1
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Li H, Shen M, Wang Y, Liu B, Li M. Research advances of biodegradable microplastics in wastewater treatment plant: Current knowledge and future directions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175614. [PMID: 39163932 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastic and microplastic pollution in the environment has become a significant global concern. Biodegradable plastics (BPs), as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional plastics, have also emerged as a crucial topic of global discussion. The successful application of BPs appears to offer a solution to the potential ecological risks posed by conventional plastics. However, BPs have negative impacts on the ecological environment and human health. BPs can gradually degrade into biodegradable microplastics (BMPs) in the environment. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have become an undeniable source and sink of microplastics. With the production and application of BPs, BMPs will inevitably enter WWTPs. This paper reviews the pollution status, degradation behavior of BMPs, and their potential impact on wastewater treatment performance. The focus is on the environmental behavior of BMPs in wastewater treatment systems. The influences of BMPs on microbial communities, sludge treatment, and disposal are thoroughly discussed. The results indicate that BMPs are more easily decomposed into micro/nanoplastics and release additives compared to conventional microplastics. The effects of BMPs on microbial communities and wastewater treatment depend on their characteristics. The numerous oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface of BMPs enable them to serve a dual purpose as transport media and potential sources of environmental pollutants. Finally, in light of existing knowledge gaps, suggestions and prospects for future research on BMPs are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haokai Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Bohao Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Mingyu Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
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2
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Cheng X, Wang S, Zhang X, Iqbal MS, Yang Z, Xi Y, Xiang X. Accelerated aging behavior of degradable and non-degradable microplastics via advanced oxidation and their adsorption characteristics towards tetracycline. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 284:116864. [PMID: 39137460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116864] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The increasing global utilization of biodegradable plastics due to stringent regulations on traditional plastics has caused a significant rise in microplastic (MPs) pollution in aquatic ecosystems from biodegradable products. However, the environmental behavior of biodegradable MPs remains inadequately elucidated. This study explored the aging processes of polylactic acid (PLA) and polystyrene (PS) under a heat-activated potassium persulfate (K2S2O8) system, as well as their adsorption characteristics towards tetracycline (TCs). In comparison to PS, the surface structure of PLA experienced more pronounced changes over aging, exhibiting evident pits, cracks, and fragmentation. The carbonyl index (CI) and oxygen/carbon ratio (O/C) of PS displayed exponential growth over time, whereas the values for PLA showed linear and exponential increases, respectively. The adsorption capacity of TCs by PS and PLA aged for 6 days increased from 0.312 mg‧g-1 and 0.457 mg‧g-1for original PS and PLA, respectively, to 0.372 mg‧g-1 and 0.649 mg‧g-1. Meanwhile, the adsorption rate (k2 values) for TCs decreased by 42.03 % for PS and 79.64 % for PLA compared to their initial values. The findings indicated that biodegradable PLA-MPs may exhibit higher tetracycline carrying capacities than PS, potentially increasing environmental and organismal risks, particularly in view of aging effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinfeng Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Recovery and Reconstruction of Degraded Ecosystem in Wanjiang Basin Co-founded by Anhui Province and Ministry of Education, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China.
| | - Shihao Wang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China
| | | | - Zhifu Yang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - Yilong Xi
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Recovery and Reconstruction of Degraded Ecosystem in Wanjiang Basin Co-founded by Anhui Province and Ministry of Education, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - XianLing Xiang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Recovery and Reconstruction of Degraded Ecosystem in Wanjiang Basin Co-founded by Anhui Province and Ministry of Education, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241002, China.
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3
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Wen L, Man X, Luan J, Zhang S, Zhao C, Bao Y, Liu C, Feng X. Early-life exposure to five biodegradable plastics impairs eye development and visually-mediated behavior through disturbing hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis in zebrafish larvae. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 284:109981. [PMID: 39033795 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have been commonly developed and applied as an alternative to traditional plastics, which cause environmental plastic pollution. However, biodegradable plastics still present limitations such as stringent degradation conditions and slow degradation rate, and may cause harm to the environment and organisms. Consequently, in this study, zebrafish was used to evaluate the effects of five biodegradable microplastics (MPs), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) exposure on the early development, retina morphology, visually-mediated behavior, and thyroid signaling at concentrations of 1 mg/L and 100 mg/L. The results indicated that all MPs induced decreased survival rate, reduced body length, smaller eyes, and smaller heads, affecting the early development of zebrafish larvae. Moreover, the thickness of retinal layers, including inner plexiform layer (IPL), outer nuclear layer (ONL), and retinal ganglion layer (RGL) was decreased, and the expression of key genes related to eye and retinal development was abnormally altered after all MPs exposure. Exposure to PBS and PBAT led to abnormal visually-mediated behavior, indicating likely affected the visual function. All MPs could also cause thyroid system disorders, among which alterations in the thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) genes could affect the retinal development of zebrafish larvae. In summary, biodegradable MPs exhibited eye developmental toxicity and likely impaired the visual function in zebrafish larvae. This provided new evidence for revealing the effects of biodegradable plastics on aquatic organism development and environmental risks to aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wen
- China Shenhua Coal to Liquid and Chemical CO., LTD. of China Energy, Beijing 100011, China
| | - Xiaoting Man
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jialu Luan
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Shuhui Zhang
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Chengtian Zhao
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yehua Bao
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Congzhi Liu
- China Shenhua Coal to Liquid and Chemical CO., LTD. of China Energy, Beijing 100011, China.
