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Zhang Y, Jiang F, Li F, Lu S, Liu Z, Wang Y, Chi Y, Jiang C, Zhang L, Chen Q, He Z, Zhao X, Qiao J, Xu X, Leung KMY, Liu X, Wu F. Global daily mask use estimation in the pandemic and its post environmental health risks: Analysis based on a validated dynamic mathematical model. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 473:134572. [PMID: 38772106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp increase in disposable surgical mask usage. Discarded masks can release microplastic and cause environmental pollution. Since masks have become a daily necessity for protection against virus infections, it is necessary to review the usage and disposal of masks during the pandemic for future management. In this study, we constructed a dynamic model by introducing related parameters to estimate daily mask usage in 214 countries from January 22, 2020 to July 31, 2022. And we validated the accuracy of our model by establishing a dataset based on published survey data. Our results show that the cumulative mask usage has reached 800 billion worldwide, and the microplastics released from discarded masks due to mismanagement account for 3.27% of global marine microplastic emissions in this period. Furthermore, we illustrated the response relationship between mask usage and the infection rates. We found a marginally significant negative correlation existing between the mean daily per capita mask usage and the rate of cumulative confirmed cases within the range of 25% to 50%. This indicates that if the rate reaches the specified threshold, the preventive effect of masks may become evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Fei Jiang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Fengmin Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Zihao Liu
- School of information science and engineering, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Yuwen Wang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Yiming Chi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chenchen Jiang
- First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Zhipeng He
- Shandong Freshwater Fisheries Research Institude, Jinan 250013, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Jianmin Qiao
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Xiaoya Xu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Kenneth Mei Yee Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education and College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Fengchang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
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Nanayakkara CJ, Senadheera V, Anuththara V, Rathnaweera P, Nishshanka P, Piyatissa P, Munasingha H, Dushyantha N, Kuruppu GN. The collateral effects of COVID-19 on marine pollution. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116595. [PMID: 38880035 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has gained significant attention to the intersection of public health crises and environmental challenges, particularly in the context of marine pollution. This paper examines the various impacts of the pandemic on marine environments, focusing on the pollution attributed to single-use plastics (SUPs) and personal protective equipment (PPE). Drawing on a comprehensive analysis of literature and case studies, the paper highlights the detrimental effects of increased plastic waste on marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. Statistical data and graphical representations reveal the scale of plastic pollution during the pandemic, emphasizing the urgent need for mitigation strategies. The study evaluates innovative monitoring techniques and future recommendations, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration in sustainable waste management. By broadening geographic examples and comparative analyses, it provides a global perspective on the pandemic's impact, highlighting the importance of international cooperation for safeguarding marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chamila Jinendra Nanayakkara
- Department of Earth Resources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Moratuwa 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Venuri Senadheera
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Veenavee Anuththara
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Pinsara Rathnaweera
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Primalsha Nishshanka
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Piyumi Piyatissa
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Harshani Munasingha
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Nimila Dushyantha
- Department of Applied Earth Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University, Passaara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka.
| | - Gayithri Niluka Kuruppu
- Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Business, University of Moratuwa, Moratuwa 10400, Sri Lanka
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Reisi S, Farimaniraad H, Baghdadi M, Abdoli MA. Immobilization of polypyrrole on waste face masks using a novel in-situ-surface polymerization method: removal of Cr(VI) from electroplating wastewater. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2024; 45:3162-3173. [PMID: 37161857 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2023.2210771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
In this work, polypyrrole (PPy) was synthesized on the surface of waste surgical face masks (SFM) with a novel environmentally-friendly in-situ-surface polymerization approach and used as an adsorbent for removing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). In this method, the SFM surface was activated using KMnO4, resulting in the immobilization of porous MnO2, on which pyrrole can be polymerized efficiently. The novelty of this method is the presence of the oxidant on the surface before the polymerization step, which results in a better surface modification with polypyrrole. This method provides adsorbents with higher adsorption capacity compared to the conventional polymerization method with ammonium persulfate (APS). The adsorbent prepared at the mass ratios of 1.0 and 2.0; respectively, for KMnO4/SFM and pyrrole/SFM showed the highest performance. The adsorbent characterization revealed the successful polymerization of pyrrole on the surface of SFM. Reusability of the KMnO4 and pyrrole solutions were successful with remarkable results, showing the advantage of this technique compared to the conventional polymerization method with APS. The effect of different factors on the adsorption process was investigated. The removal rate was around 98% under the optimum conditions (pH, 2; adsorbent dosage, 3 g L-1; contact time, 60 min). The equilibrium data were well fitted by Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.9999). Kinetic investigations revealed that the adsorption process fitted well with the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorbent was regenerated for up to five cycles. One of the most important advantages of the proposed method compared to other methods is the reduction of wastewater during the synthesis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Reisi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Farimaniraad
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Baghdadi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Abdoli
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Absori, Quinncilla KH, Nugroho HSW, Budiono A. Domestic Facemask Waste Policy Based on Environmental Ethics in the Covid-19 Pandemic: Urgency and Challenges. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2024; 17:1187-1197. [PMID: 38742138 PMCID: PMC11090113 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s417136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Covid-19 pandemic greatly affected various aspects of life. To prevent and control its spread, people are morally and legally obliged to wear face facemasks. The use of facemasks brings many waste problems. However, the Indonesian policy on facemask waste management does not regard the massive environmental consequences, as the amount of domestic facemask waste reaches hundreds of tons daily with limited management capacity application. Hence, this study aims to assess current issues and policies on facemask waste from the perspective of environmental ethics. Methods This research used the juridical-normative method, where legal rules and principles were processed to address current issues, supported by literature sources. This research employed qualitative approach to collect and analyze data. Results Results showed that there was a legal void which caused terrible facemask waste management in Indonesia. There was confusion in categorizing facemask waste, whether it is domestic or infectious waste, causing hazards in its management. From a deep ecology perspective, the applied facemask waste management was only beneficial for humans while completely neglecting biotic and abiotic components. To overcome this, several suggestions were: 1) categorizing domestic disposable facemask waste as hazardous waste, 2) applying sanctions for the violation of norms and tight social control on first-level management of facemask waste, and 3) using reusable facemask. Conclusion The obligation of wearing facemasks that were protective for humans during the Covid-19 pandemic must be followed with policies regulating facemask waste management that consider the environment and its biotic and abiotic components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Absori
- Department of Law, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Arief Budiono
- Department of Law, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia
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Zabihi O, Patrick R, Ahmadi M, Forrester M, Huxley R, Wei Y, Hadigheh SA, Naebe M. Mechanical upcycling of single-use face mask waste into high-performance composites: An ecofriendly approach with cost-benefit analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170469. [PMID: 38311090 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented demand for PPE, with single-use face masks emerging as a critical tool in containing virus transmission. However, the extensive use and improper disposal of these single-use face masks, predominantly composed of non-biodegradable plastics, has exacerbated environmental challenges. This research presents an innovative method for mechanically upcycling PPEs used in medical sectors i.e. single use face masks. The study investigates a facile approach for reclamation of infection-free and pure polypropylene (PP) plastic from discarded single use face masks (W-PP) and blends it with various vegetable oil percentages (5, 10 and 20 %), resulting in a versatile material suitable for various applications. Melt flow index, rheological behaviour, DSC and FTIR were employed to investigate the effect of vegetable oil/radical initiator through chemical grafting on W-PP properties. The results demonstrate significant enhancements in the tensile strength and modulus of W-PP when blended with vegetable oil and a radical initiator. There was a marked increase in tensile strength (33 %) and strain (55 %) compared to untreated W-PP, rendering W-PP both robust and flexible. Furthermore, we employed this upcycled W-PP in the fabrication of glass fibre-reinforced composites, resulting in notable enhancements in both tensile strength and impact resistance. The upcycled W-PP demonstrates excellent potential for various applications, such as sheet forming and 3D printing, where the non-brittleness of plastics plays a pivotal role in manufacturing high-quality products. The cost-benefit analysis of this approach underscores the potential of upcycling PPE waste as a sustainable solution to mitigate plastic pollution and conserve valuable resources. The applications of this upcycled material span a wide range of industries, including automotive composites, packaging, and 3D printing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid Zabihi
- Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia.
| | - Rebecca Patrick
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mojtaba Ahmadi
- Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Mike Forrester
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Huxley
- Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yaning Wei
- School of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - S Ali Hadigheh
- School of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Minoo Naebe
- Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia.
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Hou Y, Fu Q, Zhong H, Yu J, Tao Y, Gong Z, Li J, Wei S, Qiu J, Wang J, Zhu F, Ouyang G. High-performance plastic-derived metal-free catalysts for organic pollutants degradation via Fenton-like reaction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170185. [PMID: 38244619 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The preparation of waste plastics-derived catalysts is an effective strategy for the waste reclamation. However, plastic-derived material is unsuitable for wastewater purification due to its small specific surface area (SSA) and inadequate active sites (such as N/O sites). Herein, we synthesized graphene-like nanosheets using g-C3N4 as the self-sacrificing soft template and plastic as the carbon precursor. Consequently, this strategy greatly promoted the efficiencies of the emerging organic pollutants degradation with the SSA and N content of the plastic-derived biochar increasing up to 1043.4 m2/g and 17.53 at.%, respectively. In detail, 100 % sulfadiazine (SD) removal could be achieved in 180 s via the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and the catalytic activity is far higher than previous research. Mechanism experiments corroborated that such a striking performance was attributed to the generation of SO4•-, O2•- and 1O2. Meanwhile, kinds of plastic precursors, even medical waste (i.e., masks, gauze, operating caps and degreasing cotton) were also applicable. And the practical application of the plastic-derived catalyst was further demonstrated by treating pollutants in a continuous flow mode with in situ fabricated membrane. This work provides valuable insights into waste plastics processing and water pollutants removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qi Fu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Huajie Zhong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Jiaxing Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yuan Tao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zeyu Gong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Jianqiang Li
- JiangXi ZhengPuYiHe Technology Co. Ltd, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Songbo Wei
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Junlang Qiu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Junhui Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China.
