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Brtnicky M, Pecina V, Kucerik J, Hammerschmiedt T, Mustafa A, Kintl A, Sera J, Koutny M, Baltazar T, Holatko J. Biodegradation of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate after soil inoculation with microbial consortium: Soil microbiome and plant responses to the changed environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174328. [PMID: 38945229 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics play a vital role in addressing global plastics disposal challenges. Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) is a biodegradable bacterial intracellular storage polymer with substantial usage potential in agriculture. Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate and its degradation products are non-toxic; however, previous studies suggest that P3HB biodegradation negatively affects plant growth because the microorganisms compete with plants for nutrients. One possible solution to this issue could be inoculating soil with a consortium of plant growth-promoting and N-fixing microorganisms. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a pot experiment using lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata L.) grown in soil amended with two doses (1 % and 5 % w/w) of P3HB and microbial inoculant (MI). We tested five experimental variations: P3HB 1 %, P3HB 1 % + MI, P3HB 5 %, P3HB 5 % + MI, and MI, to assess the impact of added microorganisms on plant growth and P3HB biodegradation. The efficient P3HB degradation, which was directly dependent on the amount of bioplastics added, was coupled with the preferential utilization of P3HB as a carbon (C) source. Due to the increased demand for nutrients in P3HB-amended soil by microbial degraders, respiration and enzyme activities were enhanced. This indicated an increased mineralisation of C as well as nitrogen (N), sulphur (S), and phosphorus (P). Microbial inoculation introduced specific bacterial taxa that further improved degradation efficiency and nutrient turnover (N, S, and P) in P3HB-amended soil. Notably, soil acidification related to P3HB was not the primary factor affecting plant growth inhibition. However, despite plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and N2-fixing microorganisms originating from MI, plant biomass yield remained limited, suggesting that these microorganisms were not entirely successful in mitigating the growth inhibition caused by P3HB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Brtnicky
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclav Pecina
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Kucerik
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Tereza Hammerschmiedt
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Adnan Mustafa
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Antonin Kintl
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Agricultural Research, Ltd., 664 41 Troubsko, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Sera
- Department of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Koutny
- Department of Environmental Protection Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Tivadar Baltazar
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Holatko
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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2
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Shao Y, Li Y, Wang D. Polylactic acid microplastics cause transgenerational reproductive toxicity associated with activation of insulin and hedgehog ligands in C. elegans. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 942:173746. [PMID: 38851356 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
As a member of biodegradable plastics, exposure risk of polylactic acid microplastic (PLA-MP) has received attention recently. Toxicity of PLA-MP at parental generation (P0-G) has been observed in some organisms; however, its possible transgenerational toxicity and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In Caenorhabditis elegans, 10 and 100 μg/L PLA-MP resulted in transgenerational inhibition in reproductive capacity and transgenerational damage on gonad development. Meanwhile, transgenerational increase in germline apoptosis was detected after PLA-MP exposure at P0-G, which was associated with transgenerational dysregulation in expressions of genes governing apoptosis (ced-3, ced-4, egl-1, and ced-9) and DNA damage related genes (cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2). Among secreted ligand genes, PLA-MP exposure induced transgenerational increase in expression of ins-39 and wrt-3, and RNAi of ins-39 and wrt-3 inhibited germline apoptosis in PLA-MP exposed nematodes. Additionally, PLA-MP caused transgenerational increase in expression of met-2 and set-6 encoding histone methylation transferases, and germline apoptosis induced by PLA-MP could be suppressed by RNAi of met-2 and set-6. Dysregulated expressions of some apoptosis and DNA damage related genes caused by PLA-MP were reversed by RNAi of ins-39, wrt-3, met-2, and set-6. Moreover, in PLA-MP exposed animals, expression of ins-39 and wrt-3 could be further inhibited by RNAi of met-2 and set-6. Therefore, PLA-MP potentially induced reproductive toxicity across multiple generations, which was under the control of MET-2 and SET-6 activated ligands of INS-39 and WRT-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Shao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Dayong Wang
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
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Falzarano M, Marìn A, Cabedo L, Polettini A, Pomi R, Rossi A, Zonfa T. Alternative end-of-life options for disposable bioplastic products: Degradation and ecotoxicity assessment in compost and soil. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142648. [PMID: 38906189 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Four different end-of-life options for disposable bioplastic cups were investigated and compared based on their environmental implications. Two products with distinct polymeric composition were tested simulating the following scenarios at laboratory scale: i) industrial composting (180 days at 58 °C); ii) anaerobic digestion followed by industrial composting (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 58 °C); iii) anaerobic digestion followed by direct digestate use on soil for agricultural purposes (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 25 °C); iv) uncontrolled release into a soil environment (180 days at 25 °C). Ecotoxicity tests were run at the end of each experiment to investigate the effects of the materials on three main groups of terrestrial model organisms: plants, earthworms and nitrifying bacteria. Complete biodegradation of the cups was observed in 180 days in the scenarios involving composting environment. A low degree of biodegradation (22.9 ± 4.5%) of the digestates in soil was observed, warning for a potential micro-bioplastics discharge into the environment. No degradation was observed for the cups in soil during the same testing period. Ecotoxicity tests revealed a negative effect on plants biomass growth across all samples, which was 17-30% lower compared to the blank sample. The experimental campaign highlighted the need for a systematic assessment of controlled treatment of bioplastics, as well as the need for a harmonized legislative framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Falzarano
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy.
| | - A Marìn
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I, Av. Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain
| | - L Cabedo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I, Av. Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain; CEBIMAT LAB S.L, ESPAITEC, Universitat Jaume I, Av. Vicent Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain
| | - A Polettini
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - R Pomi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - A Rossi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - T Zonfa
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
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Adachi W, Kumagai S, Shao Z, Saito Y, Yoshioka T. Selective recovery of pyrolyzates of biodegradable (PLA, PHBH) and common plastics (HDPE, PP, PS) during co-pyrolysis under slow heating. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16476. [PMID: 39014021 PMCID: PMC11252368 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67330-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pyrolytic synergistic interactions, in which the production of pyrolyzates is enhanced or inhibited, commonly occur during the co-pyrolysis of different polymeric materials, such as plastics and biomass. Although these interactions can increase the yield of desired pyrolysis products under controlled degradation conditions, the desired compounds must be separated from complex pyrolyzates and further purified. To balance these dual effects, this study was aimed at examining pyrolytic synergistic interactions during slow heating co-pyrolysis of biodegradable plastics including polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexaoate) (PHBH) and petroleum-based plastics including high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). Comprehensive investigations based on thermogravimetric analysis, pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and evolved gas analysis-mass spectrometry revealed that PLA and PHBH decompose at lower temperatures (273-378 °C) than HDPE, PP, and PS (386-499 °C), with each polymer undergoing independent decomposition without any pyrolytic interactions. Thus, the independent pyrolysis of biodegradable plastics, such as PLA and PHBH, with common plastics, such as HDPE, PP, and PS, can theoretically be realized through temperature control, enabling the selective recovery of their pyrolyzates in different temperature ranges. Thus, pyrolytic approaches can facilitate the treatment of mixed biodegradable and common plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wakana Adachi
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan
| | - Shogo Kumagai
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan.
- Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan.
