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Yamen SNM, Samsudin MS, Azid A, Norizan MN, Suradee APK, Rosli MIFM. First Evidence of Microplastic Ingestion by Riverine Fish From the Freshwater of Northwest Peninsular Malaysia. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 39119975 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
In a baseline study, we investigated microplastic contamination in fish from the Pinang and Kerian Rivers in Northwest Peninsular Malaysia. In recognition of the growing concern over microplastic pollution in aquatic environments, we aimed to assess the abundance and characteristics of microplastics ingested by various fish species. Fish samples were collected from local fishermen, followed by a digestion process using 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH). Microplastics were isolated and analyzed through visual examination and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results revealed a high prevalence of microplastics, with Johnius borneensis and Oreochromis sp. exhibiting the highest abundance, averaging 48.6 and 42.8 microplastics/g, respectively. The predominant shapes were fibers (55.6%) and fragments (25.9%), with colors primarily transparent (48.19%) and black (30.12%). Our results indicate significant contamination levels in freshwater fish, emphasizing the need for further research and effective mitigation strategies. These findings provide crucial baseline data on microplastics in Malaysian freshwater ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-10. © 2024 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohd Saiful Samsudin
- Environmental Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Azman Azid
- Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, University Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut Campus, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Nurazzi Norizan
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Aidee Putera Kamal Suradee
- Environmental Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
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2
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Mishra M, Sudarsan D, Santos CAG, da Silva RM, Beja SK, Paul S, Bhanja P, Sethy M. Current patterns and trends of microplastic pollution in the marine environment: A bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:22925-22944. [PMID: 38416357 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32511-x] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are pervasive in the natural environment and pose a growing concern for global health. Plastic waste in marine environments has emerged as a global issue, threatening not only marine biota but also human health due to its implications for the food chain. This study aims to discern the patterns and trends of research, specifically on Marine Microplastic Pollution (MMP), based on a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications from 2011 to 2022. The methodology utilized in this study comprises three stages: (a) creating a bibliographical dataset from Scopus by Elsevier and the Web of Science Core Collection by Clarivate Analytics, (b) analyzing current research (trends and patterns) using bibliometric analysis through Biblioshiny tool, and (c) examining themes and subthemes in MMP research (wastewater treatment, plastic ingestion, the Mediterranean Sea, microplastics pollution, microplastics in freshwater, microplastic ingestion, plastic pollution, and microplastic pollution in the marine environment). The findings reveal that during the studied period, the number of MMP publications amounted to 1377 articles, with an average citation per publication of 59.23 and a total citation count of 81,553. The most cited article was published in 2011, and since then, the number of publications on this topic has been increasing steadily. The author count stood at 5478, with 22 trending topics identified from the 1377 published titles. Between 2019 and 2022, the countries contributing most to the publication of MMP articles were China, the United States of America (USA), and the United Kingdom (UK). However, a noticeable shift in the origin of author countries was observed in the 2019-2022 timeframe, transitioning from a dominance by the USA and the UK to a predominance by China. In 2019, there was a substantial increase in the volume of publications addressing the topic of microplastics. The results show that the most prevalent themes and subthemes pertained to MMP in the Mediterranean Sea. The journals with the highest number of MMP articles published were the Marine Pollution Bulletin (253 articles) and Science of the Total Environment (190 articles). The analysis concludes that research on MMP remains prominent and appears to be increasing each year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoranjan Mishra
- Department of Geography, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Nuapadhi, Balasore, 756089, Odisha, India
| | - Desul Sudarsan
- Department of Library and Information Science, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, Odisha, India
| | - Celso Augusto Guimarães Santos
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58051-900, Paraíba, Brazil.
