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Miao L, Deng X, Qin X, Huang Y, Su L, Adyel TM, Wang Z, Lu Z, Luo D, Wu J, Hou J. High-altitude aquatic ecosystems offer faster aging rate of plastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175827. [PMID: 39197763 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175827] [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: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
While research on the aging behavior of plastics in aquatic systems is extensive, studies focusing on high-altitude ecosystems, characterized by higher solar radiation and lower temperatures, remain limited. This study investigated the long-term aging behavior of non-biodegradable plastics (non-BPs), namely polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) and biodegradable plastics (BPs), specifically polylactic acid plus polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PLA + PBAT) and starch-based plastic (SBP), in a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River on the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau. Over 84 days of field aging, all four types of plastics exhibited initial rapid aging followed by deceleration. This aging process can be divided into two phases: rapid surface oxidation aging and an aging plateau phase. Notably, PP aged at a rate comparable to BPs, contrary to expectations of faster aging for BPs. Compared to low-altitude aquatic ecosystems, plastics in this study showed a faster aging rate. This was primarily due to intense ultraviolet radiation causing severe photoaging. Furthermore, the lower temperatures contributed to the formation of thinner biofilms. These thinner biofilms exhibited a reduced capacity to block light, further exacerbating the photoaging process of plastics. Statistical analysis results indicated that temperature, total nitrogen TN, and total phosphorus TP were likely the main water quality parameters influencing plastic aging. The varying effects of water properties and nutrients underscore the complex interaction of water quality parameters in high-altitude environments. Given the delicate nature of the high-altitude environment, the environmental impact of plastics, especially BPs, warrants careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoya Deng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangchao Qin
- Eco-environmental Monitoring and Scientific Research Center, Yellow River Basin Ecology and Environment Administration, Zhengzhou 450004, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi Huang
- Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, No.100, Yucai West Road, Bayi District, Nyingchi City 860006, People's Republic of China.
| | - Libin Su
- Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, No.100, Yucai West Road, Bayi District, Nyingchi City 860006, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia 5095, Australia; Biosciences and Food Technology Discipline, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Zhiyuan Wang
- Center for Eco-Environmental Research, Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute, National Energy Administration, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Water Resources, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Luo
- Tibet Research Academy of Eco-environmental Sciences, No.26, Jinzhu Middle Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region 850030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
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Zidar P, Kühnel D, Škapin AS, Skalar T, Drobne D, Škrlep L, Mušič B, Jemec Kokalj A. Comparing the effects of pristine and UV-VIS aged microplastics: Behavioural response of model terrestrial and freshwater crustaceans. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117020. [PMID: 39276645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Physico-chemical properties of microplastics (MPs) change during weathering in the environment. There is a lack of knowledge about the effects of such environmentally relevant MPs on organisms. We investigated: 1) the physico-chemical changes of MPs due to UV-VIS weathering, and 2) compared the effect of pristine and aged MPs on the behaviour of the water flea Daphnia magna and terrestrial crustacean Porcellio scaber. Dry powders of MPs were produced from widely used polymer types: disposable three-layer polypropylene (PP) medical masks (inner, middle and outer), polyester textile fibres, car tires and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) bags and were subjected to accelerated ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) ageing. Our results show that the extent of transformation depends on the type of polymer, with PP showing the most changes, followed by LDPE, textile fibres and tire particles. Obvious fragmentation was observed in PP and textile fibres. In the case of PP, but not polyester textile fibres, changes in FTIR spectra and surface properties were observed. Tire particles and LDPE did not change in size, but clear changes were observed in their FTIR spectra. Most MPs, aged and pristine, did not affect the swimming of daphnids. The only effect observed was a significant increase in path length and swimming speed for the pristine tire particles when the recording was done with particles remaining in the wells. After transfer to a clean medium, this effect was no longer present, suggesting a physical rather than chemical effect. Similarly, woodlice showed no significant avoidance response to the MPs tested, although there was a noticeable trend to avoid soils contaminated with pristine polyester textile fibers and preference towards the soils contaminated with aged MP of the middle mask layer. Overall, the apparent changes in physico-chemical properties of MPs after accelerated ageing were not reflected in their effects on woodlice and daphnids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Primož Zidar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Dana Kühnel
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, Leipzig 03418, Germany
| | - Andrijana Sever Škapin
- Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva ulica 12, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia; Faculty of Polymer Technology-FTPO, Ozare 19, Slovenj Gradec SI-2380, Slovenia
| | - Tina Skalar
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Večna pot 113, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Damjana Drobne
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Luka Škrlep
- Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva ulica 12, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Branka Mušič
- Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva ulica 12, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Anita Jemec Kokalj
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia.
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Li Y, Wang X, Zhang H, Wang Q, Cao X, Gong R, Guo J, Shan J. Tracing Microplastic Aging Processes Using Multimodal Deep Learning: A Predictive Model for Enhanced Traceability. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39251361 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c05022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
The aging process of microplastics (MPs) affects their surface physicochemical properties, thereby influencing their behaviors in releasing harmful chemicals, adsorption of organic contaminants, sinking, and more. Understanding the aging process is crucial for evaluating MPs' environmental behaviors and risks, but tracing the aging process remains challenging. Here, we propose a multimodal deep learning model to trace typical aging factors of aged MPs based on MPs' physicochemical characteristics. A total of 1353 surface morphology images and 1353 Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra were achieved from 130 aged MPs undergoing different aging processes, demonstrating that physicochemical properties of aged MPs vary from aging processes. The multimodal deep learning model achieved an accuracy of 93% in predicting the major aging factors of aged MPs. The multimodal deep learning model improves the model's accuracy by approximately 5-20% and reduces prediction bias compared to the single-modal model. In practice, the established model was performed to predict the major aging factors of naturally aged MPs collected from typical environment matrices. The prediction results aligned with the aging conditions of specific environments, as reported in previous studies. Our findings provide new insights into tracing and understanding the plastic aging process, contributing more accurately to the environmental risk assessment of aged MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Li
- School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, China
| | - Xue Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, China
| | - Han Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116081, Liaoning, China
| | - Qing Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116081, Liaoning, China
| | - Xun Cao
- China Unicom Online Information Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100032, China
| | - Rongyi Gong
- School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, China
| | - Jianli Guo
- Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, China 124000
| | - Jiajia Shan
- School of Chemical Engineering, Ocean and Life Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, China
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Rostampour S, Cook R, Jhang SS, Li Y, Fan C, Sung LP. Changes in the Chemical Composition of Polyethylene Terephthalate under UV Radiation in Various Environmental Conditions. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2249. [PMID: 39204469 PMCID: PMC11358994 DOI: 10.3390/polym16162249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate has been widely used in the packaging industry. Degraded PET micro(nano)plastics could pose public health concerns following release into various environments. This study focuses on PET degradation under ultraviolet radiation using the NIST SPHERE facility at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in saturated humidity (i.e., ≥95% relative humidity) and dry conditions (i.e., ≤5% relative humidity) with varying temperatures (30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C) for up 20 days. ATR-FTIR was used to characterize the chemical composition change of degraded PET as a function of UV exposure time. The results showed that the cleavage of the ester bond at peak 1713 cm-1 and the formation of the carboxylic acid at peak 1685 cm-1 were significantly influenced by UV radiation. Furthermore, the formation of carboxylic acid was considerably higher at saturated humidity and 50 °C conditions compared with dry conditions. The ester bond cleavage was also more pronounced in saturated humidity conditions. The novelty of this study is to provide insights into the chemical degradation of PET under environmental conditions, including UV radiation, humidity, and temperature. The results can be used to develop strategies to reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rostampour
- PREP Associate, Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Rachel Cook
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA;
| | - Song-Syun Jhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, University Rd., Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Yuejin Li
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Chunlei Fan
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Li-Piin Sung
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA;
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Mompó-Curell R, Alonso-Molina JL, Amorós-Muñoz I, Mendoza-Roca JA, Bes-Piá MA. Characterization of HDPE microparticles in sludge aerobic digestion and their influence on the process. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 365:121704. [PMID: 38968892 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121704] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in wastewater has been studied in the last years. The high efficiency of their removal from wastewater is linked to their transfer to the sludge. In this work, the effect of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) on aerobic digestion was evaluated and these MPs were monitored, characterizing them by three different techniques. Two parallel batch digesters were monitored. AD-Control (meaning Aerobic Digester) operated as a reference, with no external HDPE particles, whereas these polymeric fragments were introduced to the second aerobic digester (AD-HDPE) using ring pulls as microplastic support. FTIR, Raman spectroscopies and fluorescence analysis of these microparticles showed some relevant results that should be highlighted. Higher fluorescence appeared after 7 days in the digester. It coincided with an increase of active volatile suspended solids (AVSS) in the AD-HDPE, which means that an increase of the microbial activity took place. Despite the presence of HDPE particles in the sludge, the digester performance was not compromised. Besides, the HDPE particles did not affect the microbial diversity (Shannon index) of the bacterial community at the end of the experiment compared to the bacterial community of the aerobic digester control tank. Based on the analysis of the relative abundances of microbial taxa, it was concluded that HDPE had selective effects on sludge microbial community, increasing the relative abundance of Bacteroridota phylum.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mompó-Curell
- Research Institute for Industrial Radiophysical and Environmental Safety (ISIRYM), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
| | - J L Alonso-Molina
- Water and Environmental Engineering University Research Institute (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - I Amorós-Muñoz
- Water and Environmental Engineering University Research Institute (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - J A Mendoza-Roca