| | - Zhuze Shao
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan
| | - Yuko Saito
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Yoshioka
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, 6-6-07 Aoba, Aramaki-aza, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan
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5
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Morreale M, La Mantia FP. Current Concerns about Microplastics and Nanoplastics: A Brief Overview. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1525. [PMID: 38891471 PMCID: PMC11174615 DOI: 10.3390/polym16111525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The widespread and increasing use of plastic-based goods in the present-day world has been raising many concerns about the formation of microplastics, their release, their impacts on the environment and, ultimately, on living organisms. These concerns are even greater regarding nanoplastics, i.e., nanosized microplastics, which may have even greater impacts. In this brief review, although without any claim or intention to exhaustively cover all the aspects of such a complex and many-sided issue, the very topical problem of the formation of microplastics, and the even more worrisome nanoplastics, from polymer-based products was considered. The approach is focused on a terse, straightforward, and easily accessible analysis oriented to the main technological engineering aspects regarding the sources of microplastics and nanoplastics released into the environment, their nature, some of the consequences arising from the release, the different polymers involved, their technological form (i.e., products or processes, with particular attention towards unintentional release), the formation mechanisms, and some possible mitigation pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Morreale
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, Kore University of Enna, Cittadella Universitaria, 94100 Enna, Italy;
| | - Francesco Paolo La Mantia
- National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti 9, 50121 Firenze, Italy
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
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Fang C, Awoyemi OS, Luo Y, Naidu R. How to Identify and Quantify Microplastics and Nanoplastics Using Raman Imaging? Anal Chem 2024; 96:7323-7331. [PMID: 38695421 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Abstract
While microplastics and nanoplastics are emerging as a big environmental concern, their characterization is still a challenge, particularly for identification and simultaneous quantification analysis where imaging via a hyper spectrum is generally needed. In the past few years, Raman imaging has been greatly advanced, but the analysis protocol is complicated and not yet standardized because imaging analysis is different from traditional analysis. Herein we provide a step-by-step demonstration of how to employ confocal Raman techniques to image microplastics and nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Fang
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
- CRC for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Olalekan Simon Awoyemi
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Yunlong Luo
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Ravi Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
- CRC for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia
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7
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Domenech J, Villacorta A, Ferrer JF, Llorens-Chiralt R, Marcos R, Hernández A, Catalán J. In vitro cell-transforming potential of secondary polyethylene terephthalate and polylactic acid nanoplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134030. [PMID: 38493621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Continuous exposure to plastic pollutants may have serious consequences on human health. However, most toxicity assessments focus on non-environmentally relevant particles and rarely investigate long-term effects such as cancer induction. The present study assessed the carcinogenic potential of two secondary nanoplastics: polyethylene terephthalate (PET) particles generated from plastic bottles, and a biodegradable polylactic acid material, as respective examples of environmentally existing particles and new bioplastics. Pristine polystyrene nanoplastics were also included for comparison. A broad concentration range (6.25-200 μg/mL) of each nanoplastic was tested in both the initiation and promotion conditions of the regulatory assessment-accepted in vitro Bhas 42 cell transformation assay. Parallel cultures allowed confirmation of the efficient cellular internalisation of the three nanoplastics. Cell growth was enhanced by polystyrene in the initiation assay, and by PET in both conditions. Moreover, the number of transformed foci was significantly increased only by the highest PET concentration in the promotion assay, which also showed dose-dependency, indicating that nano PET can act as a non-genotoxic tumour promotor. Together, these findings support the carcinogenic risk assessment of nanoplastics and raise concerns regarding whether real-life co-exposure of PET nanoplastics and other environmental pollutants may result in synergistic transformation capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefa Domenech
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Box 40, Työterveyslaitos, 00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aliro Villacorta
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain; Facultad de Recursos Naturales Renovables, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | | | | | - Ricard Marcos
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alba Hernández
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Julia Catalán
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Box 40, Työterveyslaitos, 00032 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Genetics, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
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8
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Piyathilake U, Lin C, Bolan N, Bundschuh J, Rinklebe J, Herath I. Exploring the hidden environmental pollution of microplastics derived from bioplastics: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141773. [PMID: 38548076 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Bioplastics might be an ecofriendly alternative to traditional plastics. However, recent studies have emphasized that even bioplastics can end up becoming micro- and nano-plastics due to their degradation under ambient environmental conditions. Hence, there is an urgent need to assess the hidden environmental pollution caused by bioplastics. However, little is known about the evolutionary trends of bibliographic data, degradation pathways, formation, and toxicity of micro- and nano-scaled bioplastics originating from biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and starch-based plastics. Therefore, the prime objective of the current review was to investigate evolutionary trends and the latest advancements in the field of micro-bioplastic pollution. Additionally, it aims to confront the limitations of existing research on microplastic pollution derived from the degradation of bioplastic wastes, and to understand what is needed in future research. The literature survey revealed that research focusing on micro- and nano-bioplastics has begun since 2012. This review identifies novel insights into microbioplastics formation through diverse degradation pathways, including photo-oxidation, ozone-induced degradation, mechanochemical degradation, biodegradation, thermal, and catalytic degradation. Critical research gaps are identified, including defining optimal environmental conditions for complete degradation of diverse bioplastics, exploring micro- and nano-bioplastics formation in natural environments, investigating the global occurrence and distribution of these particles in diverse ecosystems, assessing toxic substances released during bioplastics degradation, and bridging the disparity between laboratory studies and real-world applications. By identifying new trends and knowledge gaps, this study lays the groundwork for future investigations and sustainable solutions in the realm of sustainable management of bioplastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udara Piyathilake
- Environmental Science Division, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Kandy, 2000, Sri Lanka
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Jochen Bundschuh
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, The University of Southern Queensland, West Street, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Indika Herath
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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9
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Li Y, Yan Q, Wang J, Shao M, Li Z, Jia H. Biodegradable plastics fragments induce positive effects on the decomposition of soil organic matter. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 468:133820. [PMID: 38382339 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The escalating accumulation of plastic waste in ecosystems poses a significant health concern to soil environment, yet the environmental effects of plastics remains largely unexplored. Biodegradable plastics could offer a viable alternative to conventional persistent plastics, but our understanding of their potential benefits or detrimental effects on the decomposition of plant debris by soil biomass is limited. In this study, we conducted a year-long field experiment to examine the environmental response and impact on plant debris decomposition in the presence of varying quantities of persistent versus biodegradable plastics. Our findings indicate that the decomposition rate decreased by 2.8-4.9% for persistent plastics, while it increased by 1.3-4.2% for biodegradable plastics. Persistent plastics primarily induced adverse effects, including a reduction in soil nutrients, microbial diversity, bioturbation, enzyme activity, easily decomposable carbon, and microbial biomass carbon in plant debris. In contrast, biodegradable plastics resulted in beneficial effects such as an increase in enzyme activity, microbial biomass carbon, and easily decomposable carbon. We also observed that the decomposition rate of plant residues and nutrient release are closely associated with changes in the organic carbon chemical structure induced by different plastic film fragments. A significant shift in alkoxy carbon content facilitated the release of nutrients and soluble carbon, while modifications in carboxyl and aromatic carbon content hindered their release. Overall, our study reveals over one year that biodegradable plastics primarily induce positive effects on the decomposition of soil organic matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanpei Li
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Qing Yan
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Yellow River Delta Modern Agriculture, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ming'an Shao
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Yellow River Delta Modern Agriculture, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ziyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Hanzhong Jia
- Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China.
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10
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Shao Y, Hua X, Li Y, Wang D. Comparison of reproductive toxicity between pristine and aged polylactic acid microplastics in Caenorhabditis elegans. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133545. [PMID: 38244453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans was employed as model to compare reproductive toxicity between pristine and aged polylactic acid microplastics (PLA-MPs). Aged PLA-MPs induced by UV irradiation showed degradation reflected by decrease in size and alteration in morphological surface. Aged PLA-MPs also exhibited some certain changes of chemical properties compared to pristine PLA-MP. Compared with pristine PLA-MPs, more severe toxicity on reproductive capacity and gonad development was detected in 1-100 μg/L aged PLA-MPs. Meanwhile, aged PLA-MPs caused more severe enhancement in germline apoptosis and alterations in expressions of ced-9, ced-4, ced-3, and egl-1 governing cell apoptosis. In addition, aged PLA-MPs resulted in more severe increase in expression of DNA damage related genes (cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2) compared to pristine PLA-MPs, and the alterations in expression of ced-9, ced-4, ced-3, and egl-1 in pristine and aged PLA-MPs could be reversed by RNAi of cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2. Besides this, enhanced germline apoptosis in pristine and aged PLA-MPs exposed animals was also suppressed by RNAi of cep-1, mrt-2, hus-1, and clk-2. Therefore, our results suggested the more severe exposure risk of aged PLA-MPs than pristine PLA-MPs in causing reproductive toxicity, which was associated with the changed physicochemical properties and DNA damage induced germline apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Shao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Hua
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Dayong Wang
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
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11
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Li K, Xu L, Bai X, Zhang G, Zhang M, Huang Y. Potential environmental risks of field bio/non-degradable microplastic from mulching residues in farmland: Evidence from metagenomic analysis of plastisphere. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133428. [PMID: 38198862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The plastisphere may act as reservoir of antibiotic resistome, accelerating global antimicrobial resistance dissemination. However, the environmental risks in the plastisphere of field microplastics (MPs) in farmland remain largely unknown. Here, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence factors (VFs) on polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate and polylactic acid microplastics (PBAT/PLA-MPs) from residues were investigated using metagenomic analysis. The results suggested that the profiles of ARG and VF in the plastisphere of PBAT/PLA-MPs had greater number of detected genes with statistically higher values of diversity and abundance than soil and PE-MP. Procrustes analysis indicated a good fitting correlation between ARG/VF profiles and bacterial community composition. Actinobacteria was the major host for tetracycline and glycopeptide resistance genes in the soil and PE-MP plastisphere, whereas the primary host for multidrug resistance genes changed to Proteobacteria in PBAT/PLA-MP plastisphere. Besides, three human pathogens, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identified in the plastisphere. The PE-MP plastisphere exhibited a higher transfer potential of ARGs than PBAT/PLA-MP plastisphere. This work enhances our knowledge of potential environmental risks posed by microplastic in farmland and provides valuable insights for risk assessment and management of agricultural mulching applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guangbao Zhang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Marine Institute for Bioresources and Environment, Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China.
