPs, including but not limited to the spatiotemporal dynamics, source apportionment, and potential health impacts of atmospheric MPs. The integration of these advanced technologies facilitates a more nuanced understanding of MPs' behavior and effects, marking a pivotal advancement in the field. This review aims to deliver an in-depth view of atmospheric MPs, enhancing knowledge and awareness of their environmental and human health impacts. It calls upon scholars to focus on the research of atmospheric MPs based on new technologies of ML and AI, improving the database as well as offering fresh perspectives on this critical issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaer Yang
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Zezhi Peng
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Zhiwen Chen
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Xinyi Niu
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Hongmei Xu
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Kin-Fai Ho
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junji Cao
- Key Lab of Aerosol Chemistry & Physics, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Zhenxing Shen
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
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5
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Costa MBD, Schuab JM, Sad CMDS, Ocaris ERY, Otegui MBP, Motta DG, Menezes KM, Caniçali FB, Marins AAL, Dalbó GZ, Marçal M, Paqueli BF, Zamprogno GC. Microplastic atmospheric pollution in an urban Southern Brazil region: What can spider webs tell us? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135190. [PMID: 39053063 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135190] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The World Health Organization categorizes air pollution as the presence of one or more contaminants in the atmosphere such as smoke, dust, and particulate matter like microplastics, which are considered a priority pollutant. However, only a few studies have been developed on atmospheric pollution, and knowledge about MPs in the atmosphere is still limited. Spider webs have been tested and used as a passive sampling approach to study anthropogenic pollution. Despite this, studies on microplastic contamination using spiderwebs as samplers are scarce. Thus, this study uses spider webs as passive indicators to investigate air quality regarding microplastic contamination in an urbanized area. Therefore, 30 sampling points were selected, and webs of Nephilingis cruentata were collected. The spider webs were dipped in KOH 10 %. After digestion, the solution was washed and sieved through a 90 µm geological sieve. The remaining material was transferred to a Petri dish with filter paper, quantified, and identified by type and color. The chemical composition of the polymers was determined using Raman spectroscopy. 3138 microplastics were identified (2973 filaments and 165 fragments). The most frequent colors were blue and black. Raman spectroscopy revealed five types of polymers: Isotactic Polypropylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyurethane, Polyamide, and Direct Polyethylene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercia Barcellos da Costa
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil.
| | - João Marcos Schuab
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Cristina Maria Dos Santos Sad
- Laboratory of Research and Methodologies Development for Petroleum Analysis (LABPETRO), Chemistry Department, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Beatriz Paz Otegui
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil; Institute of Biodiversity and Applied Experimental Biology (CONICET-UBA), Buenos Aires University, Argentina
| | - Daniel Gosser Motta
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Karina Machado Menezes
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Felipe Barcellos Caniçali
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil; Post Graduation Program in Environmental Oceanography, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Antônio Augusto Lopes Marins
- Department of Chemistry, Multiusual Laboratory of Instrumentation (LabMIinst - LabPetro), Federal University of Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 514, Goiabeiras, Vitória, Espírito Santo 29075-910, Brazil; Department of Chemistry, Corrosion, and Materials Laboratory (LabCorrMAT - LabPetro), Federal University of Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 514, Goiabeiras, Vitória, Espírito Santo 29075-910, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Zambon Dalbó
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Mateus Marçal
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Bruno Fioresi Paqueli
- Laboratory of Research and Methodologies Development for Petroleum Analysis (LABPETRO), Chemistry Department, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Carvalho Zamprogno
- Laboratory of Coastal Biology and Microplastic Analysis, Brazil.Federal University of Espírito Santo, Department of Chemistry, Brazil
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6
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Bucci S, Richon C, Bakels L. Exploring the Transport Path of Oceanic Microplastics in the Atmosphere. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:14338-14347. [PMID: 39078311 PMCID: PMC11325545 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) have been recognized as an emerging atmospheric pollutant, yet uncertainties persist in their emissions and concentrations. With a bottom-up approach, we estimate 6-hourly MP fluxes at the ocean-atmosphere interface, using as an input the monthly ocean surface MP concentrations simulated by the global oceanic model (NEMO/PISCES-PLASTIC, Nucleus for European Modeling of the Ocean, Pelagic Interaction Scheme for Carbon and Ecosystem Studies), a size distribution estimate for the MP in the micrometer range, and a sea salt emission scheme. The atmospheric dispersion is then simulated with the Lagrangian model FLEXPART. We identify hotspot sources in the tropical regions and highlight the seasonal variability of emissions, atmospheric concentrations, and deposition fluxes both on land and ocean surfaces. Due to the variability of MP concentration during the year, the MP flux from the sea surface appears to follow a seasonality opposite to that of sea salt aerosol emissions. The comparison with existing observations of MP in the marine atmosphere suggests an underestimation of one to 2 orders of magnitude in our current knowledge of the MP in the oceans' surface. In addition, we show that the MP in the micrometer range is transported efficiently around the globe and can penetrate and linger in the stratosphere over time scales of months. The interaction of these particles with the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere is still mostly unknown and deserves to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bucci
- Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, University of Vienna, Universitätsring 1, Vienna 1010, Austria
| | - Camille Richon
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie et du Climat: Expérimentations et Approches Numériques, Institut Pierre Simon Laplace (LOCEAN-IPSL), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, IRD, MNHN, 75005 Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie Physique et Spatiale (LOPS), UMR 197 CNRS/IFREMER/IRD/UBO, Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer, Plouzané 29280, France
| | - Lucie Bakels
- Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, University of Vienna, Universitätsring 1, Vienna 1010, Austria
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7
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Li H, Lu H, Feng S, Xue Y, Sun T, Yan Y, Zhang X, Yan P. Environmental fate of microplastics in high-altitude basins: the insights into the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 365:121623. [PMID: 38943743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121623] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been found in remote high-altitude areas, but the main source and migration process remained unclear. This work explored the characteristics and potential sources of MPs in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin. The average abundances of MPs in water, sediment, and soil samples were 728.26 ± 100.53 items/m3, 43.16 ± 5.82 items/kg, and 61.92 ± 4.29 items/kg, respectively, with polypropylene and polyethylene as the main polymers. The conditional fragmentation model revealed that the major source of MPs lower than 4000 m was human activities, while that of higher than 4500 m was atmospheric deposition. Community analysis was further conducted to explore the migration process and key points of MPs among different compartments in the basin. It was found that Lhasa (3600 m) and Shigatse (4100 m) were vital sources of MPs inputs in the midstream and downstream, respectively. This work would provide new insights into the fate of MPs in high-altitude areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengchen Li
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hongwei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Sansan Feng
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yuxuan Xue
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulic Engineering Simulation and Safety, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 390354, China; Tianjin University, Tianjin, 390354, China
| | - Yiming Yan
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaohan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Process, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Pengdong Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulic Engineering Simulation and Safety, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 390354, China; Tianjin University, Tianjin, 390354, China
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8
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Uaciquete D, Mitsunaga K, Aoyama K, Kitajima K, Chiba T, Jamal DL, Jiang JJ, Horie Y. Microplastic abundance in the semi-enclosed Osaka Bay, Japan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34444-x. [PMID: 39078549 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34444-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Anthropogenic particles in sea surface water of the semi-enclosed Osaka Bay were identified using stereomicroscopy, classified according to polymer type using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and categorized according to their physical characteristics. A total of 565.1 particles were detected in the water samples. However, plastic particles accounted for only 22.4% of the particles. Microplastic abundance in Osaka Bay showed seasonal variance from 8.9 ± 1.4 (in May) to 22.8 ± 6.5 particles/L (in July), which is consistent with previous reports in other semi-enclosed bays. Microplastics were mainly fragmented and fiber shaped, with gray and colorless/white coloration. The dominant polymer types were polypropylene, poly(methylmethacrylate), polyester, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. Generally, there were considerably higher abundances of microplastics at offshore sites compared with nearshore sites. The results of this study suggest that local river effluents and marine-related activities are probable sources of microplastics in Osaka Bay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorcas Uaciquete
- Research Center for Inland Seas (KURCIS), Kobe University, Fukaeminami-Machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0022, Japan
| | - Kensuke Mitsunaga
- Faculty of Maritime Science, Kobe University, Fukaeminami-Machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0022, Japan
| | - Katsumi Aoyama
- Faculty of Maritime Science, Kobe University, Fukaeminami-Machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0022, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kitajima
- Faculty of Maritime Science, Kobe University, Fukaeminami-Machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0022, Japan
| | - Takashi Chiba
- Department of Environmental and Symbiotic Science, Rakuno Gakuen University, 582, Bunkyodai Midorimachi, Ebetsu, Hokkaido, 069-8501, Japan
| | - Daud Liace Jamal
- Eduardo Mondlane University, Av. Julius Nyerere, Nr, 3453, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, 320314, Taiwan
| | - Yoshifumi Horie
- Research Center for Inland Seas (KURCIS), Kobe University, Fukaeminami-Machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0022, Japan.