| | - Xizeng Feng
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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Liu C, Zhao Z, Sui J, Ma H, Zhu L, Jiang H, Zhou R, Wang S, Dai Y. The Sword of Damocles: Microplastics and the molecular dynamics of sulfamonomethoxine revealed. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117058. [PMID: 39299208 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the environmental impact of microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics (ATs) as pollutants cannot be ignored. In order to evaluate the carrier effect of MPs in the aqueous environment, three MPs, polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), were selected in this study, and their structures were analyzed by means of characterization. A preliminary description of their interactions with sulfamonomethoxine was carried out by adsorption kinetics and isotherm fitting. The dominance of non-bonding capacity (van der Waals and electrostatic interaction forces) in the adsorption process was demonstrated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and density functional theory (DFT), with the interaction strengths ranked as PA > PE > PET, respectively. PA is less adsorbent stable at the molecular level but exhibits the largest adsorption capacity influenced by the characterized structure and multiple interaction forces. PET possesses a stronger stability and is not easily replaced by other substances. This will help to further understand the complex effect mechanism between MPs and organic pollutants, and provide an important reference for the prevention and control of environmental pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunrui Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zitong Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jia Sui
- College of Life Sciences, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Haoran Ma
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Liya Zhu
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Huating Jiang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Ruyi Zhou
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Shiyao Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yingjie Dai
- College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, No.600 Changjiang Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150030, China.
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5
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Du C, Sang W, Abbas M, Xu C, Jiang Z, Ma Y, Shi J, Feng M, Ni L, Li S. The interaction mechanisms of algal organic matter (AOM) and various types and aging degrees of microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135273. [PMID: 39047561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Algal blooms can produce substantial amounts of algal organic matter (AOM). Microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments inevitably interact with AOM. Meanwhile, the aging and type of MPs may increase the uncertainty surrounding interaction. This study focused on polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) to investigate their interaction with AOM before and after aging. The results shw that PLA has a stronger adsorption capacity for AOM than PE. Meanwhile, aging enhanced and weakened the adsorption of PE and PLA for AOM. Compared to unaged PE (UPE) and aged PLA (APLA), aged PE (APE) and unaged PLA (UPLA) more significantly promote the humification of AOM and alter its functional groups. 2D-IR-COS analysis reveals that the sequence of functional group changes in AOM interacting with MPs is influenced by the type and aging of MPs. After interacting with AOM, surface roughness increased for all MPs. FTIR and XPS analyses show that the addition of AOM accelerated the oxidation of MPs surfaces, especially for UPE and APLA, with oxygen content increasing by 9.32 % and 1 %. Aging enhances the interaction between PE and AOM, while weakening the interaction between PLA and AOM. These findings provide new insights into understanding the interplay between AOM and MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cunhao Du
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Wenlu Sang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Chu Xu
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiyun Jiang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Yushen Ma
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Jiahui Shi
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Muyu Feng
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China
| | - Lixiao Ni
- College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, MOE, Hohai University, 210098 Nanjing, China.
| | - Shiyin Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, 210097 Nanjing, China.
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Wang S, Cheng X, Shi L, Liu K, Yang Z, Jia Q, Xiang X. Insights into the response mechanisms of Tetradesmus obliquus to aged polylactic acid and tetracycline exposure via transcriptome analysis and physiological evaluations. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143120. [PMID: 39159767 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143120] [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: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics, identified as emerging pollutants, are extensively prevalent in aquatic environments and display prolonged durability. Unlike conventional plastics, biodegradable plastics are more susceptible to decomposition in the environment, resulting in the generation of microplastics and posing potential risks to the aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we assessed growth inhibition, chlorophyll a content, malondialdehyde content (MDA), and antioxidant enzyme activities. These measurements were integrated with transcriptome analysis to explore the response mechanisms of virgin and aged polylactic acid (vPLA and aPLA) and tetracycline (TC) following 14-day exposure to Tetradesmus obliquus, either individually or in combination. The findings indicated that exposure to vPLA did not significantly impact the growth of T. obliquus. Conversely, aPLA demonstrated growth-promoting effects on T. obliquus, particularly in the latter incubation stages. Moreover, a 14-day exposure significantly increased the chlorophyll a content and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase glutathione (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) within the algal cells. Apart from 1 mg L-1, the TC concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 mg L-1 exhibited significant toxic effects on T. obliquus, including growth inhibition, decreased chlorophyll a content, elevated activities of SOD, CAT, and GST, and increased MDA levels. Exposure to a combination of 300 mg L-1 aPLA and 5.0 mg L-1 TC, compared to solely 5 mg L-1 TC, demonstrated a notable reduction in TC toxicity to T. obliquus in the presence of aPLA. This was indicated by elevated algal cell density and chlorophyll a content, as well as a decrease in MDA content. Transcriptome analysis indicated an enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in pathways linked to porphyrin metabolism, photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and metabolism within the aPLA + TC combined exposure. The study aid in expanding our knowledge of the potential ecological risks posed by biodegradable plastics and accompanying pollutants in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Wang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Xinfeng Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Recovery and Reconstruction of Degraded Ecosystem in Wanjiang Basin Co-Founded by Anhui Province and Ministry of Education, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China.