| | | | - Santosh Kumar Beja
- Department of Environmental Science, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, Odisha, India
| | - Suman Paul
- Department of Geography, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Nuapadhi, Balasore, 756089, Odisha, India
| | - Pragati Bhanja
- Department of Library and Information Science, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, Odisha, India
| | - Murtyunjya Sethy
- Department of Library and Information Science, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, Odisha, India
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3
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Modekwe HU, Daramola MO, Mamo MA, Moothi K. Recent advancements in the use of plastics as a carbon source for carbon nanotubes synthesis - A review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24679. [PMID: 38304810 PMCID: PMC10830538 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24679] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics, which majorly consist of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc., are the most abundant municipal solid wastes (MSW). They have been utilized as a cheap carbon feedstock in the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) because of their high hydrocarbon content, mainly carbon and hydrogen, especially for the polyolefins. In this review, the detailed progress made so far in the use of plastics (both waste and virgin) as cheap carbon feedstock in the synthesis of CNTs (only) over the years is studied. The primary aim of this work is to provide an expansive landscape made so far, especially in the areas of catalysts, catalyst supports, and the methods employed in their preparations and other operational growth conditions, as well as already explored applications of plastic-derived CNTs. This is to enable researchers to easily access, understand, and summarise previous works done in this area, forging ahead towards improving the yield and quality of plastic-derived CNTs, which could extend their market and use in other purity-sensitive applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen U. Modekwe
- Renewable Energy and Biomass Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michael O. Daramola
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, University of Pretoria, Private bag X20 Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Messai A. Mamo
- Research Centre for Synthesis and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kapil Moothi
- School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
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4
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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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5
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Das S, Mukherjee A. Combined effects of P25 TiO 2 nanoparticles and disposable face mask leachate on microalgae Scenedesmus obliquus: analysing the effects of heavy metals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2023; 25:1428-1437. [PMID: 37534914 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00120b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Disposable surgical face masks extensively used during the COVID-19 outbreak would release microplastics into the aquatic environment. The increasing usage of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nTiO2) in various consumer items has led to its ubiquitous presence in freshwater systems. This study determined the quantity and kind of microplastics discharged from disposable surgical face masks. The mask-leached microplastics were identified to be polypropylene of varying shapes and sizes, spanning from 1 μm to 15 μm. In addition, heavy metals like Cd, Cr, and Hg leached from the face masks were quantified. Four concentrations of nTiO2, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mg L-1, were mixed with leached solution from the face masks to perform the combined toxicity test on freshwater algae, Scenedesmus obliquus. A dose-dependent decrease in algal cell viability was observed upon treatment with various concentrations of nTiO2 individually. The mixtures of nTiO2 and the leached solution from the face masks exhibited significantly more toxicity in the algal cells than in their pristine forms. nTiO2 promoted increased production of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities resulting in cellular damage and decreased photosynthesis. These impacts were elevated when the algal cells were treated with the binary mixture. Furthermore, the heavy metal ions leached from face masks also contributed to the toxic effects. Our study shows that the leachates from disposable surgical face masks, combined with nTiO2, may pose a severe environmental threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soupam Das
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India.
| | - Amitava Mukherjee
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India.
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Falk-Andersson J, Rognerud I, De Frond H, Leone G, Karasik R, Diana Z, Dijkstra H, Ammendolia J, Eriksen M, Utz R, Walker TR, Fürst K. Cleaning Up without Messing Up: Maximizing the Benefits of Plastic Clean-Up Technologies through New Regulatory Approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:13304-13312. [PMID: 37638638 PMCID: PMC10501118 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c01885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
As the global plastics crisis grows, numerous technologies have been invented and implemented to recover plastic pollution from the environment. Although laudable, unregulated clean-up technologies may be inefficient and have unintended negative consequences on ecosystems, for example, through bycatch or removal of organic matter important for ecosystem functions. Despite these concerns, plastic clean-up technologies can play an important role in reducing litter in the environment. As the United Nations Environment Assembly is moving toward an international, legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution by 2024, the implementation of plastic clean-up technologies should be regulated to secure their net benefits and avoid unintended damages. Regulation can require environmental impact assessments and life cycle analysis to be conducted predeployment on a case-by-case basis to determine their effectiveness and impact and secure environmentally sound management. During operations catch-efficiency and bycatch of nonlitter items, as well as waste management of recovered litter, should be documented. Data collection for monitoring, research, and outreach to mitigate plastic pollution is recommended as added value of implementation of clean-up technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Idun Rognerud
- Norwegian Institute