- Research Institute for Industrial Radiophysical and Environmental Safety (ISIRYM), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain; Department of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - M A Bes-Piá
- Research Institute for Industrial Radiophysical and Environmental Safety (ISIRYM), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain; Department of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
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6
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Müller ND, Kirtane A, Schefer RB, Mitrano DM. eDNA Adsorption onto Microplastics: Impacts of Water Chemistry and Polymer Physiochemical Properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:7588-7599. [PMID: 38624040 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Adsorption of biomacromolecules onto polymer surfaces, including microplastics (MPs), occurs in multiple environmental compartments, forming an ecocorona. Environmental DNA (eDNA), genetic material shed from organisms, can adsorb onto MPs which can potentially either (1) promote long-range transport of antibiotic resistant genes or (2) serve to gain insights into the transport pathways and origins of MPs by analyzing DNA sequences on MPs. However, little is known about the capacity of MPs to adsorb eDNA or the factors that influence sorption, such as polymer and water chemistries. Here we investigated the adsorption of extracellular linear DNA onto a variety of model MP fragments composed of three of the most environmentally prevalent polymers (polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene) in their pristine and photochemically weathered states. Batch adsorption experiments in a variety of water chemistries were complemented with nonlinear modeling to quantify the rate and extent of eDNA sorption. Ionic strength was shown to strongly impact DNA adsorption by reducing or inhibiting electrostatic repulsion. Polyethylene terephthalate exhibited the highest adsorption capacity when normalizing for MP specific surface area, likely due to the presence of ester groups. Kinetics experiments showed fast adsorption (majority adsorbed under 30 min) before eventually reaching equilibrium after 1-2 h. Overall, we demonstrated that DNA quickly binds to MPs, with pseudo-first- and -second-order models describing adsorption kinetics and the Freundlich model describing adsorption isotherms most accurately. These insights into DNA sorption onto MPs show that there is potential for MPs to act as vectors for genetic material of interest, especially considering that particle-bound DNA typically persists longer in the environment than dissolved DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas D Müller
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anish Kirtane
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roman B Schefer
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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Smoleń J, Olesik P, Nowacki B, Godzierz M, Kurtyka K, Chaber P, Czakiert J, Kozioł M. The influence of UV radiation on the properties of GFRP laminates in underwater conditions. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7446. [PMID: 38548916 PMCID: PMC10978871 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57999-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Degradation of polymer composites is a significant problem in many engineering aspects. Due to the interaction of various degradation factors during the exploitation of composites, a synergistic effect of destruction is observed. The article describes the phenomena occurring in glass fiber reinforced polyester laminates under the influence of ultraviolet radiation (UV) in an aquatic environment. The laminates were exposed to UV-A, UV-B and UV-C radiation for 1000 h in free-air and underwater conditions. During the test, the materials were immersed at stable depth of 1 mm and 10 mm, respectively. The three-point bending tests performed on the samples after being exposed to UV showed an increase in the flexural strength of the composites. Simultaneously, degradation of the outer surface layer was observed. The degradation removed the thin resin film from the surface which resulted in a direct exposure of the reinforcing fibers to the environment. The transformations taking place in the deeper layers of the composite increased the mechanical strength due to the additional cross-linking reactions excited by the energy arising from the radiation. Moreover, the formation of polymer structures from free styrene remaining after the technological process and the occurrence of free radical reactions as a result of the cage effect was also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Smoleń
- Faculty of Materials Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Krasińskiego 8 Street, 40-019, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Piotr Olesik
- Faculty of Materials Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Krasińskiego 8 Street, 40-019, Katowice, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Nowacki
- Faculty of Materials Science, Department of Industrial Informatics, Joint Doctoral School, Silesian University of Technology, Krasińskiego 8, 40-019, Katowice, Poland
| | - Marcin Godzierz
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34 Street, 41-819, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Klaudia Kurtyka
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34 Street, 41-819, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Paweł Chaber
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34 Street, 41-819, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Jan Czakiert
- DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Mateusz Kozioł
- Faculty of Materials Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Krasińskiego 8 Street, 40-019, Katowice, Poland.
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Junck J, Diagboya PN, Peqini A, Rohnke M, Düring RA. Mechanistic interpretation of the sorption of terbuthylazine pesticide onto aged microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123502. [PMID: 38316252 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose a global concern due to their ubiquitous distribution. Once in the environment, they are subject to aging, which changes their chemical-physical properties and ability to interact with organic pollutants, such as pesticides. Therefore, this study investigated the interaction of the hydrophobic herbicide terbuthylazine (TBA), which is widely used in agriculture, with artificially aged polyethylene (PE) MP (PE-MP) to understand how aging affects its sorption. PE was aged by an accelerated weathering process including UV irradiation, hydrogen peroxide, and ultrasonic treatment, and aged particles were characterized in comparison to pristine particles. Sorption kinetics were performed for aged and pristine materials, while further sorption studies with aged PE-MP included determining environmental factors such as pH, temperature, and TBA concentration. Sorption of TBA was found to be significantly lower on aged PE-MP compared to pristine particles because aging led to the formation of oxygen-containing functional groups, resulting in a reduction in hydrophobicity and the formation of negatively charged sites on oxidized surfaces. For pristine PE-MP, sorption kinetics were best described by the pseudo-second-order model, while it was intra-particle diffusion for aged PE-MP as a result of crack and pore formation. Sorption followed a decreasing trend with increasing pH, while it became less favorable at higher temperatures. The isotherm data revealed a complex sorption process on altered, heterogeneous surfaces involving hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions, and the process was best described by the Sips adsorption isotherm model. Desorption was found to be low, confirming a strong interaction. However, thermodynamic results imply that increased temperatures, such as those resulting from climate change, could promote the re-release of TBA from aged PE-MP into the environment. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) confirmed TBA sorption onto PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Junck
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Paul N Diagboya
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Environmental Fate of Chemicals and Remediation (EnFaCRe) Laboratory, Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria
| | - Aleksander Peqini
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Marcus Rohnke
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Center for Materials Research, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rolf-Alexander Düring
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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Hu CC, Zheng YJ, Liu CN, Ye ZT. Full-angle chip scale package of mini LEDs with a V-shape packaging structure. OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 32:9287-9296. [PMID: 38571166 DOI: 10.1364/oe.515800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The light distribution of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) generally resembles that of a Lambertian light source. When used as large-area light sources, the light distribution angle of LEDs must be modified through secondary optics design to achieve uniformity and minimize the number of light sources. However, secondary optical components pose several challenges such as demanding alignment accuracy, material aging, detachment, and lower reliability. Therefore, this paper proposes a primary optical design approach to achieve full-angle emission in LEDs without the need for lenses. The design employs a flip-chip as the light source and incorporates a V-shaped packaged structure, including a white wall layer, optical structure layers, and a V-shaped diffuse structure. With this design, the LEDs achieve full-angle emission without relying on lenses. Our experimental results demonstrated a peak intensity angle of 77.7°, a 20.3% decrease in the intensity of the central point ratio, and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the light distribution of 175.5°. This design is particularly suitable for thin, large-area, and flexible backlight light sources. Moreover, the absence of secondary optical components allows for a thinner light source module.
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10
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Kaing V, Guo Z, Sok T, Kodikara D, Breider F, Yoshimura C. Photodegradation of biodegradable plastics in aquatic environments: Current understanding and challenges. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168539. [PMID: 37981156 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168539] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Direct and indirect photolysis are important abiotic processes in aquatic environments through which plastics can be transformed physically and chemically. Transport of biodegradable plastics in water is influenced by vertical mixing and turbulent flow, which make biodegradable plastics remain susceptible to sunlight and photolysis despite their high density. In general, biodegradable plastics are composed of ester containing polymers (e.g., poly(butylene succinate), polyhydroxyalkanoate, and polylactic acid), whereas non-biodegradable plastics are composed of long chains of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons in their backbones (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene). Based on the reviewed knowledge and discussion, we may hypothesize that 1) direct photolysis is more pronounced for non-biodegradation than for biodegradable plastics, 2) smaller plastics such as micro/nano-plastics are more prone to photodegradation and photo-transformation by direct and indirect photolysis, 3) the production rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the surface of biodegradable plastics is higher than that of non-biodegradable plastics, 4) the photodegradation of biodegradable plastics may be promoted by ROS produced from biodegradable plastics themselves, and 5) the subsequent reactions of ROS are more active on biodegradable plastics than non-biodegradable plastics. Moreover, micro/nanoplastics derived from biodegradable plastics serve as more effective carriers of organic pollutants than those from non-biodegradable plastics and thus biodegradable plastics may not necessarily be more ecofriendly than non-biodegradable plastics. However, biodegradable plastics have been largely unexplored from the viewpoint of direct or indirect photolysis. Roles of reactive oxygen species originating from biodegradable plastics should be further explored for comprehensively understanding the photodegradation of biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinhteang Kaing
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-M1-4 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan; Faculty of Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering, Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Russian Federation Blvd., P.O. Box 86, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Zhongyu Guo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-M1-4 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Ty Sok
- Faculty of Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering, Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Russian Federation Blvd., P.O. Box 86, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Research and Innovation Center, Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Dilini Kodikara
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-M1-4 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Florian Breider
- EPFL - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Central Environmental Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Engineering, ENAC, station 2, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chihiro Yoshimura
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-M1-4 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan.
