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Dziobak MK, Fahlman A, Wells RS, Takeshita R, Smith C, Gray A, Weinstein J, Hart LB. First evidence of microplastic inhalation among free-ranging small cetaceans. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309377. [PMID: 39413051 PMCID: PMC11482699 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant, resulting in widespread exposure across terrestrial and marine spaces. In the environment, plastics can degrade into microparticles where exposure has been documented in a variety of fauna at all trophic levels. Human epidemiological studies have found relationships between inhaled microplastics and oxidative stress and inflammation. Previous studies of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) have reported prevalent exposure to plasticizing chemicals (e.g., phthalates) as well as particle loads in gastrointestinal tracts, but exposure from inhalation has not yet been studied. The objective of this study was to determine if inhalation is a viable route of microplastic exposure for free-ranging dolphins. Exhalation samples were opportunistically collected from dolphins residing in Sarasota Bay, Florida (n = 5) and Barataria Bay, Louisiana (n = 6) during catch-and-release health assessments to screen for microplastic particles. All dolphin samples contained at least one suspected microplastic particle, and polymer composition was determined for 100% of a subset (n = 17) of samples. Additional studies are warranted to better understand the extent of inhaled microplastics, as well as to explore impacts, given potential risks to lung function and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda K. Dziobak
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
| | - Andreas Fahlman
- Fundacion Oceanografic, Valencia, Spain
- Global Diving Research, Sanlucar de Barrameda, Spain
- IFM, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, ℅ Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL, United States of America
| | - Ryan Takeshita
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Cynthia Smith
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Austin Gray
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - John Weinstein
- Department of Biology, The Citadel, Charleston, SC, United States of America
| | - Leslie B. Hart
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States of America
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2
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Xu Q, Kazmi SSUH, Li G. Tracking the biogeochemical behavior of tire wear particles in the environment - A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:136184. [PMID: 39418907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 10/11/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
The environmental fate and risks associated with tire wear particles (TWPs) are closely linked to their biogeochemical behaviors. However, reviews that focus on TWPs from this perspective remain scarce, hindering our understanding of their environmental fate and cascading effects on ecosystems. In this review, we summarize the existing knowledge on TWPs by addressing five key areas: (i) the generation and size-dependent distribution of TWPs; (ii) the release and transformation of TWP-leachates; (iii) methodologies for the quantification of TWPs; (iv) the toxicity of TWPs; and (v) interactions of TWPs with other environmental processes. It has been established that the size distribution of TWPs significantly influences their transport and occurrence in different matrices, leading to the release and transformation of specific TWP-chemicals that can be toxic to organisms. By highlighting the challenges and knowledge gaps in this field, we propose critical issues that need to be addressed to enhance the risk assessment of TWPs. This review aims to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the environmental behavior of TWPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Syed Shabi Ul Hassan Kazmi
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Gang Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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3
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Xu H, Chen C, Pang Z, Zhang G, Zhang W, Kan H. Effects of microplastics concentration on plant root traits and biomass: Experiment and meta-analysis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117038. [PMID: 39277997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117038] [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: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
The impact of microplastics (MPs) on plant growth, particularly root development, remains underexplored. To address this, a laboratory pot experiment and meta-analysis were conducted to assess how varying concentrations of MPs affect plant root growth. In pot experiments, the response of root traits to MPs differed by plant species. For F. arundinacea, a higher addition (1 % and 2 %) of polypropylene (PP) significantly increased the total length, surface area, volume, as well as fine root (<1 mm) surface area and volume. Partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) analysis showed that high concentrations of MPs affected plant root growth and plant root biomass by promoting fine root growth. Meta-analysis indicated that MPs increased shoot dry biomass by 32.7 % but reduced root dry biomass by 4.1 % and root length by 14.3 %. Higher concentrations (>0.5 %) of MPs significantly increased root length (35.2 %) and root dry biomass (6.3 %), whereas decreased shoot dry biomass (-8.6 %). Under the lower MPs concentration (<0.5 %), the root length and root dry biomass were decreased by 18.6 % and 11.1 %, respectively, and the shoot dry biomass was increased by 53.2 % compared with the treatment without MPs. The results emphasize the differences in performance between species for different MPs concentrations, implying that there may be future scope to select for species/varieties that are most resilient to the presence of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengkang Xu
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuo Pang
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Guofang Zhang
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Haiming Kan
- Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (BAAFS), No. 9 Shuguang Garden Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China.
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4
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Karapetrova A, Cowger W, Michell A, Braun A, Bair E, Gray A, Gan J. Exploring microplastic distribution in Western North American snow. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:136126. [PMID: 39423647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 10/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 10/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) transport in the atmosphere, one of the least studied environmental compartments because of the relatively small size of air-borne MPs and the challenges in identifying them, may be inferred from their occurrence in snowfall. In this study, 11 sites across western coastal North America were sampled and analyzed for MP presence in fresh snowfall, months-old summer surface snow, and stratified deposits in snow pits. MPs were detected and characterized using a method integrating linear array µ-Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (µFTIR) and batch spectral analysis with open-source platform Open Specy. Recovery rate analysis from sample filtration to data analysis was conducted, and analysis of field or laboratory blanks suggested negligible contamination (≤ 1 polyamide fragment per blank). Concentrations of MPs in the fresh snowfall of remote sites and those proximal to sources were 5.1-150.8 p/L and 104.5-325 p/L of snowmelt water, respectively. Summer surface snow that was several months old had MP concentrations ranging from 57.5-539 p/L of meltwater, and snow sampled at different depths within a snowpack had concentrations ranging from 35-914 p/L. Our results demonstrate a streamlined method that may be used for measuring MPs in remote or pristine environments, contributing to a better understanding of long-range MP transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Karapetrova
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Win Cowger
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research, Long Beach, CA 90803, USA
| | - Alex Michell
- Airborne Snow Observatories, Inc., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA
| | - Audrey Braun
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | | | - Andrew Gray
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Jay Gan
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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5
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Skalska K, Ockelford A, Ebdon J, Cundy A, Horton AA. Spatio-temporal trends in microplastic presence in the sediments of the River Thames catchment (UK). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116881. [PMID: 39236492 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116881] [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: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the spatio-temporal variability of microplastics (MPs) in the sediments of the River Thames (UK) catchment over 30 months (July 2019 - Dec 2021). The average MP concentration was 61 items kg-1 d.w., with fragments <1 mm being dominant and polyethylene (PE) the most common polymer. Adjacent land use influenced MP concentrations and types, with industrial sites showing particularly high levels and a prevalence of small beads and industrial polymers. MP concentrations generally decreased after higher winter flows, likely due to sediment rearrangement or winnowing. This study describes the seasonal concentrations and characteristics of MPs present in sediment from the River Thames catchment, and attempts to identify their likely origin. Further, the study provides new insights into the mobility and fate of MPs in riverine settings under varying flow conditions, which is vital given the predicted increases in flooding under various global heating scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Skalska
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, BN2 4GJ, UK; Environment Agency, Guildbourne Centre, Chatsworth Rd, Worthing, UK
| | - Annie Ockelford
- School of Engineering, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - James Ebdon
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, BN2 4GJ, UK.
| | - Andrew Cundy
- School of Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Alice A Horton
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton, UK
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6
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Hu J, Bao G, Pan X, Wang H, Xing N. Revealing the bioavailability and phytotoxicity of different particle size microplastics on diethyl phthalate (DEP) in rye (Secale cereale L.). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:135979. [PMID: 39368355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024]
Abstract
Understanding how widely distributed microplastics (MPs) and diethyl phthalate (DEP) interact with crops remains limited, despite their significant implications for human exposure. We used physiology, transcriptomics, adsorption kinetics, and computational chemistry to assess rye's molecular response to two sizes of MPs (200 nm and 5 µm) and DEP, both individually and in combination. Findings systematically highlight potential ecological risks from MPs and DEP, with ecotoxicity ranking as follows: CK (Control Check) < LMPs < SMPs < DEP < LMPs+DEP < SMPs+DEP. Fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy revealed SMP's translocation ability in rye and its potential to disrupt leaf cells. DEP increased the electronegativity on MPs, which enhanced their uptake by rye. DEP adsorption by MPs in hydroponics reduced DEP bioavailability in rye (18.17-46.91 %). Molecular docking studies showed DEP interacted with chlorophyll, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione S-transferases proteins' active sites. Transcriptomic analysis identified significant up-regulation of genes linked to mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling, phytohormones, and antioxidant systems in rye exposed to MPs and DEP, correlating with physiological changes. These findings deepen the understanding of how MPs can accumulate and translocate within rye, and their adsorption to DEP raises crop safety issues of greater environmental risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinke Hu
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education (Jilin University), Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Guozhang Bao
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education (Jilin University), Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Xinyu Pan
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education (Jilin University), Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Huixin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education (Jilin University), Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Ningning Xing
- Key Laboratory of Herbage and Endemic Crop Biotechnology, and College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010070, China.
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7
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Cui J, Tian H, Qi Y, Hu X, Li S, Zhang W, Wei Z, Zhang M, Liu Z, Abolfathi S. Impact of microplastic residues from polyurethane films on crop growth: Unraveling insights through transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 283:116826. [PMID: 39106570 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116826] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
The utilisation of coated controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) leads to the persistence of residual plastic films in agricultural soils, posing a potential threat to crop health. This study investigates the impacts of four residual films (0.39 %, w/w) derived from CRFs in soil, including petrochemical polyether, bio-based polyether, castor oil polyester, and wheat straw polyester polyurethane on wheat growth. This study found that PecPEUR significantly reduced wheat plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, and aboveground fresh weight by 24.8 %, 20.2 %, and 25.7 %. Through an in-depth exploration of transcriptomics and metabolomics, it has been discovered that all residual films disrupted glycolysis-related metabolic pathways in wheat roots, affecting seedling growth. Among them, PecPEUR significantly reduced the fresh weight of aboveground parts by 20.5 %. In contrast, polyester polyurethane residue had no discernible impact on aboveground wheat growth. This was attributed to the enrichment of wheat root genes in jasmonic acid and γ-aminobutyric acid metabolic pathways, thus mitigating oxidative stress, enhancing stress resistance, and ensuring normal plant growth. This study, for the first time, provides comprehensive insights into the effects of polyurethane film residue on wheat seedling growth, underscoring its potential as a promising alternative to conventional plastics in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cui
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Hongyu Tian
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Yingjie Qi
- Shandong (Linyi) Institute of Modern Agriculture, Zhejiang University, Linyi, Shandong 276041, China
| | - Xiaomin Hu
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Shuyue Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Wenrui Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Zhanbo Wei
- Engineering Laboratory for Green Fertilizers, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Zhiguang Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Recourses and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, China.