| | - Fang Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Test for Dangerous Chemicals, Guangdong Institute of Analysis (China National Analytical Center Guangzhou), Guangdong Academy of Science, 100 Xianlie Middle Road, Guangzhou 510070, China
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Mohsin AS, Jamiruddin MR, Peyal MMK, Sharmin S, Ahmed A, Puspita AH, Sharfuddin A, Malik A, Hasib A, Suchona SA, Chowdhury AM, Kabir ER. Design optimization and validation of UV-C illumination chamber for filtering facepiece respirators. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26348. [PMID: 38439842 PMCID: PMC10909644 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we constructed an UV-C illumination chamber using commercially available germicidal lamps and other locally available low-cost components for general-purpose biological decontamination purposes. The illumination chamber provides uniform illumination of around 1 J/cm2 in under 5 min across the chamber. The control mechanism was developed to automate the on/off process and make it more secure minimizing health and other electrical safety. To validate the decontamination efficacy of the UV-C Illumination Chamber we performed the Geobacillus spore strip culture assay. Additionally, we performed the viral load measurement by identifying the COVID-19-specific N-gene and ORF1 gene on surgical masks. The gold standard RT-qPCR measurement was performed to detect and quantify the COVID-19-specific gene on the mask sample. The biochemical assay was conducted on the control and test group to identify the presence of different types of bacteria, and fungi before and after exposure under the illumination chamber. The findings of our study revealed satisfactory decontamination efficacy test results. Therefore, it could be an excellent device in healthcare settings as a disinfection tool for biological decontamination such as SAR-CoV-2 virus, personal protection equipment (PPE), (including n95, k95 respirators, and surgical masks), and other common pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu S.M. Mohsin
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohd. Raeed Jamiruddin
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Gonoshasthaya-RNA Molecular Diagnostic and Research Center, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mahmudul Kabir Peyal
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shahana Sharmin
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ashfaq Ahmed
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Afrin Hossain Puspita
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A.A.M. Sharfuddin
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Afrida Malik
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Al Hasib
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Arshad M. Chowdhury
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eva Rahman Kabir
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Yang Y, Xin C, Sun Y, Di J, Meng F, Zhou X. Experimental Study on the Mechanical Properties of Disposable Mask Waste-Reinforced Gangue Concrete. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:948. [PMID: 38399198 PMCID: PMC10890544 DOI: 10.3390/ma17040948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
This paper is grounded on the following information: (1) Disposable masks primarily consist of polypropylene fiber, which exhibits excellent flexibility. (2) China has extensive coal gangue deposits that pose a significant environmental hazard. (3) Coal gangue concrete exhibits greater fragility compared to regular concrete and demonstrates reduced resistance to deformation. With the consideration of environmental conservation and resource reutilization, a preliminary concept suggests the conversion of discarded masks into fibers, which can be blended with coal gangue concrete to enhance its mechanical characteristics. In this paper, the stress-strain law of different mask fiber-doped coal gangue concrete (DMGC) under uniaxial compression is studied when the matrix strength is C20 and C30, and the effect of mask fiber content on the mechanical behavior and energy conversion relationship of coal gangue concrete is analyzed. The experimental results show that when the content of mask fiber is less than 1.5%, the strength, elastic modulus, deformation resistance, and energy dissipation of the concrete increase with mask fiber content. When the amount of mask fiber is more than 1.5%, because the tensile capacity and energy dissipation level of concrete produced by the mask fiber cannot compensate for the compression and deformation resistance of concrete of the same quantity and because excess fiber is difficult to evenly mix in the concrete, there are pore defects in concrete, which decreases the concrete strength due to the increase in mask fiber. Therefore, adding less than 1.5% mask fiber helps to improve the ductility, toughness, impermeability, and oxidation and control the cracking of coal gangue concrete. Based on Weibull theory, a constitutive model of DMGC is established, which fits well with the results of a uniaxial test, providing support for understanding the mechanical law of mask fiber-doped concrete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Yang
- College of Civil Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 123000, China; (Y.Y.); (J.D.); (F.M.); (X.Z.)
| | - Changhao Xin
- College of Civil Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 123000, China; (Y.Y.); (J.D.); (F.M.); (X.Z.)
| | - Yidan Sun
- College of Civil and Marine Engineering, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222000, China;
| | - Junzhen Di
- College of Civil Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 123000, China; (Y.Y.); (J.D.); (F.M.); (X.Z.)
| | - Fankang Meng
- College of Civil Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 123000, China; (Y.Y.); (J.D.); (F.M.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xinhua Zhou
- College of Civil Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 123000, China; (Y.Y.); (J.D.); (F.M.); (X.Z.)
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9
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Haghighat Bayan MA, Rinoldi C, Rybak D, Zargarian SS, Zakrzewska A, Cegielska O, Põhako-Palu K, Zhang S, Stobnicka-Kupiec A, Górny RL, Nakielski P, Kogermann K, De Sio L, Ding B, Pierini F. Engineering surgical face masks with photothermal and photodynamic plasmonic nanostructures for enhancing filtration and on-demand pathogen eradication. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:949-963. [PMID: 38221844 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01125a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The shortage of face masks and the lack of antipathogenic functions has been significant since the recent pandemic's inception. Moreover, the disposal of an enormous number of contaminated face masks not only carries a significant environmental impact but also escalates the risk of cross-contamination. This study proposes a strategy to upgrade available surgical masks into antibacterial masks with enhanced particle and bacterial filtration. Plasmonic nanoparticles can provide photodynamic and photothermal functionalities for surgical masks. For this purpose, gold nanorods act as on-demand agents to eliminate pathogens on the surface of the masks upon near-infrared light irradiation. Additionally, the modified masks are furnished with polymer electrospun nanofibrous layers. These electrospun layers can enhance the particle and bacterial filtration efficiency, not at the cost of the pressure drop of the mask. Consequently, fabricating these prototype masks could be a practical approach to upgrading the available masks to alleviate the environmental toll of disposable face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Haghighat Bayan
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Chiara Rinoldi
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Daniel Rybak
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Seyed Shahrooz Zargarian
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Anna Zakrzewska
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Olga Cegielska
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Kaisa Põhako-Palu
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Shichao Zhang
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Agata Stobnicka-Kupiec
- Laboratory of Biohazards, Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Warsaw 00-701, Poland
| | - Rafał L Górny
- Laboratory of Biohazards, Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Warsaw 00-701, Poland
| | - Paweł Nakielski
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
| | - Karin Kogermann
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Luciano De Sio
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Research Center for Biophotonics, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina 04100, Italy
| | - Bin Ding
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Filippo Pierini
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw 02-106, Poland.
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10
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Najafighodousi A, Nemati F, Rayegani A, Saberian M, Zamani L, Li J. Recycling facemasks into civil construction material to manage waste generated during COVID-19. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:12577-12590. [PMID: 38168852 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31726-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Growing plastic pollution in the context of COVID-19 has caused significant challenges, exacerbating this already out-of-control issue. The pandemic has considerably boosted the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE), such as facemasks and gloves, all over the globe, and mismanaging this growing plastic pollution has harmed the environment and wildlife significantly. To mitigate negative environmental impacts, it is necessary to develop and implement effective waste management strategies. This present study estimated the daily facemask generation throughout the pandemic in Iran based on the distribution of urban and rural populations and, likewise, the daily generation of hand gloves in the COVID-19 era and the amount of medical waste generated by COVID-19 patients were calculated. In the next step, the quantities of discarded facemasks dumped into the Caspian Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman from the coastal cities were determined. Finally, the innovative alternatives for repurposing discarded facemasks in civil construction materials such as concrete, pavement, and partition wall panel were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atiyeh Najafighodousi
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Nemati
- Department of Civil Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Rayegani
- Centre for Infrastructure Engineering, Western Sydney University, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia
| | - Mohammad Saberian
- Vice Chancellor's Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Leila Zamani
- Center for Environmental Economics and Technology, Department of Environment of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jie Li
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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11
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Ramamoorthy NK, Pallam RB, Subash Chandrabose K, Sahadevan R, Vemuri VS. A critical process variable-regulated, parameter-balancing auxostat, performed using disposed COVID-19 personal protective equipment-based substrate mixture, yields sustained and improved endoglucanase titers. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2024; 54:19-38. [PMID: 37149786 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2023.2204479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Fifty percent of the overall operational expenses of biorefineries are incurred during enzymatic-saccharification processes. Cellulases have a global-market value of $1621 USD. Dearth of conventional lignocelluloses have led to the exploration of their waste stream-based, unconventional sources. Native fungus-employing cellulase-production batches fail to yield sustained enzyme titers. It could be attributed to variations in the enzyme-production broth's quasi-dilatant behavior, its fluid and flow properties; heat and oxygen transfer regimes; kinetics of fungal growth; and nutrient utilization. The current investigation presents one of the first-time usages of a substrate mixture, majorly comprising disposed COVID-19 personal protective-equipment (PPE). To devise a sustainable and scalable cellulase-production process, various variable-regulated, continuous-culture auxostats were performed. The glucose concentration-maintaining auxostat recorded consistent endoglucanase titers throughout its feeding-cum-harvest cycles; furthermore, it enhanced oxygen transfer, heat transfer co-efficient, and mass transfer co-efficient by 91.5, 36, and 77%, respectively. Substrate-characterization revealed that an unintended, autoclave-based organsolv pretreatment caused unanticipated increases in endoglucanase titers. The cumulative lab-scale cellulase-production cost was found to be $16.3. The proposed approach is economical, and it offers a pollution-free waste management process, thereby generating carbon credits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navnit Kumar Ramamoorthy
- Fungal Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, India
| | - Revanth Babu Pallam
- Fungal Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, India
| | | | | | - Venkateswara Sarma Vemuri
- Fungal Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, India
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12
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Doad R, Gupta R, Shitak R. Evaluation of biomedical waste generation in Himachal Pradesh before and during the Covid 19 pandemic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167689. [PMID: 37820814 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167689] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Himachal Pradesh dealt with the same crisis as other states in India due to the extensive dissemination of the COVID-19 coronavirus infection. Biomedical waste management is crucial for public health and environmental safety, and the pandemic's impact on waste generation is an understudied area. This study specifically utilizes data from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board as well as information from other governmental and non-governmental organizations, which are analysed and compared for the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. This research offers a thorough analysis of waste generation of Himachal Pradesh both before and during the COVID-19 outbreak. Kangra (671 kg/day), Shimla (526 kg/day), are found to be high Bio medical waste generation (BMWG) districts whereas Kinnour (22 kg/day), Lahul Spiti (6 kg/day) are observed as lowest BMW generating districts in Himachal Pradesh on average basis in the year 2018 to 2020. The unexpected COVID-19 viral pandemic has caused a huge increase in Bio-medical waste (584 kg/day) in the year 2021 in comparison to that in the year 2020 (139 kg/day). The gaps analysis of Himachal Pradesh implementation of the Biomedical waste regulations was also assessed in this study. Deep burials have been severely prohibited by the Himachal Pradesh government; yet, two districts continue to dispose of BMWs using deep burial techniques. The findings reveal important insights into the changing patterns of BMW generation, shedding light on the challenges and requirements for effective waste management strategies during health crises. The insights obtained from this study can contribute in development of resilient waste management system that can effectively respond to future pandemics or health crises, ensuring the safety of healthcare workers, the public, and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Doad
- Centre for Energy and Environment, Dr B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, Punjab, India.