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9
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Yang S, Lu X, Wang X. A Perspective on the Controversy over Global Emission Fluxes of Microplastics from Ocean into the Atmosphere. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:12304-12312. [PMID: 38935526 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Since the transfer of microplastic across the sea-air interface was first reported in 2020, numerous studies have been conducted on its emission flux estimation. However, these studies have shown significant discrepancies in the estimated contribution of oceanic sources to global atmospheric microplastics, with evaluations ranging from predominant to negligible, varying by 4 orders of magnitude from 7.7 × 10-4 to 8.6 megatons per year, thereby creating considerable confusion in the research on the microplastic cycle. Here, we provide a perspective by applying the well-established theory of particulate transfer through the sea-air interface. The upper limit of global sea-air emission flux microplastics was calculated, aiming to constrain the controversy in the previously reported fluxes. Specifically, the flux of sub-100 μm microplastic cannot exceed 0.01 megatons per year, and for sub-0.1 μm nanoplastics, it would not exceed 3 × 10-7 megatons per year. Bridging this knowledge gap is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the sea-air limb in the "plastic cycle", and facilitates the management of future microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanye Yang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaohui Lu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Coastal Atmosphere and Climate of the Great Bay Area, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
- Fudan Zhangjiang Institute, Shanghai 201203, China
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10
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Wei Y, Yu Y, Cao X, Wang B, Yu D, Wang J, Liu Z. Remote Mountainous Area Inevitably Becomes Temporal Sink for Microplastics Driven by Atmospheric Transport. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39012186 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c00296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Atmospheric transport drives the widespread distribution of microplastic (MP) in various ecosystems, posing a growing potential threat to environmental safety and human health. Understanding the source and fate of atmospheric MPs is thus crucial to constrain MP's widespread exposure. However, the source-sink dynamics of atmospheric MPs, especially in remote areas, are uncertain, and their transport routes have yet to be identified. Here, we conducted a 13-month monitoring of the atmospheric MPs in the uninhabited area of Mount Taibai, estimated the potential risk of MP exposure to the environment, and modeled the MP trajectory to analyze their transportation. We first found that as many as 15 polymer types of MPs, whose shapes mainly include fiber, fragments, films, and granules, maintained abundance (0.7 and 0.3 particle/m3 for PM10 and PM2.5, respectively) in the mountain atmosphere at respirable sizes. It is worth noting that the risk assessment results that comprehensively consider the influences of abundance and morphological characteristics suggest that the exposure level of MPs exhibits a risk even in this remote mountainous area that is not disturbed by frequent human activities. Backward trajectories revealed the likely source of MPs in the sparsely populated Liupan Mountains and Qinling Mountains of short-range transport. Further, polymer characteristics of MPs and airflow-based source analysis indicated the emission source of MPs in southern Xianyang in a longer-range transport. MPs were directionally transported to Mount Taibai through atmospheric transport under the premise of stable climate and geographical conditions. These suggest that MPs inevitably occur in remote mountainous areas driven by atmospheric transport, and the mountainous areas are persistently bearing the environmental impact of MP exposure. This study reveals the risk impacts of MP exposure and the transport dynamics of atmospheric MPs in a mountain ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Wei
- Key Laboratory of Comprehensive and Highly Efficient Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, Qinghai, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Geology and Environment of Salt Lakes, Xining 810008, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Forensics, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, Shandong, China
| | - Xuewen Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Comprehensive and Highly Efficient Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, Qinghai, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Geology and Environment of Salt Lakes, Xining 810008, China
| | - Dongmei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Comprehensive and Highly Efficient Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, Qinghai, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Geology and Environment of Salt Lakes, Xining 810008, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Comprehensive and Highly Efficient Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, Qinghai, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Geology and Environment of Salt Lakes, Xining 810008, China
| | - Ze Liu
- Key Laboratory of Comprehensive and Highly Efficient Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, Qinghai, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Geology and Environment of Salt Lakes, Xining 810008, China
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11
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Chand R, Putna-Nīmane I, Vecmane E, Lykkemark J, Dencker J, Haaning Nielsen A, Vollertsen J, Liu F. Snow dumping station - A considerable source of tyre wear, microplastics, and heavy metal pollution. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108782. [PMID: 38821018 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108782] [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: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Snow dumping stations can be a hotspots for pollutants to water resources. However, little is known about the amount of microplastics including tyre wear particles transported this way. This study investigated microplastics and metals in snow from four snow dumping stations in Riga, Latvia, a remote site (Gauja National Park), and a roof top in Riga. Microplastics other than tyre wear particles were identified with Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) (>500 µm) and focal plane array based micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FPA-µFTIR) imaging (10-500 µm), tyre wear particles by Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (Py-GC-MS), and total metals by Inductively Coupled Plasma with Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Microplastics detected by FTIR were quantified by particle counts and their mass estimated, while tyre wear particles were quantified by mass. The concentrations varied substantially, with the highest levels in the urban areas. Microplastic concentrations measured by FTIR ranged between 26 and 2549 counts L-1 of melted snow with a corresponding estimated mass of 19-573 µg/L. Tyre wear particles were not detected at the two reference sites, while other sites held 44-3026 µg/L. Metal concentrations varied several orders of magnitude with for example sodium in the range 0.45-819.54 mg/L and cadmium in the range 0.05-0.94 µg/L. Correlating microplastic measured by FTIR to metal content showed a weak to moderate correlation. Tyre wear particles, however, correlated strongly to many of the metals. The study showed that snow can hold considerable amounts of these pollutants, which upon melting and release of the meltwater to the aquatic environment could impact receiving waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupa Chand
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ieva Putna-Nīmane
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Voleru str. 4, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Elina Vecmane
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Voleru str. 4, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Jeanette Lykkemark
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jytte Dencker
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn Haaning Nielsen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9200 Aalborg, Denmark.
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12
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Liu Z, Liang T, Liu X. Characteristics, distribution patterns and sources of atmospheric microplastics in the Bohai and Yellow Seas, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171906. [PMID: 38531455 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Although the prevalence of microplastics in the atmosphere has recently received considerable attention, there is little information available regarding the distribution of atmospheric microplastics over oceanic regions. In this study, during the summer and autumn months of 2022, we investigated atmospheric microplastics in four marine regions off the eastern coast of mainland China, namely, the southern, middle, and northern regions of the Yellow Sea, and the Bohai Sea. The abundance of atmospheric microplastics in these regions ranged from 1.65 to 16.80 items/100 m3 during summer and from 0.38 to 14.58 items/100 m3 during autumn, although we detected no significant differences in abundance among these regions. Polyamide, chlorinated polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate were identified as the main types of plastic polymer. On the basis of meteorological data and backward trajectory model analyses, we established that the atmospheric microplastics detected during summer were mainly derived from the adjacent marine atmosphere and that over the continental landmass in the vicinity of the sampling area, whereas microplastics detected during autumn appear to have originated mainly from the northeast of China. By influencing the settlement and migration of microplastics, meteorological factors, such as relative humidity and wind speed, were identified as potential factors determining the distribution and characteristics of the detected microplastics. Our findings in this study, revealing the origin and fate of marine atmospheric microplastics, make an important contribution to our current understanding of the distribution and transmission of microplastics within the surveyed region and potentially worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjinhao Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Ting Liang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiaoshou Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
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13
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Vojnits K, de León A, Rathore H, Liao S, Zhao M, Gibon J, Pakpour S. ROS-dependent degeneration of human neurons induced by environmentally relevant levels of micro- and nanoplastics of diverse shapes and forms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134017. [PMID: 38518696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134017] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Our study explores the pressing issue of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) inhalation and their subsequent penetration into the brain, highlighting a significant environmental health concern. We demonstrate that MNPs can indeed penetrate murine brain, warranting further investigation into their neurotoxic effects in humans. We then proceed to test the impact of MNPs at environmentally relevant concentrations, with focusing on variations in size and shape. Our findings reveal that these MNPs induce oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and neurodegeneration in human neurons, with cortical neurons being more susceptible than nociceptors. Furthermore, we examine the role of biofilms on MNPs, demonstrating that MNPs can serve as a vehicle for pathogenic biofilms that significantly exacerbate these neurotoxic effects. This sequence of investigations reveals that minimal MNPs accumulation can cause oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in human neurons, significantly risking brain health and highlights the need to understand the neurological consequences of inhaling MNPs. Overall, our developed in vitro testing battery has significance in elucidating the effects of environmental factors and their associated pathological mechanisms in human neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Vojnits
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Andrés de León
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Harneet Rathore
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Sophia Liao
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Michael Zhao
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Julien Gibon
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Office of Vice-Principal, Research and Innovation, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sepideh Pakpour
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada.
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14
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Boccia P, Mondellini S, Mauro S, Zanellato M, Parolini M, Sturchio E. Potential Effects of Environmental and Occupational Exposure to Microplastics: An Overview of Air Contamination. TOXICS 2024; 12:320. [PMID: 38787098 PMCID: PMC11125735 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12050320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are now ubiquitous environmental contaminants that lead to unavoidable human exposure; they have received increasing attention in recent years and have become an emerging area of research. The greatest concern is the negative impacts of MPs on marine, fresh-water, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as human health, to the extent that the World Health Organization (WHO) calls for increased research and standardized methods to assess exposure to MPs. Many countries and international organizations are implementing or proposing legislation in this regard. This review aims to summarize the current state of legislation, indoor and outdoor contamination, and potential human health risk due to exposure to airborne MPs, considering that occupational exposure to MPs is also becoming a growing area of concern. Even though research regarding MPs has continuously increased in the last twenty years, the effects of MPs on human health have been scarcely investigated, and toxicity studies are still limited and not directly comparable, due to the lack of standardized studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Boccia
- INAIL—Istituto Nazionale per L’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, Dit, 38/40 Via Roberto Ferruzzi, 00143 Rome, Italy; (M.Z.); (E.S.)
| | - Simona Mondellini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Simona Mauro
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Miriam Zanellato
- INAIL—Istituto Nazionale per L’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, Dit, 38/40 Via Roberto Ferruzzi, 00143 Rome, Italy; (M.Z.); (E.S.)
| | - Marco Parolini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Elena Sturchio
- INAIL—Istituto Nazionale per L’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, Dit, 38/40 Via Roberto Ferruzzi, 00143 Rome, Italy; (M.Z.); (E.S.)
