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Schiano ME, D'Auria LJ, D'Auria R, Seccia S, Rofrano G, Signorelli D, Sansone D, Caprio E, Albrizio S, Cocca M. Microplastic contamination in the agri-food chain: The case of honeybees and beehive products. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174698. [PMID: 38997016 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, MPs, plastic fragments with a dimension lower than 5 mm, and microfibers, MFs, synthetic and natural/artificial fibrous fragments with a diameter lower than 50 μm, are ubiquitous pollutants identified in different environmental compartments. In this work the occurrence of MPs and MFs on honeybees, Apis mellifera, and beehive products was evaluated, using Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy, confirming that MPs and MFs are widely present as air contaminants in all the apiary's areas (high and low urbanized areas) in Southern Italy. Results indicated that independently from the site, both honeybees and honey samples, are contaminated by MFs with non-natural color. The majority of MFs were of natural origin followed by artificial MFs and synthetic MFs. Moreover, the chemical composition of MFs isolated from honeybees reflect that used in synthetic fabrics, leading to the hypothesis that they are released from textile to air where are captured by bees. Results highlight that MFs represent a class of ubiquitous airborne anthropogenic pollutants. The identification of polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE, MPs in honeybees confirm the recent findings that PTFE MPs are diffuse soil and air contaminants while the identification of polyethylene, PE, based MPs in honey samples, from low density urban sites, could be correlated to the large use of PE in agriculture. In the honey samples, also polycaprolactone, PCL, MPs were identified, mainly in high density urban sites, confirming that biodegradable materials could be further pollutants in the environments. The results indicate that honeybees are contaminated by MPs and MFs during their flights or picking up from the hive components, flowers, from other nest mates, from the clothes of the beekeeper, among others and some of them could be transferred to honey samples that could be also affected by soil contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Erminia Schiano
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Jacopo D'Auria
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Roberta D'Auria
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Serenella Seccia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rofrano
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - Daniel Signorelli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Donato Sansone
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Emilio Caprio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Università, 100 Portici, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Albrizio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; Interuniversity Consortium INBB, Viale Medaglie d'Oro 305, 00136 Rome, Italy.
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
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2
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Yan P, Zhuang S, Li M, Zhang J, Wu S, Xie H, Wu H. Combined environmental pressure induces unique assembly patterns of micro-plastisphere biofilm microbial communities in constructed wetlands. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 260:121958. [PMID: 38896886 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The characteristics and dynamics of micro-plastisphere biofilm on the surface of microplastics (MPs) within artificial ecosystems, such as constructed wetlands (CWs), remain unclear, despite these ecosystems' potential to serve as sinks for MPs. This study investigates the dynamic evolution of micro-plastisphere biofilm in CWs, utilizing simulated wastewater containing sulfamethoxazole and humic acid, through physicochemical characterization and metagenomic analysis. Two different types of commercial plastics, including non-degradable polyethylene and degradable polylactic acid, were shredded into MPs and studied. The findings reveal that the types, shape and incubation time of MPs, along with humic acid content in wastewater, affected the quantity and quality of biofilms, such as the biofilm composition, spatial structure and microbial communities. After just 15 days into incubation, numerous microbials were observed on MP samples, with increases in biofilms content and enhanced humification of extracellular polymeric substances over time. Additionally, microbial communities on polylactic acid MPs, or those incubated for longer time, exhibit higher diversity, connectivity and stability, along with reduced vulnerability. Conversely, biofilms on polyethylene MPs were thicker, with higher potential for greenhouse gas emission and increased risk of antibiotic resistance genes. The addition of humic acid demonstrated opposite effects on biofilms across environmental interfaces, possibly due to its dual potential to produce light-induced free radicals and serve as a carbon source. Binning analysis further uncovered a unique assembly pattern of nutrients cycle genes and antibiotic resistance genes, significantly correlated within micro-plastisphere microbial communities, under the combined stress of nutrition and sulfamethoxazole. These results emphasize the shaping of micro-plastisphere biofilm characteristics by unique environmental conditions in artificial ecosystems, and the need to understand how DOM and other pollutants covary with MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Yan
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Shuzhen Zhuang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Mingjun Li
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China; College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China.
| | - Shubiao Wu
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Tjele 8830, Denmark
| | - Huijun Xie
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266247, PR China
| | - Haiming Wu
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China.
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3
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He M, Hsu YI, Uyama H. Superior sequence-controlled poly(L-lactide)-based bioplastic with tunable seawater biodegradation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134819. [PMID: 38850940 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Developing superior-performance marine-biodegradable plastics remains a critical challenge in mitigating marine plastic pollution. Commercially available biodegradable polymers, such as poly(L-lactide) (PLA), undergo slow degradation in complex marine environments. This study introduces an innovative bioplastic design that employs a facile ring-opening and coupling reaction to incorporate hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) into PLA, yielding PEG-PLA copolymers with either sequence-controlled alternating or random structures. These materials exhibit exceptional toughness in both wet and dry states, with an elongation at break of 1446.8% in the wet state. Specifically, PEG4kPLA2k copolymer biodegraded rapidly in proteinase K enzymatic solutions and had a significant weight loss of 71.5% after 28 d in seawater. The degradation primarily affects the PLA segments within the PEG-PLA copolymer, as evidenced by structural changes confirmed through comprehensive characterization techniques. The seawater biodegradability, in line with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 306 Marine biodegradation test guideline, reached 72.63%, verified by quantitative biochemical oxygen demand analysis, demonstrating rapid chain scission in marine environments. The capacity of PEG-PLA bioplastic to withstand DI water and rapidly biodegrade in seawater makes it a promising candidate for preventing marine plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjie He
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yu-I Hsu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Uyama
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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Yong Y, Ahmad HN, Gu Y, Zhu X, Wen Y, Guo L, Zhu J. The synergistic effect of polyphenols and polypeptides for plant-based bioplastic film - Enhanced UV resistance, antioxidant and antibacterial performance. Food Chem 2024; 460:140746. [PMID: 39126951 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The exceptional biodegradability and active biological functions of bio-based packaging materials have attracted increasing interest. In this study, a bioplastic film was developed by introducing simultaneously polyphenols (tea polyphenols, TPs) and peptides (nisin) into a soy protein isolate/sodium alginate (SPI/SA) based film-forming matrix. The research results revealed that the dynamic coordinated interaction between TPs and nisin enhanced mechanical properties, UV-resistance, and thermal stability of bioplastic films. Furthermore, the bioplastic film exhibited antibacterial activity and antioxidant properties. Significantly, biofilm growth of Staphylococcus aureus treated with TPs-5/Nisin-5 bioplastic film was inhibited by 91.12% compared to the blank group. The shelf life of beef with TPs-5/Nisin-5 bioplastic film was prolonged by 2 days because of the synergistic effect of TPs and nisin. Additionally, the bioplastic film biodegraded in the natural environment about 21 days. This environmentally friendly regeneration strategy and the integration of advantageous functions provided ideas for the development of active food packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyuan Yong
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Hafiz Nabeel Ahmad
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yingying Gu
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Professional Master's Program in Biology and Medicine, College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiaotong Zhu
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Youhong Wen
- Experts Workstation for Functional Beef Research and Development, Shaanxi Nanxiangshenghe Food Technology Company, Zhenba, Shaanxi 723600, China
| | - Lianhong Guo
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Jie Zhu
- Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Laboratory of Muscle Biology and Meat Science, National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Professional Master's Program in Biology and Medicine, College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Experts Workstation for Functional Beef Research and Development, Shaanxi Nanxiangshenghe Food Technology Company, Zhenba, Shaanxi 723600, China.
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5
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Viel T, Cocca M, Esposito R, Amato A, Russo T, Di Cosmo A, Polese G, Manfra L, Libralato G, Zupo V, Costantini M. Effect of biodegradable polymers upon grazing activity of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lmk) revealed by morphological, histological and molecular analyses. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172586. [PMID: 38657802 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172586] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
In the last years biodegradable polymers (BPs) were largely used as real opportunity to solve plastic pollution. Otherwise, their wide use in commercial products, such as packaging sector, is causing a new pollution alarm, mainly because few data reported about their behaviour in the environment and toxicity on marine organisms. Our previous results showed that embryos of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lmk) exposed to poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) showed delay of their development and morphological malformations, also affecting at the molecular levels the expression of several genes involved in different functional responses. In the present work for the first time, we tested the effects of five microplastics (MPs) obtained from BPs such as PBS, poly(butylene succinate), PBSA, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate), PCL, PHB and PLA, upon grazing activity of the sea urchin revealed by: i. histological analysis seeing at the gonadic tissues; ii. morphological analysis of the deriving embryos; iii. molecular analyses on these embryos to detect variations of the gene expression of eighty-seven genes involved in stress response, detoxification, skeletogenesis, differentiation and development. All these results will help in understanding how MP accumulated inside various organs in the adult sea urchins, and more in general in marine invertebrates, could represent risks for the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Viel
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy; Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Esposito
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Amalia Amato
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Tania Russo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Di Cosmo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Gianluca Polese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Loredana Manfra
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy; Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Valerio Zupo
- Stazione Zoologica, Sustainable Biotechnology Department. Ischia Marine Centre, Via Buonocore, Ischia, NA, Italy
| | - Maria Costantini
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy.