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8
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Ziajahromi S, Lu HC, Dwyer J, Fernandes M, Griffith M, Leusch FD. Transport and Accumulation of Microplastics from Biosolids to Australian Agricultural Soils: Detection of Microplastics Down to 1 μm. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39252669 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
The shift toward sustainable agriculture involves replacing inorganic fertilizers with organic alternatives like biosolids. However, concerns arise over emerging contaminants, such as microplastics (MPs), which remain largely unregulated. Despite their common use in Australia, the transfer of MPs from biosolids to agricultural soils remains largely unknown. Herein, we have investigated the abundance, characteristics, and transport of MPs resulting from biosolids application in two Queensland agricultural sites. MP concentrations were significantly higher in biosolid-amended soils (average of 1137 MPs/kg) than in reference sites (average of 36 MPs/kg), correlating with the volume, time since application, and frequency of biosolids application. MPs > 25 μm were predominantly polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(methyl methacrylate) fragments (up to 85%). Fibers constitute only 15-30% of MPs and mainly in larger sizes (average 1011 μm), whereas fragments (average 188 μm) and beads (average 72 μm) had smaller size ranges. Despite analytical challenges using Raman spectroscopy, detected smaller MPs (1-25 μm) were fragments composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(vinyl alcohol). This study provides the first report of MPs down to 1 μm in Australian agricultural soils. Our findings suggest a need to assess the long-term impact of MPs in biosolids on soil health and food safety. We call on policymakers to consider the implementation of effective MP source control strategies and the development of guidelines for acceptable biosolids application rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Ziajahromi
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast Qld, Southport 4222, Australia
| | - Hsuan-Cheng Lu
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast Qld, Southport 4222, Australia
| | - Jason Dwyer
- Urban Utilities, 31 Duncan Street, Brisbane QLD, Fortitude Valley 4006, Australia
| | - Milena Fernandes
- South Australian Water Corporation, 250 Victoria Square, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, 1284 South Rd, Adelaide SA 5001, Australia
| | - Merran Griffith
- Sydney Water Corporation, 1 Smith St, Parramatta, NSW 2150, Australia
| | - Frederic Dl Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast Qld, Southport 4222, Australia
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9
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Lobel B, Baiocco D, Al-Sharabi M, Routh AF, Zhang Z, Cayre OJ. Current Challenges in Microcapsule Designs and Microencapsulation Processes: A Review. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:40326-40355. [PMID: 39042830 PMCID: PMC11311140 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02462] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Microencapsulation is an advanced methodology for the protection, preservation, and/or delivery of active materials in a wide range of industrial sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fragrances, paints, coatings, detergents, food products, and agrochemicals. Polymeric materials have been extensively used as microcapsule shells to provide appropriate barrier properties to achieve controlled release of the encapsulated active ingredient. However, significant limitations are associated with such capsules, including undesired leaching and the nonbiodegradable nature of the typically used polymers. In addition, the energy cost of manufacturing microcapsules is an important factor to be considered when designing microcapsule systems and the corresponding production processes. Recent factors linked to UN sustainability goals are modifying how such microencapsulation systems should be designed in pursuit of "ideal" microcapsules that are efficient, safe, cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This review provides an overview of advances in microencapsulation, with emphasis on sustainable microcapsule designs. The key evaluation techniques to assess the biodegradability of microcapsules, in compliance with recently evolving European Union requirements, are also described. Moreover, the most common methodologies for the fabrication of microcapsules are presented within the framework of their energy demand. Recent promising microcapsule designs are also highlighted for their suitability toward meeting current design requirements and stringent regulations, tackling the ongoing challenges, limitations, and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin
T. Lobel
- School
of Chemical and Process Engineering, University
of Leeds, Woodhouse LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Baiocco
- School
of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed Al-Sharabi
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United
Kingdom
| | - Alexander F. Routh
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United
Kingdom
| | - Zhibing Zhang
- School
of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Olivier J. Cayre
- School
of Chemical and Process Engineering, University
of Leeds, Woodhouse LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
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10
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Naeem A, Farooq MA, Shafiq M, Arshad M, Din AA, Alazba AA. Quantification and polymeric characterization of microplastics in composts and their accumulation in lettuce. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142520. [PMID: 38834092 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Organic fertilizers have become a vector for the transport of microplastics (MPs), which pose human health concerns through the food chain. This study aimed to quantify and characterize MPs in eight different compost samples of various raw materials and their subsequent translocation to lettuce (Lacuta sativa) grown on contaminated composts. The results revealed that the MP abundance ranged from 3810 to 16530 MP/kg. Municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) had highest abundance (16082 ± 632 MP/kg), followed by leaf compost (LC) and organic compost (OC) (6299 ± 1011 and 3680 ± 419 MP/kg, respectively). MPs of <100 μm in size were most dominant in MSWC and LC. Fragments and fibers were the prevalent shape types, with white/transparent colored MPs being more abundant. Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were the dominant polymers. MPs accumulation in the lettuce leaves was greatest in the lettuce plants grown on MSWC, followed by those grown on LC and OC, indicating that MSWC grown lettuce is not suitable for human consumption. The decrease in the growth (leaf length, number of leaves, leaf fresh and weights) and physiological (membrane stability index, relative water contents) parameters of lettuce was in line with the trend of MP accumulations. Hence, it is highly important to regulate the plastic contents in compost because it is a threat to ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamna Naeem
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ansar Farooq
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan; Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK.
| | - Muhammad Shafiq
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, PO Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Arshad
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Aamir Alaud Din
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Abdulrahman Ali Alazba
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, PO Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Gopinath N, Karthikeyan A, Joseph A, Vijayan AS, Vandana S, Nair BG. Fluorescent carbon dot embedded polystyrene: an alternative for micro/nanoplastic translocation study in leguminous plants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34464-7. [PMID: 39060893 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34464-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics are widespread in terrestrial ecosystem. Even though many studies have been reported on the effects of these in marine environment, studies concerning their accumulation and impact on terrestrial ecosystem have been scanty. The current study was designed to determine how terrestrial plants, especially legumes, interact with micro/nanoplastics to gain insights into their uptake and translocation. The paper describes the synthesis of fluorescent carbon dot embedded polystyrene (CDPS) followed by its characterization. Translocation studies at different concentrations from 2 to 100% (v/v) for tracking the movement and accumulation of microplastics in Vigna radiata and Vigna angularis were performed. The optical properties of the synthesized CDPS were investigated, and their translocation within the plants was visualized using fluorescence microscopy. These findings were further validated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging of the plant sections. The results showed that concentrations higher than 6% (v/v) displayed noticeable fluorescence in the vascular region and on the cell walls, while concentrations below this threshold did not. The study highlights the potential of utilizing fluorescent CDPS as markers for investigating the ecological consequences and biological absorption of microplastics in agricultural systems. This method offers a unique technique for monitoring and analyzing the routes of microplastic accumulation in edible plants, with significant implications for both food safety and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigina Gopinath
- Department of Bioscience and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Akash Karthikeyan
- Department of Bioscience and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Abey Joseph
- Department of Bioscience and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Athira S Vijayan
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Sajith Vandana
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Baiju G Nair
- Department of Bioscience and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India.
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India.
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12
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Wang Y, Zhao C, Lu A, Dong D, Gong W. Unveiling the hidden impact: How biodegradable microplastics influence CO 2 and CH 4 emissions and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) profiles in soil ecosystems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134294. [PMID: 38669928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134294] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics promise eco-friendliness, yet their transformation into microplastics (bio-MPs) raises environmental alarms. However, how those bio-MPs affect the greenhouse gases (GHGs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in soil ecosystems remains largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the effects of diverse bio-MPs (PBAT, PBS, and PLA) on GHGs and VOCs emission in typical paddy or upland soils. We monitored the carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes in-situ using the self-developed portable optical gas sensor and analyzed VOC profiles using a proton-transfer reaction mass spectrometer (PTR-MS). Our study has revealed that, despite their biodegradable nature, bio-MPs do not always promote soil GHG emissions as previously thought. Specifically, PBAT and PLA significantly increased CO2 and CH4 emissions up to 1.9-7.5 and 115.9-178.5 fold, respectively, compared to the control group. While PBS exhibited the opposite trend, causing a decrease of up to 39.9% for CO2 and up to 39.9% for CH4. In addition, different types of bio-MPs triggered distinct soil VOC emission patterns. According to the Mann-Whitney U-test and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), a recognizable VOC pattern associated with different bio-MPs was revealed. This study claims the necessity of considering polymer-specific responses when assessing the environmental impact of Bio-MPs, and providing insights into their implications for climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihao Wang
- Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China; School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Chunjiang Zhao
- Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Anxiang Lu
- Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Daming Dong
- Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
| | - Wenwen Gong
- Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
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13
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Choi S, Lee S, Kim MK, Yu ES, Ryu YS. Challenges and Recent Analytical Advances in Micro/Nanoplastic Detection. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8846-8854. [PMID: 38758170 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing ecological concerns, studies on microplastics and nanoplastics are still in their initial stages owing to technical hurdles in analytical techniques, especially for nanoplastics. We provide an overview of the general attributes of micro/nanoplastics in natural environments and analytical techniques commonly used for their analysis. After demonstrating the analytical challenges associated with the identification of nanoplastics due to their distinctive characteristics, we discuss recent technological advancements for detecting nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyeop Choi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungha Lee
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Ki Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Sang Yu
- Materials and Components Research Division, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, Daejeon 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sang Ryu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Micro/Nano System, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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14
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Falakdin P, Lopez-Rosales A, Andrade J, Terzaghi E, Di Guardo A, Muniategui-Lorenzo S. Comparison of microplastic type, size, and composition in atmospheric and foliage samples in an urban scenario. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123911. [PMID: 38604308 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123911] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The rising trend of plastic production in last years and the inadequate disposal of related waste has raised concerns regarding microplastic-related environmental issues. Microplastic particles disperse by means of transport and deposition processes to different ecosystems and enter food chains. In this paper, atmospheric deposition and foliage samples of two species (i.e., Hedera helix and Photinia glabra) were collected and analysed for the quantity and identity of microplastics (MPs). A preliminary methodology to treat foliage samples and subsequently identify MPs using a quantum cascade laser IR spectrophotometer is presented. The treatment of airborne samples involved filtration, mild digestion, concentration, and transfer onto reflective slides whereas that for foliage involved washing, concentration, and transference of putative MPs onto reflective slides. Fibers and fragments were differentiated according to their physical features (size, width, height, etc.) and calculating derived characteristics (namely, circularity and solidity). The preliminary results obtained suggest a good agreement between atmospheric-deposited and foliage-retained MPs, showing the capability of leaves to act as passive samplers for environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Falakdin
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Adrian Lopez-Rosales
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry. Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Jose Andrade
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry. Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Elisa Terzaghi
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Guardo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry. Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente, Universidade da Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071, A Coruña, Spain.