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Marine Institute for Bioresources and Environment, Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China.
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12
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Zhang J, Xia X, Huang W, Li Y, Lin X, Li Y, Yang Z. Photoaging of biodegradable nanoplastics regulates their toxicity to aquatic insects (Chironomus kiinensis) by impairing gut and disrupting intestinal microbiota. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 185:108483. [PMID: 38382402 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108483] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastic, a widely used ecofriendly alternative to conventional plastic, easily form nanoplastics (NPs) upon environmental weathering. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms governing the toxicity of photoaged biodegradable NPs to aquatic insects are not understood. In this study, we investigated the photoaging of polylactic acid nanoplastics (PLA-NPs, a typical biodegradable plastic) that were placed under xenon arc lamp for 50 days and 100 days and compared the toxicity of virgin and photoaged PLA-NPs to Chironomus kiinensis (a dominant aquatic insect). The results showed that photoaged PLA-NPs significantly decreased the body weight, body length and emergence rate of C. kiinensis. Additionally, photoaged PLA-NPs induced more severe gut oxidative stress, histological damage, and inflammatory responses than virgin PLA-NPs. Furthermore, the alpha diversity of gut microbiota was lower in photoaged PLA-NPs group than virgin PLA-NPs. The relative abundance of key gut bacteria related to intestinal barrier defense, immunity, and nutrient absorption was reduced more significantly in photoaged PLA-NPs group than virgin PLA, indirectly leading to stronger gut damage and growth reduction. A stronger impact of photoaged PLA-NPs on the gut and its microbiota occurred because photoaging reduced the size of NPs from 255.5 nm (virgin PLA) to 217.1 nm (PLA-50) and 182.5 nm (PLA-100), induced surface oxidation and enhancement of oxidative potential, and improved the stability of NPs, thereby exacerbating toxicity on the gut and its microbiota. This study provides insights into the effects of biodegradable NPs on aquatic insects and highlights the importance of considering biodegradable nanoplastic aging in risk assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xinghui Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xiaohan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Zhifeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Key Laboratory for City Cluster Environmental Safety and Green Development of the Ministry of Education, School of Ecology, Environment and Resources, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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13
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Tang B, Zhang L, Salam M, Yang B, He Q, Yang Y, Li H. Revealing the environmental hazard posed by biodegradable microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: An investigation of polylactic acid's effects on Microcystis aeruginosa. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123347. [PMID: 38215868 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The influence of petroleum-based microplastics (MPs) on phytoplankton has been extensively studied, while research on the impact of biodegradable MPs, derived from alternative plastics to contest the environmental crisis, remains limited. This study performed a 63 days co-incubation experiment to assess the effect of polylactic acid MPs (PLA-MPs) on the growth, physiology, and carbon utilization of M. aeruginosa and the change in PLA-MPs surface properties. The results showed that despite PLA-MPs induced oxidative stress and caused membrane damage in M. aeruginosa, the presence of PLA-MPs (10, 50, and 200 mg/L) triggered significant increases (p < 0.05) in the density of M. aeruginosa after 63 days. Specifically, the algal densities upon 50 and 200 mg/L PLA-MPs exposure were increased by 20.91% and 36.31% relative to the control, respectively. Meanhwhile, the reduced C/O ratio on PLA-MPs surface and change in PLA-MPs morphological characterization, which is responsible for substantially increase in the aquatic dissolved inorganic carbon concentration during the co-incubation, implying the degradation of PLA-MPs; thus, provided sufficient carbon resources that M. aeruginosa could assimilate. This was in line with the declined intracellular carbonic anhydrase content in M. aeruginosa. This study is the first attempt to uncover the interaction between PLA-MPs and M. aeruginosa, and the finding that their interaction promotes the degrading of PLA-MPs meanwhile favoring M. aeruginosa growth will help elucidate the potential risk of biodegradable MPs in aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingran Tang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Aquatic Ecosystems in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region of Chongqing Observation and Research Station, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Lixue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Aquatic Ecosystems in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region of Chongqing Observation and Research Station, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Muhammad Salam
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Bing Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Ecological and Environment Monitoring Center of Chongqing, Chongqing, 401147, China
| | - Qiang He
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Aquatic Ecosystems in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region of Chongqing Observation and Research Station, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yongchuan Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Aquatic Ecosystems in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region of Chongqing Observation and Research Station, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Hong Li
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Aquatic Ecosystems in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region of Chongqing Observation and Research Station, Chongqing, 400044, China.
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14
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Lee ES, Park SY, Kim CG. Comparison of anaerobic digestion of starch- and petro-based bioplastic under hydrogen-rich conditions. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 175:133-145. [PMID: 38194798 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
To identify an economically viable waste management system for bioplastics, thermoplastic starch (TPS) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) were anaerobically digested under hydrogen (H2)/carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2) gas-purged conditions to compare methane (CH4) production and biodegradation. Regardless of the type of bioplastics, CH4 production was consistently higher with H2/CO2 than with N2. The highest amount of CH4 was produced at 307.74 mL CH4/g volatile solids when TPS digested with H2/CO2. A stepwise increased in CH4 yield was observed, with a nominal initial increment followed by accelerated methanogenesis conversion as H2 was depleted. This may be attributed to a substantial shift in the microbial structure from hydrogenotrophic methanogen (Methanobacteriales and Methanomicrobiales) to heterotrophs (Spirochaetia). In contrast, no significant change was observed with PBAT, regardless of the type of purged gas. TPS was broken down into numerous derivatives, including volatile fatty acids. TPS produced more byproducts with H2/CO2 (i.e., 430) than with N2 (i.e., 320). In contrast, differential scanning calorimetry analysis on PBAT revealed an increase in crystallinity from 10.20 % to 12.31 % and 11.36 % in the H2/CO2- and N2-purged conditions, respectively, after 65 days of testing. PBAT surface modifications were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results suggest that the addition of H2/CO2 can enhance the CH4 yield and increase the breakdown rate of TPS more than that of PBAT. This study provides novel insights into the CH4 production potential of two bioplastics with different biodegradabilities in H2/CO2-mediated anaerobic digestion systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Seo Lee
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering, INHA University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Yeong Park
- Institute of Environmental Research, INHA University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Gyun Kim
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering, INHA University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Engineering, INHA University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Palucha N, Fojt J, Holátko J, Hammerschmiedt T, Kintl A, Brtnický M, Řezáčová V, De Winterb K, Uitterhaegen E, Kučerík J. Does poly-3-hydroxybutyrate biodegradation affect the quality of soil organic matter? CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141300. [PMID: 38286312 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The search for eco-friendly substitutes for traditional plastics has led to the production of biodegradable bioplastics. However, concerns have been raised about the impact of bioplastic biodegradation on soil health. Despite these concerns, the potential negative consequences of bioplastics during various stages of biodegradation remain underexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of micro-bioplastics made of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) on the properties of three different soils. In our ten-month experiment, we investigated the impact of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) on Chernozem, Cambisol, and Phaeozem soils. Our study focused on changes in soil organic matter (SOM), microbial activity, and the level of soil carbon and nitrogen. The observed changes indicated an excessive level of biodegradation of SOM after the soils were enriched with micro-particles of P3HB, with concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 3%. The thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the presence of residual P3HB (particularly in the 3% treatment) and underscored the heightened biodegradation of SOM, especially in the more stable SOM fractions. This was notably evident in Phaeozem soils, where even the stable SOM pool was affected. Elemental analysis revealed changes in soil organic carbon content following P3HB degradation, although nitrogen levels remained constant. Enzymatic activity was found to vary with soil type and responded differently across P3HB concentration levels. Our findings confirmed that P3HB acts as a bioavailable carbon source. Its biodegradation stimulates the production of enzymes, which in turn affects various soil elements, indicating complex interactions within the soil ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natálie Palucha
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic; Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Jakub Fojt
- Textile Testing Institute, Cejl 480/12, 602 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Holátko
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic; Agrovyzkum Rapotin, Ltd, Výzkumniků 267, 788 13, Rapotin, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Hammerschmiedt
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic
| | - Antonin Kintl
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic; Agricultural Research, Ltd, Zahradní 400/1, 664 41, Troubsko, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Brtnický
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic; Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Řezáčová
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic
| | - Karel De Winterb
- Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Evelien Uitterhaegen
- Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Jiří Kučerík
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic.