| | - Renu Gupta
- Centre for Energy and Environment, Chemical Engineering, Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Ritu Shitak
- Department of Pharmacology, Dr. Radhakrishnan Government Medical College Hamirpur, cum-consultant-cum State Nodal Officer PVPI under aegis of IPC, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GOI, Himachal Pradesh, India
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13
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Lyu L, Peng H, An C, Sun H, Yang X, Bi H. An insight into the benefits of substituting polypropylene with biodegradable polylactic acid face masks for combating environmental emissions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167137. [PMID: 37734618 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167137] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Mask waste can affect the natural environment and human health. In this study, the life cycle assessment (LCA) of two types of face masks (Polylactic acid (PLA) and Polypropylene (PP)) was first performed to evaluate the environmental impacts from production to end-of-life, and then, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were estimated for each life stage. The GHG emissions for one functional unit of PP and PLA face masks were estimated to be 6.27E+07 and 5.06E+07 kg CO2 eq, respectively. Explicitly, PLA mask production emissions are 37 % lower as compared to those for PP masks. Packaging has been recognized as a major GHG source throughout the product's life cycle. This study may provide a new insight into the environmental benefits of reducing GHG emissions within PLA face mask life cycles. Biodegradable and environmentally friendly materials can be used in the manufacturing and packaging of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxiang Lyu
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - He Peng
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Chunjiang An
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada.
| | - Huijuan Sun
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xiaohan Yang
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Huifang Bi
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
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14
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Muñoz-Soto VD, Dávila-Gálvez S, Pérez AE, Rojo-González L, Valenzuela-Levi N, Vásquez ÓC. COVID-19, waste production and municipal recycling programs: Insights from Chile to the global south. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165388. [PMID: 37454859 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The amount and characterization of municipal and industrial waste generated in numerous cities worldwide have changed dramatically in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, assessing the impact of COVID-19-related policies is important to provide decision-makers with adequate knowledge to respond effectively to future events and create successful policies that respond to specific contexts. This study focuses on Chile, Latin America's second-largest municipal and industrial solid waste producer, with tight quarantine procedures placed to prevent the virus from spreading, and a series of monetary incentives implemented to minimize the economic and social impact of the quarantines. The time series of municipal solid waste (MSW) and recycling in the metropolitan region show a decrease in the amount collected during the initial months of lockdown and a subsequent increase during monetary incentive implementation. The country recovered and exceeded pre-pandemic MSW generation and recycling levels. Furthermore, the lockdown and the withdrawal of retirement funds (WRF) had a varied impact on each municipality in the region. However, WRF had a larger direct impact than a lockdown, indicating that purchasing power has a greater impact than mobility in waste generation and recycling, at least in this region of Chile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria D Muñoz-Soto
- Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile
| | - Sebastián Dávila-Gálvez
- Program for the Development of Sustainable Production Systems (PDSPS), Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile; Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile.
| | - Andrea Espinoza Pérez
- Program for the Development of Sustainable Production Systems (PDSPS), Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile; Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile
| | - Luis Rojo-González
- Program for the Development of Sustainable Production Systems (PDSPS), Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile; Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile; Centre Interuniversitaire de Recherche sur les Réseaux d'Entreprise, la Logistique et le Transport (CIRRELT) and Département de Mathématiques et de Génie industriel, Polytechnique Montréal, 2500 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, H3C 3A7, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Óscar C Vásquez
- Program for the Development of Sustainable Production Systems (PDSPS), Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile; Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Santiago of Chile (USACH), Chile
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15
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Li X, Han F, Fan S, Liu Y, Zhang J, Li J. Recycling of discarded face masks for modification and use in SBS-modified bitumen. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:115152-115163. [PMID: 37880400 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30570-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the discarded face masks have attracted widespread attention in society. In line with sustainable development, a physicochemical treatment method was used to recycle discarded face masks into styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified bitumen. Utilizing the highly adhesive polydopamine-polyethyleneimine (PDA-PEI) coating, it has improved the surface damage of the discarded face mask fibers (DFMF) caused by natural aging and mechanical fragmentation, simultaneously strengthening the connection between the fibers and bitumen. At 46 °C, the 2% embellish-face mask fiber (E-FMF)/SBS modified bitumen, compared to the 2%DFMF/SBS modified bitumen, exhibited improvements in complex modulus (G*), elastic modulus (G'), and loss modulus (G″) by 12.27%, 16.39%, and 13.35%, respectively. Furthermore, at 0.1 kPa and 3.2 kPa, the creep recovery rate (R) increased by 23.3% and 32%, and the average creep compliance (Jnr) decreased by 54.7% and 64%. It was demonstrated that DFMF adhered with the coating, were more effective in improving the mechanical properties, deformation resistance, and shear resistance of the bitumen. This approach enriches the application scenarios of discarded single-use face masks and supports environmental protection and road construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Fuhu Han
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Shencheng Fan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Guangxi Communications Investment Technology Co., Ltd., Nanning, China
| | - Jieyu Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Jing Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
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16
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Nam JY, Tokmurzin D, Yoon SM, Ra HW, Lee JG, Lee DH, Seo MW. Carbon dioxide gasification characteristics of disposable COVID-19 masks using bubbling fluidized bed reactor. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 235:116669. [PMID: 37453506 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The global demand for masks has increased significantly owing to COVID-19 and mutated viruses, resulting in a massive amount of mask waste of approximately 490,000 tons per month. Mask waste recycling is challenging because of the composition of multicomponent polymers and iron, which puts them at risk of viral infection. Conventional treatment methods also cause environmental pollution. Gasification is an effective method for processing multicomponent plastics and obtaining syngas for various applications. This study investigated the carbon dioxide gasification and tar removal characteristics of an activated carbon bed using a 1-kg/h laboratory-scale bubble fluidized bed gasifier. The syngas composition was analyzed as 10.52 vol% of hydrogen, 6.18 vol% of carbon monoxide, 12.05 vol% of methane, and 14.44 vol% of hydrocarbons (C2-C3). The results of carbon dioxide gasification with activated carbon showed a tar-reduction efficiency of 49%, carbon conversion efficiency of 45.16%, and cold gas efficiency of 88.92%. This study provides basic data on mask waste carbon dioxide gasification using greenhouse gases as useful product gases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Nam
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangangu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea; Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Diyar Tokmurzin
- Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Yoon
- Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Won Ra
- Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Goo Lee
- Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangangu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Myung Won Seo
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Critchell K, Edge L, Traurig MJ. Legacy community science data suggest reduced beached litter in response to a container deposit scheme at a local scale. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 195:115471. [PMID: 37657156 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115471] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Marine debris is causing significant environmental harm. Legislation is being implemented to reduce litter, including schemes like container deposit legislation that incentivize the return of commonly littered items for recycling. While there is a suggestion that these schemes reduce litter, no study has examined the long-term impact on the local environment before and after implementation. This study analyses community science data from 8 years prior to the implementation of a container deposit scheme, paired with 3 years of data afterwards, to assess the scheme's effectiveness at a local scale. Although using legacy datasets limits the generalizability of the conclusions compared to dedicated studies, the findings strongly indicate that container deposit schemes effectively manage targeted containers but have little impact on overall waste abundances. Long-term datasets like these are invaluable for assessing the impact of management efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Critchell
- Marine Biophysical & Spatial Modelling Group, Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, 2A Bellarine Hwy, Queenscliff, VIC 3225, Australia.