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11
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Huang W, Jiang G, Xie L, Chen X, Zhang R, Fan X. Effect of oxygen-containing functional groups on the micromechanical behavior of biodegradable plastics and their formation of microplastics during aging. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132911. [PMID: 37939564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics (BPs) are more prone to generate harmful microplastics (MPs) in a short time, which have always been ignored. Oxygenated functional group formation is considered to be a key indicator for assessing microplastic formation, while it is difficult to characterize at a very early stage. The micromechanical properties of the aging plastic during the formation of the MPs are highly influenced by the evolution of oxygen-containing functional groups, however, their relationship has rarely been revealed. Herein, we compared changes in the physicochemical properties of BPs and non-degradable plastic bags during aging in artificial seawater, soil, and air. The results showed that the oxidation of plastics in the air was the most significant, with the most prominent oxidation in BPs. The accumulation of carbonyl groups leads to a significant increase in the micromechanical properties and surface brittleness of the plastic, further exacerbating the formation of MPs. It was also verified by the FTIR, 2D-COS, AFM, and Raman spectroscopy analyses. Furthermore, the increased adhesion and roughness caused by oxygen-containing functional groups suggest that the environmental risks of BPs cannot be ignored. Our findings suggest that the testing of micromechanical properties can predicate the formation of the MPs at an early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyi Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Guoqiang Jiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lidan Xie
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Runzhe Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoyun Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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12
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Mankhair RV, Singh A, Chandel MK. Characterization of excavated plastic waste from an Indian dumpsite: Investigating extent of degradation and resource recovery potential. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024:734242X231219654. [PMID: 38233370 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231219654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the concept of landfill mining has gained a lot of traction in India, and tonnes of plastic waste is being excavated. The present shift towards a circular economy necessitates to explore the use of excavated plastic waste as a source of valuable materials and energy. However, the physicochemical characteristics of plastic waste change due to the degradation and weathering process in landfills, making its valorization difficult. The current study investigates the change in physicochemical characteristics of plastic waste with age from an Indian dumpsite to identify the potential valorization options. In addition, a material and energy flow analysis was performed considering incineration treatment of plastic waste. The plastic waste ranged between 3.6 and 21% in the dumpsite and has almost doubled in recent decades, owing to the increase in plastic waste generation in India. Polyethylene (high- and low-density) accounted for approximately 66% of the excavated plastic waste and had a lot of adhered surface impurities. Mechanical pre-treatment using a shredder was effective in the removal of the adhered impurities with a recovery rate of 50-70% for polyethylene and a higher recovery of 70-90% for other types of plastic. Changes in the surface morphology of plastic waste with aging were observed through Scanning Electron Microscopy. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy results confirmed low degradation levels for aged plastic waste, which is also confirmed through the high level of oxygen detected. The material and energy flow analysis revealed that incinerating one tonne of excavated plastic waste could produce approximately 1410 kWh of electricity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Vilasrao Mankhair
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
| | - Ayush Singh
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
| | - Munish K Chandel
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
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13
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Zhang Z, Zou S, Li P. Aging of plastics in aquatic environments: Pathways, environmental behavior, ecological impacts, analyses and quantifications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122926. [PMID: 37963513 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of plastics in our environment has brought about pressing concerns, with their aging processes, photo-oxidation, mechanical abrasion, and biodegradation, being at the forefront. Microplastics (MPs), whether originating from plastic degradation or direct anthropogenic sources, further complicate this landscape. This review delves into the intricate aging dynamics of plastics in aquatic environments under various influential factors. We discuss the physicochemical changes that occur in aged plastics and the release of oxidation products during their degradation. Particular attention is given to their evolving environmental interactions and the resulting ecotoxicological implications. A rigorous evaluation is also conducted for methodologies in the analysis and quantification of plastics aging, identifying their merits and limitations and suggesting potential avenues for future research. This comprehensive review is able to illuminate the complexities of plastics aging, charting a path for future research and aiding in the formulation of informed policy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Shichun Zou
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Pu Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China.
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14
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Zhou T, Wu J, Hu X, Cao Z, Yang B, Li Y, Zhao Y, Ding Y, Liu Y, Xu A. Microplastics released from disposable medical devices and their toxic responses in Caenorhabditis elegans. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 239:117345. [PMID: 37821065 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Owing to accelerated urbanization and industrialization, many plastic products have been manufactured and discharged into the environment, causing environmental and public health problems. Plastics in environmental media are further degraded by prolonged exposure to light, heat, mechanical friction, and other factors to form new pollutants called microplastics (MPs). Medical plastics have become a crucial source of plastics in environmental media. However, the release profiles of MPs from medical plastics and their potential ecological and health risks remain unclear. We used optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy to explore the release profiles of eight typical disposable medical devices under high-temperature steam disinfection (HSD). We also evaluated the toxicity of disposable medical devices-derived MPs in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Our results showed that the changes in the surface morphology and modification of the disposable medical devices were mainly associated with the material. Polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) materials exhibited high aging phenomena (e.g., bumps, depressions, bulges and cracks), and HSD broke their oxygen-containing functional groups and carbon chains. By contrast, minor changes in the chemical and physical properties were observed in the polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-prepared disposable medical devices under the same conditions. Further physicochemical characterization indicated that the amount of MPs released from PP-prepared disposable medical devices (P4: 1.27 ± 0.34 × 106) was greater than that from PVC-prepared disposable medical devices (P7: 1.08 ± 0.14 × 105). The particle size of the released MPs was the opposite, PVC-prepared disposable medical devices (P7: 11.45 ± 1.79 μm) > PP-prepared disposable medical devices (P4: 7.18 ± 0.52 μm). Toxicity assessment revealed that disposable medical devices-released MPs significantly increased germ cell apoptosisin C. elegans. Moreover, MPs from PP-prepared disposable medical devices disrupted the intestinal barrier of worms, decreasing their lifespan. Our findings provided novel information regarding the profiles and mechanisms of MP release from disposable medical devices and revealed their potential risks to ecological environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology; High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Jiajie Wu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology; High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Xi Hu
- Quantum Design (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenxiao Cao
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Baolin Yang
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Yang Li
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Yanan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology; High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Yuting Ding
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Yun Liu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology; High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China
| | - An Xu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology; High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China.
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15
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Wei XF, Hedenqvist MS. Heatwaves hasten polymer degradation and failure. Science 2023; 381:1058. [PMID: 37676941 DOI: 10.1126/science.adj4036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Feng Wei
- Division of Polymeric Materials, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Hedenqvist
- Division of Polymeric Materials, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Noro K, Kakimoto Y, Wang Q, Akiyama S, Takikawa T, Omagari R, Yabuki Y, Amagai T. Enhancement of photodegradation of polyethylene with adsorbed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons under artificial sunlight irradiation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115331. [PMID: 37499570 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115331] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The photodegradation of plastic waste produces microplastics (MPs) in marine environments. Plastics can adsorb hydrophobic organic pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and can be transported over long distances. However, the impact of adsorbed pollutants on the photodegradation remains unknown. Here, we show that adsorbed PAHs act as photocatalysts that promote the photodegradation of polyethylene. Upon light irradiation, coloration and surface degradation of the PAH-adsorbed polyethylene sheets were observed, indicating that the PAH-adsorbed polyethylene sheets are less resistant to light. Furthermore, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[a]pyrene, and indeno[1,2,3-cd]perylene adsorbed on polyethylene MP exhibited lower photodegradation rates than the aqueous phase. These results indicate that these PAHs can act as photocatalysts; their role of PAHs may have two adverse effects on marine environment. First, enhanced photodegradation of plastic waste increased the production of MPs. Second, the lifetime of PAHs is extended, thereby enhancing PAHs pollution in marine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazushi Noro
- University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan.