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16
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Chong ZK, Hofmann A, Haye M, Wilson S, Sohoo I, Alassali A, Kuchta K. Lab-scale and full-scale industrial composting of biodegradable plastic blends for packaging. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2024; 2:101. [PMID: 38420136 PMCID: PMC10899788 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.14893.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background The acceptance of compostable plastic packaging in industrial composting plants is not universal despite available certification due to the persistence of plastic residues after composting. To better understand this discrepancy, this study compared the disintegration rates of two blends designed for rigid packaging (polylactic acid based) and soft packaging (polybutylene succinate based) in lab-scale composting tests and in an industrial composting plant. Methods A lab-scale composting test was conducted in triplicates according to ISO 20200 for 4, 8 and 12 weeks to check the disintegration potential of the blends. Duplicate test material were then exposed in the compost pile of an industrial composting plant for a duration of 3 weeks and compared with a supplementary lab-scale test of the same duration. Results The rigid packaging samples (1 mm thickness) retained on average 76.4%, 59.0% and 55.7% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, the average remaining mass was 98.3%, much higher compared to the average of 68.9% after 3 weeks in the supplementary lab-scale test. The soft packaging samples (109±9 µm sample thickness) retained on average 45.4%, 10.9% and 0.3% of its mass after 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively in the lab-scale. In the plant, a high average remaining mass was also observed (93.9%). The supplementary lab-scale test showed similar remaining mass but higher fragmentation after 3 weeks. Conclusions The results show that the samples achieved significant disintegration in the lab-scale but not in the plant. The difference between the tests that might further contribute to the differing degradation rates is the composition and heterogeneity of the composting substrate. Therefore, the substrate composition and thermophilic composting duration of individual plants are important considerations to determine the suitability of treating compostable plastic in real-world conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Kai Chong
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Alexander Hofmann
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Marie Haye
- Department of Energy and Environmental Engineering (GEn), Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon, Villeurbanne, 69100, France
| | - Sharon Wilson
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ihsanullah Sohoo
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Ayah Alassali
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kuchta
- Circular Resource Engineering and Management (CREM), Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, 21073, Germany
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17
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Sun J, Wang X, Zheng H, Xiang H, Jiang X, Fan J. Characterization of the degradation products of biodegradable and traditional plastics on UV irradiation and mechanical abrasion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168618. [PMID: 37977371 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168618] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics are popular alternatives to traditional plastics in packaging, mulch sheets, and other applications. However, there are concerns regarding the potential for pollution as a result of their abiotic degradation. In this study, we investigated the degradation of biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate/polylactic acid (PBAT/PLA) and traditional polyethylene (PE) plastic under two typical abiotic conditions: ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and mechanical abrasion (MA) for up to nine months. The physical and chemical properties of the two plastics during the degradation period were assessed. In addition, quantitative analysis of the degradation products was carried out using a new method called membrane filtration and total organic carbon determination (MF-TOCD). The results revealed that PBAT/PLA underwent a greater number of changes in surface morphology, thermal stability, and mass loss compared to PE when exposed to UV and MA during the test period. Further analysis of the released products revealed that PBAT/PLA released more products than PE. Overall, PE mainly produced microplastics (MPs) larger than 0.22 μm, whereas PBAT/PLA produced products <0.22 μm (nanoplastics and soluble molecules) on UV exposure. In contrast, when subjected to MA, PBAT/PLA produced MPs larger than 0.22 μm, and these accumulated gradually; this behavior is similar to that of PE. By combining the mass loss and the TOC data for the degradation products, we determined that long-term UV irradiation generated a large number of smaller particles from PBAT/PLA that could further degrade rather than accumulate in the environment. In summary, we established a new method to separate and characterize MPs as well as nanoplastics and soluble molecules, and provided new insights into the fate of PBAT/PLA during abiotic degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoxia Sun
- School of River and Ocean Engineering, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing 400074, China.
| | - Xi Wang
- 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
| | - Xueting Jiang
- 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
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18
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Chen C, Zheng N, Zhu H, An Q, Pan J, Li X, Ji Y, Li N, Sun S. Co-exposure to UV-aged microplastics and cadmium induces intestinal toxicity and metabolic responses in earthworms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132737. [PMID: 37832442 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132737] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Aged microplastics (MPs) alter the interaction with heavy metals due to changes in surface properties. However, the combined toxicological effects of aged MPs on heavy metals in soil remain poorly understood. In this study, earthworms were employed as model animals to investigate the effects of aged MPs on the biotoxicity of cadmium (Cd) by simulating the exposure patterns of original and UV-aged MPs (polylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene (PE)) with Cd. The results showed that UV-aging decreased the zeta potential and increased the specific surface area of the MPs, which enhanced the bioaccumulation of Cd and caused more severe oxidative stress to earthworms. Meanwhile, the earthworm intestines exhibited increased tissue damage, including chloragogenous tissue congestion lesions, and typhlosole damage. Furthermore, the combined exposure to UV-aged MPs and Cd enhanced the complexity of the microbial network in the earthworm gut and interfered with endocrine disruption, membrane structure, and energy metabolic pathways in earthworms. The results emphasized the need to consider the degradation of MPs in the environment. Hence, we recommend that future toxicological studies use aged MPs that are more representative of the actual environmental conditions, with the results being important for the risk assessment and management of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changcheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Na Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China.
| | - Huicheng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Qirui An
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Jiamin Pan
- Northeast Institute of Geography and Agricultural Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaoqian Li
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Yining Ji
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Ning Li
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
| | - Siyu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, China
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19
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Deng Y, Yang P, Tan H, Shen R, Chen D. Polylactic Acid Microplastics Do Not Exhibit Lower Biological Toxicity in Growing Mice Compared to Polyvinyl Chloride Microplastics. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:19772-19782. [PMID: 38039335 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c06576] [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: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Biomicroplastics (BMPs) will be produced during bioplastic degradation (i.e., polylactic acid), although bioplastics have been widely used for food packaging. Like conventional microplastics (MPs), BMPs would be mistakenly ingested into the body through diet or drinking water, but their health risks in vivo are poorly understood. Here, we deeply compared the toxicity difference between irregularly shaped polylactic acid (PLA-MPs, 16-350 μm) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC-MPs, 40-300 μm) MPs in growing mice. After six weeks of exposure, PLA-MP exposure resulted in more severe inhibition of the mice's weight gain than PVC-MPs did. Both PLA- and PVC-MPs significantly elevated the levels of oxidative stress. Moreover, significant changes including altered transcriptional profiles and significantly differentially expressed genes in liver and colon transcription levels were observed in the PVC- and PLA-MP groups. Compared with PVC-MPs, PLA-MPs have a stronger effect on lipid metabolism and digestive systems. PLA-MPs also caused gut microbiota dysbiosis, significantly interfering with the relative abundance of microbiota and altering microbial diversity. These findings indicated the toxicities of PLA-MPs in growing mice were not significantly reduced compared to PVC-MPs, which would also provide new insights for re-examining bioplastic safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Deng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Pan Yang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hongli Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Ruqin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Da Chen
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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20
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Laface F, Pedà C, Giommi C, Scozzafava S, Rizzo C, Malara D, Greco S, Romeo T. A glimpse into the future: A suitable methodological approach for the detection and identification of micro-bioplastics in biota. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165613. [PMID: 37474049 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
In the frame of the circular economy, bioplastics are considered a good alternative to conventional plastic materials. Until recently, only a few studies have focused on the occurrence and impact of bio-microplastics (bio-MPs) in aquatic environments, and there is a lack of a methodological approach to measure their amount in marine compartments. This research aimed to identify and validate a method for bio-MPs extraction from biota. A chemical digestion protocol suitable for conventional MPs, using potassium hydroxide (KOH), was applied for the detection, in mussels, of MPs made with Mater-Bi (MBi) from socks used in mussel farming. This method was tested on virgin MBi (VMBi) and aged (AMBi) MPs, ranging from 200 to 1000 μm in presence and absence of mussel tissues. Samples were analysed in pre- and post-digestion steps to assess the recovery rate, potential visual and size changes and polymer alteration in different bio-MPs size ranges. Results showed that MBi seems to be affected by KOH under pre-production conditions (VMBi), whereas in the AMBi treatment, which represents the environmentally realistic condition, the presence of fouling due to deployment at sea preserves MBi from the action of the alkaline agent. This approach allowed the recovery of small MPs, generally difficult to extract from biota, in an optimal visual condition and without polymer alteration. Despite the fraction of organic material in the MBi, these results suggested the suitability of this method and provided the assessment of the KOH effects on MBi-MPs under different environmental conditions. Finally, validation tests proved that the KOH protocol represents a reliable approach for detecting bio-MPs in marine organisms. This study is an important starting point for assessing the impact of the bio-MPs on the marine environment and suggests future studies to improve these issues in order to fill the gaps in the field of bioplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Laface
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; Sicily Marine Centre, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, Villa Pace - Contrada Porticatello 29, 98167 Messina, Italy
| | - Cristina Pedà
- Sicily Marine Centre, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, Villa Pace - Contrada Porticatello 29, 98167 Messina, Italy.