| | - Libby Edge
- Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc., Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket, QLD 4802, Australia
| | - Michael J Traurig
- Marine Biophysical & Spatial Modelling Group, Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, 2A Bellarine Hwy, Queenscliff, VIC 3225, Australia
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18
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Yang Q, Yang S, Jiao Y. Assessing disposable masks consumption and littering in the post COVID-19 pandemic in China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122190. [PMID: 37467913 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Disposable masks associated with COVID-19 pandemic are one of the most thrown plastic garbage items in the environment, even three years later, and they need more than 450 years to completely decompose. Given their harm to the environment and the absence of monitoring efforts to quantify the consumption and improper disposal of disposable masks in China, we carried out a survey to assess the consumption and littering of disposable masks nationwide. Our objectives were to quantify the consumption and littering of disposable masks and estimate the plastic pollution caused by disposable masks in China. According to the national survey, which combined online and offline results performed in March 2023, about 69% Chinese people still wear masks, and among of them, more than 93% used disposable masks, with more than 70% using more than one piece each day. Therefore, at least 20.3 billion disposable masks were consumed by Chinese people in March 2023 and 238.5 billion will be consumed in 2023 if there are no significant changes in circumstances. Meanwhile, more than 67% of the mask-wearing public disposed of the disposable masks into the household waste bin, and 7% of them discarded them at will. This means about 1.4 billion disposable masks, amounting to at least 350 tons of plastic pollution, were casually discharged into the environment during March 2023. The finding shed light on the inadequate management and disposal of disposable masks and highlight the urgency of preventing plastic pollution from disposable masks in China. It is recommended to raise public awareness of proper handling of disposable masks, institute strict management guidelines, and support innovations and research for nontoxic, biodegradable, reusable and easily recyclable masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Yang
- Institute for Advanced Marine Research, China University of Geosciences, Guangzhou, 511462, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Institute for Advanced Marine Research, China University of Geosciences, Guangzhou, 511462, China; College of Marine Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Yaqian Jiao
- College of Marine Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China; College of Marine Sciences, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
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Dey S, Samanta P, Dutta D, Kundu D, Ghosh AR, Kumar S. Face masks: a COVID-19 protector or environmental contaminant? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:93363-93387. [PMID: 37548785 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29063-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Face masks, a prime component of personal protective equipment (PPE) items, have become an integral part of human beings to survive under the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation. The global population requires an estimated 130 billion face masks and 64 billion gloves/month, while the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the daily disposal of approximately 3.5 billion single-use face masks, resulting in a staggering 14,245,230.63 kg of face mask waste. The improper disposal of face mask wastes followed by its mismanagement is a challenge to the scientists as the wastes create pollution leading to environmental degradation, especially plastic pollution (macro/meso/micro/nano). Each year, an estimated 0.15-0.39 million tons of COVID-19 face mask waste, along with 173,000 microfibers released daily from discarded surgical masks, could enter the marine environment, while used masks have a significantly higher microplastic release capacity (1246.62 ± 403.50 particles/piece) compared to new masks (183.00 ± 78.42 particles/piece). Surgical face masks emit around 59 g CO2-eq greenhouse gas emissions per single use, cloth face masks emit approximately 60 g CO2-eq/single mask, and inhaling or ingesting microplastics (MPs) caused adverse health problems including chronic inflammation, granulomas or fibrosis, DNA damage, cellular damage, oxidative stress, and cytokine secretion. The present review critically addresses the role of face masks in reducing COVID-19 infections, their distribution pattern in diverse environments, the volume of waste produced, degradation in the natural environment, and adverse impacts on different environmental segments, and proposes sustainable remediation options to tackle environmental challenges posed by disposable COVID-19 face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhendu Dey
- Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan, 713 104, West Bengal, India
| | - Palas Samanta
- Department of Environmental Science, Sukanta Mahavidyalaya, University of North Bengal, Dhupguri, 735 210, West Bengal, India
| | - Deblina Dutta
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, 522 240, India
| | - Debajyoti Kundu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, 522 240, India
| | - Apurba Ratan Ghosh
- Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan, 713 104, West Bengal, India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440 020, Maharashtra, India.
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20
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Merenstein C, Fitzgerald AS, Khatib LA, Graham-Wooten J, Bushman FD, Collman RG. Effects of Mask Reuse on the Oropharyngeal, Skin, and Mask Microbiome. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:479-486. [PMID: 37217829 PMCID: PMC10428194 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad167] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Face masks have been critical in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, but supplies were sometimes limited and disposable masks contribute greatly to environmental waste. Studies suggest that filtration capacity is retained with repeated use, and surveys indicate many people reuse surgical masks. However, the impact of mask reuse on the host is understudied. METHODS We applied 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the bacterial microbiome of the facial skin and oropharynx of individuals randomized to wearing fresh surgical masks daily versus masks reused for 1 week. RESULTS Compared to daily fresh masks, reuse was associated with increased richness (number of taxa) of the skin microbiome and trend towards greater diversity, but no difference in the oropharyngeal microbiome. Used masks had either skin-dominant or oropharynx-dominant bacterial sequences, and reused masks had >100-fold higher bacterial content but no change in composition compared to those used for 1 day. CONCLUSIONS One week of mask reuse increased the number of low-abundance taxa on the face but did not impact the upper respiratory microbiome. Thus, face mask reuse has little impact on the host microbiome, although whether minor changes to the skin microbiome might relate to reported skin sequelae of masking (maskne) remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carter Merenstein
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ayannah S Fitzgerald
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Layla A Khatib
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jevon Graham-Wooten
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Frederic D Bushman
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ronald G Collman
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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21
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Requena-Sanchez NP, Carbonel D, Demel L, Moonsammy S, Richter A, Mahmud TS, Ng KTW. A multi-jurisdictional study on the quantification of COVID-19 household plastic waste in six Latin American countries. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:93295-93306. [PMID: 37505388 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28949-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This study examines urban plastic waste generation using a citizen science approach in six Latin American countries during a global pandemic. The objectives are to quantify generation rates of masks, gloves, face shields, and plastic bags in urban households using online survey and perform a systematic cross-jurisdiction comparisons in these Latin American countries. The per capita total mask generation rates ranged from 0.179 to 0.915 mask cap-1 day-1. A negative correlation between the use of gloves and masks is observed. Using the average values, the approximate proportion of masks, gloves, shields, and single-use plastic bags was 34:5:1:84. We found that most studies overestimated face mask disposal rate in Latin America due to the simplifying assumptions on the number of masks discarded per person, masking prevalence rate, and average mask weight. Unlike other studies, end-of-life PPE quantities were directly counted and reported by the survey participants. Both of the conventional weight-based estimates and the proposed participatory survey are recommended in quantifying COVID waste. Participant' perception based on the Likert scale is generally consistent with the waste amount generated. Waste policy and regulation appear to be important in daily waste generation rate. The results highlight the importance of using measured data in waste estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norvin Plumieer Requena-Sanchez
- Integrated Waste Management for Sustainable Development (GIRDS), Faculty of Environmental Engineering, National University of Engineering, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Rímac, 15333, Lima, Peru
| | - Dalia Carbonel
- Integrated Waste Management for Sustainable Development (GIRDS), Faculty of Environmental Engineering, National University of Engineering, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Rímac, 15333, Lima, Peru
| | - Larissa Demel
- United Nations Development Program, Apartado, 0816-1914, Panama, Panama
| | - Stephan Moonsammy
- Department of Environmental Studies, Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Guyana, RV6J+XV8, Turkeyen Campus, Georgetown, Guyana
| | - Amy Richter
- Environmental Systems Engineering, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Tanvir Shahrier Mahmud
- Environmental Systems Engineering, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Kelvin Tsun Wai Ng
- Environmental Systems Engineering, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada.
- Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada.
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22
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Gao Y, Hou Z, Jiang M, Lei D, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Wang JG. Recycling spent masks to fabricate flexible hard carbon anode toward advanced sodium energy storage. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2023; 941:117525. [PMID: 37206895 PMCID: PMC10170870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2023.117525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The massive discard of spent masks during the COVID-19 pandemic imposes great environmental anxiety to the human society, which calls for a reliable and sustainable outlet to mitigate this issue. In this work, we demonstrate a green design strategy of recycling the spent masks to fabricate hard carbon fabrics toward high-efficient sodium energy storage. After a simple carbonization treatment, flexible hard carbon fabrics composed of interwoven microtubular fibers are obtained. When serving as binder-free anodes of sodium-ion batteries, a large Na-ion storage capacity of 280 mAh g-1 is achieved for the optimized sample. More impressively, the flexible anode exhibits an initial coulombic efficiency of as high as 86% and excellent rate/cycling performance. The real-life practice of the flexible hard carbon is realized in the full-cells. The present study affords an enlightening approach for the recycling fabrication of high value-added hard carbon materials from the spent masks for advanced sodium energy storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Zhidong Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Mingwei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Da Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jian-Gan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center for Nano Energy Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University and Shaanxi Joint Lab of Graphene (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
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23
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Severo EA, De Guimarães JCF, Wanderley LSO, Gueiros MMB, Jabbour CJC. Influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of social media on awareness' socio-environmental and sustainable consumption: Consolidating lessons from the pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENT 2023; 46:100865. [PMID: 37192845 PMCID: PMC10165870 DOI: 10.1016/j.envdev.2023.100865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Many impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were caused on people's health and the economy of countries in its first year, especially in emerging economies such as Brazil, were dire. Social distancing and the reduction of jobs caused impacts in many organizations, which led to the adoption of strategies allowing employees to work from home, adjusting family residences into home offices while facing reduction in industrial production and a decrease in economic activities. The pandemic also changed consumption behaviors, the use of social media (social networks), and people's socioenvironmental awareness. This research aims to evaluate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of social media, on environmental awareness, on sustainable consumption awareness and on the social responsibility awareness of different generations in Brazil one year after the beginning of the pandemic. For data analysis, the structural equation modeling method was used from a final sample of 1120 respondents. The results indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic positively influences the growing in social media usage (environmental issues and social responsibility issues) and sustainable consumption awareness. The study highlights that social media usage has the ability to positively influence environmental awareness, sustainable consumption awareness, and social responsibility awareness. The results provide a framework to analyze the consequential factors of the COVID-19 pandemic on sustainability awareness and the use of social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Andréa Severo
- Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Department of Administrative Sciences (DCA/UFPE), Center for Applied Social Sciences (CCSA/UFPE), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, 1235, 50670-901, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Ferro De Guimarães
- Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Post-Graduate Program in Hospitality and Tourism (PPHTur/UFPE), PostGraduate Program in Management, Innovation and Consumption (PPGIC/UFPE), Department of Administrative Sciences (DCA/UFPE), Center for Applied Social Sciences (CCSA/UFPE), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, 1235, 50670-901, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Lilian Soares Outtes Wanderley
- Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Department of Administrative Sciences (DCA/UFPE), Center for Applied Social Sciences (CCSA/UFPE), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, 1235, 50670-901, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Mônica Maria Barbosa Gueiros
- Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Department of Administrative Sciences (DCA/UFPE), Center for Applied Social Sciences (CCSA/UFPE), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, 1235, 50670-901, Recife-PE, Brazil
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24
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Teodorescu GM, Vuluga Z, Oancea F, Ionita A, Paceagiu J, Ghiurea M, Nicolae CA, Gabor AR, Raditoiu V. Properties of Composites Based on Recycled Polypropylene and Silico-Aluminous Industrial Waste. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112545. [PMID: 37299344 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112545] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an ever-growing interest in recovering and recycling waste materials due to their hazardous nature to the environment and human health. Recently, especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, disposable medical face masks have been a major source of pollution, hence the rise in studies being conducted on how to recover and recycle this waste. At the same time, fly ash, an aluminosilicate waste, is being repurposed in various studies. The general approach to recycling these materials is to process and transform them into novel composites with potential applications in various industries. This work aims to investigate the properties of composites based on silico-aluminous industrial waste (ashes) and recycled polypropylene from disposable medical face masks and to create usefulness for these materials. Polypropylene/ash composites were prepared through melt processing methods, and samples were analyzed to get a general overview of the properties of these composites. Results showed that the polypropylene recycled from face masks used together with silico-aluminous ash can be processed through industrial melt processing methods and that the addition of only 5 wt% ash with a particle size of less than 90 µm, increases the thermal stability and the stiffness of the polypropylene matrix while maintaining its mechanical strength. Further investigations are needed to find specific applications in some industrial fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- George-Mihail Teodorescu
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Zina Vuluga
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Oancea
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Ionita
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Marius Ghiurea
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian-Andi Nicolae
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Augusta Raluca Gabor
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Valentin Raditoiu
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
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25
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Property assessment of an eco-friendly mortar reinforced with recycled mask fiber derived from COVID-19 single-use face masks. JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING 2023; 66. [PMCID: PMC9831978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2023.105885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Wearing a face mask is strongly advised to prevent the spread of the virus causing the COVID-19 pandemic, though masks have produced a tremendous amount of waste. As masks contain polypropylene and other plastics products, total degradation is not achievable, and masks may remain in the form of microplastics for several years in the environment. Therefore, this urgent issue ought to be addressed by properly handling waste face masks to limit their environmental impact. In relation to this goal, a novel application of recycled mask fiber (MF) derived from COVID-19 single-use surgical face masks (i.e., shredded mask fiber-SMF and cut mask fiber-CMF) has been undertaken. Eighteen mortar mixes (9 for water and 9 for 10% CO2 concentration curing) were fabricated at 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% of both SMF and CMF by volume of ordinary Portland cement-based mortar. The compressive strength, flexural strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, shrinkage, carbonation degree, permeable voids, and water absorption capabilities were assessed. The outcomes reveal that the compressive strength decreased with an increased percentage of MFs due to increased voids of the mixes with MFs as compared to a control mix. In contrast, significantly higher flexural strength was noted for the mortar with MFs, which is augmented with an increased percentage of MFs. Furthermore, the inclusion of MFs decreased the shrinkage of the mortar compared to the control mix. It was also found that MFs dramatically diminished the water absorption rate compared to the control mix, which reveals that MFs can enhance the durability of the mortar.
