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Albaseer SS, Al-Hazmi HE, Kurniawan TA, Xu X, Abdulrahman SAM, Ezzati P, Habibzadeh S, Hollert H, Rabiee N, Lima EC, Badawi M, Saeb MR. Microplastics in water resources: Global pollution circle, possible technological solutions, legislations, and future horizon. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173963. [PMID: 38901599 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Beneath the surface of our ecosystems, microplastics (MPs) silently loom as a significant threat. These minuscule pollutants, invisible to the naked eye, wreak havoc on living organisms and disrupt the delicate balance of our environment. As we delve into a trove of data and reports, a troubling narrative unfolds: MPs pose a grave risk to both health and food chains with their diverse compositions and chemical characteristics. Nevertheless, the peril extends further. MPs infiltrate the environment and intertwine with other pollutants. Worldwide, microplastic levels fluctuate dramatically, ranging from 0.001 to 140 particles.m-3 in water and 0.2 to 8766 particles.g-1 in sediment, painting a stark picture of pervasive pollution. Coastal and marine ecosystems bear the brunt, with each organism laden with thousands of microplastic particles. MPs possess a remarkable ability to absorb a plethora of contaminants, and their environmental behavior is influenced by factors such as molecular weight and pH. Reported adsorption capacities of MPs vary greatly, spanning from 0.001 to 12,700 μg·g-1. These distressing figures serve as a clarion call, demanding immediate action and heightened environmental consciousness. Legislation, innovation, and sustainable practices stand as indispensable defenses against this encroaching menace. Grasping the intricate interplay between microplastics and pollutants is paramount, guiding us toward effective mitigation strategies and preserving our health ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed S Albaseer
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Department Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | | | - Xianbao Xu
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sameer A M Abdulrahman
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Education and Sciences-Rada'a, Albaydha University, Albaydha, Yemen
| | - Peyman Ezzati
- ERA Co., Ltd, Science and Technology Center, P.O. Box: 318020, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sajjad Habibzadeh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran
| | - Henner Hollert
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Department Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Eder C Lima
- Institute of Chemistry - Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Michael Badawi
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, Laboratoire Lorrain de Chimie Moléculaire, F-57000 Metz, France
| | - Mohammad Reza Saeb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, J. Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland.
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Zou X, Cao K, Wang Q, Kang S, Wang Y. Enhanced degradation of polylactic acid microplastics in acidic soils: Does the application of biochar matter? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135262. [PMID: 39047572 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics, as an alternative to petroleum plastics, are fiercely increasing, but their incomplete degradation under natural conditions may lead to the breakdown into microplastics (MPs). Here, we explored the impacts of chicken manure-derived (MBC) and wood waste-derived biochar (WBC) on the degradation of polylactic acid microplastics (PLA-MPs) during soil incubation for one year. Both biochars induced more pronounced degradation characteristics in PLA-MPs, including enhanced surface roughness, the proportion of MPs < 100 µm by 12.89 %-25.67 %, oxygen loading and O/C ratio to 71.74 %-75.87 % and 1.70-1.76, as well as accelerated carbon loss and the cleavage of ester group and C-C bond. Also, biochar increased soil pH, depleted inorganic nitrogen and available phosphorus, and changed enzymic activity in PLA-MP-polluted soils. We proposed that both biochars accelerated the PLA-MP degradation by inducing alkaline, aminolysis/ammonolysis, oxidative, and microbial degradation. Among these, MBC induced aminolysis/ammonolysis by NH4+ via Fe2+-driven NO3-/NO2- reduction and microbial nitrogen fixation, and oxidative degradation by radicals generated through Fenton/Fenton-like reaction. WBC caused aminolysis/ammonolysis and oxidative degradation mainly through dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium and surface free radicals on biochar. These findings indicate that biochar has the potential to accelerate PLA-MP degradation, and its regulatory mechanism depends on the type of biochar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zou
- Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China.
| | - Kaibo Cao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Shilei Kang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
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Zhao F, Song G, Li H, Wu Y, Dong W. A near-zero-discharge recirculating aquaculture system with 3D-printed poly (lactic acid) honeycomb as solid carbon. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176097. [PMID: 39245379 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
A novel near-zero-discharge recirculating aquaculture system was successfully set up and ran for six months or above. A uniquely designed and 3D printed poly (lactic acid) (PLA) structure was applied as carbon source. The system achieved over 50 % daily nitrogen removal capability and maintained a low NO3-N level of <0.5 mg/L. Steady water quality was observed throughout the experiment period. Microbial distribution was studied and top abundant microorganisms and their general functions in carbon and nitrogen utilization were discussed. Denitrification and L-glutamate formation were identified as two main nitrogen pathways. The cooccurrence network connecting various genera and multiple functions was revealed. Subtilisin was one important PLA degrading enzymes in the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guoxin Song
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hongjing Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yanlin Wu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai Polytechnic University, Shanghai 201209, China.
| | - Wenbo Dong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China; Shanghai institute of pollution control and ecological security, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Yu Y, Lin S, Sarkar B, Wang J, Liu X, Wang D, Ge T, Li Y, Zhu B, Yao H. Mineralization and microbial utilization of poly(lactic acid) microplastic in soil. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135080. [PMID: 38996676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135080] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
The current carbon dioxide (CO2) evolution-based standard method for determining biodegradable microplastics (MPs) degradation neglects its priming effect on soil organic matter decomposition, which misestimates their biodegradability. Here, a 13C natural abundance method was used to estimate the mineralization of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) MP in various agricultural soils, and to trace its utilization in different microbial groups. In alkaline soils, the PLA-derived CO2 emissions increased with increasing soil carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratios, and the mineralization of PLA MP concentrations ranged from 3-33 %, whereas the CO2 evolution method probably over- or under-estimated the mineralization of PLA in alkaline soils with different soil C/N ratios. Low PLA mineralization (1-5 %) were found in the acidic soil, and the standard method largely overestimated the mineralization of PLA MP by 1.3- to 3.3-fold. Moreover, the hydrolysate of PLA MP was preferentially assimilated by Gram-negative bacteria, but Gram-positive bacterial decomposition mainly contributed to the release of PLA-derived CO2 at low MP concentrations (≤ 1 %). Overall, the 13C natural abundance method appears to be suitable for tracking the mineralization and microbial utilization of biodegradable PLA in soils, and the PLA-derived C is mainly assimilated and decomposed by bacterial groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxiang Yu
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, 206 Guanggu 1st road, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Shiying Lin
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, 206 Guanggu 1st road, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Juan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Xinhui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Danni Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Tida Ge
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yaying Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Biao Zhu
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, and Key Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes of the Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| | - Huaiying Yao
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, 206 Guanggu 1st road, Wuhan 430205, China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
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5
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Cui J, Chen Z, Lin Y. Accelerated hydrolytic degradation of poly(l-lactide) by blending with poly(ether-block-amide). Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:135053. [PMID: 39187101 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135053] [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: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
A continuing challenge in the most common biodegradable polyester of poly(l-lactide) (PLLA) is to improve the degradation rate in the environment, though it has been widely used in packaging and medical applications. In this study, PLLA/poly(ether-block-amide) (PEBA) blends are prepared by melt blending to investigate the effect of PEBA component on the phase morphology, thermal behavior, mechanical properties, and hydrolytic degradation of the blends. The incorporation of PEBA component is beneficial to the improved toughness and increased water absorption of the blends, and accelerated hydrolytic degradation of PLLA. The blend exhibits the optimal mechanical and hydrolytic degradation properties when the blend mass ratio of PLLA/PEBA is 80/20. The toughness of the blend is increased by 390 % compared to that of pure PLLA. After being hydrolyzed at 58 °C for 240 h, the water absorption, the mass loss and the decrease of molecular weight of the blend is increased by 138 %, 160 % and 40 %, respectively, indicating faster hydrolytic degradation rate of the blend than that of pure PLLA. Furthermore, the accelerated hydrolytic degradation mechanism of PLLA in the blend is revealed. The amorphous region of PLLA is hydrolyzed initially at the phase interface of the blend, and subsequently the crystalline structure of PLLA is degraded. The hydrolysis process causes a change in the relative content of crystalline regions in the system, resulting in an increase in crystallinity of PLLA first and then decrease. These findings provide a new strategy for the design of novel degradable PLLA materials for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsen Cui
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhibo Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yu Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
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Cheung CKH, Not C. Degradation efficiency of biodegradable plastics in subtropical open-air and marine environments: Implications for plastic pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 938:173397. [PMID: 38797407 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173397] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Bioplastics are increasingly used as a solution to tackle plastic pollution problems. However, their degradability in natural environments is currently under debate. To evaluate their degradation efficiencies, we conducted in-situ degradation experiments in an open-air and two marine environments in Hong Kong. Three groups of biodegradable plastic were tested, namely (1) additive-modified low-density polyethylene (LDPE), labelled as oxo-biodegradable or photodegradable plastics, (2) polylactic acid (PLA), and (3) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/starch blends. Most biodegradable plastics fail to completely degrade but remain visually present after six months of exposure. Only PLA is able to demonstrate 100 % disintegration in one to three months in marine settings, suggesting that subtropical marine environments may favor PLA degradation. Biodegradable plastics that are bio-based (PLA and PVA/Starch blends) show notably larger mass losses by 23-100 % than the fossil-based ones (modified-LDPE). Our results reveal higher degradation efficiencies of PLA and PVA/Cassava starch blend in marine than open-air settings (with mass losses larger by 50 %, and by 39-41 %, respectively), potentially via biodegradation and hydrolysis. Meanwhile, modified-LDPE and PVA/Corn starch blends in general show higher degradation efficiencies in open-air than marine settings (with mass losses larger by 2 %, and by 17-33 %, respectively), potentially via abiotic oxidation. Since all tested biodegradable plastics exhibit potential fragmentation signs, further investigation is needed to characterize the behaviours of the microplastics generated. The current labelling on biodegradable bags fails to provide comprehensive information regarding their actual environmental degradation behaviours, especially considering their fragmentation risk and limited degradation exhibited in this study. This highlights the imperative for improved messaging to ensure consumers are better informed about these products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coco Ka Hei Cheung
- Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong; The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
| | - Christelle Not
- Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong; The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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Banerjee A, Dhal MK, Madhu K, Chah CN, Rattan B, Katiyar V, Sekharan S, Sarmah AK. Landfill-mined soil-like fraction (LMSF) use in biopolymer composting: Material pre-treatment, bioaugmentation and agricultural prospects. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 355:124255. [PMID: 38815894 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124255] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Polylactic Acid (PLA) based compostable bioplastic films degrade under thermophilic composting conditions. The purpose of our study was to understand whether sample pre-treatment along with bioaugmentation of the degradation matrix could reduce the biodegradation time under a simulated composting environment. Sepcifically, we also explored whether the commercial composts could be replaced by landfill-mined soil-like fraction (LMSF) for the said application. The effect of pre-treatment on the material was analysed by tests like tensile strength analysis, hydrophobicity analysis, morphological analysis, thermal degradation profiling, etc. Subsequently, the degradation experiment was performed in a simulated composting environment following the ASTM D5338 standard, along with bioaugmentation in selected experimental setups. When the novel approach of material pre-treatment and bioaugmentation were applied in combination, the time necessary for 90% degradation was reduced by 27% using compost and by 23% using LMSF. Beyond the improvement in degradation rate, the water holding capacity increased significantly for the degradation matrices. With pH, C: N ratio and microbial diversity tested to be favourable through 16s metabarcoding studies, material pre-treatment and bioaugmentation allow LMSF to not only replace commercial compost in polymer degradation but also find immense application in the agricultural sector of drought-affected areas (for better water retention) after it has been used for PLA degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnab Banerjee
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India; Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Manoj Kumar Dhal
- Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Kshitij Madhu
- Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Charakho N Chah
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Bharat Rattan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Vimal Katiyar
- Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sreedeep Sekharan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India; Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Ajit K Sarmah
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand; Centre for Sustainable Water Research, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India.