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15
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Yu Z, Xu X, Guo L, Yuzuak S, Lu Y. Physiological and biochemical effects of polystyrene micro/nano plastics on Arabidopsis thaliana. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:133861. [PMID: 38430596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics have garnered global attention due to their potential ecological risks. Research shows micro/nano-plastics pollution has adverse effects on plant growth, development, and physiological characteristics. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. The study examined the effects of polystyrene micro/nano-plastics with varying sizes and concentrations on different physiological and biochemical markers of A. thaliana. The indicators assessed include seed viability, growth, chlorophyll content, accumulation of root reactive oxygen species, and root exudates. Using fluorescence labeling, we investigated the absorption and translocation processes of micro/nano-plastics in A. thaliana. We also performed transcriptomic analysis to better understand the particular mechanisms of micro/nano-plastics. It indicated that micro/nano-plastics had an adverse effect on seed germination, especially under high concentration and small particle size treatments. This effect diminished with prolonged exposure. High concentrations at 50 nm and 100 nm treatment groups significantly inhibited the growth. Conversely, low concentrations of 1000 nm had a promoting effect. Exposure to micro/nano-plastics potentially resulted in decreased chlorophyll content, the accumulation of H2O2 in roots, and stimulated root secretion of oxalic acid. Through transcriptomic analysis, the gene expression linked to micro/nano-plastic treatments of varying sizes enriched multiple metabolic pathways, impacting plant growth, development, environmental adaptation, metabolism, pigment synthesis, and stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhefu Yu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China; College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Xiaolu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Liang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Seyit Yuzuak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur 15030, Turkey
| | - Yin Lu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China.
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16
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Pietrelli L, Dodaro G, Pelosi I, Menegoni P, Battisti C, Coccia C, Scalici M. Microplastic in an apex predator: evidence from Barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets in two sites with different levels of anthropization. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:33155-33162. [PMID: 38733443 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33637-8] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments and its accumulation along food chains has been poorly studied in birds. The Barn owl (Tyto alba) is an opportunistic and nocturnal apex predator feeding mostly on small mammals. In this note, we reported evidence of microplastics (MPs) contamination in Barn owl pellets collected, for the first time, in two sites with different levels of anthropization (low: natural landscape mosaic vs. high extensive croplands). The following polymers have been recorded: polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), expanded polyester (EPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyester (PL), viscose, and starch-based biopolymer. We found significant higher MPs frequency in the most anthropized site. Our results suggest that pellet' analysis may represent a cost-effective method for monitoring MP contamination along food chains in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Dodaro
- Sustainable Development Foundation, Via Garigliano 61a, 00198, Rome, Italia
| | - Ilaria Pelosi
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana Di Roma, Servizio Aree protette - Parchi Regionali - Via Ribotta, 41 - 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Coccia
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
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17
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Shaw V, Koley R, Das S, Saha T, Mondal NK. Sustainable use of plastic-derived nanocarbons as a promising larvicidal and growth inhibitor agent towards control of mosquitoes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 921:171055. [PMID: 38387582 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Nanoscale carbon was obtained from six widely used plastics (PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP and PP) via thermal degradation (600 °C) under inert atmosphere. The thermally degraded products were processed through bath sonication followed by lyophilisation and the same was characterized through proximate analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Transmission electron micrograph (TEM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A series of aqueous solution of nanoscale carbon (5-30 mg/L) were prepared and same were used as both mosquito growth inhibitor and larvicidal agent against 3rd and 4th instar larvae of Culex pipiens. The significant percent mortality results were recorded for LDPE (p < 0.007) with average particle size of 3.01 nm and 62.95 W% of carbon and PS (p < 0.002) with average particle size of 12.80 nm and 58.73 W% of carbon against 3rd instar larvae, respectively. Similarly, for 4th instar larvae, both significant pupicidal and adulticidal activity were also recorded for PET (F = 24.0, p < 0.0001 and F = 5.73, p < 0.006), and HDPE (F = 26.0, p < 0.0001) and F = 5.30, p < 0.008). However, significant pupicidal activity were observed for PVC (F = 6.90, p < 0.003), and PS (F = 21.30, p < 0.0001). Histological, bio-chemical and microscopic studies were revealed that nanoscale carbon causes mild to severe damage of external and internal cellular integrity of larvae. However, nanoscale carbon does not exhibit any chromosomal abnormality and anatomical irregularities in Allium cepa and Cicer arietinum, respectively. Similarly, non-significant results with respect to blood cell deformation were also recorded from blood smear of Poecilia reticulata. Therefore, it can be concluded that plastic origin nanoscale carbon could be a viable sustainable nano-weapon towards control of insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikky Shaw
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, India
| | - Rajesh Koley
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, India
| | - Sugata Das
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, India
| | - Tulika Saha
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, India
| | - Naba Kumar Mondal
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, The University of Burdwan, India.
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18
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Oliveira de Miranda C, Lelis Leal de Souza JJ, Gonçalves Reynaud Schaefer CE, Huerta Lwanga E, Nadal Junqueira Villela F. Short-term impacts of polyethylene and polyacrylonitrile microplastics on soil physicochemical properties and microbial activity of a marine terrace environment in maritime Antarctica. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 347:123791. [PMID: 38490529 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Evidence of microplastic (MP) pollution in Antarctic terrestrial environments reinforces concerns about its potential impacts on soil, which plays a major role in ecological processes at ice-free areas. We investigated the effects of two common MP types on soil physicochemical properties and microbial responses of a marine terrace from Fildes Peninsula (King George Island, Antarctica). Soils were treated with polyethylene (PE) fragments and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers at environmentally relevant doses (from 0.001% to 1% w w-1), in addition to a control treatment (0% w w-1), for 22 days in a pot incubation experiment under natural field conditions. The short-term impacts of MPs on soil physical, chemical and microbial attributes seem interrelated and were affected by both MP dose and type. The highest PAN fiber dose (0.1%) increased macro and total porosity, but decreased soil bulk density compared to control, whereas PE fragments treatments did not affect soil porosity. Soil respiration increased with increasing doses of PAN fibers reflecting impacts on physical properties. Both types of MPs increased microbial activity (fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis), decreased the cation exchange capacity but, especially PE fragments, increased Na+ saturation. The highest dose of PAN fibers and PE fragments increased total nitrogen and total organic carbon, respectively, and both decreased the soil pH. We discussed potential causes for our findings in this initial assessment and addressed the need for further research considering the complexity of environmental factors to better understand the cumulative impacts of MP pollution in Antarctic soil environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caik Oliveira de Miranda
- Departamento de Solos, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, Campus Universitário, 36570-900, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - José João Lelis Leal de Souza
- Departamento de Solos, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n, Campus Universitário, 36570-900, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Esperanza Huerta Lwanga
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Fernando Nadal Junqueira Villela
- Laboratório de Pedologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas, Departamento de Geografia, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 338, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
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19
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Bjedov D, Mikuška A, Gvozdić V, Glavaš P, Gradečak D, Sudarić Bogojević M. White Stork Pellets: Non-Invasive Solution to Monitor Anthropogenic Particle Pollution. TOXICS 2024; 12:236. [PMID: 38668458 PMCID: PMC11054396 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The present study applied a non-invasive method to analyse anthropogenic particles and prey items in white stork (Ciconia ciconia) pellets. Pellets (n = 20) were obtained from white stork nests during the 2020 breeding season from two sites in Croatia. In total, 7869 anthropogenic particles were isolated. The majority of particles were fragments, while previous studies on other birds often reported fibres. An ATR-FTIR polymer analysis detected glass and construction and building materials, as well as several compounds associated with plastic masses. Polymer investigation revealed the presence of dotriacontane and octacosane, which are by-products of polyethylene (PE) degradation and transformation. Additionally, the detection of vinylidene chloride (VDC) highlights the historical contribution of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) to plastic pollution. Significant variation in particle quantity and size between the sampling sites was detected, with larger particles found at sites associated with the metal mechanical engineering industry and agriculture. Prey assessment revealed chitin remains of large insects such as Orthoptera and Coleoptera. This research confirms the potential of pellet analysis as a valuable tool for assessing the presence of anthropogenic particles in the environment. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of particle ingestion, particle sources and potential impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Bjedov
- Croatian Institute for Biodiversity, BIOTA Ltd., 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia (M.S.B.)
| | - Alma Mikuška
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia (M.S.B.)
| | - Vlatka Gvozdić
- Department of Chemistry, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Petar Glavaš
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia (M.S.B.)
| | - Dora Gradečak
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia (M.S.B.)
| | - Mirta Sudarić Bogojević
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia (M.S.B.)
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20
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Bodor A, Feigl G, Kolossa B, Mészáros E, Laczi K, Kovács E, Perei K, Rákhely G. Soils in distress: The impacts and ecological risks of (micro)plastic pollution in the terrestrial environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115807. [PMID: 38091673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have revolutionised human industries, thanks to their versatility and durability. However, their extensive use, coupled with inadequate waste disposal, has resulted in plastic becoming ubiquitous in every environmental compartment, posing potential risks to the economy, human health and the environment. Additionally, under natural conditions, plastic waste breaks down into microplastics (MPs<5 mm). The increasing quantity of MPs exerts a significant burden on the soil environment, particularly in agroecosystems, presenting a new stressor for soil-dwelling organisms. In this review, we delve into the effects of MP pollution on soil ecosystems, with a specific attention to (a) MP transport to soils, (b) potential changes of MPs under environmental conditions, (c) and their interaction with the physical, chemical and biological components of the soil. We aim to shed light on the alterations in the distribution, activity, physiology and growth of soil flora, fauna and microorganisms in response to MPs, offering an ecotoxicological perspective for environmental risk assessment of plastics. The effects of MPs are strongly influenced by their intrinsic traits, including polymer type, shape, size and abundance. By exploring the multifaceted interactions between MPs and the soil environment, we provide critical insights into the consequences of plastic contamination. Despite the growing body of research, there remain substantial knowledge gaps regarding the long-term impact of MPs on the soil. Our work underscores the importance of continued research efforts and the adoption of standardised approaches to address plastic pollution and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Bodor
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kolossa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Laczi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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21
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L E, Wilfred N, S K, Halder G, Haldar D, Patel AK, Singhania RR, Pandey A. Biodegradation of microplastics: Advancement in the strategic approaches towards prevention of its accumulation and harmful effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 346:140661. [PMID: 37951399 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140661] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles in a size ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm in diameter, and are formed by the breakdown of plastics from different sources. They are emerging environmental pollutants, and pose a great threat to living organisms. Improper disposal, inadequate recycling, and excessive use of plastic led to the accumulation of MP in the environment. The degradation of MP can be done either biotically or abiotically. In view of that, this article discusses the molecular mechanisms that involve bacteria, fungi, and enzymes to degrade the MP polymers as the primary objective. As per as abiotic degradation is concerned, two different modes of MP degradation were discussed in order to justify the effectiveness of biotic degradation. Finally, this review is concluded with the challenges and future perspectives of MP biodegradation based on the existing research gaps. The main objective of this article is to provide the readers with clear insight, and ideas about the recent advancements in MP biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emisha L
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Nishitha Wilfred
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Kavitha S
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Gopinath Halder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, West Bengal, India
| | - Dibyajyoti Haldar
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India.