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26
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Valderrama-Herrera M, Cardenas SA, Calvo-Mac C, Celi-Vértiz RG, Chumpitaz-Levano VL, Flores-Miranda WE, Lopez-Tirado ZMT, Molina-Alvarez M, Rubio-Cheon DN, Trucios-Castro M, Fernández Severini MD, Forero López AD, Ramos W, Pretell V, Castro IB, Ribeiro VV, Dobaradaran S, Espinoza-Morriberón D, Ben-Haddad M, Dioses-Salinas DC, De-la-Torre GE. Rajids ovipositing on marine litter: A potential threat to their survival. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114941. [PMID: 37080019 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a complex environmental issue threatening the well-being of multiple organisms. In the present study, we present an overlooked pathway by which marine litter interaction with certain ovigerous skates (Family: Rajidae) communities could compromise their survival. We propose that skates from the genus Sympterygia deposit their egg capsules on marine litter substrates by accident, which are then washed ashore still unhatched. We conducted 10 monitoring surveys on three beaches of La Libertad Region, on the north coast of Peru, looking for marine litter conglomerates to determine the presence of egg capsules. We registered a total of 75 marine litter conglomerates, containing 1595 egg capsules, out of which only 15.9 % were presumably hatched, and 15.8 % were still fresh. Fishing materials were identified as the main item in marine litter conglomerates. We conclude that this behavior could contribute to the decline of Sympterygia communities, although further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Amada Cardenas
- ONG Conservacción, Calle Ugarte y Moscoso 535, San Isidro, Lima, Peru; Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, San Martín de Porres, Lima, Peru
| | - Carlos Calvo-Mac
- ONG Conservacción, Calle Ugarte y Moscoso 535, San Isidro, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Melisa D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Williams Ramos
- Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Lima 25, Lima, Peru
| | - Victor Pretell
- Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Lima 25, Lima, Peru
| | - Italo B Castro
- Institute of Oceanography, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande, Brazil; Instituto do Mar Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Santos, SP 11070, Brazil
| | | | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany
| | - Dante Espinoza-Morriberón
- Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP), Facultad de Ingeniería, Jirón Hernán Velarde 260, Cercado de Lima, 15046 Lima, Peru; Universidad Científica del Sur, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Biológicas, Carrera de Biología Marina, Antigua Panamericana Sur Km. 19, Villa El Salvador, Lima, Peru
| | - Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | | | - Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
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Petrescu DC, Rastegari H, Petrescu-Mag IV, Petrescu-Mag RM. Determinants of proper disposal of single-use masks: knowledge, perception, behavior, and intervention measures. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15104. [PMID: 37041977 PMCID: PMC10083004 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
Although many studies testify to consumer behavior’s role in the context of waste-related sustainability objectives, little research examined what people know, think, and feel about the environmental impacts of their personal protective equipment (PPE) or their behavior towards them, in general. Therefore, the present article complements existing information about the public perceptions, knowledge, and behavior of single-use masks in a context where the pandemic has put increasing pressure on waste management public services. From February to June 2020, municipal solid waste increased ten times in Romania. The study identified the factors that predicted the proper disposal of single-use masks and the measures preferred to prevent or minimize the negative impact of single-use mask waste.
Method
Data from a representative sample of 705 Romanians were collected using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed with SPSS and SmartPLS. The Cochran’s Q test was run to determine the existence of differences between percentages of people who preferred various measures. Dunn’s test with a Bonferroni correction was used to identify the exact pair of groups where the differences were located. The study utilized structural equation models (SEM) based on at least partial squares with SmartPLS software (3.2.8) to investigate causal links between constructs. The model considered that the dependent variable (environmentally friendly behavior: proper disposal of single-use masks) could be influenced by the knowledge, perception, behavior, and demographics variables.
Results
The findings indicated that knowledge of the type of material of single-use masks had a direct positive (β = 0.173) and significant effect on their proper disposal. The perception of mask waste impact has a negative and significant (β = −0.153, p < 0.001) impact on the proper disposal of single-use masks. This path coefficient illustrates that the worse the perceived impact of single-use masks on waste management activity, the higher the proper disposal of single-use masks. Gender has a positive (β = 0.115) and significant (p < 0.001) effect on the proper disposal of single-use masks.
Conclusions
It was concluded that the 5Rs waste management approach should be reconsidered for single-use mask waste. For example, “Reuse” and the classic “Recycle” have limited applications since they may lead to virus transmission and possible infection. “Reducing” the use of single-use masks could have repercussions on one’s health. Summing up, the study outlined recommendations for effective interventions for the proper disposal of single-use masks from the perspective of behavioral studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dacinia Crina Petrescu
- Department of Hospitality Services, Faculty of Business, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Hamid Rastegari
- Department of Rural Development Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran
| | - Ioan Valentin Petrescu-Mag
- Department of Engineering and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Ruxandra Malina Petrescu-Mag
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Doctoral School “International Relations and Security Studies”, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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28
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Chaudhary AS, Kiran B, Sivagami K, Govindarajan D, Chakraborty S. Thermal degradation model of used surgical masks based on machine learning methodology. J Taiwan Inst Chem Eng 2023; 144:104732. [PMID: 36817942 PMCID: PMC9922155 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtice.2023.104732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has leveraged facial masks to be one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of the virus, which thereby has exponentially increased the usage of facial masks that lead to medical waste mismanagements which pose a serious threat to life. Thermal degradation or pyrolysis is an effective treatment method for the used facial mask wastes and this study aims to investigate the thermal degradation of the same. Methods Predicted the TGA experimental curves of the mask components using a Machine Learning model known as Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Significant findings Three different parts of the mask namely- ribbon, body, and corner were separated and used for the analysis. The thermal degradation behavior is studied using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and this is crucial for determining the reactivity of the individual mask components as they are subjected to a range of temperatures. Using the curves obtained from TGA, kinetic parameters such as Activation energy (E) and Pre-exponential factor (A) were estimated using the Coats-Redfern model-fitting method. Using the determined kinetic parameters, thermodynamic quantities such as a change in Enthalpy (ΔH), Entropy (ΔS), and Gibbs-Free energy (ΔG) were also calculated. Since TGA is a costly and time-consuming process, this study attempted to predict the TGA experimental curves of the mask components using a Machine Learning model known as Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The dataset obtained at a heating rate of 10°C/min was used to train the 3 different neural networks corresponding to the mask components and it showed an excellent agreement with experimental data (R2 > 0.99). Through this study, a complex chemical process such as thermal degradation was modelled using Machine Learning based on available experimental parameters without delving into the intricacies and complexities of the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek S Chaudhary
- Process Systems Engineering Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014,India
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
| | - Bandaru Kiran
- Process Systems Engineering Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014,India
| | - K Sivagami
- Process Systems Engineering Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014,India
| | - Dhivakar Govindarajan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, IIT Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Samarshi Chakraborty
- Colloids and Polymer Research Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632 014, India
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29
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Su Y, Shi L, Zhao H, Wang J, Li W, Jiang Z, Wang X, Yao Y, Sun X. A green strategy to recycle the waste PP melt-blown materials: From 2D to 3D construction. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 157:159-167. [PMID: 36543059 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.12.021] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The demand for polypropylene (PP) melt-blown materials has dramatically increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has caused serious environmental problems because of the lack of effective treatment for the waste PP melt-blown materials. In this study, we propose a green and sustainable recycling method to create PP sponges from waste PP melt-blown material for oil spill cleaning by freeze-drying and thermal treatment techniques. The recycling method is simple and without secondary pollution to the environment. The developed recycling method successfully transforms 2D laminar dispersed PP microfibers into elastic sponges with a 3D porous structure, providing the material with good mechanical properties and promotes its potential application in the field of oil spill cleaning. The morphology structure, thermal properties, mechanical properties, and oil absorption properties are tested and characterized. The PP sponges with a three-dimensional porous network structure show an exceedingly low density of >0.014 g/cm3, a high porosity of <98.77 %, and a high water contact angle range of 130.4-139.9°. Moreover, the PP sponges own a good absorption capacity of <47.61 g/g for different oil and solvents. In particular, the compressive modulus of the PP sponges is 33.59-201.21 kPa, which is higher than that of most other fiber-based porous materials, indicating that the PP sponges have better durability under the same force. The excellent comprehensive performance of the PP sponges demonstrates the method developed in this study has large application potential in the field of the recycle of waste PP melt-blown materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhou Su
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Lingxiang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Huawang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jilong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Weidong Li
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Zhan Jiang
- College of Textiles and Clothing, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xinhou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; College of Mechanical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ye Yao
- Institute of Refrigeration and Cryogenics Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoxia Sun
- Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
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30
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Ranjbari M, Shams Esfandabadi Z, Gautam S, Ferraris A, Scagnelli SD. Waste management beyond the COVID-19 pandemic: Bibliometric and text mining analyses. GONDWANA RESEARCH : INTERNATIONAL GEOSCIENCE JOURNAL 2023; 114:124-137. [PMID: 35153532 PMCID: PMC8816840 DOI: 10.1016/j.gr.2021.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for personal protective equipment, in particular face masks, thus leading to a huge amount of healthcare waste generated worldwide. Consequently, such an unprecedented amount of newly emerged waste has posed significant challenges to practitioners, policy-makers, and municipal authorities involved in waste management (WM) systems. This research aims at mapping the COVID-19-related scientific production to date in the field of WM. In this vein, the performance indicators of the target literature were analyzed and discussed through conducting a bibliometric analysis. The conceptual structure of COVID-19-related WM research, including seven main research themes, were uncovered and visualized through a text mining analysis as follows: (1) household and food waste, (2) personnel safety and training for waste handling, (3) sustainability and circular economy, (4) personal protective equipment and plastic waste, (5) healthcare waste management practices, (6) wastewater management, and (7) COVID-19 transmission through infectious waste. Finally, a research agenda for WM practices and activities in the post-COVID-19 era was proposed, focusing on the following three identified research gaps: (i) developing a systemic framework to properly manage the pandemic crisis implications for WM practices as a whole, following a systems thinking approach, (ii) building a circular economy model encompassing all activities from the design stage to the implementation stage, and (iii) proposing incentives to effectively involve informal sectors and local capacity in decentralizing municipal waste management, with a specific focus on developing and less-developed countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meisam Ranjbari
- Department of Economics and Statistics "Cognetti de Martiis", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- ESSCA School of Management, Lyon, France
| | - Zahra Shams Esfandabadi
- Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI), Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
- Energy Center Lab, Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Sneha Gautam
- Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Alberto Ferraris
- Department of Management, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- Laboratory for International and Regional Economics, Graduate School of Economics and Management, Ural Federal University, Russia
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Simone Domenico Scagnelli
- Department of Management, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
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Cui J, Qi M, Zhang Z, Gao S, Xu N, Wang X, Li N, Chen G. Disposal and resource utilization of waste masks: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:19683-19704. [PMID: 36653687 PMCID: PMC9848032 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25353-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Waste masks pose a serious threat to the environment, including marine plastic pollution and soil pollution risks caused by landfills since the outbreak of COVID-19. Currently, numerous effective methods regarding disposal and resource utilization of waste masks have been reported, containing physical, thermochemical, and solvent-based technologies. As for physical technologies, the mechanical properties of the mask-based materials could be enhanced and the conductivity or antibacterial activity was endowed by adding natural fibers or inorganic nanoparticles. Regarding thermochemical technologies, catalytic pyrolysis could yield considerable hydrogen, which is an eco-friendly resource, and would mitigate the energy crisis. Noticeably, the solvent-based technology, as a more convenient and efficient method, was also considered in this paper. In this way, soaking the mask directly in a specific chemical reagent changes the original structure of polypropylene and obtains multi-functional materials. The solvent-based technology is promising in the future with the researches of sustainable and universally applicable reagents. This review could provide guidance for utilizing resources of waste masks and address the issues of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiale Cui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Mo Qi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Shibo Gao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Nuo Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Ning Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Guanyi Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Lab of Biomass Wastes Utilization, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, 300134, China
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Danielli Bastos de Sousa F. The impact of plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic: The point of view of the environmental science literature. MATERIALS TODAY. PROCEEDINGS 2023; 80:1448-1455. [PMID: 36743883 PMCID: PMC9889263 DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2023.01.268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is the official name of the disease provoked by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Since the advent of the first cases of the new coronavirus, our society has been completely changed. Due to the changes, new environmental challenges were imposed, principally due to the considerable growth in using plastic materials in packages and personal protective equipment such as face masks. The impact of plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic was discussed in the present work from the point of view of the environmental science area. Bibliometric analysis and mapping were performed based on Scopus database search results. Emphasis was placed on analyzing the authors' keywords of the publications. The main concern of the research area concerning the use of plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic is the pollution of water bodies by plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiula Danielli Bastos de Sousa
- Technology Development Center, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Rua Gomes Carneiro, 1, 96010-610, Pelotas, RS, Brazil,Center of Engineering, Modeling and Applied Social Science, Universidade Federal do ABC, Avenida dos Estados, 5001, 09210-580, Santo André, SP, Brazil,Corresponding author
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Ramamoorthy NK, Pallam RB, Renganathan S, Sarma VV. Cellulase production from disposed COVID-19 personal protective equipment (PPE) using cyclic fed-batch strategies. Process Biochem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
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Ekanayake A, Rajapaksha AU, Hewawasam C, Anand U, Bontempi E, Kurwadkar S, Biswas JK, Vithanage M. Environmental challenges of COVID-19 pandemic: resilience and sustainability - A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114496. [PMID: 36257453 PMCID: PMC9576205 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of novel respiratory disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a public health emergency worldwide and perturbed the global economy and ecosystem services. Many studies have reported the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental compartments, its transmission via environmental routes, and potential environmental challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. None of these studies have comprehensively reviewed the bidirectional relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and the environment. For the first time, we explored the relationship between the environment and the SARS-CoV-2 virus/COVID-19 and how they affect each other. Supporting evidence presented here clearly demonstrates the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in soil and water, denoting the role of the environment in the COVID-19 transmission process. However, most studies fail to determine if the viral genomes they have discovered are infectious, which could be affected by the environmental factors in which they are found.The potential environmental impact of the pandemic, including water pollution, chemical contamination, increased generation of non-biodegradable waste, and single-use plastics have received the most attention. For the most part, efficient measures have been used to address the current environmental challenges from COVID-19, including using environmentally friendly disinfection technologies and employing measures to reduce the production of plastic wastes, such as the reuse and recycling of plastics. Developing sustainable solutions to counter the environmental challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic should be included in national preparedness strategies. In conclusion, combating the pandemic and accomplishing public health goals should be balanced with environmentally sustainable measures, as the two are closely intertwined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Ekanayake
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Instrument Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka.
| | - Choolaka Hewawasam
- Faculty of Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion, 8499000, Israel
| | - Elza Bontempi
- INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, University of Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Sudarshan Kurwadkar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, California State University, 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA, 92831, USA
| | - Jayanta Kumar Biswas
- Department of Ecological Studies & International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, 741235, West Bengal, India
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India
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Mohamadi S, Madadi R, Rakib MRJ, De-la-Torre GE, Idris AM. Abundance and characterization of personal protective equipment (PPE) polluting Kish Island, Persian Gulf. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 854:158678. [PMID: 36099950 PMCID: PMC9464308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is one of the major environmental threats the world is facing nowadays, which was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, multiple reports of single-use plastics driven by the pandemic, namely personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., face masks and gloves), contaminating coastal areas have been published. However, most studies focused solely on counting and visually characterizing this type of litter. In the present study, we complement conventional reports by characterizing this type of litter through chemical-analytical techniques. Standardized sampling procedures were carried out in Kish Island, The Persian Gulf, resulting in an average density of 2.34 × 10-4 PPE/m2. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy confirmed the polymeric composition of weathered face masks and showed the occurrence of additional absorption bands associated with the photooxidation of the polymer backbone. On the other hand, the three layers of typical surgical face masks showed different non-woven structures, as well as signs of physical degradation (ruptures, cracks, rough surfaces), possibly leading to the release of microplastics. Furthermore, elemental mapping through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed that the middle layer of the masks allocated more elements of external origin (e.g., Na, Cl, Ca, Mg) than the outer and inner layers. This is likely to the overall higher surface area of the middle layer. Furthermore, our evidence indicates that improperly disposed PPE is already having an impact on a number of organisms in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Mohamadi
- Environmental Research Laboratory, School of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Reyhane Madadi
- Environmental Research Laboratory, School of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh.