| | - Chiara Giommi
- Calabria Marine Centre, CRIMAC, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy
| | - Serena Scozzafava
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; Calabria Marine Centre, CRIMAC, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy
| | - Carmen Rizzo
- Sicily Marine Centre, Department Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, Villa Pace - Contrada Porticatello 29, 98167 Messina, Italy; Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR.ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Danilo Malara
- Calabria Marine Centre, CRIMAC, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy
| | - Silvestro Greco
- Calabria Marine Centre, CRIMAC, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy; Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, National Institute of Biology, Ecology and Marine Biotechnology, Rome, Italy
| | - Teresa Romeo
- Sicily Marine Centre, Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms (BEOM), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa dei Mille 46, 98057 Milazzo, Italy; Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA, Via dei Mille 46, 98057 Milazzo, Italy
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Shi M, Xie Q, Li ZL, Pan YF, Yuan Z, Lin L, Xu XR, Li HX. Adsorption of heavy metals on biodegradable and conventional microplastics in the Pearl River Estuary, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121158. [PMID: 36716949 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) as emerging carriers for environmental pollutants have attracted increasing worldwide attention. However, the adsorption of heavy metals on MPs, especially for biodegradable MPs, has been still poorly understood in estuarine environments. In this study, we investigated the aging of biodegradable and conventional MPs in the Pearl River Estuary after long-term exposure and their impacts on the adsorption of heavy metals from seawater. The results showed that the changes in surface characteristics were more prominent on biodegradable MPs than on conventional MPs after aging. Both biodegradable and conventional MPs could adsorb heavy metals, and their adsorption capacities fluctuated greatly on different MPs and different exposure times. The adsorption capacities of Cu, Pb, and As on biodegradable MPs were higher than those on conventional MPs, whereas Mn, Cr, and Co had lower adsorption on biodegradable MPs after 9-12 months by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The aging characteristics (CI, O/C, and Xc) of MPs accounted for a contribution of 51.0% on heavy metal adsorption, while the environmental factors (temperature, salinity, pH, and heavy metal concentration) only contributed to 13.2%. Therefore, the present study can provide important evidence on the environmental behaviors and ecological risks of biodegradable and conventional MPs in estuarine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Shi
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qun Xie
- Analytical and Testing Center, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, 524088, China
| | - Zhen-Liang Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yun-Feng Pan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhen Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lang Lin
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China
| | - Xiang-Rong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China
| | - Heng-Xiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, China.
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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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Chah CN, Banerjee A, Gadi VK, Sekharan S, Katiyar V. A systematic review on bioplastic-soil interaction: Exploring the effects of residual bioplastics on the soil geoenvironment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158311. [PMID: 36037904 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158311] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Growing demand for plastic and increasing plastic waste pollution have led to significant environmental challenges and concerns in today's world. Bioplastics offer exciting new opportunities and possibilities where biodegradable and bio-based plastics are expected to be more eco-friendly and rely on renewable resources. With all its promises, evaluating its real impact and fate on the geoenvironment is paramount for promoting bioplastic use. This paper presents a systematic literature review to understand current bioplastic-soil research and the effects of its residues on the geoenvironment. 632 studies related to bioplastic research in soil since 1973 were identified and categorized into different relevant topics. Publication trend showed bioplastic-soil research grew exponentially after 2010 wherein field studies accounted to 33.1 % of the total studies and only about 9.7 % studied the effects of bioplastic residues on the geoenvironment. Majority of the lab studies were on development and subsequent stability of bioplastics in soil. Short-term studies (in months) dominated the longer-term studies and studies over 4 years were almost non-existent. Lab and field experiments often gave inconsistent results with seasonal, climatic and bio-geographical factors strongly influencing the field results and bioplastic stability in soil. Most existing studies reported significant effects for microbioplastic concentrations at or above 1 % w/w. Bioplastic residues were found to substantially affect soil C/N ratio, impact soil microbial diversity by favouring certain microbial taxa and alter soil physical structure by influencing soil aggregates formation. At higher concentrations, plant health and germination success were also negatively affected. Conclusively, the review found it important to focus more on long-term field experiments to better understand the degree and extent of bioplastic residue impact on soil physico-chemical properties, mechanical properties, soil biology, soil-bioplastic-plant response, nutrients and toxicity. There are also very few studies investigating contaminant transport and migration of micro or nano-bioplastics in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charakho N Chah
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India; Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India
| | - Arnab Banerjee
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India; Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, India
| | - Vinay Kumar Gadi
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India
| | - Sreedeep Sekharan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India; Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India.
| | - Vimal Katiyar
- Centre for Sustainable Polymers, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, India
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Yu H, Shi L, Fan P, Xi B, Tan W. Effects of conventional versus biodegradable microplastic exposure on oxidative stress and gut microorganisms in earthworms: A comparison with two different soils. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135940. [PMID: 35963381 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The ecotoxicity of microplastics (MPs) to soil animals is widely recognized; however, most studies have only focused on conventional MPs. This study compared the effects of various concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%, 7%, and 14%, w/w) of polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) MPs on oxidative stress and gut microbes in Eisenia fetida (E. fetida) from two different soils (black and yellow soils). The results indicated that the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) decreased after exposure to PE and PLA MPs for 14 days, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased. This level of decrease or increase exhibited a "decrease-increase" trend with increasing MP exposure doses. After 28 days, the activities of SOD, CAT, POD, AchE, and GST increased, whereas MDA levels decreased, and the level of increase or decrease increased with increasing MP dose. The integrated biological response index revealed that the toxic effects of MPs were concentration-dependent, and MP concentration was more important than MP type or soil type. The toxicity of PE MPs was generally higher than that of PLA MPs on day 14, with no significant difference on day 28. Moreover, MPs did not alter the dominant gut microbiota of E. fetida, but altered the relative abundances of Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Ascomycota, and Rozellomycota. Furthermore, different gut microbial phyla exhibited discrepant responses to MPs. Our results demonstrated that both conventional and biodegradable MPs induced oxidative stress in E. fetida, and biodegradable MPs showed no less toxicity compared to conventional MPs. Additionally, MP-induced toxic effects did not differ significantly between black and yellow soils, suggesting that MP-induced toxic effects were less affected by soil type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, And State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Lingling Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, And State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Ping Fan
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Beidou Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, And State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China; College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China.