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6
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López-Ibáñez S, Quade J, Wlodarczyk A, Abad MJ, Beiras R. Marine degradation and ecotoxicity of conventional, recycled and compostable plastic bags. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 351:124096. [PMID: 38703982 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124096] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic bags are currently a major component of marine litter, causing aesthetical nuisance, and undesirable effects on marine fauna that ingest them or are entangled. Plastic litter also rises concern on the ecotoxicological effects due to the potential toxicity of the chemical additives leached in aquatic environments. Conventional plastic bags are made of polyethylene, either from first use or recycled, but regulations restricting single-use plastics and limiting lightweight carrier bags (<50 μm thickness) have fostered the replacement of thin PE bags by compostable materials advertised as safer for the environment. In this study, we assess the degradation of commercially available plastic bags in marine conditions at two scales: aquariums (60 days) and outdoors flow-through mesocosm (120 days). Strength at break point and other tensile strength parameters were used as ecologically relevant endpoints to track mechanical degradation. Ecotoxicity has been assessed along the incubation period using the sensitive Paracentrotus lividus embryo test. Whereas PE bags did not substantially lose their mechanical properties within the 60 d aquarium exposures, compostable bags showed remarkable weight loss and tensile strength decay, some of them fragmenting in the aquarium after 3-4 weeks. Sediment pore water inoculum promoted a more rapid degradation of compostable bags, while nutrient addition pattern did not affect the degradation rate. Longer-term mesocosms exposures supported these findings, as well as pointed out the influence of the microbial processes on the degradation efficiency of compostable/bioplastic bags. Compostable materials, in contrast toPE, showed moderate toxicity on sea-urchin larvae, partially associated to degradation of these materials, but the environmental implications of these findings remain to be assessed. These methods proved to be useful to classify plastic materials, according to their degradability in marine conditions, in a remarkably shorter time than current standard tests and promote new materials safer for the marine fauna.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara López-Ibáñez
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Facultade de Ciencias do Mar, Universidade de Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Galicia, Spain.
| | - Jakob Quade
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; RWTH Aachen University, Institute for Environmental Research, Worringer Weg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Angelika Wlodarczyk
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, Höchstädtpl. 6, 1200, Vienna, Austria
| | - María-José Abad
- Universidade da Coruña, Campus Industrial de Ferrol, CITENI- Grupo de Polímeros, Campus de Esteiro, Ferrol, Galicia, Spain
| | - Ricardo Beiras
- ECIMAT, Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, 36331, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Facultade de Ciencias do Mar, Universidade de Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Galicia, Spain
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Martín-González D, de la Fuente Tagarro C, De Lucas A, Bordel S, Santos-Beneit F. Genetic Modifications in Bacteria for the Degradation of Synthetic Polymers: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5536. [PMID: 38791573 PMCID: PMC11121894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105536] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic polymers, commonly known as plastics, are currently present in all aspects of our lives. Although they are useful, they present the problem of what to do with them after their lifespan. There are currently mechanical and chemical methods to treat plastics, but these are methods that, among other disadvantages, can be expensive in terms of energy or produce polluting gases. A more environmentally friendly alternative is recycling, although this practice is not widespread. Based on the practice of the so-called circular economy, many studies are focused on the biodegradation of these polymers by enzymes. Using enzymes is a harmless method that can also generate substances with high added value. Novel and enhanced plastic-degrading enzymes have been obtained by modifying the amino acid sequence of existing ones, especially on their active site, using a wide variety of genetic approaches. Currently, many studies focus on the common aim of achieving strains with greater hydrolytic activity toward a different range of plastic polymers. Although in most cases the depolymerization rate is improved, more research is required to develop effective biodegradation strategies for plastic recycling or upcycling. This review focuses on a compilation and discussion of the most important research outcomes carried out on microbial biotechnology to degrade and recycle plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Martín-González
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Carlos de la Fuente Tagarro
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Andrea De Lucas
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
| | - Sergio Bordel
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Fernando Santos-Beneit
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, School of Industrial Engineering, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina, s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; (D.M.-G.); (A.D.L.); (S.B.)
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
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8
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Talekar S, Barrow CJ, Nguyen HC, Zolfagharian A, Zare S, Farjana SH, Macreadie PI, Ashraf M, Trevathan-Tackett SM. Using waste biomass to produce 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures for coastal ecosystem restoration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 925:171728. [PMID: 38492597 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171728] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The loss of ecosystem functions and services caused by rapidly declining coastal marine ecosystems, including corals and bivalve reefs and wetlands, around the world has sparked significant interest in interdisciplinary methods to restore these ecologically and socially important ecosystems. In recent years, 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures that mimic natural life stages or habitat have emerged as a promising method for coastal marine restoration. The effectiveness of this method relies on the availability of low-cost biodegradable printing polymers and the development of 3D-printed biomimetic structures that efficiently support the growth of plant and sessile animal species without harming the surrounding ecosystem. In this context, we present the potential and pathway for utilizing low-cost biodegradable biopolymers from waste biomass as printing materials to fabricate 3D-printed biodegradable artificial structures for restoring coastal marine ecosystems. Various waste biomass sources can be used to produce inexpensive biopolymers, particularly those with the higher mechanical rigidity required for 3D-printed artificial structures intended to restore marine ecosystems. Advancements in 3D printing methods, as well as biopolymer modifications and blending to address challenges like biopolymer solubility, rheology, chemical composition, crystallinity, plasticity, and heat stability, have enabled the fabrication of robust structures. The ability of 3D-printed structures to support species colonization and protection was found to be greatly influenced by their biopolymer type, surface topography, structure design, and complexity. Considering limited studies on biodegradability and the effect of biodegradation products on marine ecosystems, we highlight the need for investigating the biodegradability of biopolymers in marine conditions as well as the ecotoxicity of the degraded products. Finally, we present the challenges, considerations, and future perspectives for designing tunable biomimetic 3D-printed artificial biodegradable structures from waste biomass biopolymers for large-scale coastal marine restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Talekar
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Green Chemistry in Manufacturing, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Colin J Barrow
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Green Chemistry in Manufacturing, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia.
| | - Hoang Chinh Nguyen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia; Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Ali Zolfagharian
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Shahab Zare
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | | | - Peter I Macreadie
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Mahmud Ashraf
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - Stacey M Trevathan-Tackett
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
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9
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Rahmati F, Sethi D, Shu W, Asgari Lajayer B, Mosaferi M, Thomson A, Price GW. Advances in microbial exoenzymes bioengineering for improvement of bioplastics degradation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141749. [PMID: 38521099 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141749] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a major global concern, posing numerous challenges for the environment and wildlife. Most conventional ways of plastics degradation are inefficient and cause great damage to ecosystems. The development of biodegradable plastics offers a promising solution for waste management. These plastics are designed to break down under various conditions, opening up new possibilities to mitigate the negative impact of traditional plastics. Microbes, including bacteria and fungi, play a crucial role in the degradation of bioplastics by producing and secreting extracellular enzymes, such as cutinase, lipases, and proteases. However, these microbial enzymes are sensitive to extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature and acidity, affecting their functions and stability. To address these challenges, scientists have employed protein engineering and immobilization techniques to enhance enzyme stability and predict protein structures. Strategies such as improving enzyme and substrate interaction, increasing enzyme thermostability, reinforcing the bonding between the active site of the enzyme and substrate, and refining enzyme activity are being utilized to boost enzyme immobilization and functionality. Recently, bioengineering through gene cloning and expression in potential microorganisms, has revolutionized the biodegradation of bioplastics. This review aimed to discuss the most recent protein engineering strategies for modifying bioplastic-degrading enzymes in terms of stability and functionality, including enzyme thermostability enhancement, reinforcing the substrate binding to the enzyme active site, refining with other enzymes, and improvement of enzyme surface and substrate action. Additionally, discovered bioplastic-degrading exoenzymes by metagenomics techniques were emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Rahmati
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Qom 37185364, Iran
| | - Debadatta Sethi
- Sugarcane Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Nayagarh, India
| | - Weixi Shu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Mosaferi
- Health and Environment Research Center, Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Allan Thomson
- Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation., 173 Dr. Bernie MacDonald Dr., Bible Hill, Truro, NS, B6L 2H5, Canada
| | - G W Price
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada.
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10
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Das KP, Chauhan P, Staudinger U, Satapathy BK. Sustainable adsorbent frameworks based on bio-resourced materials and biodegradable polymers in selective phosphate removal for waste-water remediation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:31691-31730. [PMID: 38649601 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33253-6] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Phosphorus to an optimum extent is an essential nutrient for all living organisms and its scarcity may cause food security, and environmental preservation issues vis-à-vis agroeconomic hurdles. Undesirably excess phosphorus intensifies the eutrophication problem in non-marine water bodies and disrupts the natural nutrient balance of the ecosystem. To overcome such dichotomy, biodegradable polymer-based adsorbents have emerged as a cost-effective and implementable approach in striking a "desired optimum-undesired excess" balance pertaining to phosphate in a sustainable manner. So far, the reports on adopting such adsorbent-approach for wastewater remediation remained largely scattered, unstructured, and poorly correlated. In this background, the contextual review comprehensively discusses the current state-of-the-art in utilizing biodegradable polymeric frameworks as an adsorbent system for phosphate removal and its efficient recovery from the aquatic ecosystem, while highlighting their characteristics-specific functional efficiency vis-à-vis easiness of synthetic and commercial viability. The overview further delves into the sources and environmental ramifications of excessive phosphorus in water bodies and associated mechanistic pathways of phosphorus removal via adsorption, precipitation, and membrane filtration enabled by biodegradable (natural and synthetic) polymeric substrates. Finally, functionality optimization, degradability tuning, and adsorption selectivity of biodegradable polymers are highlighted, while aiming to strike a balance in "removal-recovery-reuse" dynamics of phosphate. Thus, the current review not only paves the way for future exploration of biodegradable polymers in sustainable cost-effective adsorbents for phosphorus removal but also can serve as a guide for researchers dealing with this critical issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Priyadarshini Das
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, Hauz Khas, 110016, India
| | - Pooja Chauhan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, Hauz Khas, 110016, India
| | - Ulrike Staudinger
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bhabani Kumar Satapathy
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, Hauz Khas, 110016, India.