for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Hannah De Frond
- University
of Toronto Trash Team, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A1, Canada
- Ocean Conservancy, Washington, D.C. 20036, United States
| | - Giulia Leone
- Ghent University, Research Group
Aquatic Ecology, Coupure
links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Flanders
Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400, Ostend, Belgium
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Aquatic Management, Havenlaan 88, 1000, Brussels, Belgium
- Research
Foundation − Flanders (FWO), Leuvenseweg 38, 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rachel Karasik
- Nicholas
Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Zoie Diana
- Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the
Environment, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Duke University, Beaufort, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Integrated Toxicology
and Environmental Health, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Hanna Dijkstra
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Vrije
Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1111, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Justine Ammendolia
- School
for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Marcus Eriksen
- The 5 Gyres Institute, Los Angeles, California 90409, United States
| | - Ria Utz
- Sciences Po Paris, 27, rue Saint-Guillaume, 75007, Paris, France
- University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Tony R. Walker
- School
for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Kathinka Fürst
- Norwegian Institute
for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
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Gbadeyan OJ, Linganiso LZ, Deenadayalu N. Assessment and Optimization of Thermal Stability and Water Absorption of Loading Snail Shell Nanoparticles and Sugarcane Bagasse Cellulose Fibers on Polylactic Acid Bioplastic Films. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15061557. [PMID: 36987337 PMCID: PMC10055778 DOI: 10.3390/polym15061557] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The optimization and modeling of the parameters, the concentration of polylactic acid (PLA), sugarcane bagasse cellulose fibers (SBCF), and snail shell nanoparticles (SSNP), were investigated for the development of bioplastic films. With the aid of the Box-Behnken experimental design, response surface methodology was used to assess the consequence of the parameters on the water absorption and thermal stability of fabricated bioplastic films. Varied water absorption and thermal stability with different component loading were obtained, evidencing the loading effect of snail shell nanoparticles and sugar bagasse cellulose fibers on bioplastic film's water absorption and thermal stability. The quadratic polynomial model experiment data offered a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.8422 for water absorption and 0.8318 for thermal stability, verifying the models' fitness to develop optimal concentration. The predicted optimal parameters were polylactic acid (99.815%), sugarcane bagasse cellulose fibers (0.036%), and snail shell nanoparticles (0.634%). The bioplastic developed with optimized concentrations of each component exhibited water absorption and thermal stability of 0.45% and 259.7 °C, respectively. The FTIR curves of bioplastic films show oxygen stretching in-plane carbon and single-bonded hydroxyl bending in the carboxylic acids functional group. SEM and TEM images of the bioplastic showed dispersion of the nanoparticles in the matrix, where SSNP is more visible than SBCF, which may be due to the lesser loading of SBCF. The improved properties suggest an optimum concentration of naturally sourced resources for developing bioplastic, which may be used for food and drug packaging for delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatoyin J Gbadeyan
- Green Engineering Research Focus Area, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Department of Chemistry, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Linda Z Linganiso
- Department of Chemistry, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Nirmala Deenadayalu
- Green Engineering Research Focus Area, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Department of Chemistry, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa
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8
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Ekanayake A, Rajapaksha AU, Hewawasam C, Anand U, Bontempi E, Kurwadkar S, Biswas JK, Vithanage M. Environmental challenges of COVID-19 pandemic: resilience and sustainability - A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114496. [PMID: 36257453 PMCID: PMC9576205 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of novel respiratory disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a public health emergency worldwide and perturbed the global economy and ecosystem services. Many studies have reported the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental compartments, its transmission via environmental routes, and potential environmental challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. None of these studies have comprehensively reviewed the bidirectional relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and the environment. For the first time, we explored the relationship between the environment and the SARS-CoV-2 virus/COVID-19 and how they affect each other. Supporting evidence presented here clearly demonstrates the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in soil and water, denoting the role of the environment in the COVID-19 transmission process. However, most studies fail to determine if the viral genomes they have discovered are infectious, which could be affected by the environmental factors in which they are found.The potential environmental impact of the pandemic, including water pollution, chemical contamination, increased generation of non-biodegradable waste, and single-use plastics have received the most attention. For the most part, efficient measures have been used to address the current environmental challenges from COVID-19, including using environmentally friendly disinfection technologies and employing measures to reduce the production of plastic wastes, such as the reuse and recycling of plastics. Developing sustainable solutions to counter the environmental challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic should be included in national preparedness strategies. In conclusion, combating the pandemic and accomplishing public health goals should be balanced with environmentally sustainable measures, as the two are closely intertwined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Ekanayake
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Instrument Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka.
