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Ugolini A, Russo A, Costa J, Cincinelli A, Martellini T, Conti L, Cavalieri D, Mercatelli L, Pogni R. Ingestion of chitosan-starch blends: Effect on the survival of supralittoral amphipods. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 950:175302. [PMID: 39111422 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175302] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Sandy beach ecosystems are particularly affected by plastic pollution. Supralittoral amphipods are important components of the food web in sandy beaches and their ability to ingest microplastics and bioplastics has been assessed. Chitosan, a polysaccharide obtained by deacetylation of chitin, the second most abundant polymer in the world, represents an interesting component to produce novel bioplastics in combination with other biopolymers like starch. Here, the possibility of ingesting chitosan-starch blends and the possible effects on the amphipod Talitrus saltator were investigated. Groups of adult individuals were fed with sheets containing mixtures of chitosan and starch in different percentages for 7 and 14 days. The results showed that chitosan ingestion is dependent on the percentage of starch present in the mixture. Moreover, FTIR analyses of both sheets and faecal pellets after consumption show that chitosan is not digested. Furthermore, the survival rate of amphipods fed with a mixture of chitosan and starch decreases after one week compared to the control groups (100 % starch and paper), and drops drastically to 0 % after two weeks the experiment began. In addition, consumption of 100 % chitosan is negligible. Therefore, the results of the experimental observations evidenced that chitosan is avoided as food resource and its consumption significantly affects the survival capacity of T. saltator. It is emphasized that the release of mixtures of chitosan and starch into the marine environment appears to be dangerous for littoral amphipods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica Costa
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Italy
| | | | - Tania Martellini
- Dipartimento di Chimica "Ugo Schiff", Università di Firenze, Italy
| | - Luca Conti
- Dipartimento di Chimica "Ugo Schiff", Università di Firenze, Italy
| | | | | | - Rebecca Pogni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Italy
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2
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Mhaddolkar N, Astrup TF, Tischberger-Aldrian A, Pomberger R, Vollprecht D. Challenges and opportunities in managing biodegradable plastic waste: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024:734242X241279902. [PMID: 39344513 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241279902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have certain challenges in a waste management perspective. The existing literature reviews fail to provide a consolidated overview of different process steps of biodegradable plastic waste management and to discuss the support provided by the existing legislation for the same. The present review provides a holistic overview of these process steps and a comprehensive relative summary of 13 existing European Union (EU) laws related to waste management and circular economy, and national legislations plus source separation guidelines of 13 countries, to ensure the optimal use of resources in the future. Following were the major findings: (i) numerous types and low volumes of biodegradable plastics pose a challenge to developing cost-effective waste management infrastructure; (ii) biodegradable plastics are promoted as food-waste collection aids, but consumers are often confused about their proper disposal and are prone to greenwashing from manufacturers; (iii) industry-level studies demonstrating mechanical recycling on a full scale are unavailable; (iv) the existing EU legislation dealt with general topics related to biodegradable plastics; however, only the new proposal on plastic packaging waste and the EU policy framework for bioplastics clearly mentioned their disposal and (v) clear disparities were observed between disposal methods suggested by national legislation and available source separation guidelines. Thus, to appropriately manage biodegradable plastic waste, it is necessary to develop waste processing and material utilization infrastructure as well as create consumer awareness. In the end, recommendations were provided for improved biodegradable plastic waste management from the perspective of systemic challenges identified from the literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Mhaddolkar
- Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW), Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL), Leoben, Austria
- DTU SUSTAIN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Danish Technical University (DTU), Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas Fruergaard Astrup
- DTU SUSTAIN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Danish Technical University (DTU), Lyngby, Denmark
- Ramboll, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Alexia Tischberger-Aldrian
- Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW), Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL), Leoben, Austria
| | - Roland Pomberger
- Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW), Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL), Leoben, Austria
| | - Daniel Vollprecht
- Chair of Resource and Chemical Engineering, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
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3
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Mhaddolkar N, Tischberger-Aldrian A, Astrup TF, Vollprecht D. Consumers confused 'Where to dispose biodegradable plastics?': A study of three waste streams. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024; 42:776-787. [PMID: 38449106 PMCID: PMC11373150 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241231408] [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: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics, either fossil- or biobased, are often promoted due to their biodegradability and acclaimed environmental friendliness. However, as demonstrated by previous literature, considerable confusion exists about the appropriate source separation and waste management of these plastics. Present study investigated this confusion based on manual sorting analyses of waste sampled from packaging waste (P), biowaste (B) and residual waste (R) in an urban area of Austria. The results were evaluated relative to near-infrared sensor-based sorting trials conducted in a German urban area. Although existing literature has focused on waste composition analyses (mostly in stand-alone studies) of the three waste streams, the present study focused on identifying the specific types of biodegradable plastic items found in each of these streams. Supermarket carrier bags (P = 90, B = 14, R = 33) and dustbin bags (P = 2, B = 46, R = 6) were found in all three waste streams in the Austrian urban area. Similarly, in the German urban area dustbin bags (P = 1, B = 106, R = 3) were the common items. The results indicate that certain bioplastic items were present in more than one bin; thus, hinting that consumers are not necessarily aware of how-to source-separate the biodegradable plastics. This suggests that neither consumers nor current waste management systems are fully 'adapted' to bioplastics, and the management of these plastics' waste is currently not optimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Mhaddolkar
- Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW), Montanuniversität Leoben, Leoben, Austria
- DTU SUSTAIN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Danish Technical University, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Alexia Tischberger-Aldrian
- Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW), Montanuniversität Leoben, Leoben, Austria
| | - Thomas Fruergaard Astrup
- DTU SUSTAIN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Danish Technical University, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Daniel Vollprecht
- Resource and Chemical Engineering, Augsburg University, Augsburg, Germany
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Falzarano M, Marìn A, Cabedo L, Polettini A, Pomi R, Rossi A, Zonfa T. Alternative end-of-life options for disposable bioplastic products: Degradation and ecotoxicity assessment in compost and soil. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142648. [PMID: 38906189 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Four different end-of-life options for disposable bioplastic cups were investigated and compared based on their environmental implications. Two products with distinct polymeric composition were tested simulating the following scenarios at laboratory scale: i) industrial composting (180 days at 58 °C); ii) anaerobic digestion followed by industrial composting (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 58 °C); iii) anaerobic digestion followed by direct digestate use on soil for agricultural purposes (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 25 °C); iv) uncontrolled release into a soil environment (180 days at 25 °C). Ecotoxicity tests were run at the end of each experiment to investigate the effects of the materials on three main groups of terrestrial model organisms: plants, earthworms and nitrifying bacteria. Complete biodegradation of the cups was observed in 180 days in the scenarios involving composting environment. A low degree of biodegradation (22.9 ± 4.5%) of the digestates in soil was observed, warning for a potential micro-bioplastics discharge into the environment. No degradation was observed for the cups in soil during the same testing period. Ecotoxicity tests revealed a negative effect on plants biomass growth across all samples, which was 17-30% lower compared to the blank sample. The experimental campaign highlighted the need for a systematic assessment of controlled treatment of bioplastics, as well as the need for a harmonized legislative framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Falzarano
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy.
| | - A Marìn
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I, Av. Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain
| | - L Cabedo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I, Av. Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain; CEBIMAT LAB S.L, ESPAITEC, Universitat Jaume I, Av. Vicent Sos Baynat S/n, 12071, Castelló, Spain
| | - A Polettini
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - R Pomi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - A Rossi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
| | - T Zonfa
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Roma, Italy
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5
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Ali Z, Abdullah M, Yasin MT, Amanat K, Ahmad K, Ahmed I, Qaisrani MM, Khan J. Organic waste-to-bioplastics: Conversion with eco-friendly technologies and approaches for sustainable environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 244:117949. [PMID: 38109961 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117949] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Petrochemical-based synthetic plastics poses a threat to humans, wildlife, marine life and the environment. Given the magnitude of eventual depletion of petrochemical sources and global environmental pollution caused by the manufacturing of synthetic plastics such as polyethylene (PET) and polypropylene (PP), it is essential to develop and adopt biopolymers as an environment friendly and cost-effective alternative to synthetic plastics. Research into bioplastics has been gaining traction as a way to create a more sustainable and eco-friendlier environment with a reduced environmental impact. Biodegradable bioplastics can have the same characteristics as traditional plastics while also offering additional benefits due to their low carbon footprint. Therefore, using organic waste from biological origin for bioplastic production not only reduces our reliance on edible feedstock but can also effectively assist with solid waste management. This review aims at providing an in-depth overview on recent developments in bioplastic-producing microorganisms, production procedures from various organic wastes using either pure or mixed microbial cultures (MMCs), microalgae, and chemical extraction methods. Low production yield and production costs are still the major bottlenecks to their deployment at industrial and commercial scale. However, their production and commercialization pose a significant challenge despite such potential. The major constraints are their production in small quantity, poor mechanical strength, lack of facilities and costly feed for industrial-scale production. This review further explores several methods for producing bioplastics with the aim of encouraging researchers and investors to explore ways to utilize these renewable resources in order to commercialize degradable bioplastics. Challenges, future prospects and Life cycle assessment of bioplastics are also highlighted. Utilizing a variety of bioplastics obtained from renewable and cost-effective sources (e.g., organic waste, agro-industrial waste, or microalgae) and determining the pertinent end-of-life option (e.g., composting or anaerobic digestion) may lead towards the right direction that assures the sustainable production of bioplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zain Ali
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdullah
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Talha Yasin
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
| | - Kinza Amanat
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
| | - Khurshid Ahmad
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266404, P.R. China.