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11
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Metcalf R, Fellows R, White HL, Quilliam RS. Persistence of 'wet wipes' in beach sand: An unrecognised reservoir for localised E. coli contamination. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116175. [PMID: 38422824 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116175] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The flushing of wet wipes down toilets leads to blockages of sewerage systems. This, together with unregulated sewage discharge, often results in increasing numbers of wet wipes washing up onto beaches. However, it is unclear how long wet wipes can persist on the beach and whether they pose a prolonged public health risk if contaminated by E. coli. In this mesocosm study, three types of wet wipes (plastic containing, and home and commercially compostable) colonised with E. coli were buried in beach sand and their degradation, tensile strength, and concentration of E. coli was quantified over 15 weeks. Wet wipes containing plastic remained largely intact for 15 weeks, whilst both compostable wet wipes fragmented and degraded. Importantly, E. coli persisted on all three wet wipe types, representing localised reservoirs of E. coli in the sand, which could present a human health risk at the beach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Metcalf
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Rosie Fellows
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Hannah L White
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Richard S Quilliam
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
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12
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Li Y, Wang S, Qian S, Liu Z, Weng Y, Zhang Y. Depolymerization and Re/Upcycling of Biodegradable PLA Plastics. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:13509-13521. [PMID: 38559974 PMCID: PMC10976375 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
With the escalating utilization of plastic products, global attention has been increasingly drawn to environmental pollution and recycling challenges stemming from plastic waste. Against this backdrop, biodegradable plastics have emerged as viable alternatives owing to their sustainability and capacity for biodegradation. Polylactic acid (PLA) presently commands the largest market share among biodegradable plastics, finding extensive application in products such as thin films, medical materials, and biodegradable straws. However, the widespread adoption of PLA is hindered by challenges such as high cost, low recycling rates, and complete degradation to H2O and CO2 in natural conditions. Therefore, it is imperative and time-sensitive to explore solutions for the depolymerization and re/upcycling of PLA waste plastics. This review comprehensively outlines the current landscape of PLA recycling methods, emphasizing the advantages and significance of chemical re/upcycling. The subsequent exploration encompasses recent breakthroughs and technical obstacles inherent in diverse chemical depolymerization methods. Ultimately, this review accentuates the impediments and forthcoming possibilities in the realm of PLA plastics, emphasizing the pursuit of closed-loop recycling and upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- YingChao Li
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Song Qian
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Zhijie Liu
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Yujing Weng
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Yulong Zhang
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
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13
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Cheng M, Fang Q, Xiao Y, Shen R, Xiong B, Zhou W. Effect of enrichment conditions of secondary feeding on the synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by activated sludge. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38450452 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2024.2317818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable plastics with great performance and development prospects. However, their traditional anaerobic/aerobic enrichment process requires a high concentration of dissolved oxygen (DO), resulting in high energy consumption. In this study, an anaerobic/oxygen-limited with secondary feeding enrichment mode was used to enhance the synthesis of PHAs while reducing energy consumption. The enrichment process of PHAs-synthesizing bacteria lasted up to 100 days, and the experiment was conducted to investigate the change of the PHAs synthesizing ability of the system in this mode by detecting the PHAs content and community distribution of the activated sludge under different stages. Under these conditions, the system enriched two major genera of PHAs-synthesizing bacteria, Thauera (30.21%) and Thiothrix (21.30%). The content of PHAs in the sludge increased from 4.51% to 30.87% and was able to achieve a concomitant increase in poly(3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHV) monomer content. After nitrogen limitation (C/N = 150) treatment, the content of PHAs reached 63.05%. The results showed that the enrichment mode of anaerobic/oxygen-limited with secondary feeding could enrich more PHAs-synthesizing bacteria and significantly increase the synthesis amount of PHAs, which revealed the great potential of this mode in solid waste value-added and reduce the production cost of PHAs and could provide a theoretical basis for the production of PHAs from activated sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiying Cheng
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Fang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyu Xiao
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruoyu Shen
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowen Xiong
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuyang Zhou
- Department of Municipal Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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14
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Ciaralli L, Rotini A, Scalici M, Battisti C, Chiesa S, Christoforou E, Libralato G, Manfra L. The under-investigated plastic threat on seagrasses worldwide: a comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:8341-8353. [PMID: 38170360 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31716-w] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Marine plastic pollution is a well-recognised and debated issue affecting most marine ecosystems. Despite this, the threat of plastic pollution on seagrasses has not received significant scientific attention compared to other marine species and habitats. The present review aims to summarise the scientific data published in the last decade (January 2012-2023), concerning the evaluation of plastic pollution, of all sizes and types, including bio-based polymers, on several seagrass species worldwide. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive and critical review of 26 scientific papers has been carried out, taking into consideration the investigated areas, the seagrass species and the plant parts considered, the experimental design and the type of polymers analysed, both in field monitoring and in laboratory-controlled experiments. The outcomes of the present review clearly showed that the dynamics and effects of plastic pollution in seagrass are still under-explored. Most data emerged from Europe, with little or no data on plastic pollution in North and South America, Australia, Africa and Antarctica. Most of the studies were devoted to microplastics, with limited studies dedicated to macroplastics and only one to nanoplastics. The methodological approach (in terms of experimental design and polymer physico-chemical characterisation) should be carefully standardised, beside the use of a model species, such as Zostera marina, and further laboratory experiments. All these knowledge gaps must be urgently fulfilled, since valuable and reliable scientific knowledge is necessary to improve seagrass habitat protection measures against the current plastic pollution crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ciaralli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Rotini
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome, Roma 3", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- Protected Areas Service, Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana Di Roma Capitale, Viale G. Ribotta, 41, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Chiesa
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Christoforou
- Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, CMMI House, Vasileos Pavlou Square, 6023, Larnaca, Cyprus
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Cyprus University of Technology, 3036, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Villa Comunale, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Loredana Manfra
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144, Rome, Italy
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Villa Comunale, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121, Naples, Italy
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15
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Chen Z, Gao J, Bi Y, Du K, Su J, Zhang D, Zhang S. Crustacean-inspired chitin-based flexible buffer layer with a helical cross-linked network for bamboo fiber/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) biocomposites. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 259:129248. [PMID: 38191108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129248] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Marine biological resources, serving as a renewable and sustainable reservoir, holds significant import for the utilization of composite material. Hence, we produced bamboo fiber/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (BF/PHB) biocomposites with exceptional performance and economic viability, drawing inspiration from the resilience of crustacean shells. Polyaminoethyl modified chitin (PAECT) was synthesized using the alkali freeze-thaw method and introduced into the interface between BF and PHB to improve interfacial adhesion. The resulting chitin fibers, characterized by their intertwined helical chains, constructed a flexible mesh structure on the BF surface through an electrostatic self-assembly approach. The interwoven PAECT filaments infiltrated the dual-phase structure, acting as a promoter of interfacial compatibility, while the flexible chitin network provided a greater capacity for deformation accommodation. Consequently, both impact and tensile strength of the BF/PHB composites were notably enhanced. Additionally, this flexible layer ameliorated the thermal stability and crystalline properties of the composites. This investigation aimed to leverage the distinctive helical configuration of chitin to facilitate the advancement of bio-reinforced composites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Huanrong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhenghao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yanbin Bi
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Keke Du
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jixing Su
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Dongyan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shuangbao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wood Material Science and Application (Beijing Forestry University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Wood Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
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16
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Strudwick P, Camp EF, Seymour J, Roper C, Edmondson J, Howlett L, Suggett DJ. Impacts of plastic-free materials on coral-associated bacterial communities during reef restoration. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13229. [PMID: 38192237 PMCID: PMC10866064 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Coral propagation and out-planting based restoration approaches are increasingly being applied to assist natural recovery of coral reefs. However, many restoration methods rely on plastic zip-ties to secure coral material which is potentially problematic for the marine environment. Plastic-free biodegradable alternatives may however pose unique risks to coral-associated bacterial communities integral to coral health. Therefore, to identify whether biodegradable materials differentially impact coral-associated bacterial communities we examined Acropora millepora coral-associated bacterial communities during propagation in two experiments on the Great Barrier Reef. Coral fragments were secured to coral nurseries with conventional plastic, metal, or biodegradable (polyester and polycaprolactone) ties. Tie failure and coral-associated bacterial communities were then characterized over six months. Minimal coral mortality was observed (3.6%-8%) and all ties had low failure rates (0%-4.2%) except for biodegradable polyester ties (29.2% failure). No differences were observed between coral-associated bacterial communities of fragments secured with different ties, and no proliferation of putatively pathogenic bacteria was recorded. Overall, our findings suggest that reducing reliance on conventional plastic is feasible through transitions to biodegradable materials, without any notable impacts on coral-associated bacterial communities. However, we caution the need to examine more coral taxa of different morphologies and new plastic-free materials prior to application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige Strudwick
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Emma F. Camp
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Justin Seymour
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Christine Roper
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Lorna Howlett
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - David J. Suggett
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)ThuwalKingdom of Saudi Arabia
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17
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Amornsakchai T, Duangsuwan S. Upcycling of HDPE Milk Bottles into High-Stiffness, High-HDT Composites with Pineapple Leaf Waste Materials. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4697. [PMID: 38139950 PMCID: PMC10747472 DOI: 10.3390/polym15244697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In the pursuit of sustainability and reduced dependence on new plastic materials, this study explores the upcycling potential of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) milk bottles into high-stiffness, high-heat-distortion-temperature (HDT) composites. Recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) sourced from used milk bottles serves as the composite matrix, while reinforcing fillers are derived from dried pineapple leaves, comprising fibers (PALF) and non-fibrous materials (NFM). A two-roll mixer is employed to prepare rHDPE/NFM and rHDPE/PALF mixtures, facilitating filler alignment in the resulting prepreg. The prepreg is subsequently stacked and pressed into composite sheets. The introduction of PALF as a reinforcing filler significantly enhances the flexural strength and modulus of the rHDPE composite. A 20 wt.% PALF content yields a remarkable 162% increase in flexural strength and a 204% increase in modulus compared to neat rHDPE. The rHDPE/NFM composite also shows improved mechanical properties, albeit to a lesser degree than fiber reinforcement. Both composites exhibit a slight reduction in impact resistance. Notably, the addition of NFM or PALF substantially elevates HDT, raising the HDT values of the composites to approximately 84 °C and 108 °C, respectively, in contrast to the 71 °C HDT of neat rHDPE. Furthermore, the overall properties of both the composites are further enhanced by improving their compatibility through maleic anhydride-modified polyethylene (MAPE) use. Impact fracture surfaces of both composites reveal higher compatibility and clear alignment of NFM and PALF fillers, underscoring the enhanced performance and environmental friendliness of composites produced from recycled plastics reinforced with pineapple leaf waste fillers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taweechai Amornsakchai
- Polymer Science and Technology Program, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
- Center of Sustainable Energy and Green Materials, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
- TEAnity Team Co., Ltd., 40/494 Soi Navamintra 111, Khet Bueng Kum, Bangkok 10230, Thailand
| | - Sorn Duangsuwan
- Polymer Science and Technology Program, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
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18
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Liu Y, Fu Y, Xu Z, Xiao X, Li P, Wang X, Guo H. Solubilization of Fully Hydrolyzed Poly(vinyl alcohol) at Room Temperature for Fabricating Recyclable Hydrogels. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:1543-1548. [PMID: 37916618 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The versatility of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) makes it extensively utilized across various industries, while the solubilization of PVA in aqueous media is essential for its applications. However, the high crystallinity of the fully hydrolyzed PVA poses a big challenge in terms of its dissolution in aqueous media at room temperature. In this work, we present a straightforward, efficient, and safe strategy to achieve this objective by the integration of inorganic additives. The crucial aspect of additives lies in the interference of hydrogen bonds and breaking of the crystal domain within PVA chains, therefore greatly enhancing the solubility. At the optimal condition, the solubility of PVA can reach up to 45 wt% at 25 °C in 4 M HBr solution. It is further proven that the solubility of PVA follows the Hofmeister series well, where the chaotropes facilitate the solubilization process. In addition, the solubility is also significantly determined by the PVA type and additive concentration. By harnessing this feature, we successfully engineer recyclable PVA hydrogels with programmable mechanical properties. The hydrogels exhibit remarkable recyclability by affording a minimum of 8 regeneration cycles without experiencing significant deterioration in mechanical properties. Collectively, this research may significantly contribute to the advancement of PVA applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, 999078, Macao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