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15
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Huang Y, Zhu Z, Li T, Li M, Cai Z, Wang X, Gong H, Yan M. Mangrove plants are promising bioindicator of coastal atmospheric microplastics pollution. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133473. [PMID: 38219586 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133473] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are commonly used by society and their break down into millimeter-sized bits known as microplastics (MPs). Due to the possibility of exposure, reports of them in atmospheric deposition, indoor, and outdoor air have sparked worry for public health. In tropical and subtropical regions all throughout the world, mangroves constitute a distinctive and significant type of coastal wetlands. Mangrove plants are considered to have the effect of accumulating sediment MPs, but the sedimentation of atmospheric MPs has not been reported. In this study, we illustrated the characteristics, abundance and spatial distribution of MPs in different species of mangrove leaves along the Seagull Island in Guangzhou. MPs samples from leaves in five species showed various shapes, colors, compositions, sizes and abundance. Acanthus ilicifolius had an average fallout rate of 1223 items/m2/day which has the highest abundance of MPs in all samples. Four shapes of MPs were found in all leaves surfaces including fiber, fragment, pellet, and film, with fiber is the most. The dominant types of MPs in all leaves were cellulose and rayon. Most of the total MPs size were smaller than 2 mm. Clearly, the microstructures of each species leaf surfaces had an impact on its ability to retain MPs. The plants rough blade surfaces and big folds or gullies caused more particles to accumulate and had a higher MPs retention capacity. Overall, our study contributes to a better knowledge of the condition of MPs pollution in atmosphere and the connection between leaves structure and the retention of MPs, which indicates that mangrove plants are promising bioindicator of coastal atmospheric MPs pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyin Huang
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziying Zhu
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianmu Li
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minqian Li
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeming Cai
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaocui Wang
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han Gong
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Muting Yan
- Joint laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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16
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Kau D, Materić D, Holzinger R, Baumann-Stanzer K, Schauer G, Kasper-Giebl A. Fine micro- and nanoplastics concentrations in particulate matter samples from the high alpine site Sonnblick, Austria. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141410. [PMID: 38346510 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
We report atmospheric fine micro- and nanoplastics concentrations from particulate matter (PM) samples of two size fractions (PM10, fine micro- and nanoplastics, and PM1, nanoplastics), which were collected at the remote high alpine station Sonnblick Observatory, Austria. Active sampling was performed from June 2021 until April 2022. Analysis was done using TD-PTR-MS to detect 6 different plastic types. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene/polypropylene carbonate (PP/PPC) were found to be the dominating species. PET was detected in almost all samples, while the other plastic types occurred more episodically. Furthermore, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS) and tire wear particles were detected in single samples. Considering the three main plastic types, average plastics concentrations were 35 and 21 ng m-³ with maximum concentrations of 165 and 113 ng m-³ for PM10 and PM1, respectively. Average polymer concentrations were higher in the summer/fall period than in winter/spring. In summer/fall, PM10 plastics concentrations were higher by a factor of 2 compared to PM1, while concentrations of both size classes were comparable in the winter/spring period. This suggests that in the colder season plastic particles arriving at the Eastern Alpine crests are mainly present as nanoplastics. The contribution of micro- and nanoplastics to organic matter at the remote site was found to be comparable to data determined at an urban site. We found significant correlations between the PET concentration and tracers originating from anthropogenic activities such as elemental carbon, nitrate, ammonium, and sulphate as well as organic carbon and arabitol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Kau
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Dušan Materić
- Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht, Utrecht University, Princetonplein 5, 3584CC, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department for Analytical Chemistry, Helmoltz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Rupert Holzinger
- Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht, Utrecht University, Princetonplein 5, 3584CC, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Anne Kasper-Giebl
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria
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17
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Beaurepaire M, Gasperi J, Tassin B, Dris R. COVID lockdown significantly impacted microplastic bulk atmospheric deposition rates. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123354. [PMID: 38237852 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123354] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Here, microplastic atmospheric deposition data collected at an urban site during the French national lockdown of spring 2020 is compared to deposition data from the same site in a period of normal activity. Bulk atmospheric deposition was collected on the vegetated roof of a suburban campus from the Greater Paris and analysed for microplastics using a micro-FTIR imaging methodology. Significantly lower deposition rates were measured overall during the lockdown period (median 5.4 MP m-2.d-1) than in a period of normal activity in spring 2021 (median of 29.2 MP m-2.d-1). This difference is however not observed for the smallest microplastic size class. The dominant polymers identified were PP, followed by PE and PS. Precipitation alone could not explain the differences between the two campaigns, and it is suggested that the temporary drop in human activity during lockdown is the primary cause of the reduced deposition rates. This study provides novel insight on the immediate impact of human activities on atmospheric microplastics, thus enhancing the global understanding on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Beaurepaire
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France.
| | | | - Bruno Tassin
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France
| | - Rachid Dris
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France
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18
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López-Rosales A, Ferreiro B, Andrade J, Fernández-Amado M, González-Pleiter M, López-Mahía P, Rosal R, Muniategui-Lorenzo S. A reliable method to determine airborne microplastics using quantum cascade laser infrared spectrometry. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169678. [PMID: 38159775 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The number of studies dealing with airborne microplastics (MPs) is increasing but sampling and sample treatment are not standardized, yet. Here, a fast and reliable method to characterize MPs is presented. It involves the study of two passive sampling devices to collect atmospheric bulk deposition (wet and dry deposition) and three digestion methods (two alkaline-oxidative and an oxidative) to treat the samples. The alkaline-oxidative method based on KOH and NaClO was selected for a mild organic matrix digestion. In addition, some operational parameters of a high-throughput quantum cascade laser-based infrared device (LDIR) were optimized: an effective automatic tiered approach to differentiate fibres from particles (>90 % success in validation) and a criterion to establish positive matches when comparing an unknown spectrum against the spectral database (proposed match index > 0.85). The procedural analytical recoveries were very good for particles (82-90 %) and slightly lower for fibres (62-73 %). Finally, the amount and type of MPs deposited at a sub-urban area NW Spain were evaluated. Most common polymers were Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The deposition rates ranged 98-1220 MP/m2/day, ca. 1.7 % of the total collected particles. More than 50 % of the total MPs deposited were in the 20-50 μm size range, whereas fibres were mostly in the 50-500 μm size range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián López-Rosales
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Borja Ferreiro
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - José Andrade
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - María Fernández-Amado
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Purificación López-Mahía
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry, University Institute of Environment, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain.
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19
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Hasager F, Björgvinsdóttir ÞN, Vinther SF, Christofili A, Kjærgaard ER, Petters SS, Bilde M, Glasius M. Development and validation of an analytical pyrolysis method for detection of airborne polystyrene nanoparticles. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1717:464622. [PMID: 38309189 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic is ubiquitous in the environment. Recently it was discovered that microplastic (MP, 1 μm-5 mm) contamination is present in the atmosphere where it can be transported over long distances and introduced to remote pristine environments. Sources, concentration levels, and transportation pathways of MP are still associated with large uncertainties. The abundance of atmospheric MP increases with decreasing particle size, suggesting that nanoplastics (NP, <1μm) could be of considerable atmospheric relevance. Only few analytical methods are available for detection of nanosized plastic particles. Thermoanalytical techniques are independent of particle size and are thus a powerful tool for MP and NP analysis. Here we develop a method for analysis of polystyrene on the nanogram scale using pyrolysis gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Pyrolysis was performed using a slow temperature ramp, and analytes were cryofocused prior to injection. The mass spectrometer was operated in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. A lower limit of detection of 1±1 ng and a lower limit of quantification of 2±2 ng were obtained (for the trimer peak). The method was validated with urban matrices of low (7 μg per sample) and high (53 μg per sample) aerosol mass loadings. The method performs well for low loadings, whereas high loadings seem to cause a matrix effect reducing the signal of polystyrene. This effect can be minimized by introducing a thermal desorption step prior to pyrolysis. The study provides a novel analysis method for qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of PS on the nanogram scale in an aerosol matrix. Application of the method can be used to obtain concentration levels of polystyrene in atmospheric MP and NP. This is important in order to improve the understanding of the sources and sinks of MP and NP in the environment and thereby identify routes of exposure and uptake of this emerging contaminant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freja Hasager
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Sofie F Vinther
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Antigoni Christofili
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Eva R Kjærgaard
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sarah S Petters
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Merete Bilde
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marianne Glasius
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
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20
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Kaushik A, Gupta P, Kumar A, Saha M, Varghese E, Shukla G, Suresh K, Gunthe SS. Identification and physico-chemical characterization of microplastics in marine aerosols over the northeast Arabian Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168705. [PMID: 38000750 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the atmosphere can undergo long-range transport from emission regions to pristine terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems. Due to their inherent toxic and hazardous characteristics, MPs pose serious risks to both human well-being and the equilibrium of ecosystem. The present study outlines the comprehensive characterization, spanning physical and chemical attributes of MPs associated with atmospheric aerosols. Total suspended particulates (TSPs) were collected on a quartz fibre filter by operating a high-volume sampler for 24 h during distinct years (March, 2016 and November, 2020) at a coastal location in the northeast Arabian Sea. Subsequent to the sampling, a series of techniques were applied including density separation. The assessment and scrutiny of the MPs was carried out using stereo-zoom microscopy with supplementary validation using advanced fluorescence microscopy for enhanced precision in identification. Our comparative assessment suggests peroxide treatment followed by density separation could be a robust procedure for the definitive identification and characterization of MPs in the atmosphere. Average total abundance of MPs was found to be 1.30 ± 0.14 n/m3 in 2016 and 1.46 ± 0.12 n/m3 in 2020 with fibres, fragments and films having similar relative contributions (41 %, 31 %, 28 % in 2016 and 40 %, 35 %, 25 % in 2020). Fibres were found to be dominant morphotype followed by fragments and films over the coastal region of the Arabian Sea. In order to unravel the detailed chemical nature of these MPs, spectral analysis using μ-FTIR was carried out. The outcome of the analysis showed prevailing polymers as polyvinyl chloride and polymethyl methacrylate (50545 %) as dominant polymers followed by polyester (15 %), styrene butyl methacrylate (11 %), and polyacetal (9 %). MPs present in the vicinity of the Arabian Sea have potential to supply nutrients and toxicants, consequently can contribute to the modulation of the surface water biogeochemical processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Kaushik
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India
| | - Priyansha Gupta
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Ashwini Kumar
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Emil Varghese
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Garima Shukla
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - K Suresh
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India; Physical Research Laboratory, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, India
| | - Sachin S Gunthe
- Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, Tamil Nadu, India
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21
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Rao W, Fan Y, Li H, Qian X, Liu T. New insights into the long-term dynamics and deposition-suspension distribution of atmospheric microplastics in an urban area. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132860. [PMID: 37918068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics (AMPs) transmitted through the atmosphere are critical to global microplastic pollution. However, little is known about the long-term dynamics and distribution patterns of deposited (DAMPs) and suspended (SAMPs) AMPs. In this study, simultaneous sampling was conducted over one year to examine the deposition-suspension distribution of AMPs. Monthly and seasonal variations in abundance were evident, with an annual average of 302.31 ± 107.40 items/m2/day for DAMPs and 1.31 ± 0.62 items/m3 for SAMPs. The dynamics of DAMP and SAMP abundance demonstrated the dynamic distribution of AMPs between deposition and suspension. Both meteorological factors and particle features were found to influence the AMP distribution, manifesting as morphological differences and abundance variations. AMPs were most likely derived from traffic, industry, construction, and synthetic textiles, with diverse source areas up to 1750 km away. The estimated deposition flux of 7.28 × 1014 items per year and inhalation exposure of up to 12,777 items per year highlight the potential ecological and health risks of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yifan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Huiming Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Xin Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology (CICAEET), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Tong Liu
- Faculty of Environmental Earth Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
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22
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Kannankai MP, Devipriya SP. Atmospheric microplastic deposition in a coastal city of India: The influence of a landfill source on monsoon winds. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168235. [PMID: 37923255 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Coastal zones experience various wind events that may influence the characteristics, distribution, and dynamics of atmospheric microplastic pollutants. In the present study, we investigated the characteristics of the bulk atmospheric microplastic deposition in Kochi, Kerala, India, during three distinct seasons: Northeast Monsoon (NEM), Summer (SMR), and Southwest monsoon (SWM). Seasonally, the highest microplastic fallout rate was recorded for the NEM (37.29 particles m-2d-1), followed by SMR (15.17 particles m-2 d-1) and the SWM (11.57 particles m-2d-1). The microplastic abundance was not correlated to the amount of rainfall. Further, the wind rose and HYSPLIT trajectory analysis illustrated the arrival of northeast monsoon winds to the city via the region in and around the municipal landfill, which could be a major source of airborne microplastic to the sampling stations, and the forward trajectories from the landfill site extended into the Arabia Sea, providing evidence on the potential atmospheric transport and subsequent deposition of microplastics into the ocean. With respect to the qualitative characteristics, blue-coloured and fibrous microplastics dominated the samples with a considerable number of particles belonging to the size range of 200-500 μm. The practice of drying synthetic clothes under natural sunlight may have substantially contributed to the increased prevalence of airborne microfibers. The higher numbers of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) in the bulk microplastic deposition reinforce the concept of low-density polymers being more susceptible to deflation by the wind. Overall, the work signifies the role of monsoon winds in transporting microplastics from an unscientifically managed municipal landfill site and also highlights the importance of reducing the quantity of plastic waste ending up at the landfill to reduce the emission of microplastics proportionately.