| | - Anil Kumar Patel
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan; Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, India
| | - Reeta Rani Singhania
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, India; Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, 226 001, India; Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae Ro 26, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
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22
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Surendran D, Varghese GK, Zafiu C. Characterization and source apportionment of microplastics in Indian composts. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 196:5. [PMID: 38044370 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12177-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP), small plastic particles under 5 mm, are pollutants known to carry heavy metals in ecosystems. Composts are a significant source of soil microplastics. This study examined MSW composts from Kochi and Kozhikode in India for microplastic concentrations and heavy metals' accumulation thereon. Microplastics were isolated using zinc chloride density separation, with Fenton's reagent used for organic matter oxidation. Resin types were identified using FTIR analysis that showed the presence of PE, PP, PS, nylon, PET, and allyl alcohol copolymer. In Kozhikode's compost, the average concentration of microplastics was 840 ± 30 items/kg, while Kochi had 1600 ± 111 items/kg, mainly polyethylene films. PE was the most prevalent resin, comprising 58.3% in Kozhikode and 73.37% in Kochi. Heavy metal analysis of MP showed significant concentrations of lead, cadmium, zinc, copper, and manganese adsorbed on the surface of microplastics. The concentrations of heavy metals in the MP before Fenton oxidation ranged from 1.02 to 2.02 times the corresponding concentrations in compost for Kozhikode and 1.23 to 2.85 times for Kochi. Source apportionment studies revealed that 64% of microplastics in Kozhikode and 77% in Kochi originated from single-use plastics. Ecological risk indices, PLI and PHI, showed that composts from both locations fall under hazard level V. The study revealed that compost from unsegregated MSW can act as a significant source of microplastics and heavy metals in the soil environment, with single-use plastics contributing major share of the issue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christian Zafiu
- Institute of Waste Management and Circularity, Department of Water, Atmosphere and Environment, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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23
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Liu Y, Ben Y, Che R, Peng C, Li J, Wang F. Uptake, transport and accumulation of micro- and nano-plastics in terrestrial plants and health risk associated with their transfer to food chain - A mini review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166045. [PMID: 37544454 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Waste plastics enter the environment (water, soil, and atmosphere) and degrade into micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) through physical, chemical, or biological processes. MNPs are ubiquitous in the environment and inevitably interact with terrestrial plants. Terrestrial plants have become important potential sinks, and subsequently, the sources of MNPs. At present, many studies have reported the effects of MNPs on plant physiology, biochemistry, and their phototoxicity. However, the source, detection method, and the absorption process of MNPs in terrestrial plants have not been systematically studied. In order to better understand the continuous process of MNPs entering terrestrial plants, this review introduces the sources and analysis methods of MNPs in terrestrial plants. The uptake pathways of MNPs in terrestrial plants and their influencing factors were systematically summarized. Meanwhile, the transport pathways and the accumulation of MNPs in different plant organs (roots, stems, leaves, calyxes, and fruits) were explored. Finally, the transfer of MNPs through food chains to humans and their health risks were discussed. The aim of this work is to provide significant theoretical knowledge to understand the uptake, transport, and accumulation of MNPs in terrestrial plants and the potential health risks associated with their transfer to humans through food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Liu
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yue Ben
- Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Weifang, 261325, China
| | - Ruijie Che
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Chunqing Peng
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Jining Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Fenghe Wang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China.
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24
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Liu S, Bai F, Men Z, Gu X, Wang F, Li Y, Liu Q. Spatial distribution, source apportionment and potential ecological risk assessment of suspended atmosphere microplastics in different underlying surfaces in Harbin. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:166040. [PMID: 37543333 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Although suspended atmospheric microplastics (SAMPs) have been found to be ubiquitous and have potential impacts on human health, whereas studies related to source apportionment and potential ecological risk assessment in the atmospheric environment are still limited. This study investigated spatial distribution, source apportionment and potential ecological risk of SAMPs in six underlying surfaces of Harbin, China. The results show that all six underlying surfaces existed SAMPs, including polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with approximate 26.13 %, 24.10 %, 23.87 %, 13.51 %, and 12.39 %, respectively. SAMPs abundances from filtered air were relatively high and averaged 1.76 n/m3. The SAMPs mainly contained fibrous (59.01 %), fragmented (30.18 %), and granular (10.81 %) with transparent (62.39 %), black 13.74 %), red (7.43 %), white (6.53 %), blue, and yellow (3.60 %), and particle size ranged from 1.3 to 518 μm. In addition, source apportionment of SAMPs shows that SAMPs were originated from five emission sources including living source (19.53 %), construction source (12.08 %), transportation source (47.25 %), industrial source (5.11 %), and agricultural source (16.13 %) in Harbin. A significant correction was observed between SAMPs abundances and human activity (R = 0.68, P = 0.66), atmospheric humidity (R = -0.40, P = 0.02), and wind direction (R = 0.22, P = 0.04) in different underlying surface. Furthermore, potential ecological hazardous single index (EI) of PVC and PS were higher than PP, PET, and PS in the construction land, cultivated land, forest land, grassland, water area, and unused land. An estimation of the potential ecological risk index (RI) from SAMPs using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model indicated that Harbin presented a minor ecological risk with average 16.59 of RI index of microplastics in environments. In conclusion, data in this study indicate that SAMPs are existed in atmospheric environments, which have possible risks for human health via inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Liu
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
| | - Fuliang Bai
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China.
| | - Zhiyuan Men
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
| | - Xueqian Gu
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
| | - Feiyu Wang
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
| | - Yuxiang Li
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Geographical Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, China
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25
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Amirhosseini K, Haghani Z, Alikhani HA. Microplastics pollution in rice fields: a case study of Pir Bazar rural district of Gilan, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1473. [PMID: 37964173 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12111-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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Various stressors threaten rice fields' productivity. Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that accumulate in agricultural soils, effectively impairing agroecosystem functioning. The study investigates the MPs pollution status of rice fields and compares it with that of non-paddy vegetable farms under contrasting management practices. Possible sources of MPs in the fields are identified. Additionally, the relationships between MPs abundance and soil characteristics are investigated. This provides innovative insights into the possible impact of MPs on soil health and functioning. Density separation using saturated NaCl solution and oxidative organic matter digestion using Fenton's reagent were employed to extract the MPs. The extracted MPs were categorized according to shape, size, and color. The results indicated that the paddies (1952.86±114.36 particles/kg) contained significantly more MPs than did the non-paddies (1134.44±221.52 particles/kg). Beads (53.75%) and fibers (28.46%) were the most common MPs. More than 90% of all MPs recovered from the fields were less than 1 mm in size. Of the 16 color groups identified, the colors silver, white, and black were the most abundant. Sewage sludge application and mulching were recognized as the primary sources of MPs in the paddies, with sludge contributing more than mulching. Microplastics were shown to potentially alter vital soil characteristics. Rice fields are otherwise overlooked reservoirs of MPs. More attention should be paid to raising awareness of their role as MPs accumulation hotspots among governmental bodies, researchers, producers, and citizens. Contributing MPs sources need to be identified, and managerial decisions should consider the polluting capacity of different practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamyar Amirhosseini
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Daneshkadeh ave, Karaj, 77871-31587, Iran.
| | - Zahra Haghani
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Daneshkadeh ave, Karaj, 77871-31587, Iran
| | - Hossein Ali Alikhani
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Daneshkadeh ave, Karaj, 77871-31587, Iran
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26
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Dhevagi P, Keerthi Sahasa RG, Poornima R, Ramya A. Unveiling the effect of microplastics on agricultural crops - a review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2023; 26:793-815. [PMID: 37941363 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2023.2275152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), ever since they were identified as a potential and widely distributed persistent contaminant, the number of studies highlighting their impacts on various terrestrial ecosystems have been increasing. Recently, the effect of MPs on the agricultural ecosystem has gained momentum. Hence, the present review examines the impact of microplastics on agricultural crop systems and the mechanism underlying its toxicity. The current review revealed that most of the studies were conducted at a laboratory scale and under controlled conditions. Additionally, it was observed that polystyrene (PS) followed by polyethylene (PE) are the most studied polymer type, while the most studied plants are wheat and maize. Hitherto, literature studies suggest that the microplastics' influence on plant growth can be negative or sometimes neutral; while in some cases it exerts a hormetic effect which depends on other factors determining plant growth. Notably, the main mechanisms through which microplastics influence plant growth are mechanical damage, alteration of soil properties, or by leaching of additives. Overall, with burgeoning research interest in this aspect, the current review has significant implications for the toxicity of MPs on plants and throws light on the need to develop novel guidelines toward the sustainable use of plastics in agricultural sector. However, realistic field-level studies and estimating the MPs concentration at various region are essential to develop remediation approaches. Future studies should also focus on translocation and accumulation of micron sized MPs in edible portion of crops and their effect on food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Periyasamy Dhevagi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Ramesh Poornima
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ambikapathi Ramya
- Research Centre for Environmental Changes, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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27
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Pastorino P, Barceló D. Microplastics and their environmental effects. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 104:104324. [PMID: 38000685 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104324] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are acknowledged as emerging contaminants that pose a substantial threat to the environment. The adverse impacts of MP pollution extend across marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, covering regions from the Tropics to the Poles. Although our comprehension of MP behavior has progressed in recent years, it is still difficult to predict exposure hotspots or exposure scenarios. Despite a noteworthy increase in data concerning MP occurrence in different environmental compartments and species, there is a noticeable scarcity of experimental data on MP uptake, accumulation, and effects. This Virtual Special Issue (VSI) received a total of 19 contributions from 11 countries, with a significant majority originating from Italy, India, Spain, and China. These contributions were categorized into three main themes: the occurrence and effects of MPs on aquatic and terrestrial organisms, the presence of chemical additives in plastics, and review articles summarizing previously published research on MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154 Torino, Italy.