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
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36
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Jiang H, Luo D, Wang L, Zhang Y, Wang H, Wang C. A review of disposable facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic: A focus on microplastics release. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 312:137178. [PMID: 36368541 PMCID: PMC9640709 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137178] [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: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 epidemic seriously threats the human society and provokes the panic of the public. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are widely utilized for frontline health workers to face the ongoing epidemic, especially disposable face masks (DFMs) to prevent airborne transmission of coronavirus. The overproduction and massive utilization of DFMs seriously challenge the management of plastic wastes. A huge amount of DFMs are discharged into environment, potentially induced the generation of microplastics (MPs) owing to physicochemical destruction. The MPs release will pose severe contamination burden on environment and human. In this review, environmental threats of DFMs regarding to DFMs fate in environment and DFMs threats to aquatic and terrestrial species were surveyed. A full summary of recent studies on MPs release from DFMs was provided. The knowledge of extraction and characterizations of MPs, the release behavior, and potential threats of MPs derived from DFMs was discussed. To confront the problem, feasible strategies for control DFMs pollution were analyzed from the perspective of source control and waste management. This review provides a better understanding the threats, fate, and management of DFMs linked to COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongru Jiang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Luo
- School of Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Luyao Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yingshuang Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, Hunan, China
| | - Chongqing Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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37
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Iwuozor KO, Emenike EC, Stephen AA, Kevin OS, Adeleke J, Adeniyi AG. Thermochemical recycling of waste disposable facemasks in a non-electrically powered system. LOW-CARBON MATERIALS AND GREEN CONSTRUCTION 2023; 1:12. [PMCID: PMC10069943 DOI: 10.1007/s44242-023-00010-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic encouraged the use of plastic-based personal protective equipment (PPE), which aided greatly in its management. However, the increased production and usage of these PPEs put a strain on the environment, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. This has led various researchers to study low-cost and effective technologies for the recycling of these materials. One such material is disposable facemasks. However, previous studies have only been able to engage electrically powered reactors for their thermochemical conversion, which is a challenge as these reactors cannot be used in regions with an insufficient supply of electricity. In this study, the authors utilized a biomass-powered reactor for the conversion of waste disposable facemasks and almond leaves into hybrid biochar. The reactor, which is relatively cheap, simple to use, environmentally friendly, and modified for biochar production, is biomass-powered. The co-carbonization process, which lasted 100 min, produced a 46% biochar yield, which is higher than previously obtained biochar yields by other researchers. The biochar thus obtained was characterized to determine its properties. FTIR analysis showed that the biochar contained functional groups such as alkenes, alkynes, hydroxyls, amines, and carbonyls. The EDX analysis revealed that the biochar was primarily made of carbon, tellurium, oxygen, and calcium in the ratios of 57%, 19%, 9%, and 7%, respectively. The inclusion of the facemask decreased the surface area and porosity of the biochar material, as evidenced by its surface area and pore characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingsley O. Iwuozor
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Ebuka Chizitere Emenike
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Agbana Abiodun Stephen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | - Joy Adeleke
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Adewale George Adeniyi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
- Chemical Engineering Department, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
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38
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Pourebrahimi S. Upcycling face mask wastes generated during COVID-19 into value-added engineering materials: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158396. [PMID: 36055514 PMCID: PMC9424124 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Billions of disposable face masks (i.e., single-use masks) are used and discarded worldwide monthly due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The immethodical disposal of these polymer-based wastes containing non-biodegradable constituents (e.g., polypropylene) has provoked marked and severe damage to the ecosystem. Meanwhile, their ever-growing usage significantly strains the present-day waste management measures such as landfilling and incineration, resulting in large quantities of used face-covering masks landing in the environment as importunate contaminants. Hence, alternative waste management strategies are crucially demanded to decrease the negative impacts of face mask contamination. In this venue, developing high-yield, effective, and green routes toward recycling or upcycling face mask wastes (FMWs) into value-added materials is of great importance. While existing recycling processes assist the traditional waste management, they typically end up in materials with downgraded physicochemical, structural, mechanical, and thermal characteristics with reduced values. Therefore, pursuing potential economic upcycling processes would be more beneficial than waste disposal and/or recycling processes. This paper reviews recent advances in the FMWs upcycling methods. In particular, we focus on producing value-added materials via various waste conversion methods, including carbonization (i.e., extreme pyrolysis), pyrolysis (i.e., rapid carbonization), catalytic conversion, chemical treatment, and mechanical reprocessing. Generally, the upcycling methods are promising, firming the vital role of managing FMWs' fate and shedding light on the road of state-of-the-art materials design and synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Pourebrahimi
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke Street West, Montréal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada.
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39
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Kang D, Anuja A, Narayanamoorthy S, Gangemi M, Ahmadian A. A dual hesitant q-rung orthopair enhanced MARCOS methodology under uncertainty to determine a used PPE kit disposal. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:89625-89642. [PMID: 35857161 PMCID: PMC9296901 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21601-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Healthcare waste management is regarded as the most critical concern that the entire world is currently and will be confronted with in the near future. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the significant growth in medical waste frightened the globe, prompting it to investigate safe disposal methods. Plastics are developing as a severe environmental issue as a result of their increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic which has triggered a global catastrophe and prompted concerns about plastic waste management. One of the biggest challenges in this circumstance is the disposal of discarded PPE kits. The purpose of this research is to find a viable disposal treatment procedure for enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) (facemasks, gloves, and other protective equipment) and other single-use plastic medical equipment waste in India during the COVID-19 crises, which will aid in effectively reducing their increasing quantity. To analyse the PPE waste disposal problem in India, we used the fuzzy Measurement Alternatives and Ranking according to the Compromise Solution (MARCOS) technique, which included the dual hesitant q-rung orthopair fuzzy set. The fuzzy Best Worst Method (BWM), which is compatible with the existing MCDM approaches, is used to establish the criteria weights. Sensitivity and comparative analyses are utilised to confirm the stability and validity of the proposed strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daekook Kang
- Department of Industrial and Management Engineering, Institute of Digital Anti-aging Healthcare, Inje University 197 Inje-ro, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do 50834 Republic of Korea
| | - Arumugam Anuja
- Department of Mathematics, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641 046 India
| | | | - Mariangela Gangemi
- Department of Law, Economics and Human Sciences (DiGiES) University, Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Ali Ahmadian
- College of Science and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Mathematics, Near East University, Nicosia, TRNC Mersin 10 Turkey
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Kouvara K, Papatheodorou G, Kosmopoulou A, Giovos I, Charitou A, Filippides A, Kaberi H, Kalaitzi L, Kyrkitsos F, Koundouri P, Triantafyllou C, Gletsos M, Fakiris E, Geraga M. COVID-19-related litter pollution on Greek beaches and nearshore shallow water environments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114250. [PMID: 36274560 PMCID: PMC9561433 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in certain types of litter, many of which are expected to end up in the marine environment. The present study aimed to monitor the pandemic-related litter pollution along the Greek coastal environment. Overall, 59 beach and 83 underwater clean-ups were conducted. Litter was categorized as: PPE (face masks and gloves), COVID-19-related, single-use plastic (SUP) and takeaway items. PPE, dominated by face masks (86.21 %), accounted for 0.29 % of all litter. The average PPE density was 3.1 × 10-3 items m-2 and 2.59 items/ 100 m. COVID-19-related items represented 1.04 % of the total. Wet wipes showed higher densities (0.67 % of all litter) than in the pre-COVID era, while no increase in SUP and takeaway items was observed. Benthic PPE, dominated by gloves (83.95 %), represented 0.26 % of the total. The mean PPE density was 2.5 × 10-3 items m-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Kouvara
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - George Papatheodorou
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece.
| | | | - Ioannis Giovos
- iSea, Environmental Organization for the Preservation of the Aquatic Ecosystems, 54645 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasia Charitou
- iSea, Environmental Organization for the Preservation of the Aquatic Ecosystems, 54645 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Helen Kaberi
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | | | - Filippos Kyrkitsos
- Ecological Recycling Society, Νon-profit Οrganization, 10432 Athens, Greece
| | - Phoebe Koundouri
- Department of International and European Economic Studies, Athens University of Economics and Business, 10434, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Miltos Gletsos
- Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN), 10557 Athens, Greece
| | - Elias Fakiris
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Geraga
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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Lattanzio S, Stefanizzi P, D’ambrosio M, Cuscianna E, Riformato G, Migliore G, Tafuri S, Bianchi FP. Waste Management and the Perspective of a Green Hospital-A Systematic Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192315812. [PMID: 36497884 PMCID: PMC9738387 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315812] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The concept of a "green hospital" is used in reference to a hospital that includes the environment as part of its quality services and one that pays attention to the sustainable design of buildings. Waste disposal represents a potential risk for the environment; therefore, waste collection from healthcare centers is a key environmental issue. Our study aims to systematically review the experiences acquired in worldwide nosocomial settings related to the management of healthcare waste. Nineteen studies, selected between January 2020 and April 2022 on Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science databases were included in our systematic narrative review. Operating room and hemodialysis activities seem to be the procedures most associated with waste production. To deal with waste production, the 5Rs rule (reduce, reuse, recycle, rethink and research) was a common suggested strategy to derive the maximum practical benefit while generating the minimum amount of waste. In this context, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the greening process of nosocomial environments. Waste management requires a multifactorial approach to deal with medical waste management, even considering the climate change that the world is experiencing. Education of health personnel and managers, regulation by governmental institutions, creation of an "environmental greening team", and awareness of stakeholders and policymakers are some of the measures needed for the greening of healthcare facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Lattanzio
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione e Rigenerativa e Area Jonica, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Stefanizzi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Marilena D’ambrosio
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione e Rigenerativa e Area Jonica, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Eustachio Cuscianna
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Riformato
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Silvio Tafuri
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-80-5478473; Fax: +39-80-5478472
| | - Francesco Paolo Bianchi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Bari Policlinico University Hospital, 70124 Bari, Italy
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42
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Cho Y, Son Y, Ahn J, Lim H, Ahn S, Lee J, Bae PK, Kim ID. Multifunctional Filter Membranes Based on Self-Assembled Core-Shell Biodegradable Nanofibers for Persistent Electrostatic Filtration through the Triboelectric Effect. ACS NANO 2022; 16:19451-19463. [PMID: 36374248 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c09165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The massive production of polymer-based respiratory masks during the COVID-19 pandemic has rekindled the issue of environmental pollution from nonrecyclable plastic waste. To mitigate this problem, conventional filters should be redesigned with improved filtration performance over the entire operational life while also being naturally degradable at the end. Herein, we developed a functional and biodegradable polymeric filter membrane consisting of a polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) matrix blended with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and montmorillonite (MMT) clay, whose surface properties have been modified through cation exchange reactions for good miscibility with PBAT in an organic solvent. Particularly, the spontaneous evolution of a partial core-shell structure (i.e., PBAT core encased by CTAB-MMT shell) during the electrospinning process amplified the triboelectric effect as well as the antibacterial/antiviral activity that was not observed in naive PBAT. Unlike the conventional face mask filter that relies on the electrostatic adsorption mechanism, which deteriorates over time and/or due to external environmental factors, the PBAT@CTAB-MMT nanofiber membrane (NFM)-based filter continuously retains electrostatic charges on the surface due to the triboelectric effect of CTAB-MMT. As a result, the PBAT@CTAB-MMT NFM-based filter showed high filtration efficiencies (98.3%, PM0.3) even at a low differential pressure of 40 Pa or less over its lifetime. Altogether, we not only propose an effective and practical solution to improve the performance of filter membranes while minimizing their environmental footprint but also provide valuable insight into the synergetic functionalities of organic-inorganic hybrid materials for applications beyond filter membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujang Cho
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongkoo Son
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewan Ahn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeseong Lim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongcheol Ahn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Pan Kee Bae
- BioNano Health Guard Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Doo Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
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Rex M C, Mukherjee A. Prospects of TiO2-based photocatalytic degradation of microplastic leachates related disposable facemask, a major COVID-19 waste. FRONTIERS IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fnano.2022.1072227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is one of the serious catastrophes that have a substantial influence on human health and the environment. Diverse preventive actions were implemented globally to limit its spread and transmission. Personnel protective equipment (PPE) was an important part of these control approaches. But unfortunately, these types of PPE mainly comprise plastics, which sparked challenges in the management of plastic waste. Disposable face masks (DFM) are one of the efficient strategies used across the world to ward off disease transmission. DFMs can contribute to micro and nano plastic pollution as the plastic present in the mask may degrade when exposed to certain environmental conditions. Microplastics (MPs) can enter the food chain and devastate human health. Recognizing the possible environmental risks associated with the inappropriate disposal of masks, it is crucial to avert it from becoming the next plastic crisis. To address this environmental threat, titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based photocatalytic degradation (PCD) of MPs is one of the promising approaches. TiO2-based photocatalysts exhibit excellent plastic degradation potential due to their outstanding photocatalytic ability, cost efficiency, chemical, and thermal stability. In this review, we have discussed the reports on COVID-19 waste generation, the limitation of current waste management techniques, and the environmental impact of MPs leachates from DFMs. Mainly, the prominence of TiO2 in the PCD and the applications of TiO2-based photocatalysts in MPs degradation are the prime highlights of this review. Additionally, various synthesis methods to enhance the photocatalytic performance of TiO2 and the mechanism of PCD are also discussed. Furthermore, current challenges and the future research perspective on the improvement of this approach have been proposed.