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23
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Martynova A, Genchi L, Laptenok SP, Cusack M, Stenchikov GL, Liberale C, Duarte CM. Atmospheric microfibrous deposition over the Eastern Red Sea coast. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167902. [PMID: 37858811 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The transport of microplastics through the atmosphere has been acknowledged as a significant route for their dispersion across different environments. Microplastics of fibrous shape often prevail in environmental samples, although their composition identification might be challenging and lead to an overestimation of plastic microfibers (MFs). Conversely, MFs of natural origin are rarely reported in microplastics studies despite the lack of consensus on the risks they may pose to the environment. In this study, airborne MFs collected in a sparsely populated residential area on the shore of the Eastern Red Sea were analyzed to investigate their abundance and polymer composition and assess their potential transport and deposition rates. The length of observed fibers ranged from 183 μm to 11,877 μm, with 3 % of fibers being >5 mm. The average length of MFs (< 5 mm) was 1378 ± 934 μm. Plastic MFs comprised 10 % of all identified MFs, with polyester being the most common plastic polymer (81.25 %). The mean abundance of airborne MFs was 0.9 ± 0.8 × 10-2 MFs m-3. The estimated mean atmospheric microfibrous deposition was 70 MFs m-2 d-1, with a component of 8 plastic MFs m-2 d-1. Based on the HYSPLIT backward trajectory analysis, fibers of local origin (estimated to travel approximately 25 km before sampling) were deposited at the sampling location. Air masses of northwestern origin traveling along the coast of the Eastern Red Sea dominated, potentially reducing the abundance of airborne MFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Martynova
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; KAUST Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia; KAUST Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Luca Genchi
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sergey P Laptenok
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michael Cusack
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Georgiy L Stenchikov
- Physical Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlo Liberale
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlos M Duarte
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; KAUST Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia; KAUST Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Tan H, Mong GR, Wong SL, Wong KY, Sheng DDCV, Nyakuma BB, Othman MHD, Kek HY, Razis AFA, Wahab NHA, Wahab RA, Lee KQ, Chiong MC, Lee CH. Airborne microplastic/nanoplastic research: a comprehensive Web of Science (WoS) data-driven bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:109-126. [PMID: 38040882 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31228-7] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the landscape of research on airborne microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) according to the bibliometric analysis of 147 documents issued between 2015 and 2021, extracted from the Web of Science database. The publications on airborne MPs/NPs have increased rapidly from 2015 onwards, which is largely due to the existence of funding support. Science of the Total Environment is one of the prominent journals in publishing related papers. China, England, the USA, and European Countries have produced a significant output of airborne MP/NP research works, which is associated with the availability of funding agencies regionally or nationally. The research hotspot on the topic ranges from the transport of airborne MPs/NPs to their deposition in the terrestrial or aquatic environments, along with the contamination of samples by indoor MPs/NPs. Most of the publications are either research or review papers related to MPs/NPs. It is crucial to share the understanding of global plastic pollution and its unfavorable effects on humankind by promoting awareness of the existence and impact of MPs/NPs. Funding agencies are vital in boosting the research development of airborne MPs/NPs. Some countries that are lacking funding support were able to publish research findings related to the field of interest, however, with lesser research output. Without sufficient fundings, some impactful publications may not be able to carry a substantial impact in sharing the findings and discoveries with the mass public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyi Tan
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Guo Ren Mong
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Xiamen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syie Luing Wong
- Dpto. Matemática Aplicada, Ciencia e Ingeniería de Materiales y Tecnología Electrónica, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Keng Yinn Wong
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
| | | | - Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Computing, Pen Resource University, P. M. B. 086, Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Hong Yee Kek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Roswanira Abdul Wahab
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Kee Quen Lee
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meng Choung Chiong
- Faculty of Engineering, Technology & Built Environment, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chia Hau Lee
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
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25
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Chen R, Zhao X, Wu X, Wang J, Wang X, Liang W. Research progress on occurrence characteristics and source analysis of microfibers in the marine environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115834. [PMID: 38061148 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115834] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic microfiber pollution is a growing concern in the marine environment. However, critical issues associated with microfiber origins in marine environments have not been resolved. Herein, the potential sources of marine microfibers are systematically reviewed. The obtained results indicate that surface runoffs are primary contributors that transport land-based microfibers to oceans, and the breakdown of larger fiber plastic waste due to weathering processes is also a notable secondary source of marine microfibers. Additionally, there are three main approaches for marine microplastic source apportionment, namely, anthropogenic source classification, statistical analysis, and numerical simulations based on the Lagrangian particle tracking method. These methods establish the connections between characteristics, transport pathways and sources of microplastics, which provides new insights to further conduct microfiber source apportionment. This study helps to better understand sources analysis and transport pathways of microfibers into oceans and presents a scientific basis to further control microfiber pollution in marine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouzheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China.
| | - Xiaowei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Junyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Xia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
| | - Weigang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 10012, China
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26
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Wang K, Liu Y, Shi X, Zhao S, Sun B, Lu J, Li W. Characterization and traceability analysis of dry deposition of atmospheric microplastics (MPs) in Wuliangsuhai Lake. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:168201. [PMID: 37918738 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) represent a contaminant of emerging concern that may negatively impact lacustrine ecosystems. It is important, then, to manage and reduce the influx of MPs to lakes, a process that requires the identification of MP sources. In this study, atmospheric MP samples were collected and analyzed from 6 sampling sites in the Wuliangsuhai Lake area from March to June 2021, and used to determine atmospheric depositional fluxes of MPs to the lake surface. The sources of MPs were also explored on the basis of MP characteristics and by determining atmospheric flow patterns to the sampling sites using a backward trajectory model (HYSPLIT). The average atmospheric depositional flux of MPs to the Wuliangsuhai Lake area (3371 ± 1423 n/d·m2) is several times higher than rates measured in other areas. MPs were predominately composed of small (0.05-0.5 mm), transparent fibers; a small percentage of particles consisted of fragments, thin films, or lumpy MPs. Compositionally, most MPs were composed of polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS). The former polymer types are indicative of fibers from textiles, including those from textile plants in adjacent cites. The latter (PS) type is presumably derived from degraded food containers and other items associated with tourism. PE was also identified in association with thin films, which were likely derived from bags and/or agricultural plastics. MP characteristics, combined with spatial variations in depositional rates and the results of the backward trajectory model, suggest most atmospherically deposited MPs in the Wuliangsuhai Lake area were transported to the sampling sites from large cities external to the basin, and, to a much lesser degree, areas of tourism within the lake environment. The results of the study provide a theoretical basis for assessing atmospheric MP deposition within inland lake areas as well as for the prevention and control of MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China; Autonomous Region Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrated Management of Water Resources and Water Environment in the Inner Mongolia Reaches of the Yellow River, Hohhot 010018, China.
| | - Xiaohong Shi
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China
| | - Shengnan Zhao
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China
| | - Biao Sun
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China
| | - Junping Lu
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China
| | - Wenbao Li
- Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, College of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Water Resource Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory, Hohhot 010018, China; State Gauge and Research Station of Wetland Ecosystem, Wuliangsuhai Lake, Inner Mongolia, Bayan Nur 014404, China
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27
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Le VG, Nguyen MK, Nguyen HL, Lin C, Hadi M, Hung NTQ, Hoang HG, Nguyen KN, Tran HT, Hou D, Zhang T, Bolan NS. A comprehensive review of micro- and nano-plastics in the atmosphere: Occurrence, fate, toxicity, and strategies for risk reduction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166649. [PMID: 37660815 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166649] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) have received considerable attention over the past 10 years due to their environmental prevalence and potential toxic effects. With the increase in global plastic production and disposal, MNP pollution has become a topic of emerging concern. In this review, we describe MNPs in the atmospheric environment, and potential toxicological effects of exposure to MNPs. Studies have reported the occurrence of MNPs in outdoor and indoor air at concentrations ranging from 0.0065 items m-3 to 1583 items m-3. Findings have identified plastic fragments, fibers, and films in sizes predominantly <1000 μm with polyamide (PA), polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), rayon, polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), and ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) as the major compounds. Exposure through indoor air and dust is an important pathway for humans. Airborne MNPs pose health risks to plants, animals, and humans. Atmospheric MNPs can enter organism bodies via inhalation and subsequent deposition in the lungs, which triggers inflammation and other adverse health effects. MNPs could be eliminated through source reduction, policy/regulation, environmental awareness and education, biodegradable materials, bioremediation, and efficient air-filtration systems. To achieve a sustainable society, it is crucial to implement effective strategies for reducing the usage of single-use plastics (SUPs). Further, governments play a pivotal role in addressing the pressing issue of MNPs pollution and must establish viable solutions to tackle this significant challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Giang Le
- Central Institute for Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Vietnam National University (CRES-VNU), Hanoi, 111000, 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
| | - Mohammed Hadi
- Department of Ocean Operations and Civil Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Nguyen Tri Quang Hung
- 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
| | - Hong-Giang Hoang
- Faculty of Medicine, Dong Nai Technology University, Bien Hoa, Dong Nai 810000, Viet Nam
| | - Khoi Nghia Nguyen
- Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Can Tho City 270000, Viet Nam
| | - Huu-Tuan Tran
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environmental Management, Science and Technology Advanced Institute, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam; Faculty of Applied Technology, School of Technology, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam.