| | - Choolaka Hewawasam
- Faculty of Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion, 8499000, Israel
| | - Elza Bontempi
- INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, University of Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Sudarshan Kurwadkar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, California State University, 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA, 92831, USA
| | - Jayanta Kumar Biswas
- Department of Ecological Studies & International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, 741235, West Bengal, India
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India
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9
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Kiong TC, Nordin N, Ahmad Ruslan NAA, Kan SY, Ismail NM, Zakaria Z, Bidai JA, Wang Y, Ariffin F, Chia PW. Valorization of discarded face mask for bioactive compound synthesis and photodegradation of dye. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 213:113737. [PMID: 35752328 PMCID: PMC9351616 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To keep COVID-19 at bay, most countries have mandated the use of face masks in public places and imposed heavy penalties for those who fail to do so. This has inadvertently created a huge demand for disposable face masks and worsened the problem of littering, where a large number of used masks are constantly discarded into the environment. As such, an efficient and innovative waste management strategy for the discarded face mask is urgently needed. This study presents the transformation of discarded face mask into catalyst termed 'mask waste ash catalyst (MWAC)' to synthesise bisindolylmethanes (BIMs), alkaloids that possess antibacterial, antioxidant and antiviral properties. Using commercially available aldehydes and indole, an excellent yield of reaction (62-94%) was achieved using the MWAC in the presence of water as the sole solvent. On the other hand, the FT-IR spectrum of MWAC showed the absorption bands at 2337 cm-1, 1415 cm-1 and 871 cm-1, which correspond to the signals of calcium oxide. It is then proposed that the calcium oxides mainly present in MWAC can protonate oxygen atoms in the carbonyl molecule of the aldehyde group, thus facilitating the nucleophile attack by indole which consequently improved the product yield. Moreover, the MWAC is also observed to facilitate the photodegradation of methylene blue with an efficiency of up to 94.55%. Our results showed the potential applications of the MWAC derived from discarded face masks as a sustainable catalyst for bioactive compound synthesis and photodegradation of dye compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teo Chook Kiong
- Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Nurhamizah Nordin
- Eco-Innovation Research Interest Group, Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Nur Aimi Aqilah Ahmad Ruslan
- Eco-Innovation Research Interest Group, Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Su-Yin Kan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, 21300, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Noor Maizura Ismail
- Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Zainal Zakaria
- Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Joseph Anak Bidai
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment (INOS), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Yi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fazilah Ariffin
- Biological Security and Sustainability Research Group, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Poh Wai Chia
- Eco-Innovation Research Interest Group, Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia.