| | - Ishfaq Ahmed
- Haide College, Ocean University of China, Laoshan Campus, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266100, PR China
| | - Muther Mansoor Qaisrani
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Jallat Khan
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology, 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan; Institute of Chemistry, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology (KFUEIT), 64200, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan.
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6
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Peng W, Nie R, Lü F, Zhang H, He P. Biodegradability of PBAT/PLA coated paper and bioplastic bags under anaerobic digestion. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 174:218-228. [PMID: 38064993 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.11.037] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) are two of biodegradable plastics with the highest production capacities in 2021. Bioplastic waste management can be easily integrated with organic waste management, especially when bioplastics are used as food packaging material, since they are potentially biodegradable. The aim of this study was to assess the biodegradability of biodegradable polymer-coated paper (BPCP) and bioplastic bags made from PBAT/PLA blend during mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) and to reveal the changes in the physicochemical properties of the bioplastics. BPCP obtained 155 NmL-CH4/g VS and 307.3 NmL-CH4/g VS under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, respectively, but left bioplastic film residues. The bioplastic bags did not exhibit significant biodegradation during the AD processes. 1H NMR results indicated that the ratio of PLA to PBAT decreased significantly after AD of the BPCP film and that PLA monomers were formed from the bioplastic bags, leading to a decrease in the hydrophobicity on the surfaces of the materials. Methanoculleus was found to be enriched on the bioplastic surface after mesophilic AD. From the perspective of coupling bioplastic waste management with the food waste management, the incorporation of BPCP into the AD reactor not only enhances system stability and methane production to a greater extent than biodegradable plastic bags but also raises concerns regarding the residual biofilm when utilizing the digestate for direct land applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Peng
- Institute of Waste Treatment & Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Rong Nie
- Institute of Waste Treatment & Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Fan Lü
- Institute of Waste Treatment & Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Institute of Waste Treatment & Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Pinjing He
- Institute of Waste Treatment & Reclamation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
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7
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Liu L, Wei D, Huang H, Guo C, Liu J, Hu C, Huang J. Effects of polystyrene microplastics on Euglena gracilis: Intracellular distribution and the protozoan transcriptional responses. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 266:106802. [PMID: 38096643 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) introduced into aquatic environments inevitably interact with aquatic organisms such as plankton, potentially yielding adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem. The extent to which MPs can infiltrate planktonic cells and evoke a molecular response remains largely unknown. In the present study, the internalization of fluorescently labeled polystyrene (PS) MPs on Euglena gracilis cells was investigated, determining the transcriptional responses within protozoa after an 8-day exposure period. The results showed that exposure to 25 mg/L PS-MPs for 8 days, significantly inhibited protozoan growth (P < 0.05) and decreased the chlorophyll a content of E. gracilis. The photosynthetic efficiency of E. gracilis was suppressed by MPs after 4 days, and then recovered to control values by the eighth day. Fluorescence imaging confirmed the presence of MPs in E. gracilis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the influence of PS-MPs on a diverse range of transcriptional processes, encompassing oxidative phosphorylation, oxidation-reduction process, photosynthesis, and antioxidant enzymes. Notably, a majority of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) exhibited down-regulation. Furthermore, PS-MPs disturbed the transcriptional regulation of chloroplasts and photosynthesis. These findings indicate a direct interaction between PS-MPs and organelles within E. gracilis cells following internalization, thereby disrupting regular gene expression patterns and posing a substantial environmental risk to the aquatic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China
| | - Dong Wei
- College of Life Science, Linyi University, Linyi 276000, PR China
| | - Hong Huang
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China
| | - Canyang Guo
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China
| | - Juan Liu
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China.