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions of Ministry of Education, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6001, Australia; School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6001, Australia
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28
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Talukdar A, Kundu P, Bhattacharjee S, Dey S, Dey A, Biswas JK, Chaudhuri P, Bhattacharya S. Microplastics in mangroves with special reference to Asia: Occurrence, distribution, bioaccumulation and remediation options. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166165. [PMID: 37574065 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166165] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a new and lesser-known pollutant that has intrigued the interest of scientists all over the world in recent decades. MP (<5mm in size) can enter marine environments such as mangrove forests in a variety of ways, interfering with the health of the environment and organisms. Mangroves are now getting increasingly exposed to microplastic contamination due to their proximity to human activities and their position as critical transitional zones between land and sea. The present study reviews the status of MPs contamination specifically in mangrove ecosystems situated in Asia. Different sources and characteristics of MPs, subsequent deposition of MPs in mangrove water and sediments, bioaccumulation in different organisms are discussed in this context. MP concentrations in sediments and organisms were higher in mangrove forests exposed to fishing, coastal tourism, urban, and industrial wastewater than in pristine areas. The distribution of MPs varies from organism to organism in mangrove ecosystems, and is significantly influenced by their morphometric characteristics, feeding habits, dwelling environment etc. Mangrove plants can accumulate microplastics in their roots, stem and leaves through absorption, adsorption and entrapment helping in reducing abundance of microplastic in the surrounding environment. Several bacterial and fungal species are reported from these mangrove ecosystems, which are capable of degrading MPs. The bioremediation potential of mangrove plants offers an innovative and sustainable approach to mitigate microplastic pollution. Diverse mechanisms of MP biodegradation by mangrove dwelling organisms are discussed in this context. Biotechnological applications can be utilized to explore the genetic potential of the floral and faunal species found in the Asian mangroves. Detailed studies are required to monitor, control, and evaluate MP pollution in sediments and various organisms in mangrove ecosystems in Asia as well as in other parts of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pritha Kundu
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bihar 803116, India
| | - Shrayan Bhattacharjee
- Ecosystem and Ecology Laboratory, Post-graduate Department of Zoology, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata 700118, India
| | - Satarupa Dey
- Department of Botany, Shyampur Siddheswari Mahavidyalaya, Howrah 711301, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Jayanta Kumar Biswas
- Enviromicrobiology, Ecotoxicology & Ecotechnology Research Laboratory (3E-MicroToxTech Lab), Department of Ecological Studies, and International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal 741235, India
| | - Punarbasu Chaudhuri
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Sayan Bhattacharya
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bihar 803116, India.
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29
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Bhat MA. Indoor microplastics: a comprehensive review and bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:121269-121291. [PMID: 37980322 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30902-0] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Indoor microplastic (MP) pollution is becoming a worldwide issue because people spend more time inside. Through dust and air, indoor MP pollution may harm human health. This review summarizes recent advancements in indoor MP research, covering pretreatments, quality control, filter membranes, and identification methods. Additionally, it conducts bibliometric analysis to examine the usage of keywords, publication records, and authors' contributions to the field. Comparatively, dust and deposition samples exhibit higher MP concentrations than indoor air samples. Fiber-shaped MPs are commonly detected indoors. The color and types of MPs display variability, with polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene identified as the dominant MPs. Indoor environments generally demonstrate higher concentrations of MPs than outdoor environments, and MPs in the lower size range (1-100 µm) are typically more abundant. Among the reviewed articles, 45.24% conducted pretreatment on their samples, while 16.67% did not undergo any pretreatment. The predominant filter utilized in most studies was the Whatman Glass microfiber filter (41.67%), and MPs were predominantly characterized using µ-FTIR (19.23%). In the literature, 17 papers used blank samples, and eight did not. Blank findings were not included in most research (23 articles). A significant increase in published articles has been observed since 2020, with an annual growth rate exceeding 10%. The keyword microplastics had the highest frequency, followed by fibers. This indoor MP study emphasizes the need for collaborative research, policymaking, and stakeholder involvement to reduce indoor MP pollution. As indoor MP research grows, so are opportunities to identify and minimize environmental and health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoor Ahmad Bhat
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering 26555, Eskişehir Technical University, Eskişehir, Türkiye.
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30
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Kyriakoudes G, Turner A. Suspended and deposited microplastics in the coastal atmosphere of southwest England. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140258. [PMID: 37751808 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140258] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics (MPs) have been sampled from coastal southwest England during twelve periods over a 42-day timeframe in late autumn. MPs were dominated by fibres, with foams, fragments and pellets also observed. The majority of fibres were identified as the semisynthetic polymer, rayon, while other shapes were dominated by various petroleum-based thermoplastics (including polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, polyamide and polyester) and paints. MP concentrations suspended in air ranged from 0.016 to 0.238 items per m3 but displayed no clear dependence on wind speed or direction. Total depositional fluxes ranged from 0.47 to 3.30 m-2 h-1 and showed no clear dependence on wind conditions or electrical conductivity of precipitation (as a measure of maritime influence). However, the concentration of deposited MPs in rainwater was inversely related to rainfall volume, suggesting that incipient precipitation acts to efficiently washout microplastics. A comparison of deposited and suspended MPs by size, shape and polymer type suggests that larger fibres constructed of rayon, polyamide and acrylic are preferentially removed from the atmosphere relative to smaller, non-fibrous MPs and particles constructed of polyester. A quantitative comparison of deposited and suspended MPs provided estimates of location- and environment-specific net settling velocities of between about 7 and 180 m h-1 and corresponding residence times for an air column of 5000 m of between about 30 and 700 h. The findings of the study contribute to an improved understanding of the occurrence, transport and deposition of MPs in the atmosphere more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giannis Kyriakoudes
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth University Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth University Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
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31
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Hee YY, Hanif NM, Weston K, Latif MT, Suratman S, Rusli MU, Mayes AG. Atmospheric microplastic transport and deposition to urban and pristine tropical locations in Southeast Asia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166153. [PMID: 37562616 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastic transport is an important delivery pathway with the deposition of microplastics to ecologically important regions raising environmental concerns. Investigating atmospheric delivery pathways and their deposition rates in different ecosystems is necessary to understanding its global impact. In this study, atmospheric deposition was collected at three sites in Malaysia, two urban and one pristine, covering the Northeast and Southwest monsoons to quantify the role of this pathway in Southeast Asia. Air mass back trajectories showed long-range atmospheric transport of microplastics to all sites with atmospheric deposition varying from 114 to 689 MP/m2/day. For the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, monsoonal season influenced microplastic transport and deposition rate with peak microplastic deposition during the Northeast monsoon due to higher wind speed. MP morphology combined with size fractionation and plastic type at the coastal sites indicated a role for long-range marine transport of MPs that subsequently provided a local marine source to the atmosphere at the coastal sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yet Yin Hee
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia.
| | - Norfazrin Mohd Hanif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Keith Weston
- Independent environmental consultant, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Mohd Talib Latif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Suhaimi Suratman
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Uzair Rusli
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Andrew G Mayes
- School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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32
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Goßmann I, Mattsson K, Hassellöv M, Crazzolara C, Held A, Robinson TB, Wurl O, Scholz-Böttcher BM. Unraveling the Marine Microplastic Cycle: The First Simultaneous Data Set for Air, Sea Surface Microlayer, and Underlying Water. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:16541-16551. [PMID: 37853526 PMCID: PMC10620994 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) including tire wear particles (TWP) are ubiquitous. However, their mass loads, transport, and vertical behavior in water bodies and overlying air are never studied simultaneously before. Particularly, the sea surface microlayer (SML), a ubiquitous, predominantly organic, and gelatinous film (<1 mm), is interesting since it may favor MP enrichment. In this study, a remote-controlled research catamaran simultaneously sampled air, SML, and underlying water (ULW) in Swedish fjords of variable anthropogenic impacts (urban, industrial, and rural) to fill these knowledge gaps in the marine-atmospheric MP cycle. Polymer clusters and TWP were identified and quantified with pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Air samples contained clusters of polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, and polystyrene (max 50 ng MP m-3). In water samples (max. 10.8 μg MP L-1), mainly TWP and clusters of poly(methyl methacrylate) and polyethylene terephthalate occurred. Here, TWP prevailed in the SML, while the poly(methyl methacrylate) cluster dominated the ULW. However, no general MP enrichment was observed in the SML. Elevated anthropogenic influences in urban and industrial compared to the rural fjord areas were reflected by enhanced MP levels in these areas. Vertical MP movement behavior and distribution were not only linked to polymer characteristics but also to polymer sources and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Goßmann
- Institute
for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, Oldenburg 26111, Germany
- Center
for Marine Sensors, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine
Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, Wilhelmshaven 26382, Germany
| | - Karin Mattsson
- Department
of Marine Sciences, University
of Gothenburg, Kristineberg 566, Fiskebäckskil 45178, Sweden
| | - Martin Hassellöv
- Department
of Marine Sciences, University
of Gothenburg, Kristineberg 566, Fiskebäckskil 45178, Sweden
| | - Claudio Crazzolara
- Chair
of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin 10623, Germany
| | - Andreas Held
- Chair
of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin 10623, Germany
| | - Tiera-Brandy Robinson
- GEOMAR
Helmholtz Center for Ocean Research Kiel, Wischhofstraße 1-3, Kiel 24148, Germany
| | - Oliver Wurl
- Center
for Marine Sensors, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine
Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, Wilhelmshaven 26382, Germany
| | - Barbara M. Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute
for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, Oldenburg 26111, Germany
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Nagato EG, Noothalapati H, Kogumasaka C, Kakii S, Hossain S, Iwasaki K, Takai Y, Shimasaki Y, Honda M, Hayakawa K, Yamamoto T, Archer SDJ. Differences in microplastic degradation in the atmosphere and coastal water environment from two island nations: Japan and New Zealand. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122011. [PMID: 37302783 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122011] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are subject to environmental forces that can change polymer organization on a molecular scale. However, it is not clear to what extent these changes occur in the environment and whether microplastics in the atmospheric and water environment differ. Here we identify structural differences between microplastics in the atmosphere and water environment from Japan and New Zealand, representing two archipelagos differing in their proximity to nearby countries and highly populated areas. We first highlight the propensity for smaller microplastics to arrive via air masses from the Asian continent to the Japan Sea coastal area, while New Zealand received larger, locally derived microplastics. Analyses of polyethylene in the Japanese atmosphere indicate that microplastics transported to the Japanese coastal areas were more crystalline than polyethylene particles in the water, suggesting that the plastics arriving by air were relatively more aged and brittle. By contrast, polypropylene particles in New Zealand waters were more degraded than the microplastic particles in the air. Due to the lack of abundance, both polyethylene and polypropylene could not be analyzed for both countries. Nevertheless, these findings show the structural variation in microplastics between environments in markedly different real-world locations, with implications for the toxic potential of these particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward G Nagato
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan.