| | - Wenbing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, And State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
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25
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Okoffo ED, Chan CM, Rauert C, Kaserzon S, Thomas KV. Identification and Quantification of Micro-Bioplastics in Environmental Samples by Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:13774-13785. [PMID: 36128767 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics are materials that are biobased and/or biodegradable, but not necessarily both. Concerns about environmental plastic pollution are constantly growing with increasing demand for substituting fossil-based plastics with those made using renewable resource feedstocks. For many conventional bioplastics to completely decompose/degrade, they require specific environmental conditions that are rarely met in natural ecosystems, leading to rapid formation of micro-bioplastics. As global bioplastic production and consumption/use continue to increase, there is growing concern regarding the potential for environmental pollution from micro-bioplastics. However, the actual extent of their environmental occurrence and potential impacts remains unclear, and there is insufficient mass concentration-based quantitative data due to the lack of quantitative analytical methods. This study developed and validated an analytical method coupling pressurized liquid extraction and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry combined with thermochemolysis to simultaneously identify and quantify five targeted micro-bioplastics (i.e., polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polycaprolactone, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) in environmental samples on a polymer-specific mass-based concentration. The recovery of spiked micro-bioplastics in environmental samples (biosolids) ranged from 74 to 116%. The limits of quantification for the target micro-bioplastics were between 0.02 and 0.05 mg/g. PLA and PBAT were commonly detected in wastewater, biosolids, and sediment samples at concentrations between 0.07 and 0.18 mg/g. The presented analytical method enables the accurate identification, quantification, and monitoring of micro-bioplastics in environmental samples. This study quantified five micro-bioplastic types in complex environmental samples for the first time, filling in gaps in our knowledge about bioplastic pollution and providing a useful methodology and important reference data for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Clement Matthew Chan
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Sarit Kaserzon
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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26
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Recovery of lactic acid from biodegradable straw waste through a CO2-assisted thermochemical process. J CO2 UTIL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2022.102164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Fojt J, Denková P, Brtnický M, Holátko J, Řezáčová V, Pecina V, Kučerík J. Influence of Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate Micro-Bioplastics and Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics on the Soil Organic Matter Structure and Soil Water Properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:10732-10742. [PMID: 35816335 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c01970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adverse effects of microplastics on soil abiotic properties have been attributed to changes in the soil structure. Notably, however, the effects on the supramolecular structure of soil organic matter (SOM) have been overlooked, despite their key role in most soil properties. This work accordingly investigated the influence of plastic residues at various concentrations on the SOM supramolecular structure and soil water properties. To model plastic residues of micro-bioplastics, spherical or spherical-like poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) was used, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was used as a model of conventional microplastics. The results suggest that both types of plastic residues affect SOM properties, including physical stability (represented by water molecule bridges), water binding (represented by decreased desorption enthalpy or faster desorption), and the stability of SOM aliphatic crystallites. The results further showed that the polyester-based microplastics and micro-bioplastics affected the SOM abiotic characteristics and that therefore the observed effects cannot be attributed solely to changes in the whole soil structure. Notably, similar adverse effects on SOM were observed for both tested plastic residues, although the effect of PHB was less pronounced compared to that of PET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Fojt
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Denková
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Brtnický
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Holátko
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Řezáčová
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Václav Pecina
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kučerík
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 118, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Ainali NM, Kalaronis D, Evgenidou E, Kyzas GZ, Bobori DC, Kaloyianni M, Yang X, Bikiaris DN, Lambropoulou DA. Do poly(lactic acid) microplastics instigate a threat? A perception for their dynamic towards environmental pollution and toxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:155014. [PMID: 35381252 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Fears concerning microplastics (MPs) environmental fate and persistence are progressively expanding on a global basis, with the emphasis given to manufacturing bioplastics for substituting petro-derived plastics extensively growing. Among them, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) holds a pioneering role towards the replacement of conventional polymeric materials, owing to its multifunctional properties, enclosing superior mechanical properties, low cost, renewability, great biocompatibility, transparency, and thermoplasticity launching many fields of application. Due to the wide applicability of PLA in several sectors of everyday life, its waste to be released into the environment is expected to follow a growing tendency during the upcoming years. Even though PLA is a biodegradable polyester, it actually degrades under specific composting environments, including a rich oxygen environment with high temperatures (58-80 °C), high humidity (>60% moisture) as well as the presence of micro-organisms (thermophilic bacteria). Additionally, in various studies it has been implied that PLA displays slower degradation performance when found in blends with other conventional polymers, underlining the unspecified effects on PLA degradation profile, keeping thus the information about PLA degradation from a blur standpoint. Therefore, a deepened understanding of the fate and dynamic effects of PLA MPs is of primary importance. Nevertheless, the current examination of the effects of PLA MPs in terms of sorption capacities and toxicity is so far limited and broadly unexplored since the current scientific emphasis has been merely centered on the conventional MPs' behavior. In this light, the present review provides an inclusive overview of the ongoing research of poly(lactic acid) in the framework of microplastics' pollution, while the future trends and missing points in this context are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Kalaronis
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Evgenidou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, GR-570 01 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-654 04 Kavala, Greece
| | - Dimitra C Bobori
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Martha Kaloyianni
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Xin Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, GR-570 01 Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Cucina M, Soggia G, De Nisi P, Giordano A, Adani F. Assessing the anaerobic degradability and the potential recovery of biomethane from different biodegradable bioplastics in a full-scale approach. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 354:127224. [PMID: 35483534 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anaerobic degradability and the potential recovery of biomethane from different bioplastics using a full-scale approach. Bioplastics were placed inside a real anaerobic digestion plant working under thermophilic conditions and quantitative and qualitative degradation of bioplastics was evaluated. Laboratory-scale experiments were used to determine the amount of biomethane produced by anaerobic degradation of bioplastics. Polylactic acid-based items may degrade completely using retention times compatible with anaerobic digestion plants contributing positively to biomethane production, i.e., in 90 days 397 ± 8 NL CH4 kgvolatile solids-1 were produced by polylactic acid-based cutlery. Starch-based shoppers showed a quick degradation of the starch component in the first month of anaerobic digestion, followed by a slow degradation of the polyester component. Anaerobic digestion and/or anaerobic digestion coupled to digestate composting may represent the best strategy to dispose these wastes meeting the principles of Circular Economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Cucina
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Soggia
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia De Nisi
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Giordano
- Acqua & Sole Srl - Via Giulio Natta, 27010 Vellezzo Bellini, (PV), Italy
| | - Fabrizio Adani
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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Wang C, Wang L, Ok YS, Tsang DCW, Hou D. Soil plastisphere: Exploration methods, influencing factors, and ecological insights. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 430:128503. [PMID: 35739682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP), an emerging contaminant, is globally prevalent and poses potential environmental threats and ecological risks to both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. When MPs enter into natural environments, they may serve as artificial substrates for microbial colonization and plastisphere formation, providing new ecological niches for microorganisms. Recent studies of the plastisphere have focused on aquatic ecosystems. However, our understanding of the soil plastisphere e.g. its formation process, microbial ecology, co-transport of organic pollutants and heavy metals, and effects on biogeochemical processes is still very limited. This review summarizes latest methods used to explore the soil plastisphere, assesses the factors influencing the microbial ecology of the soil plastisphere, and sheds light on potential ecological risks caused by the soil plastisphere. The formation and succession of soil plastisphere communities can be driven by MP characteristics and soil environmental factors. The soil plastisphere may affect a series of ecological processes, especially the co-transport of environmental contaminants, biodegradation of MPs, and soil carbon cycling. We aim to narrow the knowledge gap between the soil and aquatic plastisphere, and provide valuable guidance for future research on the soil plastisphere in MP-contaminated soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengqian Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel C W Tsang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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A Simple Method for Quantification of Polyhydroxybutyrate and Polylactic Acid Micro-Bioplastics in Soils by Evolved Gas Analysis. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27061898. [PMID: 35335267 PMCID: PMC8949261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27061898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional plastics are being slowly replaced by biodegradable ones to prevent plastic pollution. However, in the natural environment, the biodegradation of plastics is usually slow or incomplete due to unfavorable conditions and leads to faster micro-bioplastic formation. Many analytical methods were developed to determine microplastics, but micro-bioplastics are still overlooked. This work presents a simple method for determining poly-3-hydroxybutyrate and polylactic acid micro-bioplastics in soil based on the thermogravimetry–mass spectrometry analysis of low molecular gases evolved during pyrolysis. For the method development, model soils containing different soil organic carbon contents were spiked with micro-bioplastics. Specific gaseous pyrolysis products of the analytes were identified, while the ratio of their amounts appeared to be constant above the level of detection of the suggested method. The constant ratio was explained as a lower soil influence on the evolution of the gaseous product, and it was suggested as an additional identification parameter. The advantages of the presented method are no sample pretreatment, presumably no need for an internal standard, low temperature needed for the transfer of gaseous products and the possibility of using its principles with other, cheaper detectors. The method can find application in the verification of biodegradation tests and in the monitoring of soils after the application of biodegradable products.