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
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28
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Luqman M, Shahid T, Awan MUF, Kashif SUR, Arooj F, Awan AR. Quantification and characterization of microplastics (MPs) pollution in peri-uburban agricultural lands of Lahore, Pakistan. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291760. [PMID: 37788245 PMCID: PMC10547192 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contaminate every conceivable terrestrial and aquatic environment including high peaks and deep marine trenches. Agricultural lands alone are expected to receive plastic up to 23 times more than ocean basins. In this study, soil samples were collected from peri-urban agricultural lands of Lahore on four sides including Kala Shah Kaku (KSK), Punjab University (PU), Dera Gujran (DG), and Sagian (SG). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) protocol was used for MPs extraction and analysis. Extracted MPs were analyzed under microscope at 40X magnification and their composition was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A considerable concentration of MPs was recorded at all sites. The highest contamination was found at SG with 876 ±194 MPs/kg of soil, and the lowest contamination was recorded at PU with 672 ±235 MPs/kg of soil. However, these differences among the sites were not statistically significant (p = 0.29). The overall predominant shape of MPs was fibers (613±71, 79.73%) followed by sheets (125±55, 16.28%), fragments (30±5, 3.9%) and foam particles (1±2, .09%). The differences in the distribution of MPs in various types were statistically significant (p = 0), while differences between sites were insignificant (p = 0.13). About 95% of MPs were less than 2 mm and 85% were less than 1 mm size. The distribution of MPs in various sizes (p = 0) and differences of this distribution between sites (p = 0.037) were both statistically significant. A good diversity of nine colored MPs was recorded, however majority of the MPs were transparent (89.57%). Six polymer including Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Polycarbonate (PC), and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) were identified by FTIR. The current levels of MPs pollution are higher than in many other parts of the world. Composition of MPs (types, colors, sizes, and polymer types) indicates the diversity of their sources and their possible implications on agricultural ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Luqman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tehreem Shahid
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Saif Ur Rehman Kashif
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fariha Arooj
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ali Raza Awan
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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29
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Jia L, Liu L, Zhang Y, Fu W, Liu X, Wang Q, Tanveer M, Huang L. Microplastic stress in plants: effects on plant growth and their remediations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1226484. [PMID: 37636098 PMCID: PMC10452891 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1226484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is becoming a global problem due to the resilience, long-term persistence, and robustness of MPs in different ecosystems. In terrestrial ecosystems, plants are exposed to MP stress, thereby affecting overall plant growth and development. This review article has critically analyzed the effects of MP stress in plants. We found that MP stress-induced reduction in plant physical growth is accompanied by two complementary effects: (i) blockage of pores in seed coat or roots to alter water and nutrient uptake, and (ii) induction of drought due to increased soil cracking effects of MPs. Nonetheless, the reduction in physiological growth under MP stress is accompanied by four complementary effects: (i) excessive production of ROS, (ii) alteration in leaf and root ionome, (iii) impaired hormonal regulation, and (iv) decline in chlorophyll and photosynthesis. Considering that, we suggested that targeting the redox regulatory mechanisms could be beneficial in improving tolerance to MPs in plants; however, antioxidant activities are highly dependent on plant species, plant tissue, MP type, and MP dose. MP stress also indirectly reduces plant growth by altering soil productivity. However, MP-induced negative effects vary due to the presence of different surface functional groups and particle sizes. In the end, we suggested the utilization of agronomic approaches, including the application of growth regulators, biochar, and replacing plastic mulch with crop residues, crop diversification, and biological degradation, to ameliorate the effects of MP stress in plants. The efficiency of these methods is also MP-type-specific and dose-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jia
- College of Food and Drug, Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Lining Liu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Wenxuan Fu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Xing Liu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Mohsin Tanveer
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Liping Huang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
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Aydın RB, Yozukmaz A, Şener İ, Temiz F, Giannetto D. Occurrence of Microplastics in Most Consumed Fruits and Vegetables from Turkey and Public Risk Assessment for Consumers. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1686. [PMID: 37629543 PMCID: PMC10455475 DOI: 10.3390/life13081686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics are transferred to humans through the food chain by consuming food contaminated with microplastics. However, the knowledge about the risks of dietary exposure for humans to these particles is very limited. Moreover, only a few studies on microplastic pollution in fruit and vegetables have been carried on. Thus, this study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in some of the most consumed fruits and vegetables (pear (Pyrus communis), apple (Malus domestica), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), onion (Allium cepa), potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus)) from Turkey and to evaluate the potential risk for consumers. Fruits and vegetable samples were purchased from different markets and fruiterer (two of each) in Muğla province, Southwest of Turkey. Microplastic extraction processes were carried out on the edible parts of the samples. According to the results obtained, a total of 210 particles (2.9 ± 1.6 particle g-1) were detected in all samples. Any significant difference occurred among the different markets. The maximum average amount of microplastic was determined in tomato samples (3.63 ± 1.39 particle g-1). The highest microplastic intake was with tomato (398,520 particles individual-1 year-1 for Estimated Annual Intake (EAI) and Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for children 68.24 particles kg-1 day-1). The occurrence of microplastics of big size, that are not allowed to pass by plant xylem transport, suggests that fresh vegetables and fruits can be contaminated with plastic, especially during the production phase, during agricultural activities and during the marketing process (transport to the market and purchasing process).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Berfin Aydın
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Aykut Yozukmaz
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - İdris Şener
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - Funda Temiz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Daniela Giannetto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
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31
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Dad FP, Khan WUD, Kirkham MB, Bolan N, Tanveer M. Microplastics: a review of their impacts on different life forms and their removal methods. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:86632-86655. [PMID: 37438501 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28513-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The pollution of microplastics (MPs) is a worldwide major concern, as they have become a major part of our food chain. MPs enter our ecosystem via different pathways, including anthropogenic activities and improper disposal of plastics. The aim of this article is to review the current scientific literature related to MPs and how they affect different life forms on earth. Briefly, MPs induced negative effects on humans are primarily linked with the oxidative stress and disruption in immunity. MPs not only affect the soil chemical and physical properties such as reduction in soil health and productivity but also impose harmful effects on soil microorganisms. Moreover, MP-induced plant growth reduction results from three complementary mechanisms: (i) reduction in root and shoot growth, (ii) reduction in photosynthesis accompanied by higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and (iii) reduction in nutrient uptake via altered root growth. Given the negative effects of MPs on different life forms, it is important to remove or remediate them. We have discussed different MP removal methods including coagulation, membrane filtration technology, biochar, and biological degradation of MPs in soil and wastewater effluents. The use of ozone as ultrafiltration technique has also been shown as the most promising technique for MP removal. Finally, some future research recommendations are also put forward at the end to further enhance our understanding of the MPs induced negative effects on different life forms. The flowchart shows the interaction of MPs from water contaminated with MPs with different parts of the ecosystem and final interaction with human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiza Pir Dad
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Waqas-Ud-Din Khan
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
- Department of Agriculture, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - M B Kirkham
- Department of Agronomy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Mohsin Tanveer
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia.
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32
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Pelegrini K, Pereira TCB, Maraschin TG, Teodoro LDS, Basso NRDS, De Galland GLB, Ligabue RA, Bogo MR. Micro- and nanoplastic toxicity: A review on size, type, source, and test-organism implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 878:162954. [PMID: 36948318 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric wastes are among the current major environmental problems due to potential pollution and contamination. Within the spectrum of polymeric waste, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have gained ground in recent research since these particles can affect the local biota, inducing toxic effects on several organisms. Different outcomes have been reported depending on particle sizes, shape, types, and exposed organisms and conditions, among other variables. This review aimed to compile and discuss the current knowledge and possible literature gaps regarding the MPs and NPs generation and their toxicological effects as stressors, considering polymer type (as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or others), size (micro- or nano-scale), source (commercial, lab-synthesized, or environmental) and test organism group. In that sense, 615 publications were analyzed, among which 72 % discussed micro-sized plastics, while <28 % assayed the toxicity of NPs (<1 μm). For most polymers, MPs and NPs were commercially purchased and used without additional size reduction processes; except for polyethylene terephthalate studies that mostly used grinding and cutting methods to obtain MPs. Polystyrene (PS) was the main polymer studied, as both MPs and NPs. PS accounts for >90 % of NPs reports evaluated, reflecting a major literature gap if compared to its 35.3 % share on MPs studies. Among the main organisms, arthropods and fish combined accounted for nearly 40 % of toxicity testing. Overall, the different types of plastics showed a tendency to report toxic effects, except for the 'Survival/lethality' category, which might indicate that polymeric particles induce mostly sublethal toxic effects. Furthermore, despite differences in publication numbers, we observed greater toxicity reported for NPs than MPs with oxidative stress among the majorly investigated endpoints. This study allowed a hazard profile overview of micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) and the visualization of literature gaps, under a broad diversity of toxicological evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kauê Pelegrini
- Escola Politécnica, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Engenharia e Tecnologia de Materiais, Escola Politécnica, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Talita Carneiro Brandão Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Thuany Garcia Maraschin
- Escola Politécnica, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Engenharia e Tecnologia de Materiais, Escola Politécnica, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Lilian De Souza Teodoro
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Nara Regina De Souza Basso
- Escola Politécnica, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Engenharia e Tecnologia de Materiais, Escola Politécnica, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Griselda Ligia Barrera De Galland
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, CEP: 91570-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Rosane Angelica Ligabue
- Escola Politécnica, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande Do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Engenharia e Tecnologia de Materiais, Escola Politécnica, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Mauricio Reis Bogo
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS). Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Zhang J, Tang X, Hong Y, Chen G, Chen Y, Zhang L, Gao W, Zhou Y, Sun B. Carbon-based single-atom catalysts in advanced oxidation reactions for water remediation: From materials to reaction pathways. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2023; 2:47-60. [PMID: 38075290 PMCID: PMC10702890 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/01/2024]
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been widely recognized as state-of-the-art catalysts in environment remediation because of their exceptional performance, 100% metal atomic utilization, almost no secondary pollution, and robust structures. Most recently, the activation of persulfate with carbon-based SACs in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) raises tremendous interest in the degradation of emerging contaminants in wastewater, owning to its efficient and versatile reactive oxidant species (ROS) generation. However, the comprehensive and critical review unraveling the underlying relationship between structures of carbon-based SACs and the corresponding generated ROS is still rare. Herein, we systematically summarize the fundamental understandings and intrinsic mechanisms between single metal atom active sites and produced ROS during AOPs. The types of emerging contaminants are firstly elaborated, presenting the prior pollutants that need to be degraded. Then, the preparation and characterization methods of carbon-based SACs are overviewed. The underlying material structure-ROS type relationship in persulfate-based AOPs is discussed in depth to expound the catalytic mechanisms. Finally, we briefly conclude the current development of carbon-based SACs in AOPs and propose the prospects for rational design and synthesis of carbon-based SACs with on-demand catalytic performances in AOPs in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xu Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yongjia Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Guanyu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenran Gao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Materials, Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Bin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