| | | | - Chihiro Kogumasaka
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Sota Kakii
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Sarwar Hossain
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Keita Iwasaki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Yuki Takai
- Animal and Marine Bioresources Sciences, Kyushu University, Itoshima, Japan
| | - Yohei Shimasaki
- Animal and Marine Bioresources Sciences, Kyushu University, Itoshima, Japan
| | - Masato Honda
- Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kazuichi Hayakawa
- Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuyuki Yamamoto
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan
| | - Stephen D J Archer
- School of Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Huang X, Chen Y, Meng Y, Liu G. Mitigating airborne microplastics pollution from perspectives of precipitation and underlying surface types. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 243:120385. [PMID: 37499539 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120385] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The issue of airborne microplastics (AMPs) pollution is receiving increasing attention, but effective solutions are still limited. In this study, AMPs were collected in pairs from an open space and under a tree (Ficus virens) in the suburb of Chengdu, southwest China, to investigate the current pollution status. The meteorological factors and underlying surface types were analyzed to investigate whether these factors could influence and mitigate the pollution of AMPs. The results showed that the fibrous AMPs accounted for the vast majority and the dominant polymers were polypropylene-polyethylene (PP-PE) and polypropylene (PP), with an average deposition flux of AMPs of 192 n/m2/d (22.41 µg/m2/d). Rainfall was found to have the prolonged scavenging efficiency for AMPs, which could extend to 8 to 48 hours after the end of rainfall, and this is a new insight into the relationship with meteorological factors. Interactions between the key underlying surface types and AMPs were also studied. The representative tree species (Ficus virens) had a low interception rate of 6.25% for AMPs and retained mainly small-sized AMPs and more fibers. The masses of AMPs loaded into Chengdu rivers could reach 1149 kg annually, with the unit mass load of 13.6 kg/km2 in urban rivers and 8.2 kg/km2 in suburban rivers. The masses intercepted by trees and bushes throughout the city only offset the masses loading in rivers, and open or sparse buildings were found to be sensitive areas for AMPs, which indicated the urgent need to control and mitigate the pollution of AMPs, especially in these sensitive areas. This work comprehensively analyzed the AMPs pollution from various perspectives and attempted to find ways to mitigate this pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yuchuan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Guodong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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35
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Zuri G, Karanasiou A, Lacorte S. Microplastics: Human exposure assessment through air, water, and food. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 179:108150. [PMID: 37607425 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics (MP) are plastic particles with dimension up to 5 mm. Due to their persistence, global spread across different ecosystems and potential human health effects, they have gained increasing attention during the last decade. However, the extent of human exposure to MP through different pathways and their intake have not been elucidated. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review is to provide an overview on the pathways of exposure to MP through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact considering data from the open bibliography on MP in air, dust, food, water and drinks. METHODS A bibliographic search on Scopus and PubMed was conducted using keywords on MP in outdoor and indoor air, indoor dust, food including beverages and water and human intake (n = 521). Articles were sorted by their title and abstract (n = 213), and only studies reporting MP identification and quantification techniques were further considered (n = 168). A total of 115 articles that include quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures are finally discussed in the present review. Based on MP concentration data available in literature, we estimated the potential inhaled dose (ID), dust intake (DI), the estimated daily intake (EDI) via food and beverages. Finally, the total daily intake (TDI) considering both inhalation and ingestion routes are provided for adults, infants and newborns. RESULTS The concentrations of MP in outdoor and indoor air, dust, and in food and water are provided according to the bibliography. Human exposure to MP through dust ingestion, inhalation of air and food/drinks consumption revealed that indoor air and drinking waters were the main sources of MP. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals that humans are constantly exposed to MP, and that the indoor environment and the food and water we ingest decisively contribute to MP intake. Additionally, we highlight that infants and newborns are exposed to high MP concentrations and further studies are needed to evaluate the presence and risk of MP in this vulnerable age-population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Zuri
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angeliki Karanasiou
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Lacorte
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
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36
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Hasan M, Islam ARMT, Jion MMMF, Rahman MN, Peu SD, Das A, Bari ABMM, Islam MS, Pal SC, Islam A, Choudhury TR, Rakib MRJ, Idris AM, Malafaia G. Personal protective equipment-derived pollution during Covid-19 era: A critical review of ecotoxicology impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 887:164164. [PMID: 37187394 PMCID: PMC10182863 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164164] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people used personal protective equipment (PPE) to lessen the spread of the virus. The release of microplastics (MPs) from discarded PPE is a new threat to the long-term health of the environment and poses challenges that are not yet clear. PPE-derived MPs have been found in multi-environmental compartments, e.g., water, sediments, air, and soil across the Bay of Bengal (BoB). As COVID-19 spreads, healthcare facilities use more plastic PPE, polluting aquatic ecosystems. Excessive PPE use releases MPs into the ecosystem, which aquatic organisms ingest, distressing the food chain and possibly causing ongoing health problems in humans. Thus, post-COVID-19 sustainability depends on proper intervention strategies for PPE waste, which have received scholarly interest. Although many studies have investigated PPE-induced MPs pollution in the BoB countries (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar), the ecotoxicity impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges of PPE-derived waste have largely gone unnoticed. Our study presents a critical literature review covering the ecotoxicity impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges across the BoB countries (e.g., India (162,034.45 tons), Bangladesh (67,996 tons), Sri Lanka (35,707.95 tons), and Myanmar (22,593.5 tons). The ecotoxicity impacts of PPE-derived MPs on human health and other environmental compartments are critically addressed. The review's findings infer a gap in the 5R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Redesign, and Restructure) Strategy's implementation in the BoB coastal regions, hindering the achievement of UN SDG-12. Despite widespread research advancements in the BoB, many questions about PPE-derived MPs pollution from the perspective of the COVID-19 era still need to be answered. In response to the post-COVID-19 environmental remediation concerns, this study highlights the present research gaps and suggests new research directions considering the current MPs' research advancements on COVID-related PPE waste. Finally, the review suggests a framework for proper intervention strategies for reducing and monitoring PPE-derived MPs pollution in the BoB countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | | | - Md Naimur Rahman
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Susmita Datta Peu
- Department of Agriculture, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
| | - Arnob Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, 6 Rajshahi 6204, Bangladesh
| | - A B M Mainul Bari
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Subodh Chandra Pal
- Department of Geography, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman 713104, West Bengal, India
| | - Aznarul Islam
- Department of Geography, Aliah University, 17 Gorachand Road, Kolkata 700 014, West Bengal, India.
| | - Tasrina Rabia Choudhury
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Centre Dhaka (AECD), Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; 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.
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37
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Preston CA, McKenna Neuman CL, Aherne J. Effects of Shape and Size on Microplastic Atmospheric Settling Velocity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:11937-11947. [PMID: 37523322 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been found in all terrestrial, marine, and riparian environments, including remote regions. This implies that atmospheric transport is an important pathway when considering MP sources and global budgets. However, limited empirical data exist to aid in effective development and parameterization of MP atmospheric transport models. This study measured the atmospheric settling and horizontal drift velocities of various sizes and shapes of MPs in two specially designed settling columns using a laser Doppler anemometer. The settling velocities were generally lower than modeled values, while shape exerted the most significant influence on the rate of settling. Rather than conforming to well-established, power-law models, each class of MP exhibited a linear but different relationship between MP size and settling velocity, with markedly higher slopes for the spheres and cylinders as compared to the films and fibers. Shape also had a substantial influence on particle drift, with the fibers and films exhibiting the greatest horizontal motion, as suggestive of their changing orientation in response to particle interactions and fluid drag. As a consequence, microplastic particles identified within atmospheric deposition samples collected at a single point may derive from entirely different sources representing a wide range in transport distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette A Preston
- School of the Environment, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, K9J 0G2, Canada
| | | | - Julian Aherne
- School of the Environment, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, K9J 0G2, Canada
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38
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Abd Karim SB, Norman S, Koting S, Simarani K, Loo SC, Mohd Rahim FA, Ibrahim MR, Md Yusoff NI, Nagor Mohamed AH. Plastic Roads in Asia: Current Implementations and Should It Be Considered? MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:5515. [PMID: 37629806 PMCID: PMC10455915 DOI: 10.3390/ma16165515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The rapid economic and industrial growth experienced in the Asian region has significantly increased waste production, particularly single-use plastic. This surge in waste poses a significant challenge for these countries' municipal solid waste management systems. Consequently, there is a pressing need for progressive and effective solutions to address the plastic waste issue. One promising initiative involves utilizing used plastic to produce components for asphalt pavement. The concept of plastic road technology has gained traction in Asia, with 32 countries displaying varying levels of interest, ranging from small-scale laboratory experiments to large-scale construction projects. However, as a relatively new technology, plastic road implementation requires continuous and comprehensive environmental and health risk assessments to ascertain its viability as a reliable green technology. This review paper presents the current findings and potential implementation of plastic-modified asphalt in Asian countries, with particular attention given to its environmental and human health impacts. While plastic asphalt roads hold promise in waste reduction, improved asphalt properties, and cost savings, it is imperative to thoroughly consider the environmental and health impacts, quality control measures, recycling limitations, and long-term performance of this road construction material. Further research and evaluation are needed to fully understand the viability and sustainability of plastic asphalt roads. This will enable a comprehensive assessment of its potential benefits and drawbacks, aiding in developing robust guidelines and standards for its implementation. By addressing these considerations, it will be possible to optimize the utilization of plastic waste in road construction and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saipol Bari Abd Karim
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Syuhada Norman
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.N.); (K.S.)
| | - Suhana Koting
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
| | - Khanom Simarani
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.N.); (K.S.)