| | - Yuanmao Fu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
| | - Zhuoning Xu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
| | - Xuemei Xiao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, 999078, Macao
| | - Hui Guo
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China
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19
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Julinová M, Šašinková D, Minařík A, Kaszonyiová M, Kalendová A, Kadlečková M, Fayyazbakhsh A, Koutný M. Comprehensive Biodegradation Analysis of Chemically Modified Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Materials with Different Crystal Structures. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4939-4957. [PMID: 37819211 PMCID: PMC10646986 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
This work presents a comprehensive analysis of the biodegradation of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and chemically modified PHB with different chemical and crystal structures in a soil environment. A polymer modification reaction was performed during preparation of the chemically modified PHB films, utilizing 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butylperoxy)-hexane as a free-radical initiator and maleic anhydride. Films of neat PHB and chemically modified PHB were prepared by extrusion and thermocompression. The biological agent employed was natural mixed microflora in the form of garden soil. The course and extent of biodegradation of the films was investigated by applying various techniques, as follows: a respirometry test to determine the production of carbon dioxide through microbial degradation; scanning electron microscopy (SEM); optical microscopy; fluorescence microscopy; differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Next-generation sequencing was carried out to study the microbial community involved in biodegradation of the films. Findings from the respirometry test indicated that biodegradation of the extruded and chemically modified PHB followed a multistage (2-3) course, which varied according to the spatial distribution of amorphous and crystalline regions and their spherulitic morphology. SEM and polarized optical microscopy (POM) confirmed that the rate of biodegradation depended on the availability of the amorphous phase in the interspherulitic region and the width of the interlamellar region in the first stage, while dependence on the size of spherulites and thickness of spherulitic lamellae was evident in the second stage. X-ray diffraction revealed that orthorhombic α-form crystals with helical chain conformation degraded concurrently with β-form crystals with planar zigzag conformation. The nucleation of PHB crystals after 90 days of biodegradation was identified by DSC and POM, a phenomenon which impeded biodegradation. Fluorescence microscopy evidenced that the crystal structure of PHB affected the physiological behavior of soil microorganisms in contact with the surfaces of the films.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Julinová
- Department
of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nad Ovčírnou 3685, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
| | - Dagmar Šašinková
- Department
of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nad Ovčírnou 3685, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
| | - Antonín Minařík
- Department
of Physics and Material Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Vavrečkova 5669, 760 01, Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Kaszonyiová
- Department
of Polymer Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Vavrečkova 5669, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Kalendová
- Department
of Polymer Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Vavrečkova 5669, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
| | - Markéta Kadlečková
- Department
of Physics and Material Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Vavrečkova 5669, 760 01, Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Ahmad Fayyazbakhsh
- Department
of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nad Ovčírnou 3685, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Koutný
- Department
of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nad Ovčírnou 3685, 760 01, Zlín, Czech Republic
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20
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Seyyedi SR, Kowsari E, Ramakrishna S, Gheibi M, Chinnappan A. Marine plastics, circular economy, and artificial intelligence: A comprehensive review of challenges, solutions, and policies. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118591. [PMID: 37423188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118591] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Global plastic production is rapidly increasing, resulting in significant amounts of plastic entering the marine environment. This makes marine litter one of the most critical environmental concerns. Determining the effects of this waste on marine animals, particularly endangered organisms, and the health of the oceans is now one of the top environmental priorities. This article reviews the sources of plastic production, its entry into the oceans and the food chain, the potential threat to aquatic animals and humans, the challenges of plastic waste in the oceans, the existing laws and regulations in this field, and strategies. Using conceptual models, this study looks at a circular economy framework for energy recovery from ocean plastic wastes. It does this by drawing on debates about AI-based systems for smart management. In the last sections of the present research, a novel soft sensor is designed for the prediction of accumulated ocean plastic waste based on social development features and the application of machine learning computations. Plus, the best scenario of ocean plastic waste management with a concentration on both energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions is discussed using USEPA-WARM modeling. Finally, a circular economy concept and ocean plastic waste management policies are modeled based on the strategies of different countries. We deal with green chemistry and the replacement of plastics derived from fossil sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Reza Seyyedi
- Department of Chemistry, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Hafez St., Tehran 15875-4413, Iran
| | - Elaheh Kowsari
- Department of Chemistry, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Hafez St., Tehran 15875-4413, Iran.
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore.
| | - Mohammad Gheibi
- Department of Civil Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amutha Chinnappan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore
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21
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Colwell J, Pratt S, Lant P, Laycock B. Hazardous state lifetimes of biodegradable plastics in natural environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 894:165025. [PMID: 37348710 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a critical problem that has the potential for long-lasting impact. While all plastics eventually break down to at least some degree, they can remain in different transition states, such as microplastics and nanoplastics, for extended periods of time before reaching complete mineralisation to non-hazardous end products. Each of the transition states represents different types of hazards, so it is critical to understand the factors driving the lifetimes of plastics within these states. To do this, we propose a framework for assessing plastic lifetimes in natural environments based on the flow of material through potentially hazardous states: macroplastic and mesoplastic, microplastic, nanoplastic and soluble products. State changes within this framework are underpinned by three key processes: fragmentation, depolymerisation, and bioassimilation, with the pathways for generation of the different plastic states, and the lifetimes within these states, varying widely for individual materials in different environments due to their dependence on polymer material type, form and properties, and environmental factors. The critical factors driving these processes can therefore appear complex, but molecular weight, crystallinity, oxygen and water diffusivity, and inherent polymer chain reactivity (including to enzymes) are key to our understanding. By analysing currently available data that take factors such as these into consideration, we have generated information on the most likely states in which a range of plastics with different environmental degradation behaviour may exist over time in natural environments. Polyethylene (PE), for example, should be expected to fragment and accumulate in the environment as microplastic and nanoplastic. Interestingly, the state-profile for the biodegradable plastic polylactic acid (PLA) is similar, albeit over shorter timeframes. PLA also likely fragments, but then the relatively slow process of abiotic depolymerisation results in accumulation of microplastic and nanoplastic. By contrast, the state-profile for the biodegradable plastic polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) would be expected to be very different. The bulk material is less susceptible to embrittlement and fragmentation as a primary path to biodegradation, since the rapid enzyme catalysed depolymerisation of exposed surfaces proceeds in conjunction with bioassimilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Colwell
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Steven Pratt
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Paul Lant
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Laycock
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
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22
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Viel T, Cocca M, Manfra L, Caramiello D, Libralato G, Zupo V, Costantini M. Effects of biodegradable-based microplastics in Paracentrotus lividus Lmk embryos: Morphological and gene expression analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122129. [PMID: 37429489 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a remarkable environmental issue. In fact, plastic is widespread in the lifetime and serious environmental problems are caused by the improper management of plastic end of life, being plastic litter detected in any environment. Efforts are put to implement the development of sustainable and circular materials. In this scenario, biodegradable polymers, BPs, are promising materials if correctly applied and managed at the end of life to minimize environmental problems. However, a lack of data on BPs fate and toxicity on marine organisms, limits their applicability. In this research, the impact of microplastics obtained from BPs, BMPs, were analyzed on Paracentrotus lividus. Microplastics were produced from five biodegradable polyesters at laboratory scale by milling the pristine polymers, under cryogenic conditions. Morphological analysis of P. lividus embryos exposed to polycaprolactone (PCL), polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB) and polylactic acid (PLA) showed their delay and malformations, which at molecular level are due to variation in expression levels of eighty-seven genes involved in various cellular processes, such as skeletogenesis, differentiation and development, stress, and detoxification response. Exposure to poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA) microplastics showed no detectable effects on P. lividus embryos. These findings contribute with important data on the effect of BPs on the physiology of marine invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Viel
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, n.55, 80133, Napoli, Italy; Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Loredana Manfra
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, n.55, 80133, Napoli, Italy; Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati 48, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Caramiello
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement, Villa Comunale, 1, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, n.55, 80133, Napoli, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Valerio Zupo
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Ischia Marine Centre, Via F. Buonocore, 42, 80077, Ischia, Italy
| | - Maria Costantini
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, n.55, 80133, Napoli, Italy
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23
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Ma Y, Wu S, Xu Y, Zhou X, Ruan A. Degradation characteristics of polyethylene film by microorganisms from lake sediments. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122115. [PMID: 37385361 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122115] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) exists widely in many habitats as a persistent organic pollution and poses a major threat to the ecological environment. In this study, bacterial communities in freshwater lake sediments were exposed to culture media using PE films as the sole carbon source in aerobic and anaerobic microculture environments, and they were able to adhere and adapt to the PE films for a longer period of time. The results demonstrated that the pH value of the medium in the two cultural conditions was distinct, as were the rates of films weight loss and surface functional group alterations. We also concluded the certain bacterial genera from freshwater lake sediments who may be able to degrade PE films under either aerobic or anaerobic conditions. Simultaneously, the dominating bacterial communities between the medium and the film differed significantly under two cultural settings, as did the community composition, while metabolism was the primary function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunmei Ma
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Shuai Wu
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yaofei Xu
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Xiaotian Zhou
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Aidong Ruan
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
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24
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Aurelio RH, Mextlisol CVS, Páramo-Calderón DE, Acevedo-Gómez R, Gerardo GG, Nolasco-Hipolito C, Eduardo BGJ, Carlos CAJ, Alejandro AS. Functionality and characterization of modified starch films with pineapple leaf fibers. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 246:125611. [PMID: 37406918 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125611] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this work was to modify banana starch with pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) and its production of biodegradable films. The reaction conditions of the starch modification were a Starch/PALF mass ratio of 50, a time of 1 h and a temperature of 140 °C, to obtain a yield of 41.18 %. Characterization by FTIR and NMR confirmed that the chemical reaction was carried out. XRD and TGA analysis showed that the crystalline zones of the starch were affected during the modification and the product obtained is thermally less stable compared to unmodified starch. The modified starch showed a lower pasting profile compared to the native starch; however, the modified starch showed the ability to form a film. The starch-PALF films were obtained by the casting method and partially characterized. These films presented better mechanical properties compared to the unmodified films. Also, these films could compete with conventional non-biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramírez-Hernández Aurelio
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Química Aplicada, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Cruz-Valencia Shardey Mextlisol
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Química Aplicada, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Delia E Páramo-Calderón
- Ingeniería en alimentos, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Acevedo-Gómez
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Química Aplicada, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - González-García Gerardo
- Universidad de Guanajuato, División de Ciencias Exactas Departamento de Química, Noria Alta S/N; C.P. 36050. Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Cirilo Nolasco-Hipolito
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Báez-García José Eduardo
- Universidad de Guanajuato, División de Ciencias Exactas Departamento de Química, Noria Alta S/N; C.P. 36050. Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Conde-Acevedo Jorge Carlos
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Química Aplicada, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico.
| | - Aparicio-Saguilán Alejandro
- Ingeniería en alimentos, Universidad del Papaloapan, Circuito Central 200 Parque Industrial, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico.