| | - Yuna Kakimoto
- University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
| | - Qi Wang
- National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Japan, Nagao 6-21-1, Tama-Ku, Kawasaki 214-8585, Japan
| | - Satoshi Akiyama
- Research Institute of Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries, Osaka Prefecture, Habikino, Osaka 583-0862, Japan
| | | | - Ryo Omagari
- University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Yabuki
- Research Institute of Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries, Osaka Prefecture, Habikino, Osaka 583-0862, Japan
| | - Takashi Amagai
- University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
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17
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Yan Y, Yu Y, Sima J, Geng C, Yang J. Aging behavior of microplastics accelerated by mechanical fragmentation: alteration of intrinsic and extrinsic properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:90993-91006. [PMID: 37468782 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28736-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) inevitably undergo multiple aging processes during their life cycle in the environment. However, the information regarding the mechanical fragmentation behavior of MPs remained unclear, including the changes in the intrinsic properties of aged MPs, the measurement of aging degree, the underlying mechanism, and the interaction with heavy metals. Here, MPs (PS, PP, PET) were aged by crushing (-CR) and ball-milling (-BM) to simulate mild and severe mechanical fragmentation, respectively. Our results indicated that mechanical fragmentation significantly affected the morphology of MPs. The aging degree of MP-BM was deeper compared to MP-CR owing to smaller particle size, larger specific surface area, poorer heat resistance, better hydrophilicity, and richer oxygen-containing functional groups. The carbonyl index (CI) and O/C ratio were used to measure the aging degree of the two mechanical aging treatments. Besides, the mechanism was proposed and the discrepancy between the two treatments was elaborated from three aspects including the excitation energy source, reaction interface, and reaction dynamics. Furthermore, the extrinsic properties of MPs altered with the increase of aging degree; specifically, the adsorption capacities of heavy metals were enhanced. Meanwhile, it was unveiled that the CI value and O/C ratio played a vital role in estimating the adsorption ability of heavy metals. The findings not only reveal the mechanical fragmentation behavior of MPs but also provide new insights into the assessment of the potential risks of the aged MPs via chemical indexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Yan
- The Ecological Technique and Engineering College, Shanghai Institute of Technology, No. 100 Haiquan Road, Fengxian District, Shanghai, 201418, China
- State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yulu Yu
- State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jingke Sima
- State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China.
| | - Chunnu Geng
- The Ecological Technique and Engineering College, Shanghai Institute of Technology, No. 100 Haiquan Road, Fengxian District, Shanghai, 201418, China
| | - Jie Yang
- State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
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18
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Wu X, Tan Z, Liu R, Liao Z, Ou H. Gaseous products generated from polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate during ultraviolet irradiation: Mechanism, pathway and toxicological analyses. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 876:162717. [PMID: 36907426 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The generation of various degradation products from microplastics (MPs) has been confirmed under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The gaseous products, primarily volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are usually overlooked, leading to potential unknown risks to humans and the environment. In this study, the generation of VOCs from polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) under UV-A (365 nm) and UV-C (254 nm) irradiation in water matrixes were compared. More than 50 different VOCs were identified. For PE, UV-A-derived VOCs mainly included alkenes and alkanes. On this basis, UV-C-derived VOCs included various oxygen-containing organics, such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acid and even lactones. For PET, both UV-A and UV-C irradiation induced the generation of alkenes, alkanes, esters, phenols, etc., and the differences between these two reactions were insignificant. Toxicological prioritization prediction revealed that these VOCs have diverse toxicological profiles. The VOCs with the highest potential toxicity were dimethyl phthalate (CAS: 131-11-3) from PE and 4-acetylbenzoate (3609-53-8) from PET. Furthermore, some alkane and alcohol products also presented high potential toxicity. The quantitative results indicated that the yield of these toxic VOCs from PE could reach 102 μg g-1 under UV-C treatment. The degradation mechanisms of MPs included direct scission by UV irradiation and indirect oxidation induced by diverse activated radicals. The former mechanism was dominant in UV-A degradation, while UV-C included both mechanisms. Both mechanisms contributed to the generation of VOCs. Generally, MPs-derived VOCs can be released from water to the air after UV irradiation, posing a potential risk to ecosystems and human beings, especially for UV-C disinfection indoors in water treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinni Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Zongyi Tan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Ruijuan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Zhianqi Liao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Huase Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China.
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19
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Wang H, Zhu J, He Y, Wang J, Zeng N, Zhan X. Photoaging process and mechanism of four commonly commercial microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 451:131151. [PMID: 36889070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are the widespread emerging pollutants in the terrestrial systems, and photo-oxidation is an effective process for aging MPs on land. Here, four common commercial MPs were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light to simulate the photo-aging of MPs on soil, and the changes in surface properties and eluates of photoaging MPs were studied. Results revealed that polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS) exhibited more pronounced physicochemical changes than polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) during photoaging on the simulated topsoil, due to the dechlorination of PVC and the debenzene ring of PS. Oxygenated groups accumulated in aged MPs were strongly correlated with dissolved organic matters (DOMs) leaching. Through analysis of the eluate, we found that photoaging altered the molecular weight and aromaticity of DOMs. PS-DOMs showed the greatest increase in humic-like substances after aging, whereas PVC-DOMs exhibited the highest amount of additive leaching. The chemical properties of additives explained their differences in photodegradation responses, which also accounted for the greater importance of chemical structure of MPs to their structural stability. These findings demonstrate that the extensive presence of cracks in aged MPs facilitates DOMs formation and the complexity of DOMs composition poses a potential threat to soil and groundwater safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqian Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China; Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Jiahui Zhu
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan He
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Nengde Zeng
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinhua Zhan
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Celik M, Nakano H, Uchida K, Isobe A, Arakawa H. Comparative evaluation of the carbonyl index of microplastics around the Japan coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 190:114818. [PMID: 36989597 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The carbonyl index (CI) of polyethylene and polypropylene microplastics (MPs) (2950 particles) collected in coastal waters around Japan was investigated. The CI of MPs was calculated by the specified area under band technique. The mean MP CI in all samples (regardless of shape and color) was 0.69 ± 0.34 and 0.70 ± 0.34 for polyethylene and polypropylene, respectively, and there was no significant difference in the color or shape of the MPs. The polyethylene, white, and fragment MPs CI was negatively (p < 0.05) correlated with the major length of the MPs. Large MPs with relatively little deterioration were distributed along the west coast of the Sea of Japan, whereas small MPs were distributed along the east coast. Our findings of this gradual change in the deterioration of MPs, based on geographical distribution, are in accordance with literature CI-size and MP degradation hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Celik
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Haruka Nakano
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan; Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga, Fukuoka 816-8580, Japan
| | - Keiichi Uchida
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Isobe
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga, Fukuoka 816-8580, Japan
| | - Hisayuki Arakawa
- Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
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21
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Grossutti M, D'Amico J, Quintal J, MacFarlane H, Wareham WC, Quirk A, Dutcher JR. Deep Generative Modeling of Infrared Images Provides Signature of Cracking in Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipe. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:22532-22542. [PMID: 37097086 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c02564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Hyperspectral infrared (IR) images contain a large amount of highly spatially resolved information about the chemical composition of a sample. However, the analysis of hyperspectral IR imaging data for complex heterogeneous systems can be challenging because of the spectroscopic and spatial complexity of the data. We implement a deep generative modeling approach using a β-variational autoencoder to learn disentangled representations of the generative factors of variance in a data set of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX-a) pipe. We identify three distinct physicochemical factors of aging and degradation learned by the model and apply the trained model to high-resolution hyperspectral IR images of cross-sectional slices of unused virgin, used in-service, and cracked PEX-a pipe. By mapping the learned representations of aging and degradation to the IR images, we extract detailed information on the physicochemical changes that occur during aging, degradation, and cracking in PEX-a pipe. This study shows how representation learning by deep generative modeling can significantly enhance the analysis of high-resolution IR images of complex heterogeneous samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Grossutti
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Joseph D'Amico
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Jonathan Quintal
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Hugh MacFarlane
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - W Callum Wareham
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Amanda Quirk
- Canadian Light Source Incorporated, 44 Innovation Blvd, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 2V3, Canada
| | - John R Dutcher
- Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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22
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Lu Q, Zhou Y, Sui Q, Zhou Y. Mechanism and characterization of microplastic aging process: A review. FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2023; 17:100. [PMID: 36935734 PMCID: PMC10010843 DOI: 10.1007/s11783-023-1700-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing production of petroleum-based plastics, the problem of environmental pollution caused by plastics has aroused widespread concern. Microplastics, which are formed by the fragmentation of macro plastics, are bio-accumulate easily due to their small size and slow degradation under natural conditions. The aging of plastics is an inevitable process for their degradation and enhancement of adsorption performance toward pollutants due to a series of changes in their physiochemical properties, which significantly increase the toxicity and harm of plastics. Therefore, studies should focus on the aging process of microplastics through reasonable characterization methods to promote the aging process and prevent white pollution. This review summarizes the latest progress in natural aging process and characterization methods to determine the natural aging mechanism of microplastics. In addition, recent advances in the artificial aging of microplastic pollutants are reviewed. The degradation status and by-products of biodegradable plastics in the natural environment and whether they can truly solve the plastic pollution problem have been discussed. Findings from the literature pointed out that the aging process of microplastics lacks professional and exclusive characterization methods, which include qualitative and quantitative analyses. To lessen the toxicity of microplastics in the environment, future research directions have been suggested based on existing problems in the current research. This review could provide a systematic reference for in-depth exploration of the aging mechanism and behavior of microplastics in natural and artificial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinwei Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Qian Sui