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Mi CH, Qi XY, Zhou YW, Ding YW, Wei DX, Wang Y. Advances in medical polyesters for vascular tissue engineering. DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:125. [PMID: 39115796 PMCID: PMC11310390 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-04073-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
Blood vessels are highly dynamic and complex structures with a variety of physiological functions, including the transport of oxygen, nutrients, and metabolic wastes. Their normal functioning involves the close and coordinated cooperation of a variety of cells. However, adverse internal and external environmental factors can lead to vascular damage and the induction of various vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and thrombosis. This can have serious consequences for patients, and there is an urgent need for innovative techniques to repair damaged blood vessels. Polyesters have been extensively researched and used in the treatment of vascular disease and repair of blood vessels due to their excellent mechanical properties, adjustable biodegradation time, and excellent biocompatibility. Given the high complexity of vascular tissues, it is still challenging to optimize the utilization of polyesters for repairing damaged blood vessels. Nevertheless, they have considerable potential for vascular tissue engineering in a range of applications. This summary reviews the physicochemical properties of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly-lactic acid (PLA), and poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), focusing on their unique applications in vascular tissue engineering. Polyesters can be prepared not only as 3D scaffolds to repair damage as an alternative to vascular grafts, but also in various forms such as microspheres, fibrous membranes, and nanoparticles to deliver drugs or bioactive ingredients to damaged vessels. Finally, it is anticipated that further developments in polyesters will occur in the near future, with the potential to facilitate the wider application of these materials in vascular tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hui Mi
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Xin-Ya Qi
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Wen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Wen Ding
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Dai-Xu Wei
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China.
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China.
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Carbon-Neutral Technology, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
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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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10
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Graca B, Rychter A, Bełdowska M, Wojdasiewicz A. Seasonality of mercury and its fractions in microplastics biofilms -comparison to natural biofilms, suspended particulate matter and bottom sediment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174814. [PMID: 39032739 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Biofilms can enhance the sorption of heavy metals onto microplastic (MP) surfaces. However, most research in this field relies on laboratory experiments and neglects metal fractions and seasonal variations. Further studies of the metal/biofilm interaction in the aquatic environment are essential for assessing the ecological threat that MPs pose. The present study used in situ experiments in an environment conducive to biofouling (Vistula Lagoon, Baltic Sea). The objective was to investigate the sorption of mercury and its fractions (thermodesorption technique) in MP (polypropylene-PP, polystyrene-PS, polylactide-PLA) biofilms and natural matrices across three seasons. After one month of incubation, the Hg concentrations in MP and natural substratum (gravel grains-G) biofilms were similar (MP: 145 ± 45 ng/g d.w.; G: 132 ± 23 ng/g d.w.) and approximately twofold those of suspended particulate matter (SPM) (63 ± 27 ng/g d.w.). Hg concentrations in biofilms and sediments were similar, but labile fractions dominated in biofilms and stable fractions in sediments. Seasonal Hg concentrations in MP biofilms decreased over summer>winter>spring, with significant variation for mineral and loosely bound Hg fractions. Multiple regression analysis revealed that hydrochemical conditions and sediment resuspension played a crucial role in the observed variability. The influence of polymer type and morphology (pellets, fibres, aged MP) on Hg sorption in biofilms was visible only in high summer temperatures. In this season, PP fibres and aged PP pellets encouraged biofilm growth and the accumulation of labile Hg fractions. Additionally, high concentrations of mineral (stable and semi-labile) Hg fractions were found in expanded PS biofilms. These findings suggest that organisms that ingest MPs or feed on the biofilms are exposed to the adverse effects of Hg and the presence of MPs in aquatic ecosystems may facilitate the transfer of mercury within the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bożena Graca
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Agata Rychter
- University of Applied Sciences in Elbląg, Ul. Wojska Polskiego 1, 82-300 Elbląg, Poland
| | - Magdalena Bełdowska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Adriana Wojdasiewicz
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
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11
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Chu WC, Gao YY, Wu YX, Liu FF. Biofilm of petroleum-based and bio-based microplastics in seawater in response to Zn(II): Biofilm formation, community structure, and microbial function. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 928:172397. [PMID: 38608889 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172397] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic biofilms are novel vectors for the transport and spread of pathogenic and drug-resistant bacteria. With the increasing use of bio-based plastics, there is an urgent need to investigate the microbial colonization characteristics of these materials in seawater, particularly in comparison with conventional petroleum-based plastics. Furthermore, the effect of co-occurring contaminants, such as heavy metals, on the formation of microplastic biofilms and bacterial communities remains unclear. In this study, we compared the biofilm bacterial community structure of petroleum-based polyethylene (PE) and bio-based polylactic acid (PLA) in seawater under the influence of zinc ions (Zn2+). Our findings indicate that the biofilm on PLA microplastics in the late stage was impeded by the formation of a mildly acidic microenvironment resulting from the hydrolysis of the ester group on PLA. The PE surface had higher bacterial abundance and diversity, with a more intricate symbiotic pattern. The bacterial structures on the two types of microplastics were different; PE was more conducive to the colonization of anaerobic bacteria, whereas PLA was more favorable for the colonization of aerobic and acid-tolerant species. Furthermore, Zn increased the proportion of the dominant genera that could utilize microplastics as a carbon source, such as Alcanivorax and Nitratireductor. PLA had a greater propensity to harbor and disseminate pathogenic and drug-resistant bacteria, and Zn promoted the enrichment and spread of harmful bacteria such as, Pseudomonas and Clostridioides. Therefore, further research is essential to fully understand the potential environmental effects of bio-based microplastics and the role of heavy metals in the dynamics of bacterial colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Chao Chu
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Gao
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China
| | - Yu-Xin Wu
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China
| | - Fei-Fei Liu
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China.
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12
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Keith M, Koller M, Lackner M. Carbon Recycling of High Value Bioplastics: A Route to a Zero-Waste Future. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1621. [PMID: 38931972 PMCID: PMC11207349 DOI: 10.3390/polym16121621] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Today, 98% of all plastics are fossil-based and non-biodegradable, and globally, only 9% are recycled. Microplastic and nanoplastic pollution is just beginning to be understood. As the global demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics continues to rise, biobased and biodegradable plastics have emerged as a promising solution. This review article delves into the pivotal concept of carbon recycling as a pathway towards achieving a zero-waste future through the production and utilization of high-value bioplastics. The review comprehensively explores the current state of bioplastics (biobased and/or biodegradable materials), emphasizing the importance of carbon-neutral and circular approaches in their lifecycle. Today, bioplastics are chiefly used in low-value applications, such as packaging and single-use items. This article sheds light on value-added applications, like longer-lasting components and products, and demanding properties, for which bioplastics are increasingly being deployed. Based on the waste hierarchy paradigm-reduce, reuse, recycle-different use cases and end-of-life scenarios for materials will be described, including technological options for recycling, from mechanical to chemical methods. A special emphasis on common bioplastics-TPS, PLA, PHAs-as well as a discussion of composites, is provided. While it is acknowledged that the current plastics (waste) crisis stems largely from mismanagement, it needs to be stated that a radical solution must come from the core material side, including the intrinsic properties of the polymers and their formulations. The manner in which the cascaded use of bioplastics, labeling, legislation, recycling technologies, and consumer awareness can contribute to a zero-waste future for plastics is the core topics of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Keith
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Martin Koller
- Institute of Chemistry, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Maximilian Lackner
- Go!PHA, Oudebrugsteeg 9, 1012 JN Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, Hoechstaedtplatz 6, 1200 Vienna, Austria
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13
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Cannon JA, Zhou Y, Qualey LT, Reynolds TB. Surface-associated residues in subtilisins contribute to poly-L-lactic acid depolymerization via enzyme adsorption. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14473. [PMID: 38877615 PMCID: PMC11178483 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14473] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is currently the most abundant bioplastic; however, limited environmental biodegradability and few recycling options diminish its value as a biodegradable commodity. Enzymatic recycling is one strategy for ensuring circularity of PLLA, but this approach requires a thorough understanding of enzymatic mechanisms and protein engineering strategies to enhance activity. In this study, we engineer PLLA depolymerizing subtilisin enzymes originating from Bacillus species to elucidate the molecular mechanisms dictating their PLLA depolymerization activity and to improve their function. The surface-associated amino acids of two closely related subtilisin homologues originating from Bacillus subtilis (BsAprE) and Bacillus pumilus (BpAprE) were compared, as they were previously engineered to have nearly identical active sites, but still varied greatly in PLLA depolymerizing activity. Further analysis identified several surface-associated amino acids in BpAprE that lead to enhanced PLLA depolymerization activity when engineered into BsAprE. In silico protein modelling demonstrated increased enzyme surface hydrophobicity in engineered BsAprE variants and revealed a structural motif favoured for PLLA depolymerization. Experimental evidence suggests that increases in activity are associated with enhanced polymer binding as opposed to substrate specificity. These data highlight enzyme adsorption as a key factor in PLLA depolymerization by subtilisins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan A Cannon
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Luke T Qualey
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Todd B Reynolds
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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14
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Xu L, Xie W, Dai H, Wei S, Skuza L, Li J, Shi C, Zhang L. Effects of combined microplastics and heavy metals pollution on terrestrial plants and rhizosphere environment: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142107. [PMID: 38657695 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142107] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can enter the soil environment through industry, agricultural production and daily life sources. Their interaction with heavy metals (HMs) poses a significant threat to a variety of terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural ones, thereby affecting crop quality and threatening human health. This review initially addresses the impact of single and combined contamination with MPs and HMs on soil environment, including changes in soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and diversity, fertility, enzyme activity and resistance genes, as well as alterations in heavy metal speciation. The article further explores the effects of this pollution on the growth characteristics of terrestrial plants, such as plant biomass, antioxidant systems, metabolites and photosynthesis. In general, the combined contaminants tend to significantly affect soil environment and terrestrial plant growth, i.e., the impact of combined contaminants on plants weight ranged from -87.5% to 4.55%. Similarities and differences in contamination impact levels stem from the variations in contaminant types, sizes and doses of contaminants and the specific plant growth environments. In addition, MPs can not only infiltrate plants directly, but also significantly affect the accumulation of HMs in terrestrial plants. The heavy metals concentration in plants under the treatment of MPs were 70.26%-36.80%. The co-occurrence of these two pollution types can pose a serious threat to crop productivity and safety. Finally, this study proposes suggestions for future research aiming to address current gaps in knowledge, raises awareness about the impact of combined MPs + HMs pollution on plant growth and eco-environmental security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Wenjun Xie
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China.