| | - Lina Shi
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Kexin Liu
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Zhifu Yang
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Qina Jia
- School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - XianLing Xiang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Recovery and Reconstruction of Degraded Ecosystem in Wanjiang Basin Co-Founded by Anhui Province and Ministry of Education, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China.
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7
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Yan P, Zhuang S, Li M, Zhang J, Wu S, Xie H, Wu H. Combined environmental pressure induces unique assembly patterns of micro-plastisphere biofilm microbial communities in constructed wetlands. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 260:121958. [PMID: 38896886 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121958] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The characteristics and dynamics of micro-plastisphere biofilm on the surface of microplastics (MPs) within artificial ecosystems, such as constructed wetlands (CWs), remain unclear, despite these ecosystems' potential to serve as sinks for MPs. This study investigates the dynamic evolution of micro-plastisphere biofilm in CWs, utilizing simulated wastewater containing sulfamethoxazole and humic acid, through physicochemical characterization and metagenomic analysis. Two different types of commercial plastics, including non-degradable polyethylene and degradable polylactic acid, were shredded into MPs and studied. The findings reveal that the types, shape and incubation time of MPs, along with humic acid content in wastewater, affected the quantity and quality of biofilms, such as the biofilm composition, spatial structure and microbial communities. After just 15 days into incubation, numerous microbials were observed on MP samples, with increases in biofilms content and enhanced humification of extracellular polymeric substances over time. Additionally, microbial communities on polylactic acid MPs, or those incubated for longer time, exhibit higher diversity, connectivity and stability, along with reduced vulnerability. Conversely, biofilms on polyethylene MPs were thicker, with higher potential for greenhouse gas emission and increased risk of antibiotic resistance genes. The addition of humic acid demonstrated opposite effects on biofilms across environmental interfaces, possibly due to its dual potential to produce light-induced free radicals and serve as a carbon source. Binning analysis further uncovered a unique assembly pattern of nutrients cycle genes and antibiotic resistance genes, significantly correlated within micro-plastisphere microbial communities, under the combined stress of nutrition and sulfamethoxazole. These results emphasize the shaping of micro-plastisphere biofilm characteristics by unique environmental conditions in artificial ecosystems, and the need to understand how DOM and other pollutants covary with MP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Yan
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Shuzhen Zhuang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Mingjun Li
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China; College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China.
| | - Shubiao Wu
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Tjele 8830, Denmark
| | - Huijun Xie
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266247, PR China
| | - Haiming Wu
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China.
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Zhu Z, Cao X, Wang K, Guan Y, Ma Y, Li Z, Guan J. The environmental effects of microplastics and microplastic derived dissolved organic matter in aquatic environments: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173163. [PMID: 38735318 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Currently, microplastics (MPs) have ubiquitously distributed in different aquatic environments. Due to the unique physicochemical properties, MPs exhibit a variety of environmental effects with the coexisted contaminants. MPs can not only alter the migration of contaminants via vector effect, but also affect the transformation process and fate of contaminants via environmental persistent free radicals (EPFRs). The aging processes may enhance the interaction between MPs and co-existed contaminants. Thus, it is of great significance to review the aging mechanism of MPs and the influence of coexisted substances, the formation mechanism of EPFRs, environmental effects of MPs and relevant mechanism. Moreover, microplastic-derived dissolved organic matter (MP-DOM) may also influence the elemental biogeochemical cycles and the relevant environmental processes. However, the environmental implications of MP-DOM are rarely outlined. Finally, the knowledge gaps on environmental effects of MPs were proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Zhu
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Xu Cao
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Kezhi Wang
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Yujie Guan
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Yuqi Ma
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Zhuoyu Li
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Jiunian Guan
- School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, PR China.