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Yanbo Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
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23
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Lee J, Kim Y, Choi J. Recycling Microplastics to Fabricate Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries: From Removal of Environmental Troubles via Electrocoagulation to Useful Resources. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205675. [PMID: 36646506 PMCID: PMC10015874 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205675] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Electrocoagulation is an evolving technology for the abatement of a broad range of pollutants in wastewater owing to its flexibility, easy setup, and eco-friendly nature. Here, environment-friendly strategies for the separation, retreatment, and utilization of microplastics via electrocoagulation are investigated. The findings show that the flocs generated by forming Fe3 O4 on the surface of polyethylene (PE) particles are easily separated using a magnetic force with high efficiency of 98.4%. In the photodegradation of the obtained flocs, it is confirmed that Fe3 O4 shall be removed for the efficient generation of free radicals, leading to the highly efficient photolysis of PE. The removed Fe3 O4 can be recycled into iron-oxalate compounds, which can be used in battery applications. In addition, it is suggested that heat treatment of Fe3 O4 -PE flocs in an Ar atmosphere leads to forming Fe3 O4 core-carbon shell nanoparticles, which show excellent performance as anodes in lithium-ion batteries. The proposed composite exhibits an excellent capacity of 1123 mAh g-1 at the current density of 0.5 A g-1 after 600 cycles with a negative fading phenomenon. This study offers insight into a new paradigm of recyclable processes, from environmental issues such as microplastics to using energy materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhee Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Yong‐Tae Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Jinsub Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
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24
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Yang J, Song K, Tu C, Li L, Feng Y, Li R, Xu H, Luo Y. Distribution and weathering characteristics of microplastics in paddy soils following long-term mulching: A field study in Southwest China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159774. [PMID: 36334659 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural plastic-film residues have been considered as one of the important sources of microplastics in the agroecosystem. However, limited researches were conducted on the accumulation of microplastics in long-term film-mulched paddy soil. This study aims to investigate the distribution and the weathering characteristics of filmy microplastics in a mulched paddy field (non-mulch, four years of mulched, and ten years of continuous mulched soil were investigated) in Southwest China. More than 50 % of the microplastics in the mulched soil were 1-3 mm, whereas the largest percentage of the microplastics in the non-mulched soil was <1 mm (55.3 %). Microplastic compositions in this field mainly consist of polyester (PES) and polyethylene (PE) (82.1 %). The abundance of microplastics increases with the film mulching time, which were 76.2 ± 18.4, 118.6 ± 44.8, and 159.6 ± 23.5 items kg-1 in soil with non-mulching, four years of mulching, and ten years of continuous mulching, respectively. The filmy microplastics accumulated annually in the plough layer is estimated at 18.1 million items ha-1. Weathering characteristics of filmy microplastics extracted from paddy soil were characterized using FTIR, SEM-EDS, AFM, and contact angle meter. The vinyl, carbonyl, and hydroxyl indices calculated from FTIR results showed that the degradation degree of microplastics incereased as mulching time rose; compared with commercial PE films, the oxygen-containing functional groups of soil-extracted PE films were increased. This study revealed the status of microplastic pollution in paddy soil with long-term mulching. It provided primary data and a scientific basis for further study on environmental behavior and ecological impacts of microplastics in agricultural soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaifu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chen Tu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yudong Feng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ruijie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Northwest Institute of Eco-Environments and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000,China
| | - Hua Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yongming Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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Kadac-Czapska K, Knez E, Gierszewska M, Olewnik-Kruszkowska E, Grembecka M. Microplastics Derived from Food Packaging Waste-Their Origin and Health Risks. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:674. [PMID: 36676406 PMCID: PMC9866676 DOI: 10.3390/ma16020674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are commonly used for packaging in the food industry. The most popular thermoplastic materials that have found such applications are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), and polystyrene (PS). Unfortunately, most plastic packaging is disposable. As a consequence, significant amounts of waste are generated, entering the environment, and undergoing degradation processes. They can occur under the influence of mechanical forces, temperature, light, chemical, and biological factors. These factors can present synergistic or antagonistic effects. As a result of their action, microplastics are formed, which can undergo further fragmentation and decomposition into small-molecule compounds. During the degradation process, various additives used at the plastics' processing stage can also be released. Both microplastics and additives can negatively affect human and animal health. Determination of the negative consequences of microplastics on the environment and health is not possible without knowing the course of degradation processes of packaging waste and their products. In this article, we present the sources of microplastics, the causes and places of their formation, the transport of such particles, the degradation of plastics most often used in the production of packaging for food storage, the factors affecting the said process, and its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Eliza Knez
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Gierszewska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Ewa Olewnik-Kruszkowska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grembecka
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
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Binda G, Zanetti G, Bellasi A, Spanu D, Boldrocchi G, Bettinetti R, Pozzi A, Nizzetto L. Physicochemical and biological ageing processes of (micro)plastics in the environment: a multi-tiered study on polyethylene. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:6298-6312. [PMID: 35994148 PMCID: PMC9895034 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22599-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Pollution by plastic and microplastic impacts the environment globally. Knowledge on the ageing mechanisms of plastics in natural settings is needed to understand their environmental fate and their reactivity in the ecosystems. Accordingly, the study of ageing processes is gaining focus in the context of the environmental sciences. However, laboratory-based experimental research has typically assessed individual ageing processes, limiting environmental applicability. In this study, we propose a multi-tiered approach to study the environmental ageing of polyethylene plastic fragments focusing on the combined assessment of physical and biological processes in sequence. The ageing protocol included ultraviolet irradiation in air and in a range of water solutions, followed by a biofouling test. Changes in surface characteristics were assessed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and water contact angle. UV radiation both in air and water caused a significant increase in the density of oxidized groups (i.e., hydroxyl and carbonyl) on the plastic surface, whereby water solution chemistry influenced the process both by modulating surface oxidation and morphology. Biofouling, too, was a strong determinant of surface alterations, regardless of the prior irradiation treatments. All biofouled samples present (i) specific infrared bands of new surface functional groups (e.g., amides and polysaccharides), (ii) a further increase in hydroxyl and carbonyl groups, (iii) the diffuse presence of algal biofilm on the plastic surface, and (iv) a significant decrease in surface hydrophobicity. This suggests that biological-driven alterations are not affected by the level of physicochemical ageing and may represent, in real settings, the main driver of alteration of both weathered and pristine plastics. This work highlights the potentially pivotal role of biofouling as the main process of plastic ageing, providing useful technical insights for future experimental works. These results also confirm that a multi-tiered laboratory approach permits a realistic simulation of plastic environmental ageing in controlled conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilberto Binda
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Zanetti
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Arianna Bellasi
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Davide Spanu
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Ginevra Boldrocchi
- Department of Human and Innovation for the Territory, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Roberta Bettinetti
- Department of Human and Innovation for the Territory, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Andrea Pozzi
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Luca Nizzetto
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579, Oslo, Norway
- RECETOX, Masarik University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
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27
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Cesaro A, Pirozzi F, Zafırakou A, Alexandraki A. Microplastics in sewage sludge destined to anaerobic digestion: The potential role of thermal pretreatment. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136669. [PMID: 36202375 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles with size smaller than 5 mm: their removal in municipal wastewater treatment plants mostly results in the accumulation of the coarser fraction into the sludge. The common application of the treated sludge as soil amendment raises the issue of the uncontrolled release of MPs into the environment, which depicts the need to identify suitable counteraction strategies. This work briefly reviews the most recent studies that focus on the fate of MPs during conventional sludge treatments, and, based on the results of this analysis, proposes the thermal pretreatment (120 °C, 30 min) of waste activated sludge (WAS) containing different kinds of MPs, in order to investigate its effect on the anaerobic biodegradability as well as on the abundance and physical features of MPs. Experimental results show that high temperatures did not alter polyethylene terephthalate (PET) MPs but the biodegradable-compostable ones (BIO-MPs), complying with the UNI EN 13432 standards. The profile of methane generation from thermally pretreated samples containing PET-MPs do not indicate any inhibition of the anaerobic process, which was positively influenced by the BIO-MPs in WAS: a 100% and 25% methane increase was observed over the control samples with and without the thermal pretreatment, respectively. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying biodegradable MPs behavior as well as to investigate the influence of high temperature treatments on smaller size MPs during anaerobic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Cesaro
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Claudio 21, 80125, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Francesco Pirozzi
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Claudio 21, 80125, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antigoni Zafırakou
- Division of Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Akrivi Alexandraki
- Division of Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