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25
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Viel T, Manfra L, Zupo V, Libralato G, Cocca M, Costantini M. Biodegradation of Plastics Induced by Marine Organisms: Future Perspectives for Bioremediation Approaches. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2673. [PMID: 37376319 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a distinctive element of the globalized world. In fact, since the 1970s the expansion and use of plastics, particularly in the consumer and commercial sectors, has given this material a permanent place in our lives. The increasing use of plastic products and the wrong management of end-of-life plastic products have contributed to increasing environmental pollution, with negative impacts on our ecosystems and the ecological functions of natural habitats. Nowadays, plastic pollution is pervasive in all environmental compartments. As aquatic environments are the dumping points for poorly managed plastics, biofouling and biodegradation have been proposed as promising approaches for plastic bioremediation. Known for the high stability of plastics in the marine environment, this represents a very important issue to preserve marine biodiversity. In this review, we have summarized the main cases reported in the literature on the degradation of plastics by bacteria, fungi, and microalgae and the degradation mechanisms involved, to highlight the potential of bioremediation approaches to reduce macro and microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Viel
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Loredana Manfra
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Zupo
- Stazione Zoologica, Ecosustainable Biotechnology Department, Ischia Marine Centre, Via Buonocore 42, 80077 Ischia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Maria Costantini
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
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26
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Weng Y, Zou M, Liu X, Gu J, Liu Z, Fan Y, Zhang Y, Liao Y. Conversion of glucose to methyl glycolate in subcritical methanol. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:4340-4343. [PMID: 36945862 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc00303e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Methyl glycolate (MG) is an important biodegradable PGA plastic monomer. Herein, a green approach to synthesize MG by methanolysis of glucose is proposed, in which the subcritical methanol and phenol/quinone redox system were combined to promote the reversible C-C cleavage and oxidation during the cascade reaction of glucose to MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Weng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Min Zou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Xuying Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Junchao Gu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Zhijie Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Yunchang Fan
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Yulong Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Coal Green Conversion, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan 454000, P. R. China.
| | - Yuhe Liao
- Key Laboratory of Renewable Energy, Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China.
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27
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Wang Y, Hou B, Huang L, Li B, Liu S, He M, Chen Q, Li J. Study on Properties and Degradation Behavior of Poly (Adipic Acid/Butylene Terephthalate-Co-Glycolic Acid) Copolyester Synthesized by Quaternary Copolymerization. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076451. [PMID: 37047424 PMCID: PMC10095127 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
At present, the development and usage of degradable plastics instead of traditional plastics is an effective way to solve the pollution of marine microplastics. Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) is known as one of the most promising biodegradable materials. Nevertheless, the degradation rate of PBAT in water environment is slow. In this work, we successfully prepared four kinds of high molecular weight polyester copolyesters (PBATGA) via quaternary copolymerization. The results showed that the intrinsic viscosity of PBATGA copolymers ranged from 0.74 to 1.01 dL/g with a glycolic acid content of 0–40%. PBATGA copolymers had excellent flexibility and thermal stability. The tensile strength was 5~40 MPa, the elongation at break was greater than 460%, especially the elongation at break of PBATGA10 at 1235%, and the thermal decomposition temperature of PBATGA copolyesters was higher than 375 °C. It was found that PBATGA copolyester had a faster hydrolysis rate than PBAT, and the weight loss of PBATGA copolymers showed a tendency of pH = 12 > Lipase ≈ pH = 7 > pH = 2. The quaternary polymerization of PBAT will have the advantage of achieving industrialization, unlike the previous polymerization process. In addition, the polymerization of PBATGA copolyesters not only utilizes the by-products of the coal chemical industry, but also it can be promising in the production of biodegradable packaging to reduce marine plastic pollution.
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28
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Riboni N, Bianchi F, Cavazza A, Piergiovanni M, Mattarozzi M, Careri M. Mass Spectrometry-Based Techniques for the Detection of Non-Intentionally Added Substances in Bioplastics. SEPARATIONS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/separations10040222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The safety of food contact materials is a hot topic since chemicals can migrate from packaging into food, thus raising health concerns about and/or producing changes in the organoleptic properties of foodstuffs. Migration tests are required to demonstrate the compliance with current regulations and to investigate the transferred compounds. In this context, mass spectrometry is the analytical technique of choice for the detection and quantitation of both intentionally added substances, such as antioxidants, stabilizers, processing aids, and non-intentionally added substances (NIAS). Untargeted strategies represent a major analytical challenge, providing a comprehensive fingerprinting of the packaging material and migrating components, allowing for NIAS identification. Hyphenated mass spectrometry-based techniques have been devised for screening the presence of migrating contaminants and for quantitation purposes. Both low-resolution (LRMS) and high-resolution (HRMS) methods were screened, with a special emphasis on the latter because of its capability to directly characterize food contact materials with minimal/no sample preparation, avoiding chromatographic separation, and reducing sample handling, analysis costs, and time. Examples related to the migration of contaminants from existing or newly developed bioplastic materials will be discussed, providing an overview of the most used MS-based methods, covering the state-of-the-art approaches from 2012 up to 2022.
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29
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Cazaudehore G, Monlau F, Gassie C, Lallement A, Guyoneaud R. Active microbial communities during biodegradation of biodegradable plastics by mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 443:130208. [PMID: 36308937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics, if they are not properly managed at their end-of-life, can have the same hazardous environmental consequences as conventional plastics. This study investigates the treatment of the main biodegradable plastics under mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion using biochemical methane potential test and the microorganisms involved in the process using amplicon sequencing of the 16 S rRNA. Here we showed that, only PHB and TPS undergone important and rapid biodegradation under mesophilic condition (38 °C). By contrast, PCL and PLA exhibited very low biodegradation rate as 500 days were required to reach the ultimate methane yield. Little or no degradation occurred for PBAT and PBS at 38 °C. Under thermophilic conditions (58 °C), TPS, PHB, and PLA reached high levels of biodegradation in a relatively short period (< 100 d). While PBS, PBAT, and PCL could not be converted into methane at 58 °C. PHB degraders (Enterobacter and Cupriavidus) and lactate-utilizing bacteria (Moorella and Tepidimicrobium) appeared to play an important role in the PHB and PLA degradation, respectively. This work not only provides crucial data on the anaerobic digestion of the main biodegradable plastics but also enriches the understanding of the microorganisms involved in this process, which are of great importance for future development of the treatment of biodegradable plastics in anaerobic digestion systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cazaudehore
- APESA, Pôle Valorisation, 64121 Montardon, France; Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour / E2S UPPA / CNRS, IPREM UMR5254, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux, Chimie et Microbiologie de l'Environnement, 64000, Pau, France.
| | - F Monlau
- APESA, Pôle Valorisation, 64121 Montardon, France
| | - C Gassie
- Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour / E2S UPPA / CNRS, IPREM UMR5254, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux, Chimie et Microbiologie de l'Environnement, 64000, Pau, France
| | - A Lallement
- APESA, Pôle Valorisation, 64121 Montardon, France
| | - R Guyoneaud
- Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour / E2S UPPA / CNRS, IPREM UMR5254, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux, Chimie et Microbiologie de l'Environnement, 64000, Pau, France
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Feijoo P, Mohanty AK, Rodriguez-Uribe A, Gámez-Pérez J, Cabedo L, Misra M. Biodegradable blends from bacterial biopolyester PHBV and bio-based PBSA: Study of the effect of chain extender on the thermal, mechanical and morphological properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 225:1291-1305. [PMID: 36423810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.11.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Being aware of the global problem of plastic pollution, our society is claiming new bioplastics to replace conventional polymers. Balancing their mechanical performance is required to increase their presence in the market. Brittleness of bacterial poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) was attempted to be decreased by melt blending with flexible starch-based poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA). An epoxy-functionalized chain extender was used to enhance interaction between both immiscible biopolyesters. Mechanical performance, morphology, rheology, and crystallization behavior of injection-molded PHBV-PBSA blends (70-30, 50-50, and 30-70 wt%) were assessed in the presence and absence of the chain extender. Crystallization of PHBV was hindered, which was reflected in the improvement of mechanical properties. When PBSA >50 %, the homogeneity of results increased within the same sample while for PHBV-PBSA 70-30 wt% the elongation was 45 % higher. During the flexural test, it changed from brittle to non-breakable. The additive did not change the type of morphology developed by each blend nor the toughening mechanisms, so impact strength was barely affected. However, it reduced the size of dispersed phase domains due to a viscosity change, improving their processability. The higher the PHBV in the blend, the higher the effect of the chain extender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Feijoo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, 12071 Castelló, Spain; Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Crop Science Building, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amar K Mohanty
- Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Crop Science Building, Guelph, Ontario, Canada; School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Thornbrough Building, 80 South Ring Road E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 1Y4, Canada.
| | - Arturo Rodriguez-Uribe
- Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Crop Science Building, Guelph, Ontario, Canada; School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Thornbrough Building, 80 South Ring Road E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 1Y4, Canada
| | - José Gámez-Pérez
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Luis Cabedo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Manjusri Misra
- Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Crop Science Building, Guelph, Ontario, Canada; School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Thornbrough Building, 80 South Ring Road E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 1Y4, Canada.