| | - Changwei Hu
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China
| | - Jiaying Huang
- College of Biological, Chemical Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, PR China
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8
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Qiu YL, Li Y, Zhang GL, Hao H, Hou HM, Bi J. Quaternary-ammonium chitosan, a promising packaging material in the food industry. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 323:121384. [PMID: 37940243 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Quaternary-ammonium chitosan (QAC) is a polysaccharide with good water solubility, bacteriostasis, and biocompatibility. QAC is obtained by methylating or grafting the quaternary-ammonium group of chitosan and is an important compound in the food industry. Various QAC-based complexes have been prepared using reversible intermolecular interactions, such as electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, metal coordination, host-guest interactions, and covalent bonding interactions consisting of Schiff base bonding and dynamic chemical bond cross-linking. In the food industry, QAC is often used as a substrate in film or coating for food preservation and as a carrier for active substances to improve the encapsulation efficiency and storage stability of functional food ingredients. In this review, we have assimilated the latest information on QAC to facilitate further discussions and future research. Advancement in research on QAC would contribute toward technology acceleration and its increased contribution to the field of food technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Long Qiu
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China
| | - Yixi Li
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China
| | - Gong-Liang Zhang
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongshun Hao
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Man Hou
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingran Bi
- School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Key Lab for Aquatic Processing Quality and Safety, No. 1, Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Rajeshkumar L, Kumar PS, Ramesh M, Sanjay MR, Siengchin S. Assessment of biodegradation of lignocellulosic fiber-based composites - A systematic review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127237. [PMID: 37804890 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Lignocellulosic fiber-reinforced polymer composites are the most extensively used modern-day materials with low density and better specific strength specifically developed to render better physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Synthetic fiber-reinforced composites face some serious issues like low biodegradability, non-environmentally friendly, and low disposability. Lignocellulosic or natural fiber-reinforced composites, which are developed from various plant-based fibers and animal-based fibers are considered potential substitutes for synthetic fiber composites because they are characterized by lightweight, better biodegradability, and are available at low cost. It is very much essential to study end-of-life (EoL) conditions like biodegradability for the biocomposites which occur commonly after their service life. During biodegradation, the physicochemical arrangement of the natural fibers, the environmental conditions, and the microbial populations, to which the natural fiber composites are exposed, play the most influential factors. The current review focuses on a comprehensive discussion of the standards and assessment methods of biodegradation in aerobic and anaerobic conditions on a laboratory scale. This review is expected to serve the materialists and technologists who work on the EoL behaviour of various materials, particularly in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites to apply these standards and test methods to various classes of biocomposites for developing sustainable materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rajeshkumar
- Centre for Machining and Materials Testing, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Sathish Kumar
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - M Ramesh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M R Sanjay
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Suchart Siengchin
- Natural Composites Research Group Lab, Department of Materials and Production Engineering, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS), King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), Bangkok, Thailand
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10
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Zhang Y, Tao J, Bai Y, Wang F, Xie B. Incomplete degradation of aromatic-aliphatic copolymer leads to proliferation of microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 181:108291. [PMID: 37907056 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics (BDPs) have attracted extensive attention as an alternative to conventional plastics. BDPs could be mineralized by composting, while the quality of compost affected by the presence of BDPs and the residual microplastics (MPs) has not been well evaluated. This study aimed to explore the MPs release potential and environmental implications of commercial BDPs (aromatic-aliphatic copolymer) films in uncontrolled composting. Results showed that the molecular weight of BDPs decreased by >60% within 60 d. However, the non-extracted organic matter and wet-sieving measurements indicated that MPs continuously released and accumulated during regular composting. The average MPs release potential (0.1-5 mm) was 134.6 ± 18.1 particles/mg (BDPs), which resulted in 103-104 particles/g dw in compost. The plastisphere of MPs showed a significantly higher (0.95-16.76 times) abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), which resulted in the rising (1.34-2.24 times) of ARGs in compost heaps, in comparison to the control groups. Overall, BDPs promote the spread of ARGs through the selective enrichment of bacteria and horizontal transfer from released MPs. These findings confirmed that BDPs could enhance the release potential of MPs and the dissemination of ARGs, which would promote the holistic understanding and environmental risk of BDPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jianping Tao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yudan Bai
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Bing Xie
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
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11