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10
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Ray SS, Lee HK, Huyen DTT, Chen SS, Kwon YN. Microplastics waste in environment: A perspective on recycling issues from PPE kits and face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 2022; 26:102290. [PMID: 35036477 PMCID: PMC8748211 DOI: 10.1016/j.eti.2022.102290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the extensive use of face masks and protective personal equipment (PPE) kits has led to increasing degree of microplastic pollution (MP) because they are typically discarded into the seas, rivers, streets, and other parts of the environment. Currently, microplastic (MP) pollution has a negative impact on the environment because of high-level fragmentation. Typically, MP pollution can be detected by various techniques, such as microscopic analysis, density separation, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. However, there are limited studies on disposable face masks and PPE kits. A wide range of marine species ingest MPs in the form of fibers and fragments, which directly affect the environment and human health; thus, more research and development are needed on the effect of MP pollution on human health. This article provides a perspective on the origin and distribution of MP pollution in waterbodies (e.g., rivers, ponds, lakes, and seas) and wastewater treatment plants, and reviews the possible remediation of MP pollution related to the excessive disposal of face masks and PPE kits to aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikat Sinha Ray
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Hyung Kae Lee
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Dao Thi Thanh Huyen
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Shiao-Shing Chen
- Institute of Environmental Engineering and Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan
| | - Young-Nam Kwon
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
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11
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Amuah EEY, Agyemang EP, Dankwa P, Fei-Baffoe B, Kazapoe RW, Douti NB. Are used face masks handled as infectious waste? Novel pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. RESOURCES, CONSERVATION & RECYCLING ADVANCES 2022; 13:200062. [PMID: 34939066 PMCID: PMC8628605 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcradv.2021.200062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The extensive use of face masks has raised concerns about environmental pollution through improper disposal of used face masks after the emergence of COVID-19. The increasing use of PPEs to preventing the spread of COVID-19 has resulted in several environmental hazards, creating a new environmental barrier for solid waste management and worsened plastic pollution. This study aimed at assessing the occurrence and distribution of face masks in a metropolitan (Adum - Kumasi), municipal (Ejisu), community (Abenase) and an institution (KNUST) in Ghana. The study showed that a total of 535 face masks were numerated along a stretch of 1,720 m with a density ranging from 0.04 m to 0.42 m. A no significant relationship (P = 0.602) was established between the observation distances and the number of waste face masks numerated. The study also showed that for a 1% increase in the number of face masks on working days, there would be a 0.775% increase in non-working days. A review of literature showed that the disposal of used face masks results in the release of micro- and nano-plastics, Pb, Cu, Sb, Zn, Mn, Ti, Fe and Ca into environmental media. Plastic pollution may be a concern to ecosystems due to its persistence in the environment, lack of environmental awareness, sensitization and education, and poor waste management systems. To ensure a sustainable management of waste face masks, significant efforts are needed. These may include proper disposal, redesigning and producing masks from biodegradable materials, incorporating waste face masks into construction materials, and recycling PPE by pyrolyzing are suggested options for the effective management of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Ebo Yahans Amuah
- Department of Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Paul Dankwa
- Department of Environmental Sciences, C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Bernard Fei-Baffoe
- Department of Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Nang Biyogue Douti
- Department of Environmental Sciences, C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana
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Du H, Huang S, Wang J. Environmental risks of polymer materials from disposable face masks linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 815:152980. [PMID: 35007580 PMCID: PMC8741336 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.152980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The indispensable role of plastic products in our daily life is highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic again. Disposable face masks, made of polymer materials, as effective and cheap personal protective equipment (PPE), have been extensively used by the public to slow down the viral transmission. The repercussions of this have generated million tons of plastic waste being littered into the environment because of the improper disposal and mismanagement amid. And plastic waste can release microplastics (MPs) with the help of physical, chemical and biological processes, which is placing a huge MPs contamination burden on the ecosystem. In this work, the knowledge regarding to the combined effects of MPs and pollutants from the release of face masks and the impacts of wasted face masks and MPs on the environment (terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem) was systematically discussed. In view of these, some green technologies were put forward to reduce the amounts of discarded face masks in the environment, therefore minimizing MPs pollution at its source. Moreover, some recommendations for future research directions were proposed based on the remaining knowledge gaps. In a word, MPs pollution linked to face masks should be a focus worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Du
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Shushi Huang
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Research, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Zhuhai 528478, China; Institute of Eco-Environmental Research, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China.