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Jia X, Zhao K, Zhao J, Lin C, Zhang H, Chen L, Chen J, Fang Y. Degradation of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) films by Thermobifida fusca FXJ-1 isolated from compost. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 441:129958. [PMID: 36122523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) films were wildly used due to its biodegradable properties. However, there are few reports of strains that can high efficiently degrade PBAT. Thermobifida fusca FXJ-1, a thermophilic actinomycete, was screened and identified from compost. FXJ-1 can efficiently degrade PBAT at 55 °C in MSM medium. The degradation rates of the pure PBAT film (PF), PBAT film used for mulching on agricultural fields (PAF), and PBAT-PLA-ST film (PPSF) were 82.87 ± 1.01%, 87.83 ± 2.00% and 52.53 ± 0.54%, respectively, after nine days of incubation in MSM medium. Cracking areas were monitored uniformly distributed on the surfaces of three kinds of PBAT-based films after treatment with FXJ-1 using scanning electron microscopy. The LC-MS results showed that PBAT might be degraded into adipic acid, terephthalic acid, butylene adipate, butylene terephthalate and butylene adipate-co-terephthalate, and these products are involved in the cleavage of ester bonds. We also found that amylase produced by FXJ-1 played an important role in the degradation of PPSF. FXJ-1 also showed an efficient PBAT-based films degradation ability in simulating compost environment, which implied its potential application in PBAT and starch-based film degradation by industrial composting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianbo Jia
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ke Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chenqiang Lin
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China
| | - Longjun Chen
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jichen Chen
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Yu Fang
- Institute of Soil and Fertilizer, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Fujian Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizer, Fuzhou, China.
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Xu PY, Liu TY, Huang D, Zhen ZC, Lu B, Li X, Zheng WZ, Zhang ZY, Wang GX, Ji JH. Enhanced degradability of novel PBATCL copolyester: study on the performance in different environment and exploration of mechanism. Eur Polym J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.111834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Tunuhe A, Liu P, Ullah M, Sun S, Xie H, Ma F, Yu H, Zhou Y, Xie S. Fungal-Modified Lignin-Enhanced Physicochemical Properties of Collagen-Based Composite Films. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121303. [PMID: 36547636 PMCID: PMC9783068 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Renewable and biodegradable materials have attracted broad attention as alternatives to existing conventional plastics, which have caused serious environmental problems. Collagen is a potential material for developing versatile film due to its biosafety, renewability, and biodegradability. However, it is still critical to overcome the low mechanical, antibacterial and antioxidant properties of the collagen film for food packaging applications. To address these limitations, we developed a new technology to prepare composite film by using collagen and fungal-modified APL (alkali pretreatment liquor). In this study, five edible and medical fungi, Cunninghamella echinulata FR3, Pleurotus ostreatus BP3, Ganoderma lucidum EN2, Schizophyllum commune DS1 and Xylariaceae sp. XY were used to modify the APL, and that showed that the modified APL significantly improved the mechanical, antibacterial and antioxidant properties of APL/Collagen composite films. Particularly, the APL modified by BP3, EN2 and XY showed preferable performance in enhancing the properties of the composite films. The tensile strength of the film was increased by 1.5-fold in the presence of the APL modified by EN2. To further understand the effect of fungal-biomodified APL on the properties of the composite films, a correlation analysis between the components of APL and the properties of composite films was conducted and indicated that the content of aromatic functional groups and lignin had a positive correlation with the enhanced mechanical and antioxidant properties of the composite films. In summary, composite films prepared from collagen and fungal biomodified APL showed elevated mechanical, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, and the herein-reported novel technology prospectively possesses great potential application in the food packaging industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alitenai Tunuhe
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Pengyang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Mati Ullah
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Su Sun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- College of Urban Construction, Wuchang Shouyi University, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hua Xie
- Guangxi Shenguan Collagen Technology Research Institute, Guangxi Shenguan Collagen Biological Group, Wuzhou 543000, China
| | - Fuying Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hongbo Yu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yaxian Zhou
- Guangxi Shenguan Collagen Technology Research Institute, Guangxi Shenguan Collagen Biological Group, Wuzhou 543000, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (S.X.); Tel.: +86-0774-2035538 (Y.Z.); +86-27-87792108 (S.X.)
| | - Shangxian Xie
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (S.X.); Tel.: +86-0774-2035538 (Y.Z.); +86-27-87792108 (S.X.)
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della Valle M, D'Abrosca G, Gentile MT, Russo L, Isernia C, Di Gaetano S, Avolio R, Castaldo R, Cocca M, Gentile G, Malgieri G, Errico ME, Fattorusso R. Polystyrene nanoplastics affect the human ubiquitin structure and ubiquitination in cells: a high-resolution study. Chem Sci 2022; 13:13563-13573. [PMID: 36507175 PMCID: PMC9682910 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc04434j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans are estimated to consume several grams per week of nanoplastics (NPs) through exposure to a variety of contamination sources. Nonetheless, the effects of these polymeric particles on living systems are still mostly unknown. Here, by means of CD, NMR and TEM analyses, we describe at an atomic resolution the interaction of ubiquitin with polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs), showing how a hard protein corona is formed. Moreover, we report that in human HeLa cells exposure to PS-NPs leads to a sensible reduction of ubiquitination. Our study overall indicates that PS-NPs cause significant structural effects on ubiquitin, thereby influencing one of the key metabolic processes at the base of cell viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. della Valle
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - G. D'Abrosca
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - M. T. Gentile
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - L. Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - C. Isernia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - S. Di Gaetano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging-CNRVia Mezzocannone 1680134 NaplesItaly
| | - R. Avolio
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials – CNRVia Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 PozzuoliNaplesItaly
| | - R. Castaldo
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials – CNRVia Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 PozzuoliNaplesItaly
| | - M. Cocca
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials – CNRVia Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 PozzuoliNaplesItaly
| | - G. Gentile
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials – CNRVia Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 PozzuoliNaplesItaly
| | - G. Malgieri
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
| | - M. E. Errico
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials – CNRVia Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 PozzuoliNaplesItaly
| | - R. Fattorusso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania – Luigi VanvitelliVia Vivaldi 4381100 CasertaItaly
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Cao Y, Zhang B, Cai Q, Zhu Z, Liu B, Dong G, Greer CW, Lee K, Chen B. Responses of Alcanivorax species to marine alkanes and polyhydroxybutyrate plastic pollution: Importance of the ocean hydrocarbon cycles. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 313:120177. [PMID: 36116568 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Understanding microbial responses to hydrocarbon and plastic pollution are crucial for limiting the detrimental impacts of environmental contaminants on marine ecosystems. Herein, we reported a new Alcanivorax species isolated from the North Atlantic Ocean capable of degrading alkanes and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) plastic (one of the emerging bioplastics that may capture the future plastic market). The whole-genome sequencing showed that the species harbors three types of alkane 1-monooxygenases (AlkB) and one PHB depolymerase (PhaZ) to initiate the degradation of alkanes and plastics. Growth profiling demonstrated that n-pentadecane (C15, the main alkane in the marine environment due to cyanobacterial production other than oil spills) and PHB could serve as preferential carbon sources. However, the cell membrane composition, PhaZ activity, and expression of three alkB genes were utterly different when grown on C15 and PHB. Further, Alcanivorax was a well-recognized alkane-degrader that participated in the ocean hydrocarbon cycles linking with hydrocarbon production and removal. Our discovery supported that the existing biogeochemical processes may add to the marine ecosystem's resilience to the impacts of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Cao
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Baiyu Zhang
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada.
| | - Qinhong Cai
- Gaia Refinery, Saint John, NB E2J 2E7, Canada
| | - Zhiwen Zhu
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Bo Liu
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Guihua Dong
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Charles W Greer
- National Research Council Canada, Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre, Montreal, QC H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Kenneth Lee
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ecosystem Science, Ottawa, ON K1A 0E6, Canada
| | - Bing Chen
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
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Parlapiano I, Biandolino F, Grattagliano A, Ruscito A, Lofrano G, Libralato G, Trifuoggi M, Albarano L, Prato E. Multi-endpoint effects of derelict tubular mussel plastic nets on Tigriopus fulvus. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:83554-83566. [PMID: 35764734 PMCID: PMC9643204 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21569-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic debris from direct and indirect human activities is considered a major threat to the marine biodiversity mainly due to its abundance, durability, persistence, and ability to accumulate contaminants from the environment. Derelict tubular plastic nets of various colours (blue (BN), yellow (YN), green (GN), pink (PN), and white (WN) net), used to distinguish mussel farming owners, were collected by scuba-dive from the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (Ionian Sea). All nets were made of polypropylene. Investigations looked for potential acute (mortality) and sub-chronic (mortality, larval development and moult release number, and adult percentage after 5-9 days) effects on Tigriopus fulvus nauplii considering both whole plastics (microplastic (MP), 50 mg/L) and leachates (12.5-100%). Acute test determined a median lethal concentration (LC50) only for BN for both MPs (107 mg/L) and leachates (50.1%). The prolonged exposure (5 days) to microplastics did not affect the T. fulvus survival. After 9 days, YN and BN decreased of approximately 100% larval development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Parlapiano
- National Research Council, Water Research Institute (IRSA-CNR), Via Roma, 3, 74123, Taranto, Italy
| | - Francesca Biandolino
- National Research Council, Water Research Institute (IRSA-CNR), Via Roma, 3, 74123, Taranto, Italy
| | - Asia Grattagliano
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 1 - 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ruscito
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 1 - 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Giusy Lofrano
- Centro Servizi Metrologici E Tecnologici Avanzati (CeSMA), University of Naples Federico II, Via Vicinale Cupa Cintia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie, Umane e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Roma Foro Italico, Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 15, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Vicinale Cupa Cintia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Centro Servizi Metrologici E Tecnologici Avanzati (CeSMA), University of Naples Federico II, Via Vicinale Cupa Cintia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Vicinale Cupa Cintia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Luisa Albarano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Vicinale Cupa Cintia 26, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Prato
- National Research Council, Water Research Institute (IRSA-CNR), Via Roma, 3, 74123, Taranto, Italy
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Okoffo ED, Chan CM, Rauert C, Kaserzon S, Thomas KV. Identification and Quantification of Micro-Bioplastics in Environmental Samples by Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:13774-13785. [PMID: 36128767 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics are materials that are biobased and/or biodegradable, but not necessarily both. Concerns about environmental plastic pollution are constantly growing with increasing demand for substituting fossil-based plastics with those made using renewable resource feedstocks. For many conventional bioplastics to completely decompose/degrade, they require specific environmental conditions that are rarely met in natural ecosystems, leading to rapid formation of micro-bioplastics. As global bioplastic production and consumption/use continue to increase, there is growing concern regarding the potential for environmental pollution from micro-bioplastics. However, the actual extent of their environmental occurrence and potential impacts remains unclear, and there is insufficient mass concentration-based quantitative data due to the lack of quantitative analytical methods. This study developed and validated an analytical method coupling pressurized liquid extraction and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry combined with thermochemolysis to simultaneously identify and quantify five targeted micro-bioplastics (i.e., polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polycaprolactone, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) in environmental samples on a polymer-specific mass-based concentration. The recovery of spiked micro-bioplastics in environmental samples (biosolids) ranged from 74 to 116%. The limits of quantification for the target micro-bioplastics were between 0.02 and 0.05 mg/g. PLA and PBAT were commonly detected in wastewater, biosolids, and sediment samples at concentrations between 0.07 and 0.18 mg/g. The presented analytical method enables the accurate identification, quantification, and monitoring of micro-bioplastics in environmental samples. This study quantified five micro-bioplastic types in complex environmental samples for the first time, filling in gaps in our knowledge about bioplastic pollution and providing a useful methodology and important reference data for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Clement Matthew Chan