| | - Huiping Dai
- College of Biological Science & Engineering, Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Bio-resources, Qinling-Bashan Mountains Bioresources Comprehensive Development C.I.C, State Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecological Environment Jointly Built By Qinba Province and Ministry, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001, China
| | - Shuhe Wei
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environment Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Lidia Skuza
- Institute of Biology, Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-415, Poland
| | - Jianan Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Cailing Shi
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Lichang Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
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15
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Adetunji AI, Erasmus M. Green Synthesis of Bioplastics from Microalgae: A State-of-the-Art Review. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1322. [PMID: 38794516 PMCID: PMC11124873 DOI: 10.3390/polym16101322] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of conventional plastics has increased tremendously in the last decades due to rapid industrialization, population growth, and advancement in the use of modern technologies. However, overuse of these fossil fuel-based plastics has resulted in serious environmental and health hazards by causing pollution, global warming, etc. Therefore, the use of microalgae as a feedstock is a promising, green, and sustainable approach for the production of biobased plastics. Various biopolymers, such as polyhydroxybutyrate, polyurethane, polylactic acid, cellulose-based polymers, starch-based polymers, and protein-based polymers, can be produced from different strains of microalgae under varying culture conditions. Different techniques, including genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, the use of photobioreactors, response surface methodology, and artificial intelligence, are used to alter and improve microalgae stocks for the commercial synthesis of bioplastics at lower costs. In comparison to conventional plastics, these biobased plastics are biodegradable, biocompatible, recyclable, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and sustainable, with robust mechanical and thermoplastic properties. In addition, the bioplastics are suitable for a plethora of applications in the agriculture, construction, healthcare, electrical and electronics, and packaging industries. Thus, this review focuses on techniques for the production of biopolymers and bioplastics from microalgae. In addition, it discusses innovative and efficient strategies for large-scale bioplastic production while also providing insights into the life cycle assessment, end-of-life, and applications of bioplastics. Furthermore, some challenges affecting industrial scale bioplastics production and recommendations for future research are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adegoke Isiaka Adetunji
- Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
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16
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Subash A, Naebe M, Wang X, Kandasubramanian B. Tailoring electrospun nanocomposite fibers of polylactic acid for seamless methylene blue dye adsorption applications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-33393-9. [PMID: 38709414 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33393-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The introduction of biopolymers, which are sustainable and green materials, desegregated nature's water purification proficiency with science and technology, opens a new sustainable methodology in water reclamation. In order to introduce an efficacious adsorbent system for MB dye-toxic pollutant, adsorption, providing robust mechanical properties and facile processability, a facile system was introduced via electrospinning utilizing polylactic acid (PLA) and Ti3C2Tx, viz., PMX. The addition of 3 wt.% Ti3C2Tx led to a 3-fold substantial augmentation in the uptake capacity of the membrane from 197.28 to 307 mg/g when the adsorbate concentration was 100 ppm. The adsorption followed a PSO behavior, proposing that the rate-limiting stage is chemisorption and data best fitted to Freundlich isotherm, indicating heterogeneous adsorption sites and multi-layer adsorption. Further, biodegradability was studied by simulating natural environmental conditions where the nanofibers exhibited 42-64% degradation after 270 days. Based on the result with PLA, it is anticipated that the prepared fibrous system will introduce a new perspective as a potential candidate for MB removal from wastewater, opening new directions toward the research and development in wastewater treatment with electrospun biopolymer fibers using waste PLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alsha Subash
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
- Nano Surface Texturing Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune, Maharashtra, 411025, India
| | - Minoo Naebe
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Xungai Wang
- School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Balasubramanian Kandasubramanian
- Nano Surface Texturing Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune, Maharashtra, 411025, India.
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17
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Imai Y, Tominaga Y, Tanaka S, Yoshida M, Furutate S, Sato S, Koh S, Taguchi S. Modification of poly(lactate) via polymer blending with microbially produced poly[(R)-lactate-co-(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] copolymers. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 266:130990. [PMID: 38508553 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130990] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of polymer blending of microbially produced poly[(R)-lactate-co-(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] copolymers (LAHB) with poly(lactate) (PLA) on their mechanical, thermal, and biodegradable properties. Blending of high lactate (LA) content and high molecular weight LAHB significantly improved the tensile elongation of PLA up to more than 250 % at optimal LAHB composition of 20-30 wt%. Temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that PLA and LAHB were immiscible but interacted with each other, as indicated by the mutual plasticization effect. Detailed morphological characterization using scanning probe microscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, and solid-state NMR confirmed that PLA and LAHB formed a two-phase structure with a characteristic length scale as small as 20 nm. Because of mixing in this order, the polymer blends were optically transparent. The biological oxygen demand test of the polymer blends in seawater indicated an enhancement of PLA biodegradation during biodegradation of the polymer blends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Imai
- Multi-Material Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 4-205, Sakurazaka, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 463-8560, Japan.
| | - Yuichi Tominaga
- Multi-Material Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 4-205, Sakurazaka, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 463-8560, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, AIST, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masaru Yoshida
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, AIST, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | | | - Sangho Koh
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Seiichi Taguchi
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan; Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan.
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18
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Piyathilake U, Lin C, Bolan N, Bundschuh J, Rinklebe J, Herath I. Exploring the hidden environmental pollution of microplastics derived from bioplastics: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141773. [PMID: 38548076 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141773] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Bioplastics might be an ecofriendly alternative to traditional plastics. However, recent studies have emphasized that even bioplastics can end up becoming micro- and nano-plastics due to their degradation under ambient environmental conditions. Hence, there is an urgent need to assess the hidden environmental pollution caused by bioplastics. However, little is known about the evolutionary trends of bibliographic data, degradation pathways, formation, and toxicity of micro- and nano-scaled bioplastics originating from biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and starch-based plastics. Therefore, the prime objective of the current review was to investigate evolutionary trends and the latest advancements in the field of micro-bioplastic pollution. Additionally, it aims to confront the limitations of existing research on microplastic pollution derived from the degradation of bioplastic wastes, and to understand what is needed in future research. The literature survey revealed that research focusing on micro- and nano-bioplastics has begun since 2012. This review identifies novel insights into microbioplastics formation through diverse degradation pathways, including photo-oxidation, ozone-induced degradation, mechanochemical degradation, biodegradation, thermal, and catalytic degradation. Critical research gaps are identified, including defining optimal environmental conditions for complete degradation of diverse bioplastics, exploring micro- and nano-bioplastics formation in natural environments, investigating the global occurrence and distribution of these particles in diverse ecosystems, assessing toxic substances released during bioplastics degradation, and bridging the disparity between laboratory studies and real-world applications. By identifying new trends and knowledge gaps, this study lays the groundwork for future investigations and sustainable solutions in the realm of sustainable management of bioplastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udara Piyathilake
- Environmental Science Division, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Kandy, 2000, Sri Lanka
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Jochen Bundschuh
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, The University of Southern Queensland, West Street, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Indika Herath
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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19
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Salam LB. Metagenomic investigations into the microbial consortia, degradation pathways, and enzyme systems involved in the biodegradation of plastics in a tropical lentic pond sediment. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:172. [PMID: 38630153 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03972-6] [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: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The exploitation of exciting features of plastics for diverse applications has resulted in significant plastic waste generation, which negatively impacts environmental compartments, metabolic processes, and the well-being of aquatic ecosystems biota. A shotgun metagenomic approach was deployed to investigate the microbial consortia, degradation pathways, and enzyme systems involved in the degradation of plastics in a tropical lentic pond sediment (APS). Functional annotation of the APS proteome (ORFs) using the PlasticDB database revealed annotation of 1015 proteins of enzymes such as depolymerase, esterase, lipase, hydrolase, nitrobenzylesterase, chitinase, carboxylesterase, polyesterase, oxidoreductase, polyamidase, PETase, MHETase, laccase, alkane monooxygenase, among others involved in the depolymerization of the plastic polymers. It also revealed that polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and nylon have the highest number of annotated enzymes. Further annotation using the KEGG GhostKOALA revealed that except for terephthalate, all the other degradation products of the plastic polymers depolymerization such as glyoxylate, adipate, succinate, 1,4-butanediol, ethylene glycol, lactate, and acetaldehyde were further metabolized to intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Taxonomic characterization of the annotated proteins using the AAI Profiler and BLASTP revealed that Pseudomonadota members dominate most plastic types, followed by Actinomycetota and Acidobacteriota. The study reveals novel plastic degraders from diverse phyla hitherto not reported to be involved in plastic degradation. This suggests that plastic pollution in aquatic environments is prevalent with well-adapted degrading communities and could be the silver lining in mitigating the impacts of plastic pollution in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lateef B Salam
- Microbiology Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Nigeria.