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28
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Zeng S, Guo P, Hu C, Wang Z. Effects of mechanical recycling on optical properties and microstructure of recycled high‐density polyethylene pellets and bottles. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.53446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shao‐Fu Zeng
- Packaging Engineering Institute, Jinan University Zhuhai China
- School of Mechanics and Construction Engineering Institute of Applied Mechanics, Jinan University Guangzhou China
| | - Pan Guo
- School of Mechanics and Construction Engineering Institute of Applied Mechanics, Jinan University Guangzhou China
| | - Chang‐Ying Hu
- Packaging Engineering Institute, Jinan University Zhuhai China
- Department of Food Science and Engineering Jinan University Guangzhou China
| | - Zhi‐Wei Wang
- Packaging Engineering Institute, Jinan University Zhuhai China
- School of Mechanics and Construction Engineering Institute of Applied Mechanics, Jinan University Guangzhou China
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29
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Sun X, Chen Z, Kong T, Chen Z, Dong Y, Kolton M, Cao Z, Zhang X, Zhang H, Liu G, Gao P, Yang N, Lan L, Xu Y, Sun W. Mycobacteriaceae Mineralizes Micropolyethylene in Riverine Ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:15705-15717. [PMID: 36288260 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c05346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination is a serious global environmental problem. Plastic contamination has attracted extensive attention during the past decades. While physiochemical weathering may influence the properties of MPs, biodegradation by microorganisms could ultimately mineralize plastics into CO2. Compared to the well-studied marine ecosystems, the MP biodegradation process in riverine ecosystems, however, is less understood. The current study focuses on the MP biodegradation in one of the world's most plastic contaminated rivers, Pearl River, using micropolyethylene (mPE) as a model substrate. Mineralization of 13C-labeled mPE into 13CO2 provided direct evidence of mPE biodegradation by indigenous microorganisms. Several Actinobacteriota genera were identified as putative mPE degraders. Furthermore, two Mycobacteriaceae isolates related to the putative mPE degraders, Mycobacterium sp. mPE3 and Nocardia sp. mPE12, were retrieved, and their ability to mineralize 13C-mPE into 13CO2 was confirmed. Pangenomic analysis reveals that the genes related to the proposed mPE biodegradation pathway are shared by members of Mycobacteriaceae. While both Mycobacterium and Nocardia are known for their pathogenicity, these populations on the plastisphere in this study were likely nonpathogenic as they lacked virulence factors. The current study provided direct evidence for MP mineralization by indigenous biodegraders and predicted their biodegradation pathway, which may be harnessed to improve bioremediation of MPs in urban rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Sun
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Tianle Kong
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yiran Dong
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Max Kolton
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 849900, Israel
| | - Zhiguo Cao
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Haihan Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, China
| | - Guoqiang Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Pin Gao
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Nie Yang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ling Lan
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Yating Xu
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Weimin Sun
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, P. R. China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
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30
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Shi X, Chen Z, Liu X, Wei W, Ni BJ. The photochemical behaviors of microplastics through the lens of reactive oxygen species: Photolysis mechanisms and enhancing photo-transformation of pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 846:157498. [PMID: 35870588 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The photoaging mechanisms of various polymers have been explored based on the basic autoxidation scheme (BAS) before 10 years ago, however current research verified some defects in the BAS in both thermodynamic and dynamics. These defects are troublesome because they are associated with the hydrogen abstraction which is central to continuously perform the photooxidation process of microplastics. These found indicated that we might wrongly inferred photo-oxidation process of some microplastics. In addition, the important role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the type-dependent photoaging process of various microplastics has been revealed recently. In this case, fully and accurately understanding the photoaging mechanisms of different microplastics in environment is a priority to further manage the ecological risk of microplastics. Herein, this review aims to revise and update the degradation process of microplastics based on the revised BAS and in the perspective of ROS. Specifically, the modification of BAS is firstly discussed. The photoaging mechanisms of representative microplastics (i.e., polyethylene, polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate) are then updated based on the corrected BAS. Additionally, the role of ROS in their photolysis process and the possibility of microplastics as photosensitizers/mediators to regulate the fate of co-existent pollutants are also analyzed. Finally, several perspectives are then proposed to guide future research on the photoaging behaviors of microplastics. This review would pave the way for the understanding of microplastic photoaging and the management of plastic pollution in environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingdong Shi
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Zhijie Chen
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Wei Wei
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
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31
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Sun J, Zheng H, Xiang H, Fan J, Jiang H. The surface degradation and release of microplastics from plastic films studied by UV radiation and mechanical abrasion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:156369. [PMID: 35654205 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
During service or on discarding in the environment, solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and mechanical abrasion (MA) often act on plastic surface in combination, which cause the surface of plastics deterioration and micro- and nano- plastics release. Here, we examined how the set conditions (UVR, MA and UVR+MA (i.e., UVR combined with MA)) and polymer composition affected plastic degradation and microplastics (MPs) release. The surface degradation process and release of MPs of two types of plastic films (polyethylene (PE) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)) under the action of UVR, MA and UVR+MA were analyzed and compared. The main results are as follow: First, the surface change of PE and TPU films by UVR+MA was observed more prominently than by UVR and MA. UVR+MA resulted in the accelerated surface degradation compared to UVR and MA. A large number of MPs were released from both PE and TPU films and significant differences were observed between UVR, MA and UVR+MA conditions. The UVR+MA treatment led to the generation of the largest amount of MPs with a smallest particle size, followed by MA and UVR. Second, plastics with different compositions exhibited different levels of resistance to UVR and MA. PE films released more MPs than TPU under the three set conditions. Finally, optical microscopy provided a direct and non-invasive method to assess the plastics degradation and the observed change in relative transmittance as a function of exposure time could be fitted linearly in some circumstances, which can be used to quantify the release of MPs. This study provided a basis for better understanding the degradation mechanisms of plastics surface and the relationship with MPs release during use and into the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoxia Sun
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China.
| | - Hanyue Zheng
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Hong Xiang
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Jianxin Fan
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China
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32
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Yao Z, Seong HJ, Jang YS. Environmental toxicity and decomposition of polyethylene. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 242:113933. [PMID: 35930840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In the more than 100 years since the invention of plastics, various plastic polymers have been developed that exhibit different characteristics and have been widely used in production and life. In 2020 alone, nearly 400 million tons of plastics were produced globally. However, while plastic such as polyethylene brings us convenience, it also threatens environmental sustainability and human health. Due to insufficient recycling efficiency, millions of tons of polyethylene pollutants accumulate in terrestrial or marine environments each year. Polyethylene is elastic, chemically stable, and non-biodegradable, and the traditional disposal methods include landfilling and incineration. These methods are costly, unsustainable, and further increase the burden on the environment. Therefore, recent research has increasingly focused on the biodegradation of polyethylene. In this work, we briefly summarized polyethylene's properties and environmental toxicity. We also reviewed the recent advances in the biodegradation of polyethylene with a summary of traditional abiotic methods. Finally, we proposed a brief research direction in polyethylene study with the aspect of environmental toxicology and industrial applications of decomposition technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Yao
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21), Department of Applied Life Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture & Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong Seong
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21), Department of Applied Life Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture & Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Sin Jang
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21), Department of Applied Life Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture & Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.
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33
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Herath A, Salehi M. Studying the combined influence of microplastics' intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics on their weathering behavior and heavy metal transport in storm runoff. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119628. [PMID: 35716893 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The weathering and contaminant transport behavior of both primary (PMPs) and secondary microplastics (SMPs) are interrelated to their original physiochemical features and variations within the environment. This study examines the influence of PMPs' intrinsic characteristics (polymer structure and crystallinity) and SMPs' extrinsic features (surface oxidation and external sediments attachment) on the photodegradation kinetics, and subsequently Pb(II) and Zn(II) uptake from stormwater. For this purpose, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) with different degrees of crystallinities were produced as PMPs, and their photodegradation behaviors were compared with original polymers. Furthermore, the SMPs generated by abrasion and surface oxidation of PMPs and the virgin PMPs underwent accelerated photodegradation, and the changes of their crystallinity, surface chemistry, and morphology were examined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) studies revealed the formation of cracks and different oxidized functionalities on MPs surface due to UV photodegradation. The vinyl and carbonyl indices calculated using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy demonstrated an elevated photodegradation rate for SMPs compared to the PMPs. Moreover, the Differential Scanning Colorimetry (DSC) demonstrated an increasing percentage of crystallinity in all MPs due to the photodegradation. The percent crystallinity of HDPE pellets increased after photodegradation from 49.8 to 62.6 and it increased from 17.2 to 38.9 for LDPE pellets respectively. The greater level of increase in crystallinity for LDPE in comparison to HDPE upon photodegradation was referred to as LDPE's greater amorphous content and branched structure. A greater level of metal uptake was obtained for photodegraded LDPE pellets as 2526 μg/m2 for Pb(II) and 2028 μg/m2 for Zn(II) respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amali Herath
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Maryam Salehi
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.