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Sarit Kaserzon
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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Natural deep eutectic solvent of choline chloride with oxalic or ascorbic acids as efficient starch-based film plasticizers. POLYMER 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2022.125314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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39
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Ren W, Qiang T, Chen L. Recyclable and biodegradable pectin-based film with high mechanical strength. Food Hydrocoll 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2022.107643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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40
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Fagiano V, Compa M, Alomar C, García-Marcos K, Deudero S. Marine plastics in Mediterranean islands: Evaluating the distribution and composition of plastic pollution in the surface waters along four islands of the Western Sea Basin. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 305:119268. [PMID: 35398154 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
To study the spatial distribution of sea surface plastics in marine protected and non-protected areas, 65 sea surface trawls were carried out using a Hydro-bios manta net coupled with a 335-μm mesh. A total of 19 sampling sites along the coastal waters of Mallorca, the "Parque Nacional Marítimo-Terrestre del Archipiélago de Cabrera" and Menorca in the Balearic Islands as well as along coastal waters of The Natural Park of Columbretes Islands (NW Mediterranean Sea) were sampled. A total of 10,637 plastic items were identified and a subset of these items was categorized by shape, color, size and polymer composition. Plastic particles were found at each sampling site and in all samples. No microscale nor mesoscale variability in floating marine plastics abundance (particles/m2) was encountered throughout the study area where similar values were found in protected areas with no local land-based contamination sources, such as Columbretes [0.04 (±0.03) particles/m2], and in high anthropized areas, such as the island of Mallorca [0.04 (±0.07) particles/m2]. However, differences were found in characteristics of plastic items (shape, polymer, and size range), with the protected area of Columbretes characterized by the presence of the highest density of very small plastic items composed mainly of fragments (93%). Quantified plastics from the marine environment were composed mainly of polyethylene (PE, 63.3%), polypropylene (PP; 24.9%), polycarbonate (PC; 4.6%) and polystyrene (PS, 3.3%). The polymer composition showed a homogenous composition between islands and differences were detected only amongst Columbretes and the other islands. Results from this study provide further evidence of the ubiquity of plastics in the marine environment and highlight that remote and protected areas, such as Columbretes, are not exempt from plastic pollution, but receptor areas for small and aged floating plastics composed mainly by fragments, which might have potentially harmful effects on protected ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Fagiano
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain; University of Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
| | - M Compa
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - C Alomar
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - K García-Marcos
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - S Deudero
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
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Influence of Surface Treatment of CaSO4 on the Drawability and Physical Properties of the PBAT/PLA/CaSO4 Composite Sheet. Macromol Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13233-022-0072-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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42
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Herbert-Read JE, Thornton A, Amon DJ, Birchenough SNR, Côté IM, Dias MP, Godley BJ, Keith SA, McKinley E, Peck LS, Calado R, Defeo O, Degraer S, Johnston EL, Kaartokallio H, Macreadie PI, Metaxas A, Muthumbi AWN, Obura DO, Paterson DM, Piola AR, Richardson AJ, Schloss IR, Snelgrove PVR, Stewart BD, Thompson PM, Watson GJ, Worthington TA, Yasuhara M, Sutherland WJ. A global horizon scan of issues impacting marine and coastal biodiversity conservation. Nat Ecol Evol 2022; 6:1262-1270. [PMID: 35798839 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-022-01812-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The biodiversity of marine and coastal habitats is experiencing unprecedented change. While there are well-known drivers of these changes, such as overexploitation, climate change and pollution, there are also relatively unknown emerging issues that are poorly understood or recognized that have potentially positive or negative impacts on marine and coastal ecosystems. In this inaugural Marine and Coastal Horizon Scan, we brought together 30 scientists, policymakers and practitioners with transdisciplinary expertise in marine and coastal systems to identify new issues that are likely to have a significant impact on the functioning and conservation of marine and coastal biodiversity over the next 5-10 years. Based on a modified Delphi voting process, the final 15 issues presented were distilled from a list of 75 submitted by participants at the start of the process. These issues are grouped into three categories: ecosystem impacts, for example the impact of wildfires and the effect of poleward migration on equatorial biodiversity; resource exploitation, including an increase in the trade of fish swim bladders and increased exploitation of marine collagens; and new technologies, such as soft robotics and new biodegradable products. Our early identification of these issues and their potential impacts on marine and coastal biodiversity will support scientists, conservationists, resource managers and policymakers to address the challenges facing marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann Thornton
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Diva J Amon
- SpeSeas, D'Abadie, Trinidad and Tobago.,Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | - Isabelle M Côté
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maria P Dias
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Department of Animal Biology, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,BirdLife International, The David Attenborough Building, Cambridge, UK
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, UK
| | - Sally A Keith
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Emma McKinley
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lloyd S Peck
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ricardo Calado
- ECOMARE, CESAM-Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Santiago University Campus, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Omar Defeo
- Laboratory of Marine Sciences (UNDECIMAR), Faculty of Sciences, University of the Republic, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Steven Degraer
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Operational Directorate Natural Environment, Marine Ecology and Management, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Emma L Johnston
- School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Peter I Macreadie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood Campus, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna Metaxas
- Department of Oceanography, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - David O Obura
- Coastal Oceans Research and Development in the Indian Ocean, Mombasa, Kenya.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David M Paterson
- Scottish Oceans Institute, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Alberto R Piola
- Servício de Hidrografía Naval, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto Franco-Argentino sobre Estudios de Clima y sus Impactos, CONICET/CNRS, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anthony J Richardson
- School of Mathematics and Physics, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Oceans and Atmosphere, Queensland Biosciences Precinct, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Irene R Schloss
- Instituto Antártico Argentino, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Centro Austral de Investigaciones Científicas (CADIC-CONICET), Ushuaia, Argentina.,Universidad Nacional de Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur, Ushuaia, Argentina
| | - Paul V R Snelgrove
- Department of Ocean Sciences and Biology Department, Memorial University, St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Bryce D Stewart
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, UK
| | - Paul M Thompson
- Lighthouse Field Station, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Cromarty, UK
| | - Gordon J Watson
- Institute of Marine Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Thomas A Worthington
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Moriaki Yasuhara
- School of Biological Sciences, Area of Ecology and Biodiversity, Swire Institute of Marine Science, Institute for Climate and Carbon Neutrality, Musketeers Foundation Institute of Data Science, and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Hong Kong, China
| | - William J Sutherland
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK.,Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's (BioRISC), St Catharine's College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Varyan I, Tyubaeva P, Kolesnikova N, Popov A. Biodegradable Polymer Materials Based on Polyethylene and Natural Rubber: Acquiring, Investigation, Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:2457. [PMID: 35746033 PMCID: PMC9230834 DOI: 10.3390/polym14122457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The growing amount of synthetic polymeric materials is a great environmental problem that has to be solved as soon as possible. The main factor aggravating this problem is the abundance of products made from traditional synthetic polymer, such as packaging materials, cases, containers and other equipment with a short period of use, which quickly turns into polymer waste that pollutes the ecosystem for decades. In this paper, we consider the possibility of solving this problem by the development of biodegradable compositions based on polyolefins and elastomers. The addition of a natural component (natural rubber) to the matrix of the synthetic polymeric (polyethylene) leads to the significant changes in structure and properties of the material. Different aspects of mixing semicrystalline and amorphous polymers are discussed in the article. It was shown that addition of 10-50% wt. of the elastomers to the synthetic polymer increases wettability of the material, slightly reduces the mechanical properties, significantly affects the supramolecular structure of the crystalline phase of polyethylene and initiates microbiological degradation. In particular, in this work, the acquisition, structure and properties of biodegradable binary composites based on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and natural rubber (NR) were studied. It has been shown that such compositions are biodegradable in soil under standard conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivetta Varyan
- Joint Research Center, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 36 Stremyanny Lane, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Biological and Chemical Physics of Polymers, Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Kosygina Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Polina Tyubaeva
- Joint Research Center, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 36 Stremyanny Lane, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Biological and Chemical Physics of Polymers, Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Kosygina Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Natalya Kolesnikova
- Department of Biological and Chemical Physics of Polymers, Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Kosygina Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Anatoly Popov
- Joint Research Center, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 36 Stremyanny Lane, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Biological and Chemical Physics of Polymers, Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Kosygina Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
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Kobayashi Y, Ishigami A, Ito H. Relating Amorphous Structure to the Tear Strength of Polylactic Acid Films. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14101965. [PMID: 35631847 PMCID: PMC9145306 DOI: 10.3390/polym14101965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Compared with polyolefins that are used as single-use plastics, polylactic acid (PLA) has a lower tear strength in films. The relationship between the tear strength and the higher-order structure of films was investigated using PLA films that absorbed moisture at 30 °C and 95% relative humidity (RH) or that had been annealed under reduced pressure conditions. Although the mobile amorphous (MAm) amount did not change under high humidity, the film became brittle due to enthalpy relaxation. The crystallization by annealing also caused embrittlement, and the MAm amount decreased to 10%. The displacement until tearing is lowered from 2.5 to 0.5 mm in both cases. However, in situ retardation measurements revealed that there was a significant difference in the fracture morphology of the torn tip. When crystallized, the molecular chains and crystals are oriented in the tensile direction of the film, and a fragmented structure is observed in the ligament. Embrittlement due to enthalpy relaxation caused a weak orientation perpendicular to the tensile direction of the film, and cracks occurs along with this orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Kobayashi
- Research Center for GREEN Materials and Advanced Processing (GMAP), 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-8510, Japan;
- Correspondence: (Y.K.); (H.I.); Tel.: +81-(238)-263430 (Y.K.); +81-(238)-263081 (H.I.)
| | - Akira Ishigami
- Research Center for GREEN Materials and Advanced Processing (GMAP), 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-8510, Japan;
- Graduate School of Organic Materials Science, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ito
- Research Center for GREEN Materials and Advanced Processing (GMAP), 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-8510, Japan;
- Graduate School of Organic Materials Science, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-8510, Japan
- Correspondence: (Y.K.); (H.I.); Tel.: +81-(238)-263430 (Y.K.); +81-(238)-263081 (H.I.)