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20
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Chen Y, Zhang X, Liu C, Xue W, Wei M, Hu S, Jiang Q, Zheng T, Li X, Xia C. Electrocatalytic Reforming of Polylactic Acid Plastic Hydrolysate over Dynamically Formed γ-NiOOH. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 38593387 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Upcycling plastic waste into valuable commodity chemicals with clean energy is an appealing strategy for mitigating environmental issues. Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable plastic that is produced annually in millions of tons, can be chemically recycled to valuable products instead of being degraded to carbon dioxide. Here, we demonstrate an electrochemical reforming of PLA hydrolysate to acetate and acetonate using nickel phosphide nanosheets on nickel foam (Ni2P/NF) as the catalyst. The Ni2P/NF catalyst was synthesized by electrochemical deposition and phosphide treatment and showed excellent catalytic activity and ∼100% Faraday efficiency for electroreforming PLA to acetate and acetonate in an H-cell. Moreover, a stable performance of more than 90% Faraday efficiency for value-added organics was achieved for a duration of 100 h in a flow cell at a current density of 100 mA cm-2 and a potential below 1.5 V vs. RHE. In situ characterization revealed that the catalyst underwent electrochemical reforming during the reaction to produce γ-phase NiOOH with high electrochemical activity. This work introduces a new and green solution for the treatment of waste PLA, presenting a low-cost and highly efficient strategy for electrically reforming plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinfang Chen
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Xinyan Zhang
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Chunxiao Liu
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Weiqing Xue
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Miaojin Wei
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Sunpei Hu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, P. R. China
| | - Qiu Jiang
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Zheng
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Xu Li
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
| | - Chuan Xia
- School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, P. R. China
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21
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Wang Y, van Putten RJ, Tietema A, Parsons JR, Gruter GJM. Polyester biodegradability: importance and potential for optimisation. GREEN CHEMISTRY : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL AND GREEN CHEMISTRY RESOURCE : GC 2024; 26:3698-3716. [PMID: 38571729 PMCID: PMC10986773 DOI: 10.1039/d3gc04489k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
To reduce global CO2 emissions in line with EU targets, it is essential that we replace fossil-derived plastics with renewable alternatives. This provides an opportunity to develop novel plastics with improved design features, such as better reusability, recyclability, and environmental biodegradability. Although recycling and reuse of plastics is favoured, this relies heavily on the infrastructure of waste management, which is not consistently advanced on a worldwide scale. Furthermore, today's bulk polyolefin plastics are inherently unsuitable for closed-loop recycling, but the introduction of plastics with enhanced biodegradability could help to combat issues with plastic accumulation, especially for packaging applications. It is also important to recognise that plastics enter the environment through littering, even where the best waste-collection infrastructure is in place. This causes endless environmental accumulation when the plastics are non-(bio)degradable. Biodegradability depends heavily on circumstances; some biodegradable polymers degrade rapidly under tropical conditions in soil, but they may not also degrade at the bottom of the sea. Biodegradable polyesters are theoretically recyclable, and even if mechanical recycling is difficult, they can be broken down to their monomers by hydrolysis for subsequent purification and re-polymerisation. Additionally, both the physical properties and the biodegradability of polyesters are tuneable by varying their building blocks. The relationship between the (chemical) structures/compositions (aromatic, branched, linear, polar/apolar monomers; monomer chain length) and biodegradation/hydrolysis of polyesters is discussed here in the context of the design of biodegradable polyesters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Albert Tietema
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - John R Parsons
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan M Gruter
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Avantium Support BV Zekeringstraat 29 1014 BV Amsterdam The Netherlands
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22
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Mayekar PC, Auras R. Accelerating Biodegradation: Enhancing Poly(lactic acid) Breakdown at Mesophilic Environmental Conditions with Biostimulants. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2300641. [PMID: 38206571 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has garnered interest due to its low environmental footprint and ability to replace conventional polymers and be disposed of in industrial composting environments. Although PLA is compostable when subjected to a suitable set of conditions, its broader acceptance in industrial composting facilities has been affected adversely due to longer degradation timeframes than the readily biodegradable organic waste fraction. PLA must be fully exposed to thermophilic conditions for prolonged periods to biodegrade, which has restricted its adoption and hindered its acceptance in industrial composting facilities, negating its home composting potential. Thus, enhancing PLA biodegradation is crucial to expand its acceptance. PLA's biodegradability is investigated in a compost matrix under mesophilic conditions at 37 °C for 180 days by biostimulating the compost environment with skim milk, gelatin, and ethyl lactate to enhance the different stages of PLA biodegradation. The evolved CO2, number average molecular weight (Mn), and crystallinity evolution are tracked. To achieve a Mn ≲ 10 kDa for PLA, the biodegradation rate is accelerated by 15% by adding skim milk, 25% by adding gelatin, and 22% by adding ethyl lactate. This work shows potential techniques to help biodegrade PLA in home composting setting by adding biostimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja C Mayekar
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Rafael Auras
- The School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 157 Packaging Building, 448 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
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Abazari R, Sanati S, Bajaber MA, Javed MS, Junk PC, Nanjundan AK, Qian J, Dubal DP. Design and Advanced Manufacturing of NU-1000 Metal-Organic Frameworks with Future Perspectives for Environmental and Renewable Energy Applications. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306353. [PMID: 37997226 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) represent a relatively new family of materials that attract lots of attention thanks to their unique features such as hierarchical porosity, active metal centers, versatility of linkers/metal nodes, and large surface area. Among the extended list of MOFs, Zr-based-MOFs demonstrate comparably superior chemical and thermal stabilities, making them ideal candidates for energy and environmental applications. As a Zr-MOF, NU-1000 is first synthesized at Northwestern University. A comprehensive review of various approaches to the synthesis of NU-1000 MOFs for obtaining unique surface properties (e.g., diverse surface morphologies, large surface area, and particular pore size distribution) and their applications in the catalysis (electro-, and photo-catalysis), CO2 reduction, batteries, hydrogen storage, gas storage/separation, and other environmental fields are presented. The review further outlines the current challenges in the development of NU-1000 MOFs and their derivatives in practical applications, revealing areas for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Abazari
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran
| | - Soheila Sanati
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran
| | - Majed A Bajaber
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Sufyan Javed
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Peter C Junk
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, 4811, Australia
| | - Ashok Kumar Nanjundan
- Schole of Engineering, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Queensland, 4300, Australia
| | - Jinjie Qian
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Materials of Zhejiang Province, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Deepak P Dubal
- Centre for Materials Science, School of Chemistry & Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
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Hu L, He L, Cai L, Wang Y, Wu G, Zhang D, Pan X, Wang YZ. Deterioration of single-use biodegradable plastics in high-humidity air and freshwaters over one year: Significant disparities in surface physicochemical characteristics and degradation rates. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133170. [PMID: 38064942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
More single-use plastics are accumulating in the environment, and likewise biodegradable plastics (BPs), which are being vigorously promoted, cannot escape the fate. Currently, studies on the actual degradation of BPs in open-air and freshwaters are underrepresented despite they are potentially headmost leakage and contamination sites for disposable BPs. Herein, we compared the degradation behavior of six BP materials and non-degradable polypropylene (PP) plastics over a 1-year in situ suspension in the high-humidity air, a eutrophic river, and an oligotrophic lake. Moreover, a 3-months laboratory incubation was performed to detect the release of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from BPs. In both air and freshwaters, poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO) degraded significantly while PP and polylactic acid (PLA) showed no signs of degradation. The average degradation rates of three poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)-based films varied: 100% in river, 55% in lake, and 10% in air. In addition to PLA, surface chemical groups, hydrophilicity, and thermal stability of BPs changed, and microplastics were found on their surfaces. Correspondingly, BPs with faster degradation rates released relatively higher amounts of DOC. Environmental microbial and chemical characteristics may contribute to differences in BP degradation besides polymer specificity. Altogether, our results indicate the need for appropriate monitoring of BPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Hu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; The 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; Shaoxing Research Institute, Zhejiang University of Technology, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Linlin He
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Li Cai
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Gang Wu
- The 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.
| | - Daoyong Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Yu-Zhong Wang
- The 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
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Ali Z, Abdullah M, Yasin MT, Amanat K, Ahmad K, Ahmed I, Qaisrani MM, Khan J. Organic waste-to-bioplastics: Conversion with eco-friendly technologies and approaches for sustainable environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 244:117949. [PMID: 38109961 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Petrochemical-based synthetic plastics poses a threat to humans, wildlife, marine life and the environment. Given the magnitude of eventual depletion of petrochemical sources and global environmental pollution caused by the manufacturing of synthetic plastics such as polyethylene (PET) and polypropylene (PP), it is essential to develop and adopt biopolymers as an environment friendly and cost-effective alternative to synthetic plastics. Research into bioplastics has been gaining traction as a way to create a more sustainable and eco-friendlier environment with a reduced environmental impact. Biodegradable bioplastics can have the same characteristics as traditional plastics while also offering additional benefits due to their low carbon footprint. Therefore, using organic waste from biological origin for bioplastic production not only reduces our reliance on edible feedstock but can also effectively assist with solid waste management. This review aims at providing an in-depth overview on recent developments in bioplastic-producing microorganisms, production procedures from various organic wastes using either pure or mixed microbial cultures (MMCs), microalgae, and chemical extraction methods. Low production yield and production costs are still the major bottlenecks to their deployment at industrial and commercial scale. However, their production and commercialization pose a significant challenge despite such potential. The major constraints are their production in small quantity, poor mechanical strength, lack of facilities and costly feed for industrial-scale production. This review further explores several methods for producing bioplastics with the aim of encouraging researchers and investors to explore ways to utilize these renewable resources in order to commercialize degradable bioplastics. Challenges, future prospects and Life cycle assessment of bioplastics are also highlighted. Utilizing a variety of bioplastics obtained from renewable and cost-effective sources (e.g., organic waste, agro-industrial waste, or microalgae) and determining the pertinent end-of-life option (e.g., composting or anaerobic digestion) may lead towards the right direction that assures the sustainable production of bioplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zain Ali
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdullah
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Talha Yasin
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
| | - Kinza Amanat
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
| | - Khurshid Ahmad
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266404, P.R. China.
| | - Ishfaq Ahmed
- Haide College, Ocean University of China, Laoshan Campus, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266100, PR China
| | - Muther Mansoor Qaisrani
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Jallat Khan
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan; Institute of Chemistry, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology (KFUEIT), 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
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Yang S, Chen R, Zhang P, Yuan M, Li H, Jiang D. Fabrication and characterization of poly(lactic acid-trimethylene carbonate) based biodegradable composite films. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 262:130148. [PMID: 38354929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130148] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Two biobased composite films have been prepared with poly (lactic acid-trimethylene carbonate), polylactic acid and Laponite by solvent evaporation method. The 1H NMR and FTIR spectrums illustrate that P (LA-TMC) polymer is successfully synthesized and designed composite films are produced. Morphometric analyses demonstrate that the roughnesses of the film's surface and cross-section are on the increase with higher PLA and Laponite content. Mechanical performances reveal that the rise in tensile strength and modulus while maintaining excellent elongation at break is mainly due to the increase in the content of polylactic acid and Laponite. By utilizing the nano effect of Laponite, the maximum tensile strength of the composite film reaches 34.59 MPa. Thermal property results illustrate that the Tg and initial decomposition temperature are on the growth with the increase of PLA content. However, it is not significant on the effect of Laponite on the initial decomposition temperature. The water vapor permeability measurements prove that the barrier property of P(LA-TMC)/PLA/Laponite composite film is on the ascent with the Laponite addition. Hydrolytic degradation tests indicate that PLA and Laponite play avital part in accelerating the degradation rate of composite films and alkaline media is superior acidic and neutral conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilong Yang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Rongying Chen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Penghao Zhang
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Changchun University of Technology, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Mingwei Yuan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Hongli Li
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Dengbang Jiang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China.