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32
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Luo Y, Gibson CT, Chuah C, Tang Y, Naidu R, Fang C. Applying Raman imaging to capture and identify microplastics and nanoplastics in the garden. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127788. [PMID: 34823958 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The characterisation of microplastics is still a challenge, and the challenge is even greater for nanoplastics, of which we only have a limited knowledge so far. Herewith we employ Raman imaging to directly visualise microplastics and nanoplastics which are released from the trimmer lines during lawn mowing. The signal-noise ratio of Raman imaging is significantly increased by generating an image from hundreds or thousands of Raman spectra, rather than from a single spectrum, and is further increased by combining with the logic-based and PCA-based algorithms. The increased signal-noise ratio enables us to capture and identify microplastics and particularly nanoplastics, including plastic fragments or shreds (with diameters / widths of 80 nm - 3 µm) and nanoparticles (with diameters of < 1000 nm) that are released during the mimicked mowing process. Using Raman imaging, we estimate that thousands of microplastics (0.1-5 mm), and billions of nanoplastics (< 1000 nm), are released per minute when a line trimmer is used to mow lawn. Overall, Raman imaging provides effective characterisation of the microplastics and is particularly suitable for nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Luo
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Christopher T Gibson
- Flinders Institute for NanoScale Science and Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia 5042, Australia; Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Clarence Chuah
- Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Youhong Tang
- Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Ravi Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Cheng Fang
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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33
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Sun Y, Duan C, Cao N, Ding C, Huang Y, Wang J. Biodegradable and conventional microplastics exhibit distinct microbiome, functionality, and metabolome changes in soil. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127282. [PMID: 34607029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Environmental concerns with liberal petroleum-based plastic use have led to demand for sustainable biodegradable alternatives. However, the inadequate end-of-life treatment of plastics may emit microplastics, either conventional or biodegradable, to the terrestrial environment. It is essential to evaluate the possible effects of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on the composition and function of soil microbial communities. Therefore, we conducted a soil microcosm experiment with polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polylactide (PLA), or polybutylene succinate (PBS) microplastics. The soil microbiome and metabolome were evaluated via 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomics, and untargeted metabolomics. We reported that the presence of conventional or biodegradable microplastics can significantly alter soil microbial community composition. Compared to the control soils, the microbiome in PBS and PLA amended soils exhibited higher potential for uptake of exogenous carbohydrates and amino acids, but a reduced capacity for related metabolic function, potentially due to catabolite repression. No differences in soil metabolome can be observed between conventional microplastic treatments and the control. The potential reason may be that the functional diversity was unaffected by PE and PS microplastics, while the biodegradable particles promoted the soil microbial multifunctionality. Our findings systematically shed light on the influence of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on soil microorganisms, facilitating microplastic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanze Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chongxue Duan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Na Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Changfeng Ding
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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Cazaudehore G, Guyoneaud R, Evon P, Martin-Closas L, Pelacho AM, Raynaud C, Monlau F. Can anaerobic digestion be a suitable end-of-life scenario for biodegradable plastics? A critical review of the current situation, hurdles, and challenges. Biotechnol Adv 2022; 56:107916. [PMID: 35122986 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2022.107916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Growing concern regarding non-biodegradable plastics and the impact of these materials on the environment has promoted interest in biodegradable plastics. The intensification of separate biowastes collection in most European countries has also contributed to the development of biodegradable plastics, and the subject of their end-of-life is becoming a key issue. To date, there has been relatively little research to evaluate the biodegradability of biodegradable plastics by anaerobic digestion (AD) compared to industrial and home composting. However, anaerobic digestion is a particularly promising strategy for treating biodegradable organic wastes in the context of circular waste management. This critical review aims to provide an in-depth update of anaerobic digestion of biodegradable plastics by providing a summary of the literature regarding process performances, parameters affecting biodegradability, the microorganisms involved, and some of the strategies (e.g., pretreatment, additives, and inoculum acclimation) used to enhance the degradation rate of biodegradable plastics. In addition, a critical section is dedicated to suggestions and recommendations for the development of biodegradable plastics sector and their treatment in anaerobic digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cazaudehore
- APESA, Pôle Valorisation, Cap Ecologia, 64230 Lescar, France; Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour/E2S UPPA/CNRS, IPREM UMR5254, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux, Chimie et Microbiologie de l'Environnement, 64000 Pau, France
| | - R Guyoneaud
- Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour/E2S UPPA/CNRS, IPREM UMR5254, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux, Chimie et Microbiologie de l'Environnement, 64000 Pau, France
| | - P Evon
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle (LCA), Université de Toulouse, ENSIACET, INRAE, INPT, 4 Allée Émile Monso, 31030 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - L Martin-Closas
- Dept. Horticulture, Botany and Gardening, University of Lleida, Avda, Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - A M Pelacho
- Dept. Horticulture, Botany and Gardening, University of Lleida, Avda, Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - C Raynaud
- CATAR CRITT Agroressources, ENSIACET, 4 Allée Émile Monso, 31030 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - F Monlau
- APESA, Pôle Valorisation, Cap Ecologia, 64230 Lescar, France.
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35
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Wortman SE, Jeske E, Samuelson MB, Drijber R. A new method for detecting micro-fragments of biodegradable mulch films containing poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) in soil. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2022; 51:123-128. [PMID: 34850400 DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable mulch (BDM) is a potentially sustainable alternative to polyethylene plastic mulch film for intensive crop production. Certified BDMs must demonstrate >90% biodegradation in compost and agricultural soil, but the environmental fate of BDM micro-fragments is usually not measured. While using fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis to study changes in soil microbial communities under different BDMs and management conditions, two peaks were detected by gas chromatography that were derived from a BDM containing poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT). The largest peak was identified as 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, dimethyl ester, or dimethyl terephthalate (DMT). The smaller peak was hexanedioic acid dimethyl ester or dimethyl adipate. From this observation we hypothesized that the FAME method could be used to detect and quantify micro-fragments (<5 mm in length) of PBAT-containing BDM in soil. To test this, fragments of two commercially available BDMs were added to soil and extracted for FAME analyses. Linear relationships were observed between DMT and mulch mass added to soil for both BDMs when the initial mass of fragments was <3.5 mg (r2 > .99). Based on our findings, the FAME method could be redeployed to study the environmental fate and possible accumulation of BDM micro-fragments in soil over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam E Wortman
- Dep. of Agronomy and Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Elizabeth Jeske
- Dep. of Agronomy and Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Mitchell B Samuelson
- Dep. of Agronomy and Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Rhae Drijber
- Dep. of Agronomy and Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
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Ainali NM, Kalaronis D, Kontogiannis A, Evgenidou E, Kyzas GZ, Yang X, Bikiaris DN, Lambropoulou DA. Microplastics in the environment: Sampling, pretreatment, analysis and occurrence based on current and newly-exploited chromatographic approaches. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 794:148725. [PMID: 34323760 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The omnipresent character of microplastics (MPs) in environmental matrices, organisms and products has recently posed the need of their qualitative as well as quantitative analysis imperative, in order to provide data about their abundance and specification of polymer types in several substrates. In this framework, current and emerging approaches based on the chromatographic separation are of increased relevance in the field of MPs analysis and possess a large number of merits, since most of them are applicable in various complex matrices, sensitive and ideal for the detection of small-sized particles, whereas the common absence of any special pre-treatment step before analysis should also be highlighted. Αnalytical pyrolysis coupled with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has recently gained ground as a powerful means to deliver information on MPs composition and degradation after their release into environment. Several instrumentations and trends in the area of analytical pyrolysis are thoroughly described within this review, while newly-exploited chromatographic methods in the field of MPs analysis, including Liquid Chromatography (LC) and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) in this line are also investigated. The present review fills the gap of standardization concerning sampling, pre-treatment and chromatographic approaches and gathers all the available methodologies applied inside this area in accordance with the studied substrate, with the most examined environmental matrices being the solid one. After investigating the various works, some development options arise and it appears that chromatographic approaches should focus on improved extraction processes in terms of MPs isolation, since it is a crucial part in plastic items monitoring and is commonly depended on the polymer type and matrix. Special attention is given on the potential of chromatographic techniques for microplastics identification as well as quantification by confirming the current research status and knowledge gaps and highlighting some of the recent trends in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Kalaronis
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Antonios Kontogiannis
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Evgenidou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki GR-57001, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-654 04 Kavala, Greece
| | - Xin Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki GR-57001, Greece.
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37
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Hu K, Tian W, Yang Y, Nie G, Zhou P, Wang Y, Duan X, Wang S. Microplastics remediation in aqueous systems: Strategies and technologies. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 198:117144. [PMID: 33933920 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the ubiquitous detection and accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment have raised significant concerns on water security and long-term ecological impacts all around the world. Nevertheless, critical reviews on strategic control and effective remediation of MPs in the aqueous phase are still lacking. In this work, we summarise the origins and types of MPs, and then introduce the methodologies for extraction, identification and quantification. More importantly, we for the first time provide a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the emerging MPs removal and transformation technologies. Except for biodegradation, this review presents new applications of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for MPs degradation and utilisation, including photocatalysis, photoreforming and Fenton-like reactions. Physical or catalytic thermal treatment can transform plastics into value-added nanocarbons or hydrocarbons. These transformation technologies demonstrate great potentials in dealing with MPs. The review will guide researchers to further explore the feasible approaches and develop new strategies for advanced control and remediation of MPs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunsheng Hu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Wenjie Tian
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Yangyang Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Gang Nie
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yuxian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Pollution Control, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Xiaoguang Duan
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia.
| | - Shaobin Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia.