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Long B, Li F, Wang K, Huang Y, Yang Y, Xie D. Impact of plastic film mulching on microplastic in farmland soils in Guangdong province, China. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16587. [PMID: 37292288 PMCID: PMC10245015 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic mulch film is often believed to be a significant contributor to microplastic pollution in farmland soil, however, its direct impact in areas with high human activities remains unclear due to the presence of multiple pollution sources. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating the impact of plastic film mulching on microplastic pollution in farmland soils in Guangdong province, China's largest economic province. The macroplastic residues in soils were investigated in 64 agricultural sites, and the microplastics were analyzed in typical plastic film mulched and nearby non-mulched farmland soils. The average concentration of macroplastic residues was 35.7 kg/ha and displayed a positive correlation with mulch film usage intensity. Contrarily, no significant correlation was found between macroplastic residues and microplastics, which exhibited an average abundance of 22,675 particles/kg soil. The pollution load index (PLI) model indicated that the microplastic pollution level was category I and comparatively higher in mulched farmland soils. Interestingly, polyethylene accounted for only 2.7% of the microplastics, while polyurethane was found to be the most abundant microplastic. According to the polymer hazard index (PHI) model, polyethylene posed a lower environmental risk than polyurethane in both mulched and non-mulched soils. These findings suggest that multiple sources other than plastic film mulching primarily contribute to microplastic pollution in farmland soils. This study enhances our understanding of microplastic sources and accumulation in farmland soils, offering crucial information on potential risks to the agroecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibo Long
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Fayong Li
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Yaozhu Huang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Youjun Yang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Dong Xie
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
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Duval P, Antonelli P, Aschan-Leygonie C, Valiente Moro C. Impact of Human Activities on Disease-Spreading Mosquitoes in Urban Areas. J Urban Health 2023; 100:591-611. [PMID: 37277669 PMCID: PMC10322816 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-023-00732-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization is one of the leading global trends of the twenty-first century that has a significant impact on health. Among health challenges caused by urbanization, the relationship of urbanization between emergence and the spread of mosquito-borne infectious diseases (MBIDs) is a great public health concern. Urbanization processes encompass social, economic, and environmental changes that directly impact the biology of mosquito species. In particular, urbanized areas experience higher temperatures and pollution levels than outlying areas but also favor the development of infrastructures and objects that are favorable to mosquito development. All these modifications may influence mosquito life history traits and their ability to transmit diseases. This review aimed to summarize the impact of urbanization on mosquito spreading in urban areas and the risk associated with the emergence of MBIDs. Moreover, mosquitoes are considered as holobionts, as evidenced by numerous studies highlighting the role of mosquito-microbiota interactions in mosquito biology. Taking into account this new paradigm, this review also represents an initial synthesis on how human-driven transformations impact microbial communities in larval habitats and further interfere with mosquito behavior and life cycle in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pénélope Duval
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, Bât. André Lwoff, 10 rue Raphaël Dubois, F-69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Pierre Antonelli
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, Bât. André Lwoff, 10 rue Raphaël Dubois, F-69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Christina Aschan-Leygonie
- University of Lyon, Université Lumière Lyon 2, UMR 5600 CNRS Environnement Ville Société, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | - Claire Valiente Moro
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, Bât. André Lwoff, 10 rue Raphaël Dubois, F-69622, Villeurbanne, France.
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Manu MK, Luo L, Kumar R, Johnravindar D, Li D, Varjani S, Zhao J, Wong J. A review on mechanistic understanding of microplastic pollution on the performance of anaerobic digestion. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 325:121426. [PMID: 36907239 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) has emerged as a promising technology for diverting the organic waste from the landfills along with the production of clean energy. AD is a microbial-driven biochemical process wherein the plethora of microbial communities participate in converting the putrescible organic matter into biogas. Nevertheless, the AD process is susceptible to the external environmental factors such as presence of physical (microplastics) and chemical (antibiotics, pesticides) pollutants. The microplastics (MPs) pollution has received recent attention due to the increasing plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems. This review was aimed for holistic assessment of impact of MPs pollution on AD process to develop efficient treatment technology. First, the possible pathways of MPs entry into the AD systems were critically evaluated. Further, the recent literature on the experimental studies pertaining to the impact of different types of MPs at different concentrations on the AD process was reviewed. In addition, several mechanisms such as direct exposure of MPs on the microbial cells, indirect impact of MPs through the leaching of toxic chemicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation on AD process were elucidated. Besides, the risk possessed by the increase of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) after the AD process due to the MPs stress on microbial communities were discussed. Overall, this review deciphered the severity of MPs pollution on AD process at different levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Manu
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Liwen Luo
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Reeti Kumar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Davidraj Johnravindar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Dongyi Li
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Jun Zhao
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Jonathan Wong
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong.
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Zhang C, Yue N, Li X, Shao H, Wang J, An L, Jin F. Potential translocation process and effects of polystyrene microplastics on strawberry seedlings. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 449:131019. [PMID: 36812727 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of concerns focuses on microplastics as an emerging threat to terrestrial soil-plant ecosystems, but few previous studies have concentrated on asexual plants. To fill this knowledge gap, we carried out a biodistribution study of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) of different particle sizes in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. "Akihime") seedlings via the hydroponic cultivation method. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) results indicated that both 100 and 200 nm PS-MPs entered the roots and were further translocated to the vascular bundle through the apoplastic pathway. Both PS-MP sizes were detected in the vascular bundles of the petioles after 7 d of exposure, indicating a xylem-based upward translocation pathway. After 14 d, continuous upward translocation of 100 nm PS-MPs was observed above the petiole, while 200 nm PS-MPs could not be directly observed in the strawberry seedlings. This means that the uptake and translocation of PS-MPs depended on the size of PS-MPs and appropriate timing. The significant influence of strawberry seedling's antioxidant, osmoregulation, and photosynthetic systems(p < 0.05)was presented at 200 nm PS-MPs than 100 nm PS-MPs. Our findings provide scientific evidence and valuable data for the risk assessment of PS-MP exposure in asexual plant systems such as strawberry seedlings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ning Yue
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hua Shao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Fen Jin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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Yu F, Fu M, Tang C, Mo C, Li S, Luo S, Qin P, Zhao Y, Li Y. Potential impact of polyethylene microplastics on the growth of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica F.): Endophyte and rhizosphere effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 330:138737. [PMID: 37084901 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination has received much attention, especially in agroecosystems. However, since edible crops with different genetic backgrounds may present different responses to microplastics, more research should be conducted and focused on more edible crops. In the current study, pot experiments were conducted to investigate the potential impact of polyethylene microplastic (PE) (particle sizes: 0.5 μm and 1.0 μm, addition levels: 0 (control), 0.5% and 1.0% (w/w)) addition on the physiological and biochemical variations of I. aquatica F.. The results indicated that PE addition caused an increase in the soil pH and NH4+-N and soil organic matter contents, which increased by 10.1%, 29.9% and 50.1% when PE addition at A10P0.5 level (10 g (PE) kg-1 soil, particle size: 0.5 μm). While, PE exposure resulted in a decrease in soil available phosphorus and total phosphorus contents, which decreased by 53.9% and 10.5% when PE addition at A10P0.5 level. In addition, PE addition altered the soil enzyme activities. Two-way ANOVA indicated that particle size had a greater impact on the variations in soil properties and enzyme activities than the addition level. PE addition had a strong impact on the rhizosphere microbial and root endophyte community diversity and structure of I. aquatica F.. Two-way ANOVA results indicated that the particle size and addition level significantly altered the α-diversity indices of both rhizosphere microbial and root endophyte (P < 0.05, P < 0.01 or P < 0.001). Moreover, PE was adsorbed by I. aquatica F., which was clearly observed in the transverse roots and significantly increased the H2O2, ·O2-, malondialdehyde and ascorbic acid contents in both the roots and aerial parts of I. aquatica F., leading to a decrease in I. aquatica F. biomass. Overall, the current study enriches the understanding of the effect of microplastics on edible crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Mingyue Fu
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Chijian Tang
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Cuiju Mo
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Songying Li
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Shiyu Luo
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Peiqing Qin
- College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China
| | - Yinjun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environment Change and Resources Use in Beibu Gulf, Ministry of Education, Nanning Normal University, Nanning, China
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 541004, Guilin, China.
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Fang C, Zheng R, Hong F, Chen S, Chen G, Zhang M, Gao F, Chen J, Bo J. First evidence of meso- and microplastics on the mangrove leaves ingested by herbivorous snails and induced transcriptional responses. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:161240. [PMID: 36587672 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Although evidence suggests the ubiquity of meso- and microplastics (MMPs) in mangrove forests, our knowledge of their bioavailability and risk on mangrove leaves is scarce. Here, we investigated MMP contamination concerning submerged mangrove leaves and herbivorous snails that mainly feed on them from the four mangrove forests located in Beibu Gulf, Guangxi Province, China. Results showed that the MMP abundance on the mangrove leaves ranged from 0.01 ± 0.00 to 0.42 ± 0.15 items cm-2, while it ranged from 0.33 ± 0.21 to 6.20 ± 2.91 items individual-1 in the snails. There were significant positive correlations between snails and leaves regarding the abundance of total MMPs and the proportions of MMPs with the same characteristics. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) that mainly derived from aquaculture rafts, accounted for a major component both on the leaves and in the snails in Shi Jiao (SJ). Both the detection frequency and percentage of larger EPS (2.00-17.50 mm) on the leaves in SJ were higher than other sites. Meanwhile, the detection frequency, abundance and percentage of larger EPS on the leaves had significant positive correlations with those of micro-EPS in the snails. These findings suggested that mangrove leaves may represent a viable pathway for MMPs to enter the herbivorous snails. Larger EPS with higher frequency of occurrence on mangrove leaves were more likely to be encountered and ingested by snail considering its opportunistic feeding behavior. In addition, 11 sensitive genes involved in the processes of metabolism, intestinal mucosal immune systems, and cellular transduction in the snails were significantly suppressed by MMP exposure, which may be potentially used as early biomarkers to indicate the biological effects of MMPs under realistic environmental conditions. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the fate, sources, and biological effects of MMPs on mangrove leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Fang
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; Observation and Research Station of Coastal Wetland Ecosystem in Beibu Gulf, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beihai 536015, China
| | - Ronghui Zheng
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Fukun Hong
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Shunyang Chen
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; Observation and Research Station of Coastal Wetland Ecosystem in Beibu Gulf, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beihai 536015, China
| | - Guangcheng Chen
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; Observation and Research Station of Coastal Wetland Ecosystem in Beibu Gulf, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beihai 536015, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Fulong Gao
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Jincan Chen
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jun Bo
- Laboratory of Marine Biodiversity, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China.