| | - Siaw-Chuing Loo
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Faizul Azli Mohd Rahim
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Mohd Rasdan Ibrahim
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
| | - Nur Izzi Md Yusoff
- Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Abdul Halim Nagor Mohamed
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
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39
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Rani M, Ducoli S, Depero LE, Prica M, Tubić A, Ademovic Z, Morrison L, Federici S. A Complete Guide to Extraction Methods of Microplastics from Complex Environmental Matrices. Molecules 2023; 28:5710. [PMID: 37570680 PMCID: PMC10420958 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustainable development is a big global challenge for the 21st century. In recent years, a class of emerging contaminants known as microplastics (MPs) has been identified as a significant pollutant with the potential to harm ecosystems. These small plastic particles have been found in every compartment of the planet, with aquatic habitats serving as the ultimate sink. The challenge to extract MPs from different environmental matrices is a tangible and imperative issue. One of the primary specialties of research in environmental chemistry is the development of simple, rapid, low-cost, sensitive, and selective analytical methods for the extraction and identification of MPs in the environment. The present review describes the developments in MP extraction methods from complex environmental matrices. All existing methodologies (new, old, and proof-of-concept) are discussed and evaluated for their potential usefulness to extract MPs from various biotic and abiotic matrices for the sake of progress and innovation. This study concludes by addressing the current challenges and outlining future research objectives aimed at combating MP pollution. Additionally, a set of recommendations is provided to assist researchers in selecting appropriate analytical techniques for obtaining accurate results. To facilitate this process, a proposed roadmap for MP extraction is presented, considering the specific environmental compartments under investigation. By following this roadmap, researchers can enhance their understanding of MP pollution and contribute to effective mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rani
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Serena Ducoli
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Laura Eleonora Depero
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Miljana Prica
- Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Aleksandra Tubić
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Zahida Ademovic
- Faculty of Forestry, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Liam Morrison
- Earth and Ocean Sciences, School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, University of Galway, H91TK33 Galway, Ireland
| | - Stefania Federici
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
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40
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Zhang L, Zhang L, Shi Y, Yang Z, Gong Q, Sun D. PAHs in the monsoonal open ocean: Homogeneous spatial pattern and wind-driven significant seasonal variations. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 454:131462. [PMID: 37119571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
PAHs enter the ocean via surface runoff and atmospheric transport pathways, and the distribution of PAHs is highly variable in coastal seas due to the influence of direct human activities, inputs of surface runoff, and strong biological activities. However, highly temporal variability of PAHs has also been widely observed in the open oligotrophic tropical and subtropical oceans without the influence of three types of factors mentioned above. This study developed a method to quantify the variability of oceanic PAHs based on wind frequency and wind-speed-weighted wind frequency using in-situ survey data from three cruises in the Philippine Sea, and tested the validity of this method using publicly available data from other monsoonal open oceans. The result showed that the wind frequency could better explain the variation of dissolved PAHs and particulate PAHs in the surface ocean, while the wind-speed-weighted wind frequency could better explain the variation of particulate PAHs. This study suggests that the influence of seasonal atmospheric transport cannot be ignored when describing and interpreting the distribution patterns of PAHs in the monsoon-influenced low and mid-latitude open oceans and also provides a reference method for a better understanding of the global-scale distribution patterns of PAHs in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310000, China; Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Lilan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Yue Shi
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Zhihui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Qijun Gong
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310000, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519082, China.
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Celik-Saglam I, Yurtsever M, Civan M, Yurdakul S, Cetin B. Evaluation of levels and sources of microplastics and phthalic acid esters and their relationships in the atmosphere of highly industrialized and urbanized Gebze, Türkiye. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163508. [PMID: 37059133 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in the atmosphere and their relationship with other pollutants have been gaining attention due to both their ubiquity and threatening human health. As well phthalic acid esters (PAEs) regarding as plasticizers for being added in plastic materials are key role for plastic pollution. In this study, the concentrations and sources of airborne MPs together with major PAEs and their relationships were investigated for four seasons. MP particles <20 μm, constituting the majority of the samples, were successfully revealed by NR fluorescent analysis. As a result of the μATR-FTIR analyzes, it was seen that besides different polymer derivatives, dye-pigment types, some minerals and compounds, and abundant semi-synthetic fibers and natural fibers were also present. MPs concentration were found in the range of 7207-21,042 MP/m3 in summer, 7245-32,950 MP/m3 in autumn, 4035-58,270 MP/m3 in winter and 7275-37,094 MP/m3 in spring. For the same period, the concentrations of PAEs ranged from 9.24 to 115.21 ng/m3 with an average value of 38.08 ± 7.92 ng/m3. PMF was also applied and four factors were extracted. Factor 1, accounts 52.26 % and 23.27 % of the total PAEs and MPs variances, was attributed to PVC sources. Factor 2, explaining 64.98 % of the total MPs variance had the highest loading of MPs and moderate loadings of relatively low molecular weight of PAEs, was attributed to plastics and personal care products. Factor 3, explaining the 28.31 % of the total PAEs variance was laden with BBP, DnBP, DiBP and DEP and was attributed to various plastic input during the sampling campaign coming from the industrial activities. The last factor accounts for 11.65 % of the total PAEs variance and was dominated by DMEP and it was linked to a source of the activities performed in the laboratories of the university.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isıl Celik-Saglam
- Gebze Technical University, Department of Environmental Engineering, Gebze, Kocaeli, Turkiye
| | - Meral Yurtsever
- Sakarya University, Department of Environmental Engineering, Sakarya, Turkiye
| | - Mihriban Civan
- Kocaeli University, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kocaeli, Turkiye
| | - Sema Yurdakul
- Suleymen Demirel University, Department of Environmental Engineering, Isparta, Turkiye
| | - Banu Cetin
- Gebze Technical University, Department of Environmental Engineering, Gebze, Kocaeli, Turkiye.
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Goßmann I, Herzke D, Held A, Schulz J, Nikiforov V, Georgi C, Evangeliou N, Eckhardt S, Gerdts G, Wurl O, Scholz-Böttcher BM. Occurrence and backtracking of microplastic mass loads including tire wear particles in northern Atlantic air. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3707. [PMID: 37349297 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39340-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies report the occurrence of microplastics (MP), including tire wear particles (TWP) in the marine atmosphere, and little data is available regarding their size or sources. Here we present active air sampling devices (low- and high-volume samplers) for the evaluation of composition and MP mass loads in the marine atmosphere. Air was sampled during a research cruise along the Norwegian coast up to Bear Island. Samples were analyzed with pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, generating a mass-based data set for MP in the marine atmosphere. Here we show the ubiquity of MP, even in remote Arctic areas with concentrations up to 37.5 ng m-3. Cluster of polyethylene terephthalate (max. 1.5 ng m-3) were universally present. TWP (max. 35 ng m-3) and cluster of polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyurethane (max. 1.1 ng m-3) were also detected. Atmospheric transport and dispersion models, suggested the introduction of MP into the marine atmosphere equally from sea- and land-based emissions, transforming the ocean from a sink into a source for MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Goßmann
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Marine Sensors, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, 26382, Wilhelmshaven, Germany
| | - Dorte Herzke
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, The FRAM Centre, P.O. Box 6606, Langnes, 9296, Tromsø, Norway
- NIPH - Norwegian Institute for Public Health, P.O.Box 222 Skøyen,, 0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andreas Held
- Chair of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janina Schulz
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Vladimir Nikiforov
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, The FRAM Centre, P.O. Box 6606, Langnes, 9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Christoph Georgi
- Chair of Environmental Chemistry and Air Research, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Evangeliou
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Instituttveien 18, 2007, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Sabine Eckhardt
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Instituttveien 18, 2007, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Gunnar Gerdts
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research, 27483, Heligoland, Germany
| | - Oliver Wurl
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Marine Sensors, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, 26382, Wilhelmshaven, Germany
| | - Barbara M Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P.O. Box 2503, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
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Matluba M, Ahmed MK, Chowdhury KMA, Khan N, Ashiq MAR, Islam MS. The pervasiveness of microplastic contamination in the gastrointestinal tract of fish from the western coast of Bangladesh. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115145. [PMID: 37331273 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of microplastics (MPs) in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of fish from the western coast of Bangladesh, the world's largest mangrove ecosystem. Altogether, 8 different species of fish (5 demersal and 3 pelagic) were examined. Microplastics were detected in every individual fish with an average abundance of 7.1 ± 3.14 particles per specimen. The demersal species were observed to consume more microplastics (7.78 ± 3.51) than the pelagic species (5.92 ± 2.06). Moreover, small-sized fish was found to accumulate higher MPs/body weight than large-sized fish. Polypropylene was the most abundant polymer type (45 %) and fiber was the most prevalent shape (71 %). SEM analysis revealed cracks, pits, and foreign particles on the microplastics' surface, representing their ability to bear organic pollutants and heavy metals. This study will be a source of information for future research and a guide for policy-makers to take better actions to protect and restore marine resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marhaba Matluba
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Kawser Ahmed
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Nasim Khan
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh.
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Justino AKS, Ferreira GVB, Fauvelle V, Schmidt N, Lenoble V, Pelage L, Martins K, Travassos P, Lucena-Frédou F. From prey to predators: Evidence of microplastic trophic transfer in tuna and large pelagic species in the southwestern Tropical Atlantic. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 327:121532. [PMID: 37001599 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121532] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is present in most marine environments; however, contamination in pelagic predators, including species of economic interest, is still poorly understood. This study aims to access the macro- and microplastic contamination in tuna and large pelagic species and verify whether a trophic transfer occurs from prey to tunas captured by two fleets in the Southwestern Tropical Atlantic (SWTA). We combined different methodological approaches to analyse the intake of macro- and microplastics. In addition to examining the plastics in the fish' stomachs, we investigated the contamination in the prey retrieved from the guts of predators. A low frequency of occurrence (3%) of macroplastic was detected in the tuna and large pelagic species; conversely, we observed a high frequency of microplastic in the tuna's stomachs (100%) and prey analysed (70%). We evinced the trophic transfer of microplastics by analysing the ingestion rate of particles in prey retrieved from the tuna stomachs. In the 34 analysed prey, we detected 355 microplastic particles. The most contaminated prey were cephalopods and fishes of the Bramidae family. The most frequent microplastic shapes in both prey and tuna stomachs were foams, pellets and fibres (<1 mm). A variety of polymers were identified; the most frequent were styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE). Our findings enhance scientific knowledge of how the ecological behaviour of marine species can affect microplastic intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K S Justino
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil; Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille Univ., CNRS, IRD, MIO, Toulon, France.