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27
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Ueno N, Sato H. Visualization of isothermal crystallization and phase separation in poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate]/poly(L-lactic acid) by low-frequency Raman imaging. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 312:124052. [PMID: 38394883 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The visualization of the variation of the inter/intra molecular interaction (C = O⋯CH3) between poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (PHB) and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) in the PHB/PLLA miscible blend during phase separation and crystallization process was successfully investigated using Raman imaging. Images of the blend were developed using high- and low-frequency Raman spectra acquired during the isothermal crystallization of the blend, and both of them were compared. The low-frequency region allowed to observe the changes in the hydrogen bonds between the molecular chains in the blend during phase separation and crystallization via a band at 75 cm-1 derived from PHB. The imaging results obtained using the band at 75 cm-1 due to hydrogen bonding (C = O⋯CH3) between molecular chains were in good agreement with the results obtained using the C = O stretching band at 1720 cm-1. Herein, we demonstrated that the low-frequency region of the Raman spectrum is more sensitive to detecting the start of the phase separation and crystallization of PHB than the corresponding high-frequency region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami Ueno
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Tsurukabuto, Nada-Ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Harumi Sato
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Tsurukabuto, Nada-Ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan; Molecular Photoscience Research Center, Kobe University, Rokkoudai, Nada-Ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan.
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28
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Hallstein J, Metzsch-Zilligen E, Pfaendner R. Enhancing the Hydrolytic Stability of Poly(lactic acid) Using Novel Stabilizer Combinations. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:506. [PMID: 38399884 PMCID: PMC10892727 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Commercially available poly(lactic acid) exhibits poor hydrolytic stability, which makes it impossible for use in durable applications. Therefore, a novel hydrolysis inhibitor based on an aziridine derivative as well as a novel stabilizer composition, containing an aziridine derivative and an acid scavenger, were investigated to improve the hydrolytic stability. To evaluate the stabilizing effect, the melt volume rate (MVR) and molecular weight were monitored during an accelerated hydrolytic aging in water at elevated temperatures. Temperatures were selected according to the glass transition temperature (~60 °C) of PLA. It was shown that the novel hydrolysis inhibitor as well as the novel stabilizer composition exhibited excellent performance during hydrolytic aging, exceeding commercially available alternatives, e.g., polymeric carbodiimides. A molecular weight analysis resulted in a molecular weight decrease of only 10% during approximately 850 h and up to 20% after 1200 h of hydrolytic aging, whereas poly(lactic acid) stabilized with a commercial polycarbodiimide revealed comparable molecular weight reductions after only 300 h. Furthermore, the stabilization mechanism of the aziridine derivative alone, as well as in the synergistic combination with the acid scavenger (calcium hydrotalcite), was investigated using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In addition to an improved hydrolytic stability, the thermal properties were also enhanced compared to polymeric carbodiimides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rudolf Pfaendner
- Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF, Division Plastics, 64289 Darmstadt, Germany; (J.H.); (E.M.-Z.)
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29
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Wang Y, van der Maas K, Weinland DH, Trijnes D, van Putten RJ, Tietema A, Parsons JR, de Rijke E, Gruter GJM. Relationship between Composition and Environmental Degradation of Poly(isosorbide- co-diol oxalate) (PISOX) Copolyesters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:2293-2302. [PMID: 38277479 PMCID: PMC10851428 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09699] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
To reduce the global CO2 footprint of plastics, bio- and CO2-based feedstock are considered the most important design features for plastics. Oxalic acid from CO2 and isosorbide from biomass are interesting rigid building blocks for high Tg polyesters. The biodegradability of a family of novel fully renewable (bio- and CO2-based) poly(isosorbide-co-diol) oxalate (PISOX-diol) copolyesters was studied. We systematically investigated the effects of the composition on biodegradation at ambient temperature in soil for PISOX (co)polyesters. Results show that the lag phase of PISOX (co)polyester biodegradation varies from 0 to 7 weeks. All (co)polyesters undergo over 80% mineralization within 180 days (faster than the cellulose reference) except one composition with the cyclic codiol 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM). Their relatively fast degradability is independent of the type of noncyclic codiol and results from facile nonenzymatic hydrolysis of oxalate ester bonds (especially oxalate isosorbide bonds), which mostly hydrolyzed completely within 180 days. On the other hand, partially replacing oxalate with terephthalate units enhances the polymer's resistance to hydrolysis and its biodegradability in soil. Our study demonstrates the potential for tuning PISOX copolyester structures to design biodegradable plastics with improved thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- van‘t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin van der Maas
- van‘t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel H. Weinland
- van‘t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - Dio Trijnes
- van‘t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | | | - Albert Tietema
- Institute
for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - John R. Parsons
- Institute
for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - Eva de Rijke
- Institute
for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan M. Gruter
- van‘t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, Amsterdam 1098 XH, The Netherlands
- Avantium
Support BV, Zekeringstraat
29, Amsterdam 1014 BV, The Netherlands
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30
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Chong ZK, Hofmann A, Haye M, Wilson S, Sohoo I, Alassali A, Kuchta K. Lab-scale and full-scale industrial composting of biodegradable plastic blends for packaging. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2024; 2:101. [PMID: 38420136 PMCID: PMC10899788 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.14893.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background The acceptance of compostable plastic packaging in industrial composting plants is not universal despite available certification due to the persistence of plastic residues after composting. To better understand this discrepancy, this study compared the disintegration rates of two blends designed for rigid packaging (polylactic acid based) and soft packaging (polybutylene succinate based) in lab-scale composting tests and in an industrial composting plant. Methods A lab-scale composting test was conducted in triplicates according to ISO 20200 for 4, 8 and 12 weeks to check the disintegration potential of the blends. Duplicate test material were then exposed in the compost pile of an industrial composting plant for a duration of 3 weeks and compared with a supplementary lab-scale test of the same duration. Results The rigid packaging samples (1 mm thickness) retained on average 76.4%, 59.0% and 55.7% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, the average remaining mass was 98.3%, much higher compared to the average of 68.9% after 3 weeks in the supplementary lab-scale test. The soft packaging samples (109±9 µm sample thickness) retained on average 45.4%, 10.9% and 0.3% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, a high average remaining mass was also observed (93.9%). The supplementary lab-scale test showed similar remaining mass but higher fragmentation after 3 weeks. Conclusions The results show that the samples achieved significant disintegration in the lab-scale but not in the plant. The difference between the tests that might further contribute to the differing degradation rates is the composition and heterogeneity of the composting substrate. Therefore, the substrate composition and thermophilic composting duration of individual plants are important considerations to determine the suitability of treating compostable plastic in real-world conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Kai Chong
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Alexander Hofmann
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Marie Haye
- Department of Energy and Environmental Engineering (GEn), Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon, Villeurbanne, 69100, France
| | - Sharon Wilson
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ihsanullah Sohoo
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ayah Alassali
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kuchta
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
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31
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Pedroza RHP, David C, Lodeiro P, Rey-Castro C. Interactions of humic acid with pristine poly (lactic acid) microplastics in aqueous solution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168366. [PMID: 37939936 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and natural organic matter are present in the aquatic environment and their reciprocal interaction plays important roles in the transport and behavior of nutrients and contaminants. Nevertheless, we lack mechanistic understanding on these interactions, especially in the case of biodegradable plastics. Here we investigate the adsorption of a commercial humic acid onto poly (lactic acid) (PLA) microplastics in aqueous solution. While the pseudo-second order kinetic model provided a more accurate representation of the adsorption kinetics, the Elovich model also produced a good fit, suggesting that chemisorption may be the rate-limiting step. The equilibrium data was better fit by the Langmuir model, that provided a maximum adsorption capacity of 0.118 ± 0.006 mg·g-1. The obtained values for the separation factor (RL) and free energy (E) suggest that adsorption of humic acid onto PLA is controlled by physisorption. We studied the effects of pH, ionic strength, and PLA concentration on the adsorption of humic acid onto PLA and demonstrated that electrostatic interactions and aggregation are important. The humic acid was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, excitation-emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy, and parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), before and after interacting with PLA. This set of analyses demonstrated that PLA caused alterations in the molecular structure of humic acid, primarily attributed to modifications in hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Therefore, we hypothesize that the carboxylic groups of humic acid formed dimers in contact with PLA. This study provides new insights into the interactions between organic matter and a biodegradable microplastic in aqueous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo H P Pedroza
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Environmental and Soil Sciences, University of Lleida - AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Calin David
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Environmental and Soil Sciences, University of Lleida - AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Pablo Lodeiro
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Environmental and Soil Sciences, University of Lleida - AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain.