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Cha J, Lee JY, Chia RW. Microplastics contamination and characteristics of agricultural groundwater in Haean Basin of Korea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:161027. [PMID: 36549528 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The quality of groundwater is critical to human health. MPs have access to groundwater from the soil, polluted by various agricultural activities. However, to date, there have been no studies on the occurrence of MP in groundwater from an agriculture field without any adjacent sources of contamination, such as nearby landfills. In this study, the occurrence and distribution of MPs in groundwater of an agricultural area in the Haean Basin, Korea, without any definite source of pollution, was examined. MP and groundwater samplings were conducted in the dry season in 2020, the wet and dry seasons in 2021, respectively. In this study, the reliability of MP analysis was improved through good practices from laboratory to field campaigns, collecting large groundwater samples (300-500 L) volumes. Any involvement of plastic materials was avoided during the full procedures as possible and. Detailed investigation was conducted for the distribution of potential plastics sources like mulching, plastic covers, dripping pipes and shading nets, and hydrogeological properties affecting MPs occurrence. Groundwater MP concentrations of 0.02-0.15 particles/L (median = 0.06 particles/L), 0.02-2.56 particles/L (median = 0.43 particles/L) and 0.20-3.48 particles/L (median = 0.83 particles/L) were found in three rounds of sampling that comprised of the exploratory investigation in 2020, the wet season, and the dry season in 2021, respectively. The identified polymer types were polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS) and polyamide (PA). The MPs concentrations showed no statistically significant seasonal variation but revealed an apparent strong positive correlation (r = 0.71) of MPs with the amount of groundwater use. Findings of this study need more clarification from repeated samplings for multiple years. This study reveals the occurrence of MPs in groundwater in Korea for the first time to the best of our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Cha
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research on Microplastics in Groundwater (RMPG), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Yong Lee
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research on Microplastics in Groundwater (RMPG), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Rogers Wainkwa Chia
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Earth Resources, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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Surendran U, Jayakumar M, Raja P, Gopinath G, Chellam PV. Microplastics in terrestrial ecosystem: Sources and migration in soil environment. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 318:137946. [PMID: 36708782 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.137946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, especially microplastics in soils, are considered a severe environmental issue worldwide. However, globally, the main research focus is on microplastic pollution in the marine environment, the microplastic pollution on soils and sediments remains on the sideline so far. But the fact is that microplastics are omnipresent in terrestrial systems in the form of microbeads in industrial systems and in sewage sludge. Their presence in agricultural soils and sediments is enormously increased due to plastic mulching, plastic greenhouses and compost and extensive use of controlled release fertilizers. Therefore, this review outlines the global scenario regarding plastics and microplastics production, consumption, and possible pathways of penetration into the soil environment. Various mechanisms to restrict and manage the pathways of plastics and microplastics into the soil environment are also discussed. This review also focuses on the challenges and limitations on the use of plastic alternates such as bioplastics and oxo plastics. Also, the knowledge gaps on the source of microplastics in the environment and their deleterious effects on properties of soil, soil health and focused light on their soil trophic transfer in food chains via plants. This review provides a detailed insight on the management and possible control measures to alleviate the potential risk caused by microplastics pollution in the soil environment and the overall ecosystem's health. In spite of the occurrence and fate of microplastics on terrestrial environment, knowledge gaps and challenges for tackling this contamination are also explored which facilitates the policy makers to develop regulatory measures towards the containment of microplastics in living ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Surendran
- Centre for Water Resources Development and Management, Kozhikode, Kerala, India.
| | - M Jayakumar
- Central Coffee Research Institute , Coffee Research Station, Chikmagaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - P Raja
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Girish Gopinath
- Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India
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Antohi VM, Ionescu RV, Zlati ML, Iticescu C, Georgescu PL, Calmuc M. Regional Regression Correlation Model of Microplastic Water Pollution Control Using Circular Economy Tools. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4014. [PMID: 36901030 PMCID: PMC10002311 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054014] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Water pollution caused by microplastics represents an important challenge for the environment and people's health. The weak international regulations and standards in this domain support increased water pollution with microplastics. The literature is unsuccessful in establishing a common approach regarding this subject. The main objective of this research is to develop a new approach to necessary policies and ways of action to decrease water pollution caused by microplastics. In this context, we quantified the impact of European water pollution caused by microplastics in the circular economy. The main research methods used in the paper are meta-analysis, statistical analysis and an econometric approach. A new econometric model is developed in order to assist the decision makers in increasing efficiency of public policies regarding water pollution elimination. The main result of this study relies on combining, in an integrated way, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) data on microplastic water pollution and identifying relevant policies to combat this type of pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Marian Antohi
- Department of Business Administration, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800001 Galati, Romania
- Department of Finance, Accounting and Economic Theory, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brasov, Romania
| | - Romeo Victor Ionescu
- Department of Administrative Sciences and Regional Studies, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800201 Galati, Romania
| | - Monica Laura Zlati
- Department of Business Administration, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800001 Galati, Romania
| | - Catalina Iticescu
- Department of Chemistry, Physics and Environment, REXDAN Research Infrastructure, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Puiu Lucian Georgescu
- Department of Chemistry, Physics and Environment, REXDAN Research Infrastructure, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Madalina Calmuc
- REXDAN Research Infrastructure, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
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Thomas J, Patil R. The Road to Sustainable Tire Materials: Current State-of-the-Art and Future Prospectives. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:2209-2216. [PMID: 36723433 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c07642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The development of a 100% sustainable tire has emerged as a milestone for several tire companies across the globe. It has created new commercial opportunities for the biobased, renewable, and recycled polymer materials. However, there are concerns that the incorporation of such sustainable new materials may have an undesirable impact on the main performance properties of the tire. At the same time, with new capabilities and product innovations, it can help us meet society's need in a more sustainable fashion and protect the environment. This Feature first outlines the opportunities and need for sustainable tire materials. Next, it describes the main types of sustainable material attributes in tire material, elastomers, reinforcing agents, fibers, and plasticizers, among a few others. The challenges to achieving the performance properties are discussed with possible design guidelines. Recent approaches to the tire attributes are described in the form of a meticulous overview of the existing literature, with a critical analysis of some of them. This contribution attempts to highlight, in a comprehensive way, sustainable tire materials on the basis of recent research advancements, existing challenges, and prospective future scope in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jomin Thomas
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Renuka Patil
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
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Campanale C, Savino I, Massarelli C, Uricchio VF. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to Assess the Degree of Alteration of Artificially Aged and Environmentally Weathered Microplastics. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15040911. [PMID: 36850194 PMCID: PMC9961336 DOI: 10.3390/polym15040911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) is a spectroscopy technique widely used to identify organic materials. It has recently gained popularity in microplastic (MP) pollution research to determine the chemical composition of unknown plastic fragments. However, it could also be used to evaluate the degree of ageing of MPs collected from the environment. In this context, the principal aim of our research has been to qualitatively evaluate the natural weathering of environmental MPs collected in an Italian freshwater body (the Ofanto River) using ATR-FTIR technology. Furthermore, we compared environmental particles to weathered artificial MPs under controlled light and temperature conditions and to unaltered pristine materials to assess the results. FTIR spectra were acquired using a Nicolet Summit FTIR (ThermoFisher Scientific) equipped with an Everest ATR with a diamond Crystal plate and a DTGS KBr detector (wavenumber range 4000-500 cm-1, 32 scans per spectrum, spectral resolution of 4 cm-1). The degree of ageing was assessed using three different indexes known to be related to changes in MPs: Carbonyl Index (CI), Hydroxyl Index (HI), and Carbon-Oxygen Index (COI). The overall results showed that the regions reflecting changes (hydroxyl groups, peaks from 3100 to 3700 cm-1, alkenes or carbon double bonds, 1600 and 1680 cm-1, and carbonyl groups, 1690 and 1810 cm-1) appeared significantly modified in artificial and natural weathered particles compared to the pristine materials. The indexes calculated for polymers degraded under the artificial photo and thermo ageing conditions displayed a general tendency to increase with the time in contact with irradiation time. Particular enhancements of CI of PS fragment and PE pellet, HI of PE and PS fragments and PE pellet, and COI of PS fragment were observed. Otherwise, the following incubation of the same particles at a constant temperature of 45 °C did not further affect the chemical composition of the particles. Moreover, new unique peaks were also observed in the freshwater particles, almost all in the fingerprint region (1500-500 cm-1). Differences in CI, HI, and COI were evidenced among the different morphological MP shapes. On the one hand, the CI calculated for the environmental PE pellets showed values ranging from 0.05 to 0.26 with a mean value of 0.17 ± 0.10. Most samples (57%) presented a CI with values between 0.16 and 0.30. On the other hand, fragments presented slicer modifications in the carbonyl region with CI values lower than pellets (0.05 ± 0.05). This index helps evaluate the degradation of PE MPs by UV light, increasing with enhancing residence time in the environment. Conversely, fragments showed greater values of HI (5.90 ± 2.57) and COI (1.04 ± 0.48) than pellets, as well as lines, which presented the maximum value of HI (11.51). HI is attributed to the bond vibrations of hydroxyl, carboxyl, or phenol groups. In contrast, COI is frequently attributed to the vibrations of C_O bonds found in carbohydrates, alkanes, secondary alcohols, and ketones. In conclusion, our results showed characteristics spectra acquired from environmental particles compared to pristine and artificial aged ones. The interpretation of our main results emphasizes the need to conduct ecotoxicological experimental studies using naturally weathered particles due to the unicity of their properties, which are more helpful for understanding microplastic pollution effects.