| | - Guilherme V B Ferreira
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil
| | - Vincent Fauvelle
- Université de Toulouse, LEGOS (CNES/CNRS/IRD/UPS), Toulouse, France
| | - Natascha Schmidt
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research (NILU), Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Véronique Lenoble
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille Univ., CNRS, IRD, MIO, Toulon, France
| | - Latifa Pelage
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil
| | - Karla Martins
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil
| | - Paulo Travassos
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil
| | - Flávia Lucena-Frédou
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura (DEPAQ), Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, S/n, 52171-900, Recife, Brazil
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Liu Z, Liu X, Bai Y, Wei H, Lu J. Spatiotemporal distribution and potential sources of atmospheric microplastic deposition in a semiarid urban environment of Northwest China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27581-2. [PMID: 37208508 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27581-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the spatiotemporal distribution of microplastic deposition was investigated through ordinary Kriging interpolation, and the potential sources of microplastic deposition were identified by using Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model. The results showed that the total deposition flux of microplastics ranged from 79.5 to 810.0 p/(m2·d). The shapes of microplastics could be divided into 4 shapes: fiber, fragment, film, and pellet. Seven polymer types of microplastics were identified, including polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Most microplastics were tiny and small sizes (≤ 500 μm) and colorless. Through model analysis and survey, microplastic deposition came from the study region, and the potential sources might be plastic products and wastes. The seasons with the highest and lowest total deposition flux were summer (535.5 p/(m2·d)) and winter (197.5 p/(m2·d)), respectively. The months of the highest and lowest total deposition flux were June 2021 (681.4 p/(m2·d)) and January 2022 (112.2 p/(m2·d)), respectively. Most fibers (PET, PA, PP) and fragments (PP) were distributed in populous areas such as commercial centers and residential areas. Abundant fragments (PET, PS, PE) and films (PE, PVC) were distributed around salvage stations. Almost all of the pellets (PE, PMMA) were found in the factory. Our results suggested that the temporal distribution of microplastic deposition was influenced by precipitation and mean temperature of air, and the spatial distribution of microplastic deposition was influenced by sources and population density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou City University, Anning District, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
- Research Center for Environmental Pollution Control of Yellow River Basin Cities, Lanzhou City University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
| | - Xianyu Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou City University, Anning District, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Ying Bai
- Gansu Academy of Environmental Science, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Huijuan Wei
- School of Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou City University, Anning District, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Juan Lu
- Lanzhou Resources & Environment VOC-Tech University, Lanzhou, 730123, China
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46
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Choudhury A, Simnani FZ, Singh D, Patel P, Sinha A, Nandi A, Ghosh A, Saha U, Kumari K, Jaganathan SK, Kaushik NK, Panda PK, Suar M, Verma SK. Atmospheric microplastic and nanoplastic: The toxicological paradigm on the cellular system. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115018. [PMID: 37216859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for plastic in our daily lives has led to global plastic pollution. The improper disposal of plastic has resulted in a massive amount of atmospheric microplastics (MPs), which has further resulted in the production of atmospheric nanoplastics (NPs). Because of its intimate relationship with the environment and human health, microplastic and nanoplastic contamination is becoming a problem. Because microplastics and nanoplastics are microscopic and light, they may penetrate deep into the human lungs. Despite several studies demonstrating the abundance of microplastics and nanoplastics in the air, the potential risks of atmospheric microplastics and nanoplastics remain unknown. Because of its small size, atmospheric nanoplastic characterization has presented significant challenges. This paper describes sampling and characterization procedures for atmospheric microplastics and nanoplastics. This study also examines the numerous harmful effects of plastic particles on human health and other species. There is a significant void in research on the toxicity of airborne microplastics and nanoplastics upon inhalation, which has significant toxicological potential in the future. Further study is needed to determine the influence of microplastic and nanoplastic on pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmol Choudhury
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | | | - Dibyangshee Singh
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Paritosh Patel
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India; Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Adrija Sinha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Aditya Nandi
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Aishee Ghosh
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Utsa Saha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Khushbu Kumari
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Saravana Kumar Jaganathan
- School of Engineering, College of Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Pritam Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-75120 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Mrutyunjay Suar
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India.
| | - Suresh K Verma
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India.
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O'Brien S, Rauert C, Ribeiro F, Okoffo ED, Burrows SD, O'Brien JW, Wang X, Wright SL, Thomas KV. There's something in the air: A review of sources, prevalence and behaviour of microplastics in the atmosphere. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162193. [PMID: 36828069 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Literature regarding microplastics in the atmosphere has advanced in recent years. However, studies have been undertaken in isolation with minimal collaboration and exploration of the relationships between air, deposition and dust. This review collates concentrations (particle count and mass-based), shape, size and polymetric characteristics for microplastics in ambient air (m3), deposition (m2/day), dust (microplastics/g) and snow (microplastics/L) from 124 peer-reviewed articles to provide a holistic overview and analysis of our current knowledge. In summary, ambient air featured concentrations between <1 to >1000 microplastics/m3 (outdoor) and <1 microplastic/m3 to 1583 ± 1181 (mean) microplastics/m3 (indoor), consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference (p > 0.05) was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations or the minimum size of microplastics (p > 0.5). Maximum microplastic sizes were larger indoors (p < 0.05). Deposition concentrations ranged between 0.5 and 1357 microplastics/m2/day (outdoor) and 475 to 19,600 microplastics/m2/day (indoor), including polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate. Concentrations varied between indoor and outdoor deposition (p < 0.05), being more abundant indoors, potentially closer to sources/sinks. No difference was observed between the minimum or maximum reported microplastic sizes within indoor and outdoor deposition (p > 0.05). Road dust concentrations varied between 2 ± 2 and 477 microplastics/g (mean), consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene. Mean outdoor dust concentrations ranged from <1 microplastic/g (remote desert) to between 18 and 225 microplastics/g, comprised of polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polypropylene. Snow concentrations varied between 0.1 and 30,000 microplastics/L, containing polyethylene, polyamide, polypropylene. Concentrations within indoor dust varied between 10 and 67,000 microplastics/g, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations (microplastics/g) or maximum size (p > 0.05). The minimum size of microplastics were smaller within outdoor dust (p > 0.05). Although comparability is hindered by differing sampling methods, analytical techniques, polymers investigated, spectral libraries and inconsistent terminology, this review provides a synopsis of knowledge to date regarding atmospheric microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia.
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Francisca Ribeiro
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephen D Burrows
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Jake W O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Xianyu Wang
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Wright
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London SE1 9NH, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Environmental Exposures and Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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48
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Janakiram R, Keerthivasan R, Janani R, Ramasundaram S, Martin MV, Venkatesan R, Ramana Murthy MV, Sudhakar T. Seasonal distribution of microplastics in surface waters of the Northern Indian Ocean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 190:114838. [PMID: 37002963 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114838] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Seven expeditions were carried out during pre-monsoon, monsoon and post monsoon in 2018-2019 for marine plastic collection in surface waters of Northern Indian Ocean. PE and PP (83 %) is the dominant type of polymer found in the surface waters. Colored particles account for 67 % of all particles, with fibre/line accounting for 86 %. The average (Mean ± SD) microplastics concentration in the Northern Indian Ocean during pre-monsoon is 15,200 ± 7999 no./km2, Monsoon is 18,223 ± 14,725 no./km2 and post monsoon is 72,381 ± 77,692 no./km2. BoB during pre-monsoon and post monsoon the microplastic concentration remains same except in the northern BoB this change is caused due to weak winds. Microplastics concentration varied both spatially, temporal and heterogeneity in nature. These differences are caused by effect of wind and seasonal reversal of currents. Microplastics collected in the anticyclonic eddy are 129,000 no./km2.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Janakiram
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - R Keerthivasan
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - R Janani
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - S Ramasundaram
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - M V Martin
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - R Venkatesan
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - M V Ramana Murthy
- National Centre for Coastal Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
| | - Tata Sudhakar
- National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Chennai, India.
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49
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Cardoso-Mohedano JG, Ruiz-Fernández AC, Sanchez-Cabeza JA, Camacho-Torres SM, Ontiveros-Cuadras JF. Microplastics transport in a low-inflow estuary at the entrance of the Gulf of California. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:161825. [PMID: 36716892 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as a global emergent pollution impact, which can affect all food chains. Estimating MPs transport pathways in coastal ecosystems is needed to assess their likely effects. Here, we studied MPs accumulation and transport pathways in the Estero de Urias lagoon system (low-inflow estuary) using field data and a 3D particle model. Field results showed that the MPs present similar abundances throughout the study area during the dry and rainy seasons. Model simulations indicated that i) morphology and tidal currents caused the MPs discharged in the lagoon to remain inside, and ii) wind-induced currents caused the MPs in the coastal area to be transported to the southwest. These transport processes may be responsible for homogenizing MPs concentrations through the studied area. In addition, model simulations suggested that EUL-dense waters can export MPs from the coastal area to the sea bottom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Gilberto Cardoso-Mohedano
- Estación el Carmen, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Carretera Carmen-Puerto Real km. 9.5, 24157 Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - Ana Carolina Ruiz-Fernández
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Calz. Joel Montes Camarena s/n, 82040 Mazatlán, Mexico
| | - Joan-Albert Sanchez-Cabeza
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Calz. Joel Montes Camarena s/n, 82040 Mazatlán, Mexico
| | | | - Jorge Feliciano Ontiveros-Cuadras
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Procesos Oceánicos y Costeros, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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50
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Tokunaga Y, Okochi H, Tani Y, Niida Y, Tachibana T, Saigawa K, Katayama K, Moriguchi S, Kato T, Hayama SI. Airborne microplastics detected in the lungs of wild birds in Japan. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 321:138032. [PMID: 36739985 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138032] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been found in a wide range of animal species including humans. The detection of MPs in human lungs suggests that humans inhale airborne microplastics (AMPs). Although birds respire more efficiently than mammals and are therefore more susceptible to air pollution, little is known about their inhalation exposure to MPs. In this study, we analyzed samples isolated from the lungs of several species of wild birds in Japan by attenuated total reflection (ATR) imaging method of micro-Fourier transform infrared (μFTIR) spectroscopy to clear whether AMPs can be inhaled and accumulate within the lungs of wild birds. To isolate MPs from lung samples of rock doves (Columba livia), black kites (Milvus migrans), and barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) euthanized for pest control, digestion and density separation were performed. After each sample collected on an alumina filter was measured by ATR imaging method using μFTIR spectroscopy, the physical and chemical characteristics of the detected MPs were evaluated. Six MPs were detected in 3 of 22 lung samples. Polypropylene and polyethylene were found in rock doves and ethylene vinyl acetate was found in a barn swallow. Most MPs were fragments of 28.0-70.5 μm. Our results demonstrated that in addition to dietary sources, some wild birds are exposed to MPs by inhalation, and these MPs reach the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Tokunaga
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kinya Katayama
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Takuya Kato
- Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
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