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34
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Zhao X, You F. Life Cycle Assessment of Microplastics Reveals Their Greater Environmental Hazards than Mismanaged Polymer Waste Losses. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:11780-11797. [PMID: 35920730 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c01549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Concern about microplastic pollution sourced from mismanaged plastic waste losses to drainage basins is growing but lacks relevant environmental impact analyses. Here, we reveal and compare the environmental hazards of aquatic macro- and microplastic debris through a holistic life cycle assessment approach. Compared to polymeric debris, microplastics, especially smaller than 10 μm, exhibit higher freshwater ecotoxicity enhanced by watersheds' high average depth and low water temperature. High microplastic concentration within drainage basins can also cause air pollution regarding particulate matter formation and photochemical ozone formation. The environmental drawbacks of plastic mismanagement are then demonstrated by showing that the microplastic formulation and removal in drinking water treatment plants can pose more than 7.44% of the total ecotoxicity effect from plastic wastes' (microplastics') whole life cycle. Specifically, these two life cycle stages can also cause more than 50% of the plastic wastes' life cycle ecotoxicity effect related to organic chemical emissions. Therefore, reducing environmentally harmful plastic losses through advanced plastic waste recycling, collection, and effective microplastic removal technologies needs future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhao
- Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Fengqi You
- Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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Pinto J, Dias M, Amaral J, Ivanov M, Paixão JA, Coimbra MA, Ferreira P, Pereira E, Gonçalves I. Influence of UV degradation of bioplastics on the amplification of mercury bioavailability in aquatic environments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 180:113806. [PMID: 35696893 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics have emerged to minimize the ecological footprint of non-degradable plastics. However, the effect of their degradation in aquatic systems, including the interaction with toxic metals, is still unexplored. In this work, the influence of UV-aging on structure, chemistry, wettability, rigidity, and Hg-sorption of commercially available bioplastic (BIO)- and polyethylene (PE)-based films was studied. To mimetize the materials disposal in fresh-/saltwaters, non-saline/saline aqueous solutions were used in Hg-sorption studies. ATR-FTIR spectra revealed that the BIO film was a coblended starch/polyester-based material, whose microstructure, physicochemical, and mechanical properties changed after UV-aging to a higher extent than in PE film. AFM and kinetic modelling pointed out electrostatic interactions/complexation as the mechanisms involved in the increased Hg-sorption by the UV-aged BIO film. An increased salinity did not impair its Hg-sorption. Therefore, when disposed in aquatic systems, starch/polyester-based bioplastics can play a potential vector for amplifying Hg along the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pinto
- CESAM, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mariana Dias
- CESAM, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Amaral
- CESAM, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maxim Ivanov
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - José A Paixão
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, 3004-516 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuel A Coimbra
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Paula Ferreira
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Pereira
- CESAM, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Idalina Gonçalves
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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36
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Zhang C, Kang Q, Chu M, He L, Chen J. Solar-driven catalytic plastic upcycling. TRENDS IN CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trechm.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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37
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Menzel T, Meides N, Mauel A, Mansfeld U, Kretschmer W, Kuhn M, Herzig EM, Altstädt V, Strohriegl P, Senker J, Ruckdäschel H. Degradation of low-density polyethylene to nanoplastic particles by accelerated weathering. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 826:154035. [PMID: 35217061 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
When plastics enter the environment, they are exposed to abiotic and biotic impacts, resulting in degradation and the formation of micro- and nanoplastic. Microplastic is ubiquitous in every environmental compartment. Nevertheless, the underlying degradation processes are not yet fully understood. Here, we studied the abiotic degradation of commonly used semi-crystalline, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in a long-term accelerated weathering experiment combining several macro- and microscopic methods. Based on our observations, the degradation of LDPE proceeds in three stages. Initially, LDPE objects are prone to abrasion, followed by a period of surface cracking. A large number of secondary particles with a high degree of crystallinity are formed, with sizes down to the nanometer scale. These particles consist of highly polar oligomers leading to agglomeration in the final stage. We therefore suppose that weathered microplastic and nanoplastic particles will attach to colloidal environmental matter. This offers an explanation for the absence of free nanoplastic particles in natural samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Menzel
- Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Nora Meides
- Department of Macromolecular Chemistry I, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Anika Mauel
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Ulrich Mansfeld
- Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Winfried Kretschmer
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Meike Kuhn
- Dynamics and Structure Formation - Herzig Group, Institute of Physics, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Eva M Herzig
- Dynamics and Structure Formation - Herzig Group, Institute of Physics, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Volker Altstädt
- Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Peter Strohriegl
- Department of Macromolecular Chemistry I, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Jürgen Senker
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany.
| | - Holger Ruckdäschel
- Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany.
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38
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Drobota M, Ursache S, Aflori M. Surface Functionalities of Polymers for Biomaterial Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14122307. [PMID: 35745883 PMCID: PMC9229900 DOI: 10.3390/polym14122307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes of a material biointerface allow for specialized cell signaling and diverse biological responses. Biomaterials incorporating immobilized bioactive ligands have been widely introduced and used for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications in order to develop biomaterials with improved functionality. Furthermore, a variety of physical and chemical techniques have been utilized to improve biomaterial functionality, particularly at the material interface. At the interface level, the interactions between materials and cells are described. The importance of surface features in cell function is then examined, with new strategies for surface modification being highlighted in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mioara Drobota
- “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Aleea Gr. Ghica Voda, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Stefan Ursache
- Innovative Green Power, No. 5 Iancu Bacalu Street, 700029 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Magdalena Aflori
- “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Aleea Gr. Ghica Voda, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence:
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39
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What Are Lake Beaches Made of? An Assessment of Plastic Beach Litter on the Shores of Como Bay (Italy). APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12115388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste dispersion is a well-recognized environmental threat, despite continuous efforts towards improving waste disposal management over the last few decades. Plastic litter is known to strongly impact upon water bodies and shorelines, affecting the health of ecosystems and impacting upon the aesthetic value of sites. Moreover, plastic waste that is abandoned on beaches contributes towards different degradation processes that potentially lead to the formation of secondary microplastics (MPs), with likely cascade effects upon the whole ecosystem. In this view, this study aims to characterize the plastic beach litter found on the shores of the western basin of Como Lake (Italy) to better understand the origin of MPs in littoral sediments, including the recognition of object typologies and the chemical characterization of polymers using Fourier-transformed infrared analysis (FTIR). The results highlighted that the most abundant polymers on beaches are polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), representing 73% of the collected polymers. This confirms that floating, low-density polymers are more likely to accumulate on beaches. Moreover, almost 66% of litter is represented by commonly used manufactured items (disposable objects, packaging, and everyday items). This evidence, combined with the analysis of the main environmental features of the sampling sites (the main winds, distance to urban areas, and the presence of tributaries) indicate that abundance of beached litter is mainly linked to beach accessibility and the local winds. These results highlight that multiple factors affect the environmental fate of plastic litter and give insights into the assessment of secondary microplastics in beach sediments.
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40
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Savino I, Campanale C, Trotti P, Massarelli C, Corriero G, Uricchio VF. Effects and Impacts of Different Oxidative Digestion Treatments on Virgin and Aged Microplastic Particles. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14101958. [PMID: 35631840 PMCID: PMC9146394 DOI: 10.3390/polym14101958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although several sample preparation methods for analyzing microplastics (MPs) in environmental matrices have been implemented in recent years, important uncertainties and criticalities in the approaches adopted still persist. Preliminary purification of samples, based on oxidative digestion, is an important phase to isolate microplastics from the environmental matrix; it should guarantee both efficacy and minimal damage to the particles. In this context, our study aims to evaluate Fenton’s reaction digestion pre-treatment used to isolate and extract microplastics from environmental matrices. We evaluated the particle recovery efficiency and the impact of the oxidation method on the integrity of the MPs subjected to digestion considering different particles’ polymeric composition, size, and morphology. For this purpose, two laboratory experiments were set up: the first one to evaluate the efficacy of various digestion protocols in the MPs extraction from a complex matrix, and the second one to assess the possible harm of different treatments, differing in temperatures and volume reagents used, on virgin and aged MPs. Morphological, physicochemical, and dimensional changes were verified by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The findings of the first experiment showed the greatest difference in recovery rates especially for polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate particles, indicating the role of temperature and the kind of polymer as the major factors influencing MPs extraction. In the second experiment, the SEM analysis revealed morphological and particle size alterations of various entities, in particular for the particles treated at 75 °C and with major evident alterations of aged MPs to virgin ones. In conclusion, this study highlights how several factors, including temperature and polymer, influence the integrity of the particles altering the quality of the final data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Savino
- Italian National Council of Research, Water Research Institute, 70132 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (C.M.); (V.F.U.)
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Claudia Campanale
- Italian National Council of Research, Water Research Institute, 70132 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (C.M.); (V.F.U.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Pasquale Trotti
- Sezione di Entomologia e Zoologia Agraria, Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Carmine Massarelli
- Italian National Council of Research, Water Research Institute, 70132 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (C.M.); (V.F.U.)
| | - Giuseppe Corriero
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Vito Felice Uricchio
- Italian National Council of Research, Water Research Institute, 70132 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (C.M.); (V.F.U.)