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Österlund H, Blecken G, Lange K, Marsalek J, Gopinath K, Viklander M. Microplastics in urban catchments: Review of sources, pathways, and entry into stormwater. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159781. [PMID: 36309285 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Urban areas play a key role in the production of microplastics (MPs) and their entry into water bodies. This article reviews the literature on the sources, transport, and control of MPs in urban environments with the aim of clarifying the mechanisms underlying these processes. Major MP sources include atmospheric deposition, micro-litter, and tire and road wear particles (TRWPs). MPs deposited from the atmosphere are mostly fibers and may be particularly important in catchments without traffic. Littering and attrition of textiles and plastic products is another important MP source. However, the quantities of MPs originating from this source may be hard to estimate. TRWPs are a significant source of MPs in urban areas and are arguably the best quantified source. The mobilization of MPs in urban catchments is poorly understood but it appears that dry unconsolidated sediments and MP deposits are most readily mobilized. Sequestration of MPs occurs in green areas and is poorly understood. Consequently, some authors consider green/pervious parts of urban catchments to be MP sinks. Field studies have shown that appreciable MP removal occurs in stormwater quality control facilities. Street cleaning and snow removal also remove MPs (particularly TRWPs), but the efficacy of these measures is unknown. Among stormwater management facilities, biofiltration/retention units seem to remove MPs more effectively than facilities relying on stormwater settling. However, knowledge of MP removal in stormwater facilities remains incomplete. Finally, although 13 research papers reported MP concentrations in stormwater, the total number of field samples examined in these studies was only 189. Moreover, the results of these studies are not necessarily comparable because they are based on relatively small numbers of samples and differ widely in terms of their objectives, sites, analytical methods, size fractions, examined polymers, and even terminology. This area of research can thus be considered "data-poor" and offers great opportunities for further research in many areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heléne Österlund
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Godecke Blecken
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden.
| | - Katharina Lange
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Jiri Marsalek
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Kalpana Gopinath
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Maria Viklander
- Urban Water Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
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Zhao X, Zhou Y, Liang C, Song J, Yu S, Liao G, Zou P, Tang KHD, Wu C. Airborne microplastics: Occurrence, sources, fate, risks and mitigation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159943. [PMID: 36356750 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This paper serves to enhance the current knowledge base of airborne microplastics which is significantly smaller than that of microplastics in marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments. It systematically presents the prevalence, sources, fate, risks and mitigations of airborne microplastics through the review of >140 scientific papers published mainly in the last 10 years. Unlike the extant review, it places an emphasis on the indoor microplastics, the risks of airborne microplastics on animals and plants and their mitigations. The outdoor microplastics are mostly generated by the wear and tear of tires, brake pads, waste incineration and industrial activities. They have been detected in many regions worldwide at concentrations ranging from 0.3 particles/m3 to 154,000 particles/L of air even in the Pyrenees Mountains and the Arctic. As for indoor microplastics, the reported concentrations range from 1 piece/m3 to 9900 pieces/m2/day, and are frequently higher than those of the outdoor microplastics. They come from the wear and tear of walls and ceilings, synthetic textiles and furniture finishings. Airborne microplastics could be suspended and resuspended, entrapped, settle under gravity as well as interact with chemicals, microorganisms and other microplastic particles. In the outdoors, they could also interact with sunlight and be carried by the wind over long distance. Airborne microplastics could adversely affect plants, animals and humans, leading to reduced photosynthetic rate, retarded growth, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses and increased cancer risks in humans. They could be mitigated indirectly through filters attached to air-conditioning system and directly through source reduction, regulation and biodegradable substitutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Zhao
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yupeng Zhou
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Chenzhe Liang
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jianchen Song
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Siyun Yu
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Gengxuan Liao
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Peiyan Zou
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Kuok Ho Daniel Tang
- Department of Environmental Science, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA..
| | - Chenmiao Wu
- Environmental Science Programme, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
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47
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Chaisrikhwun B, Ekgasit S, Pienpinijtham P. Size-independent quantification of nanoplastics in various aqueous media using surfaced-enhanced Raman scattering. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 442:130046. [PMID: 36182893 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we successfully developed an intriguing preparation strategy to reduce the size-dependent effect of nanoplastics (NPLs), which is the limitation of NPLs quantification by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). This simple and low-cost technique enabled us to quantify different sizes (i.e., 100, 300, 600, and 800 nm) of polystyrene nanospheres (PS NSs) in various aqueous media. The SERS substrate was simply prepared by sputtering gold particles to cover on a glass cover slide. By dissolving PS NSs in toluene and preconcentrating by coffee-ring effect, SERS measurement can quantify NPLs at a very low concentration with a limit of detection (LOD) of approximately 0.10-0.26 μg/mL. The experiment was also conducted in the presence of interferences, including salts, sugars, amino acids, and detergents. The method was validated for quantitative analysis using a mixture of 100-, 300-, 600-, and 800-nm PS NSs in a ratio of 1:1:1:1 in real-world media (i.e., tap water, mineral water, and river water), which successfully approaches the evaluation of PS NSs in the range of 10-40 µg/mL with an LOD of approximately 0.32-0.52 µg/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boonphop Chaisrikhwun
- Sensor Research Unit (SRU), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; National Nanotechnology Center of Advanced Structural and Functional Nanomaterials, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Program in Petrochemistry and Polymer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sanong Ekgasit
- Sensor Research Unit (SRU), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; National Nanotechnology Center of Advanced Structural and Functional Nanomaterials, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Prompong Pienpinijtham
- Sensor Research Unit (SRU), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; National Nanotechnology Center of Advanced Structural and Functional Nanomaterials, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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Pérez-Reverón R, Álvarez-Méndez SJ, González-Sálamo J, Socas-Hernández C, Díaz-Peña FJ, Hernández-Sánchez C, Hernández-Borges J. Nanoplastics in the soil environment: Analytical methods, occurrence, fate and ecological implications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120788. [PMID: 36481462 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Soils play a very important role in ecosystems sustainability, either natural or agricultural ones, serving as an essential support for living organisms of different kinds. However, in the current context of extremely high plastic pollution, soils are highly threatened. Plastics can change the chemical and physical properties of the soils and may also affect the biota. Of particular importance is the fact that plastics can be fragmented into microplastics and, to a final extent into nanoplastics. Due to their extremely low size and high surface area, nanoplastics may even have a higher impact in soil ecosystems. Their transport through the edaphic environment is regulated by the physicochemical properties of the soil and plastic particles themselves, anthropic activities and biota interactions. Their degradation in soils is associated with a series of mechanical, photo-, thermo-, and bio-mediated transformations eventually conducive to their mineralisation. Their tiny size is precisely the main setback when it comes to sampling soils and subsequent processes for their identification and quantification, albeit pyrolysis coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and other spectroscopic techniques have proven to be useful for their analysis. Another issue as a consequence of their minuscule size lies in their uptake by plants roots and their ingestion by soil dwelling fauna, producing morphological deformations, damage to organs and physiological malfunctions, as well as the risks associated to their entrance in the food chain, although current conclusions are not always consistent and show the same pattern of effects. Thus, given the omnipresence and seriousness of the plastic menace, this review article pretends to provide a general overview of the most recent data available regarding nanoplastics determination, occurrence, fate and effects in soils, with special emphasis on their ecological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Pérez-Reverón
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Sergio J Álvarez-Méndez
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica Antonio González, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez, s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier González-Sálamo
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Socas-Hernández
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Avenida Catalunya, 21, 46020, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco J Díaz-Peña
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Cintia Hernández-Sánchez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Forense y Legal y Parasitología, Área de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Ingeniería, Sección de Náutica, Máquinas y Radioelectrónica Naval, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Vía Auxiliar Paso Alto 2, 38001, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández-Borges
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain.
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Thomas J, Cutright T, Pugh C, Soucek MD. Quantitative assessment of additive leachates in abiotic weathered tire cryogrinds and its application to tire wear particles in roadside soil samples. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137132. [PMID: 36343731 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Tire and road wear particles (TRWP) are becoming an important research question with potential risks on ecological system. A comprehensive understanding of their detection and quantification in soils are challenged by the inherent technological inconsistencies, lack of well-set standardized methods, and generalized protocols. Reference tire cryogrinds were subjected to abiotic weathering. Next, the total environmental availability from parent elastomers and the release of additives from tire tread compounds were evaluated using mass concentration factors obtained from abiotic weathered tire cryogrinds. Headspace Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (HS-GC-MS) was employed as a nontargeted, suspect screening analysis technique to identify the tire related intermediates. Benzothiazole, 1,2-dihydro-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline (TMQ), aniline, phenol and benzoic acid were detected as tire tetrahydrofuran leachates. Total environmental availability of TMQ and benzothiazole were in the range of 1.7 × 10-3 and 0.11, respectively. Benzene and benzoic acid derivatives were identified as marker compounds for environmental samples. A TRWP content evaluation was made possible by quantifying marker concentrations and reference tire cryogrind formulation. TRWP content in the size range of 1-5 mm was between 800 and 1300 μg/g and 1200-3100 μg/g TRWP in Ohio and Kansas soil. For TRWP less than 1 mm, 0.15-2.1 wt% content was observed in Kansas and Ohio samples and were seemingly dependent on the locations and the traffic. This simple, widely applicable quantification method for TRWP analysis provides a database of tire degradation and TRWP intermediates. The TRWP content research is critical for further TRWP research development in terrestrial environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jomin Thomas
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Teresa Cutright
- Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering and Polymer Science, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA.
| | - Coleen Pugh
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, 67260, USA
| | - Mark D Soucek
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
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Nessi A, Winkler A, Tremolada P, Saliu F, Lasagni M, Ghezzi LLM, Balestrieri A. Microplastic contamination in terrestrial ecosystems: A study using barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 308:136281. [PMID: 36064015 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136281] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are recognised as an emerging environmental problem that needs to be carefully monitored. So far, MPs have been widely recorded in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Still, few studies have focused on MP occurrence in terrestrial ecosystems, although soils are suspected to be one of the main MP reservoirs. To test a non-invasive method for assessing MP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems, we analysed the pellets of a top terrestrial predator, the barn owl (Tyto alba). Sixty pellets were collected from three agricultural areas (20 pellets each) and analysed to assess both barn owl diet and MP content. Thirty-four MPs were confirmed by micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (μ-FTIR) analysis in 33% of the pellets (min-max 1-5 MPs per pellet). Most of the detected items were microfibres (88.2%). Polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile and polyamide were the most abundant polymers. One of the three sites was significantly less contaminated. In the two sites with the highest MP occurrences, barn owl diet was characterised by predation on synanthropic rodents, particularly brown rats (Rattus norvegicus), which may indicate habitat degradation and increased exposure to MPs. Analyses also suggest that Savi's pine vole (Microtus savii) is the prey least at risk of MP contamination, probably due to its strictly herbivorous diet. We argue that the analysis of barn owl pellets may represent a cost-effective method for monitoring MP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Nessi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Winkler
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Tremolada
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Saliu
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Balestrieri
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
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