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9
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Li Y, Neema P, Andrews S. Adsorption Behavior and Mechanisms of Trihalomethanes onto Virgin and Weathered Polyvinyl Chloride Microplastics. TOXICS 2024; 12:450. [PMID: 39058102 PMCID: PMC11281136 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12070450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics that adsorb various toxic contaminants in water may be transported into cells and organs, possibly posing toxicological risks in the aquatic environment. Disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which are ubiquitous in chlorinated drinking water and wastewater, may have some potential to sorb onto microplastics (MPs) through hydrophobic or electrostatic interactions. However, DBP adsorption on microplastics has not yet been closely examined. This work investigated the adsorption behavior of trihalomethanes (THMs)-a regulated and ubiquitous DBP class in chlorinated water-onto virgin and weathered polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics, the most widely used plastic material in drinking water distribution and sewer systems. A comparative analysis of kinetic and isotherm test results indicated that the adsorption mechanisms mainly involved hydrophobic interactions from a combination of weak and strong physisorption behavior and possibly chemisorption. The adsorption coefficients from all the models examined suggested that the adsorption of THMs, and perhaps chemically similar DBPs, onto virgin PVC microplastics can be 10-20 µg g-1. However, the weathered PVC microplastics contained more polar functional groups, which led to a decreased hydrophobicity and reduced THM adsorption capacity by approximately 10%. These findings offer novel insights into the possible adsorption characteristics of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) onto microplastics and will assist in targeting more toxic DBPs for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A4, Canada; (P.N.); (S.A.)
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10
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Zhang L, Qin Z, Bai H, Xue M, Tang J. Photochemically induced aging of polystyrene nanoplastics and its impact on norfloxacin adsorption behavior. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 930:172511. [PMID: 38641106 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of nanoplastics (NPs) and antibiotics in the environment is a growing concern for ecological safety. As NPs age in natural environments, their surface properties and morphology may change, potentially affecting their interactions with co-contaminants such as antibiotics. It is crucial to understand the effect of aging on NPs adsorption of antibiotics, but detailed studies on this topic are still scarce. The study utilized the photo-Fenton-like reaction to hasten the aging of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs). The impact of aging on the adsorption behavior of norfloxacin (NOR) was then systematically examined. The results showed a time-dependent rise in surface oxygen content and functional groups in aged PS-NPs. These modifications led to noticeable physical changes, including increased surface roughness, decreased particle size, and improved specific surface area. The physicochemical changes significantly increased the adsorption capacity of aged PS-NPs for norfloxacin. Aged PS-NPs showed 5.03 times higher adsorption compared to virgin PS-NPs. The adsorption mechanism analysis revealed that in addition to the electrostatic interactions, van der Waals force, hydrogen bonding, π-π* interactions and hydrophobic interactions observed with virgin PS-NPs, aged PS-NPs played a significant role in polar interactions and pore-filling mechanisms. The study highlights the potential for aging to worsen antibiotic risk in contaminated environments. This study not only enhances the comprehension of the environmental behavior of aged NPs but also provides a valuable basis for developing risk management strategies for contaminated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, School of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, Gansu, PR China.
| | - Zhi Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, School of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, Gansu, PR China
| | - He Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, School of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, Gansu, PR China
| | - Manyu Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, School of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, Gansu, PR China
| | - Jie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, School of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, Gansu, PR China
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Shao T, Wang R, Dong Z, Xing B. Antibiotics and microplastics in manure and surrounding soil of farms in the Loess Plateau: Occurrence and correlation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133434. [PMID: 38198861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133434] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The wide use of animal manure in farmland operations is a source of soil nutrients. However, the return of manure affected antibiotics and microplastics in the soil, thus the potential ecological risks cannot be overlooked. This study investigated the distribution of different antibiotics and microplastics and their correlation. It was found that multiple classes of veterinary antibiotics and microplastics could be detected simultaneously in most manure and soil. In manure, the average concentration of tetracycline antibiotics was higher than fluoroquinolones and sulfonamides. A much lower concentration of antibiotics was found in the soil samples relative to manure. The abundance of microplastics ranged from 21,333 to 88,333 n/kg in manure, and the average abundance was 50,583 ± 24,318 n/kg. The average abundance was 3056 ± 1746 n/kg in the soil. It confirmed that applying organic fertilizer to agricultural soil and the application of plastic mulch in farmlands introduced microplastics. Moreover, microplastics were found to be significantly correlated with antibiotics (r = 0.698, p < 0.001). The correlation between microplastics and antibiotics in soil was significantly weaker than that in manure. Farms could be the hotspot for the co-spread of microplastics and antibiotics. These findings highlighted the co-occurrence of antibiotics and microplastics in agricultural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China; Ordos Road Maintenance Service Center, Ordos Transportation Bureau, Ordos 017200, China
| | - Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
| | - Tianjie Shao
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Ruiyuan Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Zhibao Dong
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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