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Dioses-Salinas DC, Pizarro-Ortega CI, Dobaradaran S, Ben-Haddad M, De-la-Torre GE. Face masks invading protected areas: Risks and recommendations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 847:157636. [PMID: 35905957 PMCID: PMC9316628 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Among the indirect environmental impacts generated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, contamination with personal protective equipment (PPE), like face masks, may be one of the most relevant ones. PPE has been found in multiple aquatic, marine, and terrestrial environments, including places of absolute relevancy to biodiversity conservation, such as protected areas (PAs). Here, a brief report of the presence of PPE in six PAs of Peru is presented. PPE pollution in PAs consisted mainly of single-use and reusable face masks, as well as plastics associated with PAs, such as KN95 respirator wrappings. The mean PPE density was estimated as 1.32 × 10-3 PPE/m2. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed that face masks and wrappers mainly consisted of polypropylene and polyethylene, two of the most commonly available synthetic polymers. The material was poorly degraded according to their FTIR spectra, possibly suggesting that they were discarded recently. The recent ban on single-use plastic in Peruvian PAs is regarded as a great step forward toward the efforts made to preserve these invaluable places. However, these measures seemed insufficient to prevent PPE and other types of litter from contaminating areas of ecological importance. Considering the current scenario, several recommendations were proposed to be implemented in PAs in order to prevent PPE from becoming a new plastic issue to tackle. These recommendations are expected to also serve for future events where the use of single-use plastics becomes inevitable, like global pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany
| | - Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| | - Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
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Ganesapillai M, Mondal B, Sarkar I, Sinha A, Ray SS, Kwon YN, Nakamura K, Govardhan K. The face behind the Covid-19 mask - A comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 2022; 28:102837. [PMID: 35879973 PMCID: PMC9299984 DOI: 10.1016/j.eti.2022.102837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The threat of epidemic outbreaks like SARS-CoV-2 is growing owing to the exponential growth of the global population and the continual increase in human mobility. Personal protection against viral infections was enforced using ambient air filters, face masks, and other respiratory protective equipment. Available facemasks feature considerable variation in efficacy, materials usage and characteristic properties. Despite their widespread use and importance, face masks pose major potential threats due to the uncontrolled manufacture and disposal techniques. Improper solid waste management enables viral propagation and increases the volume of associated biomedical waste at an alarming rate. Polymers used in single-use face masks include a spectrum of chemical constituents: plasticisers and flame retardants leading to health-related issues over time. Despite ample research in this field, the efficacy of personal protective equipment and its impact post-disposal is yet to be explored satisfactorily. The following review assimilates information on the different forms of personal protective equipment currently in use. Proper waste management techniques pertaining to such special wastes have also been discussed. The study features a holistic overview of innovations made in face masks and their corresponding impact on human health and environment. Strategies with SDG3 and SDG12, outlining safe and proper disposal of solid waste, have also been discussed. Furthermore, employing the CFD paradigm, a 3D model of a face mask was created based on fluid flow during breathing techniques. Lastly, the review concludes with possible future advancements and promising research avenues in personal protective equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Ganesapillai
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bidisha Mondal
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ishita Sarkar
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aritro Sinha
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saikat Sinha Ray
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Nam Kwon
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Republic of Korea
| | - Kazuho Nakamura
- Faculty of Engineering, Division of Material Science and Chemical Engineering, Yokohama National University, Tokiwadai, Yokohama, Kanagawa 240-8501, Japan
| | - K Govardhan
- Department of Micro and Nano-Electronics, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Massarra C, Rahat MHH, Wang G, Sadek H. Evaluating the cost of collection, processing, and application of face masks in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavements. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11239. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Hodkovicova N, Hollerova A, Svobodova Z, Faldyna M, Faggio C. Effects of plastic particles on aquatic invertebrates and fish - A review. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 96:104013. [PMID: 36375728 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.104013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This review summarises the current knowledge on the effects of microplastics and their additives on organisms living in the aquatic environment, particularly invertebrates and fish. To date, microplastics have been recognised to affect not only the behaviour of aquatic animals but also their proper development, causing variations in fertility, oxidative stress, inflammations and immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and changes in metabolic pathways and gene expression. The ability of microplastics to bind other xenobiotics and cause combined toxicity along side the effect of other agents is also discussed as well. Microplastics are highly recalcitrant materials in both freshwater and marine environments and should be considered extremely toxic to aquatic ecosystems. They are severely problematic from ecological, economic and toxicological standpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hodkovicova
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - A Hollerova
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Z Svobodova
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - M Faldyna
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - C Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Zakrzewska A, Haghighat Bayan MA, Nakielski P, Petronella F, De Sio L, Pierini F. Nanotechnology Transition Roadmap toward Multifunctional Stimuli-Responsive Face Masks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:46123-46144. [PMID: 36161869 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent times, the use of personal protective equipment, such as face masks or respirators, is becoming more and more critically important because of common pollution; furthermore, face masks have become a necessary element in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. For this reason, the main mission of scientists has become the development of face masks with exceptional properties that will enhance their performance. The versatility of electrospun polymer nanofibers has determined their suitability as a material for constructing "smart" filter media. This paper provides an overview of the research carried out on nanofibrous filters obtained by electrospinning. The progressive development of the next generation of face masks whose unique properties can be activated in response to a specific external stimulus is highlighted. Thanks to additional components incorporated into the fiber structure, filters can, for example, acquire antibacterial or antiviral properties, self-sterilize the structure, and store the energy generated by users. Despite the discovery of several fascinating possibilities, some of them remain unexplored. Stimuli-responsive filters have the potential to become products of large-scale availability and great importance to society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zakrzewska
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Mohammad Ali Haghighat Bayan
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Paweł Nakielski
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Francesca Petronella
- Institute of Crystallography CNR-IC, National Research Council of Italy, Via Salaria Km 29.300, Monterotondo 00015, Rome Italy
| | - Luciano De Sio
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Research Center for Biophotonics, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, Latina 04100, Italy
| | - Filippo Pierini
- Department of Biosystems and Soft Matter, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5B, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
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Wang F, Wu H, Li J, Liu J, Xu Q, An L. Microfiber releasing into urban rivers from face masks during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 319:115741. [PMID: 35841777 PMCID: PMC9273611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Face masks play a crucial protective role in preventing the spread of coronavirus disease during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the improper disposal of used face masks also causes an emerging environmental problem, such as microplastic contamination. Here, the aim was to evaluate the improper disposal of used face masks and, subsequently, the potential contribution to microplastic contamination in urban rivers. First, we investigated the occurrence of discarded face masks in Qing River through continuously one-month collection on-site, and the disposable masks with a density of (8.28 ± 4.21) × 10-5 items/m2 with varying degrees of wear and tear were found. Next, the microfibers shedding from two popular types of new disposable masks were tested. The results showed that 50.33 ± 18.50 items/mask of microfibers, ranging from 301 μm to 467 μm in size, were released from the disposal face mask after immersion in ultrapure water for 24-h. It was significantly higher than the KN95 respirator of 31.33 ± 0.57 items/mask, ranging from 273 μm to 441 μm. Besides C and O elements only found in new face masks, some potentially toxic elements were also detected on the surface of discarded face masks, indicating that various environmental contaminations are easy to adsorb on the surface of discarded face masks. The results implied that these discarded face masks in an aquatic environment are emerging sources of microfibers and could act as transport vectors for contaminants, which would aggravate the present microplastic contamination. In conclusion, these findings were expected to raise public awareness of the proper disposal of used face masks to prevent microplastic contamination and the spread of COVID-19 in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Haiwen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Jiangnan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Jianli Liu
- College of Textile Science and Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Qiujin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China; Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
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Jamrozik E. Public health ethics: critiques of the "new normal". New Bioeth 2022; 40:1-16. [PMID: 36167921 PMCID: PMC9514707 DOI: 10.1007/s40592-022-00163-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The global response to the recent coronavirus pandemic has revealed an ethical crisis in public health. This article analyses key pandemic public health policies in light of widely accepted ethical principles: the need for evidence, the least restrictive/harmful alternative, proportionality, equity, reciprocity, due legal process, and transparency. Many policies would be considered unacceptable according to pre-pandemic norms of public health ethics. There are thus significant opportunities to develop more ethical responses to future pandemics. This paper serves as the introduction to this Special Issue of Monash Bioethics Review and provides background for the other articles in this collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euzebiusz Jamrozik
- The Ethox Centre & Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, University of Oxford, Old Rd, OX3 7LF, Headington, Oxford, UK.
- Monash Bioethics Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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