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41
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Grossutti M, Hiles M, D'Amico J, Wareham WC, Morling B, Graham S, Dutcher JR. Quantifying Stabilizing Additive Hydrolysis and Kinetics Through Principal Component Analysis of Infrared Spectra of Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipe. Polym Degrad Stab 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2022.109963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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42
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Mauel A, Pötzschner B, Meides N, Siegel R, Strohriegl P, Senker J. Quantification of photooxidative defects in weathered microplastics using 13C multiCP NMR spectroscopy. RSC Adv 2022; 12:10875-10885. [PMID: 35425044 PMCID: PMC8988274 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra00470d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Weathering of microplastics made of commodity plastics like polystyrene, polypropylene and polyethylene introduces polar polymer defects as a result of photooxidation and mechanical stress. Thus, hydrophobic microplastic particles gradually become hydrophilic, consisting of polar oligomers with a significant amount of oxygen-bearing functional groups. This turnover continuously changes interactions between microplastics and natural colloidal matter. To be able to develop a better understanding of this complex weathering process, quantification of the corresponding defect proportions is a first and essential step. Using polystyrene, 13C enriched at the α position to 23%, we demonstrate that 13C cross polarisation (CP) NMR spectroscopy allows for probing the typical alcohol, peroxo, keto and carboxyl defects. Even the discrimination between in- and end-chain ketones, carboxylic acids and esters as well as ketal functions was possible. Combined with multiCP excitation, defect proportions could be determined with excellent accuracy down to 0.1%. For materials with 13C in natural abundance, this accounts for a detection limit of roughly 1%. The best trade-off between measurement time and accuracy for the quantification of the defect intensities for multiCP excitation was obtained for CP block lengths shorter than 250 μs and total build-up times longer than 2 ms. Further measurement time reduction is possible by using multiCP excitation to calibrate intensities obtained from series of 13C CP MAS NMR spectra. As photooxidation is an important degradation mechanism for microplastics in the environment, we expect these parameters to be transferable for probing defect proportions of weathered microplastics in general. We demonstrate an efficient strategy to characterise weathering-induced photooxidative defects in microplastics. The central 13C cross polarisation NMR spectra offer high resolution and are quantitative when combined with multiple excitation.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Mauel
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Björn Pötzschner
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Nora Meides
- Department of Macromolecular Chemistry I, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Renée Siegel
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Peter Strohriegl
- Department of Macromolecular Chemistry I, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Jürgen Senker
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry III, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
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43
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Yang Y, Li Z, Yan C, Chadwick D, Jones DL, Liu E, Liu Q, Bai R, He W. Kinetics of microplastic generation from different types of mulch films in agricultural soil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 814:152572. [PMID: 34954175 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Upon environmental weathering, plastic materials form smaller sized microplastics, of which the contamination in agricultural fields is of significant importance and increasing social concern. Plastic mulch films are considered a major source of agricultural soil microplastic pollution. However, the mechanism and kinetics of microplastic formation from plastic mulch films were rarely understood. In this study, the rate of microplastic generation from typical mulch films, such as oxodegradable, biodegradable, and conventional non-degradable (polyethylene, PE) mulch films, were quantified in soil under simulated UV irradiation. Results showed that microplastic formation was more rapid from biodegradable mulch film, followed sequentially by oxodegradable mulch film, white PE mulch film, and black PE mulch film. The kinetics of microplastic generation strictly followed the Schwarzchild's law, with exponential growth at indexes between 1.6309 and 2.0502 in the microplastic generation model. At a cumulative UV irradiation of 2.1 MJ/m2, the average quantity of microplastics released from biodegradable, oxodegradable, and white and black non-degradable mulch films were 475, 266, 163, 147 particles/cm2, respectively; with particle sizes largely distributed within 0.02-0.10 mm range. Concurrent increase in crystallinity and surface erosion of the mulch films were observed upon UV irradiation, which further determined the accessibility and activity of the materials to photo-oxidation (reflected as HI indexes), therefore played a critical role on the quantity and size ranges of microplastic debris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China.
| | - Zhen Li
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100081, PR China.
| | - Changrong Yan
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Dave Chadwick
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; SoilsWest, UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Davey L Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; SoilsWest, UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Enke Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Qin Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Runhao Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Wenqing He
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Residual Pollution in Agricultural Film, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100081, PR China.
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Effect of Temperature Ageing on Injection Molded High-Density Polyethylene Parts Modified by Accelerated Electrons. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15030742. [PMID: 35160688 PMCID: PMC8837097 DOI: 10.3390/ma15030742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The temperature ageing of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) modified by accelerated electrons was studied. Commodity plastic HDPE was used as a basic polymer material which was modified by radiation cross-linking. This polymer was used because of its excellent processability and chemical resistance. Plastic injection molding technology was used for the production of test specimens. These specimens were modified with the dose of radiation 33, 66, 99, 132, 165, and 198 kGy. The prepared specimens were tested to determine: gel content, degree of swelling, temperature stability, and changes in mechanical properties after temperature ageing. The results were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis on the fracture surfaces. The results of this study confirm that modification of HDPE by radiation cross-linking has a significant effect on increasing temperature stability. It has been shown that HDPE modified by radiation cross-linking can withstand temperatures exceeding the melting point of the original HDPE for a short-term.
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45
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Shen C, Gao C, Zheng G, Ji Y, Dai K, Liu C, Shen C. Polymer microfibrillar tube for continuous oil/water separation and collection. POLYMER 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2021.124440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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46
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Gong Y, Wang SH, Zhang ZY, Yang XL, Yang ZG, Yang HG. Degradation of sunlight exposure on the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for transportation of natural gases. Polym Degrad Stab 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2021.109752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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47
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Jiang T, Mao Z, Qi Y, Wu Y, Zhang J. The effect of two different
UV
absorbers combined with antioxidants on
UV
resistance of
HDPE. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tiankai Jiang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering Nanjing Tech University Nanjing China
- Jiangsu Vocational Institute of Commerce Nanjing China
| | - Zepeng Mao
- College of Materials Science and Engineering Nanjing Tech University Nanjing China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites Nanjing China
| | - Yanli Qi
- College of Materials Science and Engineering Nanjing Tech University Nanjing China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites Nanjing China
| | - Yuchen Wu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering Nanjing Tech University Nanjing China
| | - Jun Zhang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering Nanjing Tech University Nanjing China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites Nanjing China
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48
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Masry M, Rossignol S, Gardette JL, Therias S, Bussière PO, Wong-Wah-Chung P. Characteristics, fate, and impact of marine plastic debris exposed to sunlight: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 171:112701. [PMID: 34245992 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The increase of plastic production from the middle of the twentieth century was inevitably followed by an increase in the amount of plastic dumped in the natural environment. There, the plastic debris are exposed to sunlight, temperature, humidity, and physical stress. This can induce photo-oxidative and thermal degradation. This review discusses the mechanism of plastics UV weathering and its characteristics. Comparison of the photodegradation rate and physico-chemical properties are made according to the weathering mode (natural/accelerated) and medium (air/water). Since the photodegradation can lead to plastics fragmentation, this phenomenon is described along with the methodologies used in literature to evaluate the fragmentation. The impact of the photodegraded plastic debris on the marine environment is also presented in term of (i) photodegradation products and stabilizers leakage, (ii) organic pollutants accumulation, transfer, and leakage, and (iii) toxicity on marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Masry
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCE, Marseille, France.
| | | | - Jean-Luc Gardette
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, UMR 6296, Université Blaise Pascal, Institut de Chimie de Clermont-Ferrand (ICCF), 8 Avenue Blaise Pascal, TSA 60026, CS 60026, 63178 Aubière cedex, France.
| | - Sandrine Therias
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, UMR 6296, Université Blaise Pascal, Institut de Chimie de Clermont-Ferrand (ICCF), 8 Avenue Blaise Pascal, TSA 60026, CS 60026, 63178 Aubière cedex, France.
| | - Pierre-Olivier Bussière
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, UMR 6296, Université Blaise Pascal, Institut de Chimie de Clermont-Ferrand (ICCF), 8 Avenue Blaise Pascal, TSA 60026, CS 60026, 63178 Aubière cedex, France.
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49
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Kapelewska J, Klekotka U, Żadziłko E, Karpińska J. Simultaneous sorption behaviors of UV filters on the virgin and aged micro-high-density polyethylene under environmental conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147979. [PMID: 34082205 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The simultaneous sorption behaviors of four analytes from the UV filters group, benzophenone (BPh), 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4MBC), benzophenone 3 (BPh3), and benzophenone 2 (BPh2) on virgin and aged high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with a particle size of 125 μm in milliQ and river water were examined in this study. The aging processes of HDPE particles were carried out with the use of simulated sunlight. Conducted research revealed that the sorption of UV filters on HDPE particles follows pseudo-second-order kinetics. A Temkin isothermal model best described the adsorption process for 4BMC, BPh, BPh3, BPh2 on aged HDPE in river water, and 4MBC, BPh, BPh3 on virgin HDPE in milliQ water. The adsorption of BPh2 onto virgin MPs in milliQ water was consistent with the Langmuir isothermal model. Environmental conditions and physicochemical properties of analytes influenced the sorption mechanism between UV filters and MPs particles. It was observed that the main mechanisms responsible for the sorption of BPh, 4MBC, BPh3, and BPh2 on the surface of HDPE are hydrophobic interactions, that may change through the involvement of electrostatic interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Kapelewska
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland.
| | - Urszula Klekotka
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Żadziłko
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Joanna Karpińska
- Department of Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K Street, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
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50
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Kuryndin I, Kostromin S, Popova E, Borisov I, Bakhtin D, Mamalimov R, Chervov A, Volkov A, Bronnikov S. Gas permeability and mechanical properties of polyethylene films subjected to ultraviolet irradiation. SEP SCI TECHNOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/01496395.2021.1972010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Kuryndin
- Physical Department, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Sergei Kostromin
- Physical Department, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Elena Popova
- Physical Department, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Ilya Borisov
- Department of Membrane and Membrane Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, A.v. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Danila Bakhtin
- Department of Membrane and Membrane Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, A.v. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Rustam Mamalimov
- Department of Solid State Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ioffe Institute, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Anton Chervov
- Department of Engineering and Pipelines Maintainability, OOO Slavneft-Krasnoyarskneftegaz, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
| | - Alexey Volkov
- Department of Membrane and Membrane Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, A.v. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Sergei Bronnikov
- Physical Department, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
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