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45
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Liu B, Guan T, Wu G, Fu Y, Weng Y. Biodegradation Behavior of Degradable Mulch with Poly (Butylene Adipate-co-Terephthalate) (PBAT) and Poly (Butylene Succinate) (PBS) in Simulation Marine Environment. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14081515. [PMID: 35458265 PMCID: PMC9032892 DOI: 10.3390/polym14081515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) are polyester materials with excellent biodegradability under soil and compost conditions. However, the research on their degradation process in the marine environment is scarce. In this study, a more realistic simulation marine environment with sediment and marine organisms was developed, followed by investigation of the biodegradation behavior of PBAT and PBS mulch in it. The effect of aromatic structure, carboxyl end group content, molecular weight, and inorganic fillers on the degeneration of mulch was characterized by the changes in appearance, chemical structure, thermal properties, and crystallinity via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, gel permeation chromatography, element analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The molecular weight of polyester blends decreased, while the content of the C-O bond in the composites increased, indicating that the samples indeed degraded. The degradation rate was measured with the CO2 release amount. The aliphatic polyester structure, lower molecular weight, higher carboxyl end group content, and the involvement of inorganic fillers facilitate the disintegration of polyester in the marine environment, which provides an effective method to construct materials with controllable biodegradable performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (B.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Tonghui Guan
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (B.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Gang Wu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China;
| | - Ye Fu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (B.L.); (T.G.)
- Correspondence: (Y.F.); (Y.W.); Tel.: +86-10-68985455 (Y.F.); +86-10-68985563 (Y.W.)
| | - Yunxuan Weng
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (B.L.); (T.G.)
- Correspondence: (Y.F.); (Y.W.); Tel.: +86-10-68985455 (Y.F.); +86-10-68985563 (Y.W.)
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46
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Wang Q, Xu Y, Xu P, Yang W, Chen M, Dong W, Ma P. Crystallization of microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:330-343. [PMID: 35398060 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), produced by the microbial fermentation, is a promising green polymer and has attracted much attention due to its excellent biocompatibility, complete biodegradability, and non-cytotoxicity. The physical properties of PHAs are closely related to their chemical and crystalline structure. Therefore, deep understanding and regulating the structure and crystallization of PHAs are the key factors to improve the performance of PHAs. This review first provides a brief overview of the development history, chemical structure, and basic properties of PHAs. Then, the crystal structure, crystal morphology, kinetics theories and crystallization behavior of nucleation-induced PHAs are systematically summarized to provide a theoretical foundation for improving PHAs crystallization rate and physical properties. In the end, the outlook on the crystallization and application prospects of PHAs is also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yunsheng Xu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Pengwu Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China.
| | - Weijun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Weifu Dong
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Piming Ma
- The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China.
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Hu H, Li J, Luo S, Tian Y, Wang J, Zhao YL, Zhang R, Zhu J. Design of 2,5-furandicarboxylic based polyesters degraded in different environmental conditions: Comprehensive experimental and theoretical study. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 425:127752. [PMID: 34906869 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, the promotion and application of aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters, such as poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), are growing into a general trend. Although the structures of diacids exerted substantial impacts on degradation behavior, the underlying mechanisms have rarely been studied. In this work, 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid was combined with succinic acid (PBSF), adipic acid (PBAF) and diglycolic acid (PBDF) to prepare three kinds of copolyesters. They showed unique degradation behaviors in buffer, enzyme environment and artificial seawater. These characteristics are closely related to the structural compositions of diacids. PBAFs displayed impressive biodegradability when catalyzed by Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB), while the more hydrophilic PBDFs exhibited faster hydrolysis in both buffer and artificial seawater. PBSFs, with hydrophobic and short segments, obtained a relatively slower rate of hydrolysis and enzymatic degradation. The reactivity sites and hydrolytic pathway were revealed by the combination of DFT calculation and Fukui function analysis. MD simulations, QM/MM optimizations and theozyme calculations showed that PBAF-CALB was prone to form a pre-reaction state, leading to the reduced energy barrier in the acylation process. This work revealed the effects of different structural features of diacids on polymer degradation and paved a way to design target biodegradable polymers in different degradation conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shenggan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ying Tian
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Jinggang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Yi-Lei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States.
| | - Ruoyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
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48
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Rajendran N, Han J. Techno-economic analysis of food waste valorization for integrated production of polyhydroxyalkanoates and biofuels. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 348:126796. [PMID: 35121100 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on the techno-economic analysis of integrated polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and biofuels such as biohydrogen, bioethanol, and 2,3-butanediol production from food waste (FW). Based on previous literature studies, the integrated process was developed. The process plan produced 2.01 MT of PHAs, 0.29 MT of biohydrogen, 4.79 MT of bioethanol, and 6.79 MT of 2,3-butanediol per day, from 50 MT of FW. The process plan has a positive net present value of 4.47 M$, a 13.68% return on investment, a payback period of 7.31 yr, and an internal rate of return of 11.95%. Sensitivity analysis was used to examine the economic feasibility. The actual minimum selling price (MSP) of PHAs was 4.83 $/kg, and the lowest achievable MSP with 30% solid loading is 2.41 $/kg. The solid loading in the hydrolysis stage and the price of byproducts have a major impact on the economic factors and MSP of PHAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveenkumar Rajendran
- School of Chemical Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeehoon Han
- School of Chemical Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 54896, Republic of Korea; School of Semiconductor and Chemical Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 54896, Republic of Korea.
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Su Y, Cheng Z, Hou Y, Lin S, Gao L, Wang Z, Bao R, Peng L. Biodegradable and conventional microplastics posed similar toxicity to marine algae Chlorella vulgaris. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 244:106097. [PMID: 35085953 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that some conventional microplastics (CMPs) have toxicities to organisms, however, whether biodegradable microplastics (BMPs) have similar potential risks to marine ecosystems remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate i) the effects of CMPs (i. e., micro-sized polyethylene (mPE) and polyamide (mPA)) on marine algae Chlorella vulgaris; and ii) the potential effects of BMPs (i.e., micro-sized polylactic acid (mPLA) and polybutylene succinate (mPBS)) on C. vulgaris. The results showed that either CMPs or BMPs inhibited the growth of microalgae compared with the control. The maximum inhibition ratio of the four types of MPs on C. vulgaris were 47.24% (mPE, 1 000 mg/L), 40.36% (mPA, 100 mg/L), 47.95% (mPLA, 100 mg/L) and 34.25% (mPBS, 100 mg/L), respectively. Among them, mPLA showed the strongest inhibitory effect on the growth of C. vulgaris. Interestingly, the MPs can stimulate the contents of pigments (e.g., chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid), which may be acted as cellular defense to the stress induced by MPs. The results also showed that MPs stimulated the production of EPS. Under the investigated condition, the strongest inhibition on C. vulgaris was induced by mPLA, and followed by mPE, mPA, and mPBS. It was found that the factors such as the physicochemical properties of MPs (e.g., shading effect, the roughness of surface, the increase in potential), the chemical changes (i.e., the release of additives, the increase of oxidative stress) contributed to the inhibitory effects of MPs on microalgae, but the deciding factor remains to be further systematically explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zhiruo Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yipeng Hou
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Shengyou Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Liu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zezheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Ruiqi Bao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
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Soo XYD, Wang S, Yeo CCJ, Li J, Ni XP, Jiang L, Xue K, Li Z, Fei X, Zhu Q, Loh XJ. Polylactic acid face masks: Are these the sustainable solutions in times of COVID-19 pandemic? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:151084. [PMID: 34678364 PMCID: PMC8531277 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The global massive consumption of disposable face masks driven by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as a blooming disaster to both the land and marine environment that might last for generations. Growing public concerns have been raised over the management and control of this new form of plastic pollution, and one of the proposed sustainable solution is to use renewable and/or biodegradable resources to develop mask materials in order to minimize their environmental impacts. As a representative biodegradable polymer, polylactic acid (PLA) has been proposed as a promising candidate to produce non-woven face masks instead of those fossil-based polymers. To further explore the feasibility of this alternative mask material, the present work aims to study both the hydrolytic and bio-degradation behaviors of pure PLA-derived 3-ply disposable face masks at ambient temperature. Hydrolytic degradability was investigated at different pH conditions of 2, 7 and 13 with the whole piece of face mask soaked for regular timed intervals up to 8 weeks. Weight loss study showed neutral and acidic conditions had minimal effect on PLA masks, but rapid degradation occurred under basic conditions in the first week with a sharp 25% decrease in weight that slowly tapered off, coupled with solution pH dropping from 13 to 9.6. This trend was supported by mechanical property, bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE) and particulate filtration efficiency (PFE) studies. Masks soaked in basic conditions had their modulus and tensile strength dropped by more than 50% after 8 weeks where the middle layer reached 68% and 90% respectively just after 48 h, and BFE and PFE decreased by 14% and 43% respectively after 4 weeks, which was much more significant than those in neutral and acidic conditions. Base degradation was also supported by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and fourier transform infrared (FTIR), which disclosed that only the middle layer undergo major degradation with random chain scission and cleavage of enol or enolate chain ends, while outer and inner layers were much less affected. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) attributed this observation to thinner PLA fibers for the middle layer of 3-7 μm diameter, which on average is 3 times smaller. This degradation was further supported by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) which saw an increase in lower molecular weight fragment Mw ~ 800 Da with soaking duration. The biodegradation behavior was studied under OECD 301F specification in sewage sludge environment. Similarly, degradation to the middle meltblown layer was more extensive, where the average weight loss and carbon loss was 25.8% and 25.7% respectively, double that of outer/inner spunbond layer. The results showed that the face masks did not completely disintegrate after 8 weeks, but small solubilized fragments of PLA formed in the biodegradation process can be completely mineralized into carbon dioxide without generation of secondary microplastic pollution in the environment. PLA masks are therefore a slightly greener option to consider in times of a pandemic that the world was caught unprepared; however future research on masks could be geared towards a higher degradability material that fully breaks down into non-harmful components while maintaining durability, filtration and protection properties for users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yun Debbie Soo
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Suxi Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Chee Chuan Jayven Yeo
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Jiuwei Li
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 1 Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637141, Singapore
| | - Xi Ping Ni
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Lu Jiang
- School of Biomedicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Xue
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Zibiao Li
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore.
| | - Xunchang Fei
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 1 Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637141, Singapore.
| | - Qiang Zhu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore.
| | - Xian Jun Loh
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore.
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