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Savva K, Farré M, Barata C. Sublethal effects of bio-plastic microparticles and their components on the behaviour of Daphnia magna. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 236:116775. [PMID: 37517491 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics arise as an alternative to plastic production delinked from fossil resources. However, as their demand is increasing, there is a need to investigate their environmental fingerprint. Here we study the toxicity of microplastics (MPLs) of two widely used materials, the polylactic acid (PLA) and the polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) on the environmental aquatic model species Daphnia magna. The study was focused on sublethal behavioural and feeding endpoints linked to antipredator scape responses and food intake. The study aimed to test that MPLs from single-use household comercial items and among them bioplastics should be more toxic than those obtained from standard plastic polymers and fossil plastic materials due to the greater amount of plastic additives, and that MPLs should be more toxic than plastic extracts due to the contribution of both particle and plastic additive toxicity. MPLs were obtained by cryogenic grinding and sea-sand erosion to obtain irregular particles. MPL included standard polymers and nine comercial items of PLA and PHB and one fossil-based material of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The additive content in commercial items was characterised by liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. D. magna juveniles were exposed for 24 h to particles and their plastic extracts. Results indicated that the toxicity of bioplastic particles was five times higher than the effects produced by exposure to the content of the additives alone, that bioplastic particles were more toxic than fossil ones and that particles obtained from commercial items were more toxic than those obtained from PLA, PHB or HDPE polymer standards. Predicted toxicity from the measured plastic additives in the studied commercially available household items, however, was poorly related with the observed behavioural and feeding effects. Further research on unknown chemical components together with physical factors is need it to fully understand the mechanisms of toxicity of bioplastic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Savva
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marinella Farré
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Barata
- Institute for Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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12
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Elsamahy T, Al-Tohamy R, Abdelkarim EA, Zhu D, El-Sheekh M, Sun J, Ali SS. Strategies for efficient management of microplastics to achieve life cycle assessment and circular economy. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1361. [PMID: 37870605 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11955-7] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The anticipated increase in the influx of plastic waste into aquatic environments has propelled the identification and elimination of plastic waste into the global agenda. The plastics sector generates a significant volume of materials, which, due to their extended durability, accumulate rapidly in natural ecosystems. Consequently, this indiscriminate utilization, along with the deposition of plastic waste (PW) in landfills and inadequate recycling practices, leads to diverse economic, social, and environmental consequences. Microplastics (MPs) are a type of PW that has been fragmented into particles measuring less than 5 mm. These particles have been found in several environments, including the air, soil, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems, where they accumulate in large quantities. In order to gain insight into the ecological risks and resource implications associated with a plastic product, it is strongly advised to conduct life cycle and sustainability analyses. Therefore, this paper examines various strategies aimed at achieving effective management of MP waste in order to develop a conceptual framework for MPs in circular economy and life cycle assessment (LCA). The findings of this study provides a new avenue for future research and contribution to manage MP waste as well as reduce their environmentally hazardous impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer Elsamahy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Rania Al-Tohamy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Esraa A Abdelkarim
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Daochen Zhu
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Mostafa El-Sheekh
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Jianzhong Sun
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
| | - Sameh S Ali
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt.
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13
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Nguyen MK, Lin C, Nguyen HL, Le VR, Kl P, Singh J, Chang SW, Um MJ, Nguyen DD. Emergence of microplastics in the aquatic ecosystem and their potential effects on health risks: The insights into Vietnam. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 344:118499. [PMID: 37480638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The increase of microplastic contamination in Vietnam is a growing concern due to various domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities. The use of plastic mulch and sludge application in agricultural farmland, textile production, daily consumer items, cleaning agents, and health/personal care products contribute significantly to the increasing microplastic pollution in the aquatic ecosystem. The concentration of microplastics reported in surface water ranged from 0.35 to 519,000 items m-3, with fibers and fragments being the most prevalent shapes. Notably, the high concentration of microplastics was observed in lakes, canals, and megacities such as Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, which poses potential health risks to the local community via drinking-water supply and food chains. As an emerging pollutant, MPs are the transport vectors for contaminants in environmental matrices that act as a carrier of hazardous pollutants, release toxic compounds, and evenly aggregate/accumulate in biota. Recent studies have reported the presence of microplastics in various marine organisms, including fish and shellfish, highlighting the risk of ingestion of these particles by humans and wildlife. Thus, it is imperative to monitor microplastic contamination in the ecosystem to provide helpful information for the government and local communities. Efforts should be taken to reduce microplastic pollution at the source to minimize potential effects on ecological and health safety. This review paper emphasizes the urgent need for further research on microplastic pollution in Vietnam and highlights potential solutions to mitigate this emerging environmental threat. KEYWORKS: single-use plastics; microplastics; ecosystems; plastic waste; health risk; ecological and health safety; pollution mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ky Nguyen
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Hoang-Lam Nguyen
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Van-Re Le
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry (HUFI), Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Priya Kl
- Department of Civil Engineering, TKM College of Engineering, Kollam 691005, India
| | - Jagpreet Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, Punjab, India
| | - Soon W Chang
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Jin Um
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - D Duc Nguyen
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea; Faculty of Environmental and Food Engineering, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Viet Nam.