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Pyrolytic Conversion of Plastic Waste to Value-Added Products and Fuels: A Review. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14102586. [PMID: 34065677 PMCID: PMC8157045 DOI: 10.3390/ma14102586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Plastic production has been rapidly growing across the world and, at the end of their use, many of the plastic products become waste disposed of in landfills or dispersed, causing serious environmental and health issues. From a sustainability point of view, the conversion of plastic waste to fuels or, better yet, to individual monomers, leads to a much greener waste management compared to landfill disposal. In this paper, we systematically review the potential of pyrolysis as an effective thermochemical conversion method for the valorization of plastic waste. Different pyrolysis types, along with the influence of operating conditions, e.g., catalyst types, temperature, vapor residence time, and plastic waste types, on yields, quality, and applications of the cracking plastic products are discussed. The quality of pyrolysis plastic oil, before and after upgrading, is compared to conventional diesel fuel. Plastic oil yields as high as 95 wt.% can be achieved through slow pyrolysis. Plastic oil has a heating value approximately equivalent to that of diesel fuel, i.e., 45 MJ/kg, no sulfur, a very low water and ash content, and an almost neutral pH, making it a promising alternative to conventional petroleum-based fuels. This oil, as-is or after minor modifications, can be readily used in conventional diesel engines. Fast pyrolysis mainly produces wax rather than oil. However, in the presence of a suitable catalyst, waxy products further crack into oil. Wax is an intermediate feedstock and can be used in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) units to produce fuel or other valuable petrochemical products. Flash pyrolysis of plastic waste, performed at high temperatures, i.e., near 1000 °C, and with very short vapor residence times, i.e., less than 250 ms, can recover up to 50 wt.% ethylene monomers from polyethylene waste. Alternatively, pyrolytic conversion of plastic waste to olefins can be performed in two stages, with the conversion of plastic waste to plastic oil, followed by thermal cracking of oil to monomers in a second stage. The conversion of plastic waste to carbon nanotubes, representing a higher-value product than fuel, is also discussed in detail. The results indicate that up to 25 wt.% of waste plastic can be converted into carbon nanotubes.
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39
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A Review of Bioplastics and Their Adoption in the Circular Economy. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13081229. [PMID: 33920269 PMCID: PMC8069747 DOI: 10.3390/polym13081229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The European Union is working towards the 2050 net-zero emissions goal and tackling the ever-growing environmental and sustainability crisis by implementing the European Green Deal. The shift towards a more sustainable society is intertwined with the production, use, and disposal of plastic in the European economy. Emissions generated by plastic production, plastic waste, littering and leakage in nature, insufficient recycling, are some of the issues addressed by the European Commission. Adoption of bioplastics–plastics that are biodegradable, bio-based, or both–is under assessment as one way to decouple society from the use of fossil resources, and to mitigate specific environmental risks related to plastic waste. In this work, we aim at reviewing the field of bioplastics, including standards and life cycle assessment studies, and discuss some of the challenges that can be currently identified with the adoption of these materials.
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40
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Towards the Development of Portable and In Situ Optical Devices for Detection of Micro and Nanoplastics in Water: A Review on the Current Status. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13050730. [PMID: 33673495 PMCID: PMC7956778 DOI: 10.3390/polym13050730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalent nature of micro and nanoplastics (MP/NPs) on environmental pollution and health-related issues has led to the development of various methods, usually based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies, for their detection. Unfortunately, most of the developed techniques are laboratory-based with little focus on in situ detection of MPs. In this review, we aim to give an up-to-date report on the different optical measurement methods that have been exploited in the screening of MPs isolated from their natural environments, such as water. The progress and the potential of portable optical sensors for field studies of MPs are described, including remote sensing methods. We also propose other optical methods to be considered for the development of potential in situ integrated optical devices for continuous detection of MPs and NPs. Integrated optical solutions are especially necessary for the development of robust portable and in situ optical sensors for the quantitative detection and classification of water-based MPs.
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41
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Torres FG, Dioses-Salinas DC, Pizarro-Ortega CI, De-la-Torre GE. Sorption of chemical contaminants on degradable and non-degradable microplastics: Recent progress and research trends. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 757:143875. [PMID: 33310573 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (<5 mm) are ubiquitous contaminants of growing concern. These have been found in multiple environmental compartments, including remote sites where anthropogenic activity is null. Once released, microplastics interact with multiple chemicals in the environment, many of which are classified as organic contaminants or heavy metals. Some contaminants have an affinity for microplastics, attributed to certain sorption mechanisms, and thus become vectors of hazardous chemicals. Here, we focused on the sorption behavior of degradable and non-degradable microplastics, including field and laboratory experiments. We reviewed the sorption mechanisms, namely hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic interactions, pore-filling, Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions, and the factors strengthening or weakening these mechanisms. Then, we analyzed the literature investigating the sorption behavior of a wide range of chemicals contaminants on microplastics, and the current knowledge regarding the occurrence of organic contaminants and heavy metals on microplastics extracted from the environment. The future perspectives and research priorities were discussed. It is apparent that degradable microplastics, such as polylactic acid or polybutylene succinate, have a greater affinity for hydrophobic contaminants than conventional synthetic non-degradable microplastics according to recent studies. However, studies assessing degradable microplastics are scarce and much research is required to further prove this point. We stated several knowledge gaps in this new line of research and suggest the future studies to follow an integrative approach, allowing to comprehend the multiple factors involved, such as ecotoxicity, bioaccumulation, and fate of the chemical contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando G Torres
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru, Av. Universitaria 1801, 15088 Lima, Peru.
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42
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Du S, Zhu R, Cai Y, Xu N, Yap PS, Zhang Y, He Y, Zhang Y. Environmental fate and impacts of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: a review. RSC Adv 2021; 11:15762-15784. [PMID: 35481192 PMCID: PMC9031200 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra00880c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Wide usage of plastic products leads to the global occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment. Due to the small size, they can be bio-ingested, which may cause certain health effects. The present review starts with summarizing the main sources of various types of MPs and their occurrences in the aquatic environment, as well as their transportation and degradation pathways. The analysis of migration of MPs in water environments shows that the ultimate fate of most MPs in water environments is cracked into small fragments and sinking into the bottom of the ocean. The advantages and disadvantages of existing methods for detection and analysis of MPs are summarized. In addition, based on recent researches, the present review discusses MPs as carriers of organic pollutants and microorganisms, and explores the specific effects of MPs on aquatic organisms in the case of single and combined pollutants. Finally, by analysing the causes and influencing factors of their trophic transfer, the impact of MPs on high-level trophic organisms is explored. The sources, fate and impacts of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Du
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Rongwen Zhu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Yujie Cai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Ning Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Pow-Seng Yap
- Department of Civil Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
- Suzhou
- China
| | - Yunhai Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Yide He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- P. R. China
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Sample Preparation Techniques for the Analysis of Microplastics in Soil—A Review. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12219074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although most plastic pollution originates on land, current research largely remains focused on aquatic ecosystems. Studies pioneering terrestrial microplastic research have adapted analytical methods from aquatic research without acknowledging the complex nature of soil. Meanwhile, novel methods have been developed and further refined. However, methodical inconsistencies still challenge a comprehensive understanding of microplastic occurrence and fate in and on soil. This review aims to disentangle the variety of state-of-the-art sample preparation techniques for heterogeneous solid matrices to identify and discuss best-practice methods for soil-focused microplastic analyses. We show that soil sampling, homogenization, and aggregate dispersion are often neglected or incompletely documented. Microplastic preconcentration is typically performed by separating inorganic soil constituents with high-density salt solutions. Not yet standardized but currently most used separation setups involve overflowing beakers to retrieve supernatant plastics, although closed-design separation funnels probably reduce the risk of contamination. Fenton reagent may be particularly useful to digest soil organic matter if suspected to interfere with subsequent microplastic quantification. A promising new approach is extraction of target polymers with organic solvents. However, insufficiently characterized soils still impede an informed decision on optimal sample preparation. Further research and method development thus requires thorough validation and quality control with well-characterized matrices to enable robust routine analyses for terrestrial microplastics.
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