| | - Carlos Rey-Castro
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Environmental and Soil Sciences, University of Lleida - AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
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32
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Graca B, Rychter A, Staniszewska M, Pryputniewicz-Flis D. The seasonality of the concentration of endocrine phenolic compounds in the matter attached to the surface of microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168400. [PMID: 37939964 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Rapid biofilm formation on microplastic (MP) surfaces in marine environments and the tendency of hydrophobic pollutants to bioaccumulate may increase the exposure of organisms to ingested plastics and transport pollutants far from their sources. The role of the matter attached to MPs (MaM) in the interactions between MPs and other pollutants in marine environments is poorly understood. This paper studies pollutant sorption in MaM for three phenolic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs): bisphenol A (BPA), 4-tert-octylphenol (4-t-OP), and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP). Polypropylene (PP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), and polylactide (PLA) MPs were exposed to an environment conducive to biofouling (Vistula Lagoon, Baltic Sea) for four weeks in summer, spring, and winter. The concentrations of EDCs in MaM and the suspended particulate matter (SPM) were similar and were 2-3 orders of magnitude higher than those in water and sediment. The type and morphology of the polymers were less significant for determining the concentrations of EDCs in MaM than the season. The concentrations were higher in the growing season than in winter. EDCs increased linearly with the increase in particulate organic carbon. The relationships between organic carbon partition coefficients and octanol/water partition coefficients indicate that hydrophobic partitioning into organic matter was the dominant mechanism of 4-t-OP and 4-NP binding in MaM and in SPM. For BPA, additional sorption mechanisms seem to be significant. In addition to the direct sorption from ambient water, the binding of phytoplankton-derived particles, most probably via attachment to extracellular polymeric substances, appears to be a source of EDCs in MPs. Rough estimates showed that the largest load of particulate matter and EDCs was attached to expanded polystyrene. This study suggests that the potential negative impacts of MPs on the environment are seasonal and that low-density porous plastics can be particularly effective carriers of large EDC loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bożena Graca
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Agata Rychter
- University of Applied Sciences in Elbląg, Ul. Wojska Polskiego 1, 82-300 Elbląg, Poland
| | - Marta Staniszewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Dorota Pryputniewicz-Flis
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
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33
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Brown M, Badzinski TD, Pardoe E, Ehlebracht M, Maurer-Jones MA. UV Light Degradation of Polylactic Acid Kickstarts Enzymatic Hydrolysis. ACS MATERIALS AU 2024; 4:92-98. [PMID: 38221918 PMCID: PMC10786133 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.3c00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Polylactic acid (PLA) and bioplastics alike have a designed degradability to avoid the environmental buildup that petroplastics have created. Yet, this designed biotic-degradation has typically been characterized in ideal conditions. This study seeks to relate the abiotic to the biotic degradation of PLA to accurately represent the degradation pathways bioplastics will encounter, supposing their improper disposal in the environment. Enzymatic hydrolysis was used to study the biodegradation of PLA with varying stages of photoaging. Utilizing a fluorescent tag to follow enzyme hydrolysis, it was determined that increasing the amount of irradiation yielded greater amounts of total enzymatic hydrolysis by proteinase K after 8 h of enzyme incubation. While photoaging of the polymers causes minimal changes in chemistry and increasing amounts of crystallinity, the trends in biotic degradation appear to primarily be driven by photoinduced reduction in molecular weight. The relationship between photoaging and enzyme hydrolysis appears to be independent of enzyme type, though commercial product degradation may be impacted by the presence of additives. Overall, this work reveals the importance of characterizing biodegradation with relevant samples that ultimately can inform optimization of production and disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret
H. Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, United States
| | - Thomas D. Badzinski
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, United States
| | - Elizabeth Pardoe
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, United States
| | - Molly Ehlebracht
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, United States
| | - Melissa A. Maurer-Jones
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1038 University Dr, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, United States
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Rajeshkumar L, Kumar PS, Ramesh M, Sanjay MR, Siengchin S. Assessment of biodegradation of lignocellulosic fiber-based composites - A systematic review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127237. [PMID: 37804890 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Lignocellulosic fiber-reinforced polymer composites are the most extensively used modern-day materials with low density and better specific strength specifically developed to render better physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Synthetic fiber-reinforced composites face some serious issues like low biodegradability, non-environmentally friendly, and low disposability. Lignocellulosic or natural fiber-reinforced composites, which are developed from various plant-based fibers and animal-based fibers are considered potential substitutes for synthetic fiber composites because they are characterized by lightweight, better biodegradability, and are available at low cost. It is very much essential to study end-of-life (EoL) conditions like biodegradability for the biocomposites which occur commonly after their service life. During biodegradation, the physicochemical arrangement of the natural fibers, the environmental conditions, and the microbial populations, to which the natural fiber composites are exposed, play the most influential factors. The current review focuses on a comprehensive discussion of the standards and assessment methods of biodegradation in aerobic and anaerobic conditions on a laboratory scale. This review is expected to serve the materialists and technologists who work on the EoL behaviour of various materials, particularly in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites to apply these standards and test methods to various classes of biocomposites for developing sustainable materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rajeshkumar
- Centre for Machining and Materials Testing, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Sathish Kumar
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - M Ramesh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M R Sanjay
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Suchart Siengchin
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand
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35
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Surendran D, Varghese GK, Zafiu C. Characterization and source apportionment of microplastics in Indian composts. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 196:5. [PMID: 38044370 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12177-7] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP), small plastic particles under 5 mm, are pollutants known to carry heavy metals in ecosystems. Composts are a significant source of soil microplastics. This study examined MSW composts from Kochi and Kozhikode in India for microplastic concentrations and heavy metals' accumulation thereon. Microplastics were isolated using zinc chloride density separation, with Fenton's reagent used for organic matter oxidation. Resin types were identified using FTIR analysis that showed the presence of PE, PP, PS, nylon, PET, and allyl alcohol copolymer. In Kozhikode's compost, the average concentration of microplastics was 840 ± 30 items/kg, while Kochi had 1600 ± 111 items/kg, mainly polyethylene films. PE was the most prevalent resin, comprising 58.3% in Kozhikode and 73.37% in Kochi. Heavy metal analysis of MP showed significant concentrations of lead, cadmium, zinc, copper, and manganese adsorbed on the surface of microplastics. The concentrations of heavy metals in the MP before Fenton oxidation ranged from 1.02 to 2.02 times the corresponding concentrations in compost for Kozhikode and 1.23 to 2.85 times for Kochi. Source apportionment studies revealed that 64% of microplastics in Kozhikode and 77% in Kochi originated from single-use plastics. Ecological risk indices, PLI and PHI, showed that composts from both locations fall under hazard level V. The study revealed that compost from unsegregated MSW can act as a significant source of microplastics and heavy metals in the soil environment, with single-use plastics contributing major share of the issue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christian Zafiu
- Institute of Waste Management and Circularity, Department of Water, Atmosphere and Environment, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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36
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Momeni S, Craplewe K, Safder M, Luz S, Sauvageau D, Elias A. Accelerating the Biodegradation of Poly(lactic acid) through the Inclusion of Plant Fibers: A Review of Recent Advances. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2023; 11:15146-15170. [PMID: 37886036 PMCID: PMC10599323 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c04240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
As the global demand for plastics continues to grow, plastic waste is accumulating at an alarming rate with negative effects on the natural environment. The industrially compostable biopolymer poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is therefore being adopted for use in many applications, but the degradation of this material is slow under many end-of-life conditions. This Perspective explores the feasibility of accelerating the degradation of PLA through the formation of PLA-plant fiber composites. Topics include: (a) key properties of PLA, plant-based fibers, and biocomposites; (b) mechanisms of both hydrolytic degradation and biodegradation of PLA-fiber composites; (c) end-of-life degradation of PLA and PLA-plant fiber composites in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, relevant to compost, soil and seawater (aerobic), and landfills (anaerobic); and (d) sustainability and environmental impact of PLA and PLA-plant fiber composites, as evaluated using life cycle assessment. Additional degradation modes, including thermal and photodegradation, which are relevant during processing and use, have been omitted for clarity, as have other types of PLA biocomposites. Multiple studies have shown that the addition of some types of plant fibers to PLA (to form PLA biocomposites) accelerates both water transport in the material and hydrolysis, presenting a possible avenue for improving the end-of-life degradation of these materials. To facilitate the continued development of materials with enhanced biodegradability, we identify a need to implement testing protocols that can distinguish between different degradation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Momeni
- Department
of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Kaylee Craplewe
- Department
of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Muhammad Safder
- Department
of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Sandra Luz
- Department
of Automotive Engineering, University of
Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Dominic Sauvageau
- Department
of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Anastasia Elias
- Department
of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
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37
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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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Trofimchuk E, Ostrikova V, Ivanova O, Moskvina M, Plutalova A, Grokhovskaya T, Shchelushkina A, Efimov A, Chernikova E, Zhang S, Mironov V. Degradation of Structurally Modified Polylactide under the Controlled Composting of Food Waste. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4017. [PMID: 37836066 PMCID: PMC10575269 DOI: 10.3390/polym15194017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The degradation of polylactide (PLA) films of different structures under conditions of controlled composting has been studied. We have demonstrated that PLA underwent degradation within one month in a substrate that simulated standard industrial composting. Regardless of the initial structure of the samples, the number-average molecular weight (Mn) decreased to 4 kDa while the degree of crystallinity increased to about 70% after 21 days of composting. Addition of an inoculant to the standard substrate resulted in the accelerated degradation of the PLA samples for one week due to an abiotic hydrolysis. These findings have confirmed that industrial composting could solve the problem of plastic disposal at least for PLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Trofimchuk
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
- Scientific Laboratory “Advanced Composite Materials and Technologies”, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Valeria Ostrikova
- Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia; (V.O.); (A.S.); (V.M.)
| | - Olga Ivanova
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Marina Moskvina
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Anna Plutalova
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Tatyana Grokhovskaya
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Anna Shchelushkina
- Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia; (V.O.); (A.S.); (V.M.)
| | - Alexander Efimov
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Elena Chernikova
- Department of Chemistry, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (O.I.); (M.M.); (A.P.); (T.G.); (A.E.); (E.C.)
| | - Shenghua Zhang
- College of Harbour and Coastal Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China;
| | - Vladimir Mironov
- Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia; (V.O.); (A.S.); (V.M.)