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Farooq A, Lee J, Song H, Ko CH, Lee IH, Kim YM, Rhee GH, Pyo S, Park YK. Valorization of hazardous COVID-19 mask waste while minimizing hazardous byproducts using catalytic gasification. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 423:127222. [PMID: 34560479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This study proposes a method to valorize hazardous waste such as used COVID-19 face mask via catalytic gasification over Ni-loaded ZSM-5 type zeolites. The 25% Ni was found as an optimal loading on ZSM-5 in terms of H2 production. Among different zeolites (ZSM-5(30), ZSM-5(80), ZSM-5(280), mesoporous (m)-ZSM-5(30), and HY(30)), 25% Ni/m-ZSM-5(30) led to the highest H2 selectivity (45.04 vol%), most likely because of the highest Ni dispersion on the m-ZSM-5(30) surface, high porosity, and acid site density of the m-ZSM-5(30). The content of N-containing species (e.g., caprolactum and nitriles) in the gasification product was also reduced, when steam was used as gasifying agent, which is the source of potentially hazardous air pollutants (e.g., NOx). The increase in the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio resulted in lower tar conversion and lower H2 generation. At comparable conditions, steam gasification of the mask led to ~15 vol% higher H2 selectivity than air gasification. Overall, the Ni-loaded zeolite catalyst can not only suppress the formation of hazardous substances but also enhance the production of hydrogen from the hazardous waste material such as COVID-19 mask waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abid Farooq
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jechan Lee
- Department of Environmental and Safety Engineering & Department of Energy Systems Research, Ajou University, 206 World cup-ro, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hocheol Song
- Department of Environment and Energy, Sejong University, 209 Neungdong-ro, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hyun Ko
- School of Chemical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Im-Hack Lee
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Min Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Daegu University, Gyeonsan 38453, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang Hoon Rhee
- Department of Mechanical and Information Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Sumin Pyo
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kwon Park
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
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Asim N, Badiei M, Sopian K. Review of the valorization options for the proper disposal of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 2021; 23:101797. [PMID: 34307792 PMCID: PMC8278925 DOI: 10.1016/j.eti.2021.101797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only human health and economies but also the environment due to the large volume of waste in the form of discarded personal protective equipment. The remarkable increase in the global usage of face masks, which mainly contain polypropylene, and improper waste management have led to a serious environmental challenge called microplastic pollution. Potential practices for waste management related to waste valorization of discarded face masks as the major type of waste during the COVID-19 pandemic are explored in this study. Recommendations based on governmental practices, situation of state facilities, and societal awareness and engagement applicable to emergency (including COVID-19 pandemic) and postpandemic scenarios are offered while considering potential solutions and available waste management practices in different countries during emergency conditions. However, multicriteria decision making for a country must determine the optimal solution for waste management on the basis of all affecting factors. Awareness of scientific, governments, and communities worldwide will successfully eradicate this important environmental issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilofar Asim
- Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
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Selvaranjan K, Navaratnam S, Rajeev P, Ravintherakumaran N. Environmental challenges induced by extensive use of face masks during COVID-19: A review and potential solutions. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 3:100039. [PMID: 38620606 PMCID: PMC7873601 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 disease significantly affects not only human health, it also affects the wealth of country' economy and everyday routine of human life. To control the spread of the virus, face mask is used as primary personal protective equipment (PPE). Thus, the production and usage of face masks significantly increase as the COVID-19 pandemic still escalating. Further, most of these masks contain plastics or other derivatives of plastics. Therefore, this extensive usage of face masks generates million tons of plastic wastes to the environments in a short span of time. This study aims to investigate the environmental impact induced by face mask wastes and sustainable solution to reduce this waste. An online survey was carried out to identify the types of face mask and number of masks used per week by an individual from 1033 people. Based on this survey and available literature, this study quantifies the amount of plastics waste generated by face masks. However, this survey was limited with certain ages, country and durations (July-August 2020). Thus, the prediction of plastic waste generation, only provide fundamental knowledge about the mask wastes. Results revealed that there is a huge plastic waste remained in land and marine environment in the form of mask waste, which will contribute to micro-plastic pollution. Therefore, this paper also highlights the sustainable approach to the mask production by integrating the use of natural plant fiber in the woven face mask technology to reduce the plastic waste induced by masks. Further, upcycling the mask waste and producing construction materials also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pathmanathan Rajeev
- Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia
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