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14
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Bracciale MP, De Gioannis G, Falzarano M, Muntoni A, Polettini A, Pomi R, Rossi A, Sarasini F, Tirillò J, Zonfa T. Anaerobic biodegradation of disposable PLA-based products: Assessing the correlation with physical, chemical and microstructural properties. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 452:131244. [PMID: 36965354 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131244] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present study commercial Polylactic Acid-based disposable cups and plates were selected for lab scale anaerobic degradability tests. The experiments were carried out under thermophilic conditions at different inoculum to substrate ratios and test material sizes, and the specific biogas production and associated kinetics were evaluated. Maximum biogas production was comparable for almost all the experimental runs (1620 and 1830 NmL/gTOCPLA) and a biodegradation degree in the range 86-100% was attained. Moreover, physical, chemical and microscopical analyses were used to characterize the tested materials before and after the degradation. The products composition was assessed and the presence of some additives (mainly Ca-based) was detected. Potential correlations among the process parameters and product composition were derived and a delay in process kinetics with increasing amount of additives embedded in the polymeric matrix was observed, confirming the relevant influence of the chemical blend on the biodegradation process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgia De Gioannis
- DICAAR Department, University of Cagliari, Piazza D'Armi 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marica Falzarano
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy.
| | - Aldo Muntoni
- DICAAR Department, University of Cagliari, Piazza D'Armi 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Polettini
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
| | - Raffaella Pomi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
| | - Andreina Rossi
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Sarasini
- DICMA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
| | - Jacopo Tirillò
- DICMA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
| | - Tatiana Zonfa
- DICEA Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Roma, Italy
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15
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Martellini T, Russo A, Cincinelli A, Santini S, Lofrumento C, Baini M, Ciattini S, Conti L, Mostardini F, Mercatelli L, Ugolini A. Bioplastics on marine sandy shores: Effects on the key species Talitrus saltator (Montagu, 1808). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 876:162811. [PMID: 36924974 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162811] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Talitrid amphipods are an important component of detritus web, playing a key role in the fragmentation of organic matters of marine and terrestrial origin, and it is well known that sandhoppers ingest microplastics. To assess the effective consumption of bioplastics and their effects on survival rate and on pollutants transfer (i.e. phthalates) on supralittoral arthropods, laboratory experiments were conducted by feeding adult T. saltator with two different types of bioplastic commonly used in the production of shopping bags. Groups of about 20 individuals were fed with 10 × 10 cm sample sheets of the two types of bioplastic for four weeks. The results show that amphipods ingest bioplastics even in the absence of microbial film and that ingestion of bioplastic can have effects on talitrid amphipods. Microtomographic analyses of faecal pellets seem consistent with this finding. The high phthalate concentrations in freshly collected individuals suggest the presence in the environment of these compounds, and the ability of amphipods to assimilate them, while the decrease in phthalate concentrations in bioplastic-fed individuals could be attributed to the scavenging effect of virgin plastic, as already observed in a previous study. In summary, the results indicate that different bioplastics may have effects on T. saltator (i.e. survival rate and faecal pellets structure) and confirm a potential role of amphipods in the degradation of bioplastics in supralittoral zone of marine sandy beaches, even when bioplastics are not colonized by bacterial biofilm that seems to improve palatability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Martellini
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy; CSGI, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Russo
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Romana 17, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy; CSGI, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Saul Santini
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Cristiana Lofrumento
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Samuele Ciattini
- Centro di Cristallografia (CRIST), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, I-50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Conti
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3, Sesto F.no, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | | | - Luca Mercatelli
- National institute of Optics, CNR, Largo E. Fermi, 6, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Ugolini
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Romana 17, 50125 Florence, Italy.