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Brunšek R, Kopitar D, Schwarz I, Marasović P. Biodegradation Properties of Cellulose Fibers and PLA Biopolymer. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3532. [PMID: 37688158 PMCID: PMC10490323 DOI: 10.3390/polym15173532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper investigates the biodegradation properties of cellulose fibers and PLA biopolymer. For that purpose, hemp, jute, and sisal fibers as lignocellulose fibers; viscose fibers (CV) as regenerated cellulose; and polylactide (PLA) as biopolymer were buried in farmland soil for periods of 2, 4, 7, 9 and 11 days under controlled conditions. The influence of their biodegradation on the fiber mechanical properties, bacteria and fungi population, as well as on the soil quality were investigated. After exposure to microorganisms, analyses of the fibers' morphological (SEM), chemical (FTIR), and thermal (TGA) properties were conducted to achieve a comprehensive understanding of their biodegradability. The analysis concluded that lignin and pectin content have a greater impact on the biodegradation of hemp, jute, and sisal fibers than factors like crystallinity and degree of polymerization. The viscose fibers showed lower biodegradability despite their lower degree of polymerization, indicating a resistance to biodegradation due to the "skin" formed during the spinning process. PLA fibers experienced chemical hydrolysis and significant microbial attack, resulting in reduced tenacity. The acquired findings yield valuable insights into the biodegradability of the fibers, thereby facilitating the selection of appropriate fibers for the development of environmentally sustainable products. Notably, a literature review revealed a paucity of research on fiber biodegradability, underscoring the significance of the present study's contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ružica Brunšek
- Department of Materials, Fibres and Textile Testing, Faculty of Textile Technology, The University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dragana Kopitar
- Department of Textile Design and Management, Faculty of Textile Technology, The University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.K.); (I.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Ivana Schwarz
- Department of Textile Design and Management, Faculty of Textile Technology, The University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.K.); (I.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Paula Marasović
- Department of Textile Design and Management, Faculty of Textile Technology, The University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.K.); (I.S.); (P.M.)
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40
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Strik DPBTB, Heusschen B. Microbial Recycling of Polylactic Acid Food Packaging Waste into Carboxylates via Hydrolysis and Mixed-Culture Fermentation. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2103. [PMID: 37630663 PMCID: PMC10458239 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082103] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
To establish a circular economy, waste streams should be used as a resource to produce valuable products. Biodegradable plastic waste represents a potential feedstock to be microbially recycled via a carboxylate platform. Bioplastics such as polylactic acid food packaging waste (PLA-FPW) are theoretically suitable feedstocks for producing carboxylates. Once feasible, carboxylates such as acetate, n-butyrate, or n-caproate can be used for various applications like lubricants or building blocks for making new bioplastics. In this study, pieces of industrial compostable PLA-FPW material (at 30 or 60 g/L) were added to a watery medium with microbial growth nutrients. This broth was exposed to 70 °C for a pretreatment process to support the hydrolysis of PLA into lactic acid at a maximum rate of 3.0 g/L×d. After 21 days, the broths of the hydrolysis experiments were centrifugated and a part of the supernatant was extracted and prepared for anaerobic fermentation. The mixed microbial culture, originating from a food waste fermentation bioprocess, successfully fermented the hydrolyzed PLA into a spectrum of new C2-C6 multi-carbon carboxylates. n-butyrate was the major product for all fermentations and, on average, 6.5 g/L n-butyrate was obtained from 60 g/L PLA-FPW materials. The wide array of products were likely due to various microbial processes, including lactate conversion into acetate and propionate, as well as lactate-based chain elongation to produce medium-chain carboxylates. The fermentation process did not require pH control. Overall, we showed a proof-of-concept in using real bioplastic waste as feedstock to produce valuable C2-C6 carboxylates via microbial recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P. B. T. B. Strik
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University & Research, 6708 WG Wageningen, The Netherlands
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41
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Zhang Y, Sun T, Zhang D, Sun S, Liu J, Li B, Shi Z. The Preparation of Superhydrophobic Polylactic Acid Membrane with Adjustable Pore Size by Freeze Solidification Phase Separation Method for Oil-Water Separation. Molecules 2023; 28:5590. [PMID: 37513463 PMCID: PMC10384457 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28145590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
An environmentally friendly pore size-controlled, superhydrophobic polylactic acid (PLA) membrane was successfully prepared by a simpler freeze solidification phase separation method (FSPS) and solution impregnation, which has application prospects in the field of oil-water separation. The pore size and structure of the membrane were adjusted by different solvent ratios and solution impregnation ratios. The PLA-FSPS membrane after solution impregnation (S-PLA-FSPS) had the characteristics of uniform pore size, superhydrophobicity and super lipophilicity, its surface roughness Ra was 338 nm, and the contact angle to water was 151°. The S-PLA-FSPS membrane was used for the oil-water separation. The membrane oil flux reached 16,084 L·m-2·h-1, and the water separation efficiency was 99.7%, which was much higher than that of other oil-water separation materials. In addition, the S-PLA-FSPS membrane could also be applied for the adsorption and removal of oil slicks and underwater heavy oil. The S-PLA-FSPS membrane has great application potential in the field of oil-water separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Tianyi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Dashuai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Shishu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Jinrui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Bangsen Li
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Zaifeng Shi
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment & Resource Reuse, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
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42
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Wang L, Yao Y, Li J, Liu K, Wu F. A State-of-the-Art Review of Organic Polymer Modifiers for Slope Eco-Engineering. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2878. [PMID: 37447522 DOI: 10.3390/polym15132878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In slope ecological restoration projects, reinforcing soil and promoting vegetation growth are essential measures. Guest soil spraying technology can be used to backfill modified soil and vegetation seeds onto the slope surface, resulting in successful ecological restoration. The use of organic polymer modifiers to reinforce soil has several benefits, such as high strength, effective results, and low pollution levels. Organic polymer soil modifiers can be divided into two categories: synthetic polymer modifiers and biopolymer modifiers. This paper provides a thorough review of the properties and interaction mechanisms of two types of polymer modifiers in soil consolidation. The properties of organic polymer modifiers make them applicable in soil and vegetation engineering on slopes. These modifiers can enhance soil mechanics, infiltration, and erosion resistance and promote vegetation growth. Therefore, the suitability of organic polymer modifiers for soil and vegetation engineering on slopes is demonstrated by their properties and potential for improvement in key areas. Furthermore, challenges and future prospects for slope protection technology using organic polymer modifiers are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- College of Traffic & Transportation, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Transportation and Civil Engineering Materials, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Yongsheng Yao
- College of Traffic & Transportation, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Transportation and Civil Engineering Materials, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Jue Li
- College of Traffic & Transportation, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Transportation and Civil Engineering Materials, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Kefei Liu
- School of Civil Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Fei Wu
- College of Transportation, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
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43
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Jayakumar A, Radoor S, Siengchin S, Shin GH, Kim JT. Recent progress of bioplastics in their properties, standards, certifications and regulations: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 878:163156. [PMID: 37003328 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The environmental impact associated with fossil fuel-based polymers has paved the way to explore biopolymer-based plastics, their properties, and their applications. Bioplastics are polymeric materials that are greatly interesting due to their eco-friendlier and non-toxic nature. In recent years, exploring the different sources of bioplastics and their applications has become one of the active research areas. Biopolymer-based plastics have applications in food packaging, pharmaceuticals, electronics, agricultural, automotive and cosmetic sectors. Bioplastics are considered safe, but there are several economic and legal challenges to implementing them. Hence, this review aims to i) outline the terminology associated with bioplastics, its global market, major sources, types and properties of bioplastics, ii) discuss the major bioplastic waste management and recovery options, iii) provide the major standards and certifications regarding bioplastics, iv) explore the various country-wise regulations and restrictions associated with bioplastics, and v) enumerate the various challenges and limitations associated with bioplastics and future directions. Therefore, providing adequate knowledge about various bioplastics, their properties and regulatory aspects can be of great importance in the industrialization, commercialization and globalization of bioplastics to replace petroleum-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathy Jayakumar
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sabarish Radoor
- Department of Polymer-Nano Science and Technology, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Suchart Siengchin
- Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok, 1518 Wongsawang Road, Bangsue, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
| | - Gye Hwa Shin
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kunsan National University, Gunsan 54150, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Tae Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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Shi J, Wang Z, Peng Y, Zhang Z, Fan Z, Wang J, Wang X. Microbes drive metabolism, community diversity, and interactions in response to microplastic-induced nutrient imbalance. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162885. [PMID: 36934915 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The impact of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on soil nutrients (carbon and nitrogen) has been widely examined, and the alteration of nutrient conditions further influences microbial biosynthesis processes. Nonetheless, the influence of microplastic-induced nutrient imbalances on soil microorganisms (from metabolism to community interactions) is still not well understood. We hypothesized that conventional and biodegradable microplastic could alter soil nutrients and microbial processes. To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted soil microcosms with polyethylene (PE, new and aged) and polylactic acid (PLA, new and aged) microplastics to evaluate their effects on the soil enzymatic stoichiometry, co-occurrence interactions, and success patterns of soil bacterial communities. New and aged PLA induced soil N immobilization, which decreased soil mineral N by 91-141 %. The biodegradation of PLA led to a higher bioavailable C and wider bioavailable C:N ratio, which further filtered out specific microbial species. Both new and aged PLA had a higher abundance of copiotrophic members (Proteobacteria, 35-51 % in PLA, 26-34 % in CK/PE treatments) and rrn copy number. The addition of PLA resulted in a lower alpha diversity and reduced network complexity. Conversely, because of the chemically stable hydrocarbon structure of PE polymers, the new and aged PE microplastics had a minor effect on soil mineral N, bacterial community composition, and network complexity, but led to microbial C limitation. Collectively, all microplastics increased soil C-, N-, and P -acquiring enzyme activities and reduced the number of keystone species and the robustness of the co-occurrence network. The PLA treatment enhanced nitrogen fixation and ureolysis, whereas the PE treatment increased the degradation of recalcitrant carbon. Overall, the alteration of soil nutrient conditions by microplastics affected the microbial metabolism and community interactions, although the effects of PE and PLA microplastics were distinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Shi
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yumei Peng
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ziyun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhongmin Fan
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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45
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Kim J, Park S, Bang J, Jin H, Kwak HW. Biodegradation in Composting Conditions of PBEAS Monofilaments for the Sustainable End-Use of Fishing Nets. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2023; 7:2300020. [PMID: 37287594 PMCID: PMC10242531 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202300020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The development and utilization of biodegradable plastics is an effective way to overcome environmental pollution caused by the disposal of non-degradable plastics. Recently, polybutylene succinate co-butylene adipate co-ethylene succinate co-ethylene adipate, (PBEAS) a biodegradable polymer with excellent strength and elongation, was developed to replace conventional nylon-based non-degradable fishing nets. The biodegradable fishing gear developed in this way can greatly contribute to inhibiting ghost fishing that may occur at the fishing site. In addition, by collecting the products after use and disposing of them in composting conditions, the environmental problem such as the leakage of microplastics strongly can be prevented. In this study, the aerobic biodegradation of PBEAS fishing nets under composting conditions is evaluated and the resulting changes in physicochemical properties are analyzed. The PBEAS fishing gear exhibits a mineralization rate of 82% in a compost environment for 45 days. As a result of physicochemical analysis, PBEAS fibers show a representative decrease in molecular weight and mechanical properties under composting conditions. PBEAS fibers can be used as eco-friendly biodegradable fishing gear that can replace existing non-degradable nylon fibers, and in particular, fishing gear collected after use can be returned to nature through biodegradation under composting conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungkyu Kim
- Department of AgricultureForestry and BioresourcesCollege of Agriculture & Life SciencesSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826Republic of Korea
| | - Subong Park
- Fisheries Engineering DivisionNational Institute of Fisheries ScienceBusan46083South Korea
| | - Junsik Bang
- Department of AgricultureForestry and BioresourcesCollege of Agriculture & Life SciencesSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung‐Joon Jin
- Department of Polymer Science and EngineeringInha University100 Inha‐ro, Nam‐guIncheon22212South Korea
| | - Hyo Won Kwak
- Department of AgricultureForestry and BioresourcesCollege of Agriculture & Life SciencesSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Agriculture and Life SciencesSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐roGwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
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46
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Myburgh MW, Favaro L, van Zyl WH, Viljoen-Bloom M. Engineered yeast for the efficient hydrolysis of polylactic acid. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 378:129008. [PMID: 37011843 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129008] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a major contributor to the global bioplastic production capacity. However, post-consumer PLA waste is not fully degraded during non-optimal traditional organic waste treatment processes and can persist in nature for many years. Efficient enzymatic hydrolysis of PLA would contribute to cleaner, more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly waste management processes. However, high costs and a lack of effective enzyme producers curtail the large-scale application of such enzymatic systems. This study reports the recombinant expression of a fungal cutinase-like enzyme (CLE1) in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which produced a crude supernatant that efficiently hydrolyses different types of PLA materials. The codon-optimised Y294[CLEns] strain delivered the best enzyme production and hydrolysis capabilities, releasing up to 9.44 g/L lactic acid from 10 g/L PLA films with more than 40% loss in film weight. This work highlights the potential of fungal hosts producing PLA hydrolases for future commercial applications in PLA recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthinus W Myburgh
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa; Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), Padova University, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Favaro
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), Padova University, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Willem H van Zyl
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa
| | - Marinda Viljoen-Bloom
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa.
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Marín A, Feijoo P, de Llanos R, Carbonetto B, González-Torres P, Tena-Medialdea J, García-March JR, Gámez-Pérez J, Cabedo L. Microbiological Characterization of the Biofilms Colonizing Bioplastics in Natural Marine Conditions: A Comparison between PHBV and PLA. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1461. [PMID: 37374962 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061461] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers offer a potential solution to marine pollution caused by plastic waste. The marine biofilms that formed on the surfaces of poly(lactide acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) were studied. Bioplastics were exposed for 6 months to marine conditions in the Mediterranean Sea, and the biofilms that formed on their surfaces were assessed. The presence of specific PLA and PHBV degraders was also studied. PHBV showed extensive areas with microbial accumulations and this led to higher microbial surface densities than PLA (4.75 vs. 5.16 log CFU/cm2). Both polymers' surfaces showed a wide variety of microbial structures, including bacteria, fungi, unicellular algae and choanoflagellates. A high bacterial diversity was observed, with differences between the two polymers, particularly at the phylum level, with over 70% of bacteria affiliated to three phyla. Differences in metagenome functions were also detected, revealing a higher presence of proteins involved in PHBV biodegradation in PHBV biofilms. Four bacterial isolates belonging to the Proteobacteria class were identified as PHBV degraders, demonstrating the presence of species involved in the biodegradation of this polymer in seawater. No PLA degraders were detected, confirming its low biodegradability in marine environments. This was a pilot study to establish a baseline for further studies aimed at comprehending the marine biodegradation of biopolymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Marín
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Patricia Feijoo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Rosa de Llanos
- MicroBIO, Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Belén Carbonetto
- Microomics Systems S.L., IIB Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí, 77-79, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - José Tena-Medialdea
- IMEDMAR-UCV Institute of Environment and Marine Science Research, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Av. del Port, 15, 03710 Calpe, Spain
| | - José R García-March
- IMEDMAR-UCV Institute of Environment and Marine Science Research, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Av. del Port, 15, 03710 Calpe, Spain
| | - José Gámez-Pérez
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Luis Cabedo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
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48
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Barreira-Pinto R, Carneiro R, Miranda M, Guedes RM. Polymer-Matrix Composites: Characterising the Impact of Environmental Factors on Their Lifetime. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16113913. [PMID: 37297046 DOI: 10.3390/ma16113913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polymer-matrix composites are widely used in engineering applications. Yet, environmental factors impact their macroscale fatigue and creep performances significantly, owing to several mechanisms acting at the microstructure level. Herein, we analyse the effects of water uptake that are responsible for swelling and, over time and in enough quantity, for hydrolysis. Seawater, due to a combination of high salinity and pressures, low temperature and biotic media present, also contributes to the acceleration of fatigue and creep damage. Similarly, other liquid corrosive agents penetrate into cracks induced by cyclic loading and cause dissolution of the resin and breakage of interfacial bonds. UV radiation either increases the crosslinking density or scissions chains, embrittling the surface layer of a given matrix. Temperature cycles close to the glass transition damage the fibre-matrix interface, promoting microcracking and hindering fatigue and creep performance. The microbial and enzymatic degradation of biopolymers is also studied, with the former responsible for metabolising specific matrices and changing their microstructure and/or chemical composition. The impact of these environmental factors is detailed for epoxy, vinyl ester and polyester (thermoset); polypropylene, polyamide and poly etheretherketone (thermoplastic); and for poly lactic acid, thermoplastic starch and polyhydroxyalkanoates (biopolymers). Overall, the environmental factors mentioned hamper the fatigue and creep performances, altering the mechanical properties of the composite or causing stress concentrations through microcracks, promoting earlier failure. Future studies should focus on other matrices beyond epoxy as well as on the development of standardised testing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Barreira-Pinto
- Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Carneiro
- Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Miranda
- Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Miranda Guedes
- Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- INEGI-Instituto de Engenharia Mecânica e Gestão Industrial, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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49
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Mattelin V, Verfaille L, Kundu K, De Wildeman S, Boon N. A New Colorimetric Test for Accurate Determination of Plastic Biodegradation. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102311. [PMID: 37242886 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
As plastic waste is accumulating in both controlled waste management settings and natural settings, much research is devoted to search for solutions, also in the field of biodegradation. However, determining the biodegradability of plastics in natural environments remains a big challenge due to the often very low biodegradation rates. Many standardised test methods for biodegradation in natural environments exist. These are often based on mineralisation rates in controlled conditions and are thus indirect measurements of biodegradation. It is of interest for both researchers and companies to have tests that are more rapid, easier, and more reliable to screen different ecosystems and/or niches for their plastic biodegradation potential. In this study, the goal is to validate a colorimetric test, based on carbon nanodots, to screen biodegradation of different types of plastics in natural environments. After introducing carbon nanodots into the matrix of the target plastic, a fluorescent signal is released upon plastic biodegradation. The in-house-made carbon nanodots were first confirmed regarding their biocompatibility and chemical and photostability. Subsequently, the effectivity of the developed method was evaluated positively by an enzymatic degradation test with polycaprolactone with Candida antarctica lipase B. Finally, validation experiments were performed with enriched microorganisms and real environmental samples (freshwater and seawater), of which the results were compared with parallel, frequently used biodegradation measures such as O2 and CO2, dissolved organic carbon, growth and pH, to assess the reliability of the test. Our results indicate that this colorimetric test is a good alternative to other methods, but a combination of different methods gives the most information. In conclusion, this colorimetric test is a good fit to screen, in high throughput, the depolymerisation of plastics in natural environments and under different conditions in the lab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Mattelin
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lennert Verfaille
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kankana Kundu
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Nico Boon
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Advanced Process Technology for Urban Resource Recovery (CAPTURE), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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50
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Rüthi J, Cerri M, Brunner I, Stierli B, Sander M, Frey B. Discovery of plastic-degrading microbial strains isolated from the alpine and Arctic terrestrial plastisphere. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1178474. [PMID: 37234546 PMCID: PMC10206078 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1178474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing plastic production and the release of some plastic in to the environment highlight the need for circular plastic economy. Microorganisms have a great potential to enable a more sustainable plastic economy by biodegradation and enzymatic recycling of polymers. Temperature is a crucial parameter affecting biodegradation rates, but so far microbial plastic degradation has mostly been studied at temperatures above 20°C. Here, we isolated 34 cold-adapted microbial strains from the plastisphere using plastics buried in alpine and Arctic soils during laboratory incubations as well as plastics collected directly from Arctic terrestrial environments. We tested their ability to degrade, at 15°C, conventional polyethylene (PE) and the biodegradable plastics polyester-polyurethane (PUR; Impranil®); ecovio® and BI-OPL, two commercial plastic films made of polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA); pure PBAT; and pure PLA. Agar clearing tests indicated that 19 strains had the ability to degrade the dispersed PUR. Weight-loss analysis showed degradation of the polyester plastic films ecovio® and BI-OPL by 12 and 5 strains, respectively, whereas no strain was able to break down PE. NMR analysis revealed significant mass reduction of the PBAT and PLA components in the biodegradable plastic films by 8 and 7 strains, respectively. Co-hydrolysis experiments with a polymer-embedded fluorogenic probe revealed the potential of many strains to depolymerize PBAT. Neodevriesia and Lachnellula strains were able to degrade all the tested biodegradable plastic materials, making these strains especially promising for future applications. Further, the composition of the culturing medium strongly affected the microbial plastic degradation, with different strains having different optimal conditions. In our study we discovered many novel microbial taxa with the ability to break down biodegradable plastic films, dispersed PUR, and PBAT, providing a strong foundation to underline the role of biodegradable polymers in a circular plastic economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Rüthi
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mattia Cerri
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ivano Brunner
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Beat Stierli
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Michael Sander
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Frey
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
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