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16
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Gadaleta G, Ferrara C, De Gisi S, Notarnicola M, De Feo G. Life cycle assessment of end-of-life options for cellulose-based bioplastics when introduced into a municipal solid waste management system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 871:161958. [PMID: 36737011 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161958] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The partial degradation of cellulose-based bioplastics in industrial treatment of organic fraction of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) opened to the investigation of further disposal routes for bioplastics in the waste management system. For this purpose, the environmental footprint of three MSW management scenarios differing only for the bioplastics final destination (organic, plastic or mixed waste streams) was assessed through a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. Results revealed how the treatment of bioplastics with organic waste achieved the worst environmental performance (5.8 kg CO2 eq/FU) for most impact categories. On the other hand, treatment with plastics and mixed waste achieved negative impact values (that mean avoided GHG emissions) of -9.8 and -7.7 kg CO2 eq/FU respectively, showing comparable benefits from these scenarios. The key reason was the lower quality of compost obtained from the organic treatment route, which reduced the environmental credits achieved by the energy recovery during anaerobic digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Gadaleta
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, I-70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Ferrara
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Sabino De Gisi
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, I-70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Michele Notarnicola
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, I-70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni De Feo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
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17
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Idris SN, Amelia TSM, Bhubalan K, Lazim AMM, Zakwan NAMA, Jamaluddin MI, Santhanam R, Amirul AAA, Vigneswari S, Ramakrishna S. The degradation of single-use plastics and commercially viable bioplastics in the environment: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:115988. [PMID: 37105296 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have become an integral part of human life. Single-use plastics (SUPs) are disposable plastics designed to be used once then promptly discarded or recycled. This SUPs range from packaging and takeaway containers to disposable razors and hotel toiletries. Synthetic plastics, which are made of non-renewable petroleum and natural gas resources, require decades to perpetually disintegrate in nature thus contribute to plastic pollution worldwide, especially in marine environments. In response to these problems, bioplastics or bio-based and biodegradable polymers from renewable sources has been considered as an alternative. Understanding the mechanisms behind the degradation of conventional SUPs and biodegradability of their greener counterpart, bioplastics, is crucial for appropriate material selection in the future. This review aims to provide insights into the degradation or disintegration of conventional single-use plastics and the biodegradability of the different types of greener-counterparts, bioplastics, their mechanisms, and conditions. This review highlights on the biodegradation in the environments including composting systems. Here, the various types of alternative biodegradable polymers, such as bacterially biosynthesised bioplastics, natural fibre-reinforced plastics, starch-, cellulose-, lignin-, and soy-based polymers were explored. Review of past literature revealed that although bioplastics are relatively eco-friendly, their natural compositions and properties are inconsistent. Furthermore, the global plastic market for biodegradable plastics remains relatively small and require further research and commercialization efforts, especially considering the urgency of plastic and microplastic pollution as currently critical global issue. Biodegradable plastics have potential to replace conventional plastics as they show biodegradation ability under real environments, and thus intensive research on the various biodegradable plastics is needed to inform stakeholders and policy makers on the appropriate response to the gradually emerging biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti Norliyana Idris
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tan Suet May Amelia
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Kesaven Bhubalan
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Anim Maisara Mohd Lazim
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Muhammad Imran Jamaluddin
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Rameshkumar Santhanam
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Al-Ashraf Abdullah Amirul
- School of Biological Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia; Centre for Chemical Biology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia; Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Sevakumaran Vigneswari
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanotechnology and Sustainability, national University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore.
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18
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Falzarano M, Polettini A, Pomi R, Rossi A, Zonfa T. Anaerobic Biodegradability of Commercial Bioplastic Products: Systematic Bibliographic Analysis and Critical Assessment of the Latest Advances. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:2216. [PMID: 36984096 PMCID: PMC10058929 DOI: 10.3390/ma16062216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics have entered everyday life as a potential sustainable substitute for commodity plastics. However, still further progress should be made to clarify their degradation behavior under controlled and uncontrolled conditions. The wide array of biopolymers and commercial blends available make predicting the biodegradation degree and kinetics quite a complex issue that requires specific knowledge of the multiple factors affecting the degradation process. This paper summarizes the main scientific literature on anaerobic digestion of biodegradable plastics through a general bibliographic analysis and a more detailed discussion of specific results from relevant experimental studies. The critical analysis of literature data initially included 275 scientific references, which were then screened for duplication/pertinence/relevance. The screened references were analyzed to derive some general features of the research profile, trends, and evolution in the field of anaerobic biodegradation of bioplastics. The second stage of the analysis involved extracting detailed results about bioplastic degradability under anaerobic conditions by screening analytical and performance data on biodegradation performance for different types of bioplastic products and different anaerobic biodegradation conditions, with a particular emphasis on the most recent data. A critical overview of existing biopolymers is presented, along with their properties and degradation mechanisms and the operating parameters influencing/enhancing the degradation process under anaerobic conditions.
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19
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Porterfield KK, Hobson SA, Neher DA, Niles MT, Roy ED. Microplastics in composts, digestates, and food wastes: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2023; 52:225-240. [PMID: 36645846 DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Diverting food waste from landfills to composting or anaerobic digestion can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enable the recovery of energy in usable forms, and create nutrient-rich soil amendments. However, many food waste streams are mixed with plastic packaging, raising concerns that food waste-derived composts and digestates may inadvertently introduce microplastics into agricultural soils. Research on the occurrence of microplastics in food waste-derived soil amendments is in an early phase and the relative importance of this potential pathway of microplastics to agricultural soils needs further clarification. In this paper, we review what is known and what is not known about the abundance of microplastics in composts, digestates, and food wastes and their effects on agricultural soils. Additionally, we highlight future research needs and suggest ways to harmonize microplastic abundance and ecotoxicity studies with the design of related policies. This review is novel in that it focuses on quantitative measures of microplastics in composts, digestates, and food wastes and discusses limitations of existing methods and implications for policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine K Porterfield
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Sarah A Hobson
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Deborah A Neher
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Meredith T Niles
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences & Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Eric D Roy
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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20
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Recent Advances in Biodegradable Polymers and Their Biological Applications: A Brief Review. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14224924. [PMID: 36433050 PMCID: PMC9693219 DOI: 10.3390/polym14224924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The rising significance of the field of biopolymers has driven the rapid progress of this distinctive class of polymeric materials in the past decades. Biodegradable polymers have acquired much attention because they play an essential role in humans' lives due to their specific tunable electrical conductivity and biodegradability characteristics, making them fascinating in many applications. Herein, we debated the recent progress in developing biodegradable polymers and their applications. Initially, we introduce the basics of conducting and biodegradable polymers, trailed by debates about the effective strategies currently used to develop biopolymers. Special importance will focus on the uses of biodegradable polymers in drug delivery and tissue engineering, as well as wound healing, demonstrating the recent findings, and uses of several biodegradable polymers in modern biological uses. In this review, we have provided comprehensive viewpoints on the latest progress of the challenges and future prospects involving biodegradable polymers' advancement and commercial applications.
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21
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Bandini F, Vaccari F, Soldano M, Piccinini S, Misci C, Bellotti G, Taskin E, Cocconcelli PS, Puglisi E. Rigid bioplastics shape the microbial communities involved in the treatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1035561. [PMID: 36439796 PMCID: PMC9691671 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1035561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
While bioplastics are gaining wide interest in replacing conventional plastics, it is necessary to understand whether the treatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) as an end-of-life option is compatible with their biodegradation and their possible role in shaping the microbial communities involved in the processes. In the present work, we assessed the microbiological impact of rigid polylactic acid (PLA) and starch-based bioplastics (SBB) spoons on the thermophilic anaerobic digestion and the aerobic composting of OFMSW under real plant conditions. In order to thoroughly evaluate the effect of PLA and SBB on the bacterial, archaeal, and fungal communities during the process, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technology was carried out. The results suggest that bioplastics shape the communities' structure, especially in the aerobic phase. Distinctive bacterial and fungal sequences were found for SBB compared to the positive control, which showed a more limited diversity. Mucor racemosus was especially abundant in composts from bioplastics' treatment, whereas Penicillium roqueforti was found only in compost from PLA and Thermomyces lanuginosus in that from SBB. This work shed a light on the microbial communities involved in the OFMSW treatment with and without the presence of bioplastics, using a new approach to evaluate this end-of-life option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Bandini
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Filippo Vaccari
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Mariangela Soldano
- Centro Ricerche Produzioni Animali S.p.A. (CRPA), Reggio Emilia, RE, Italy
| | - Sergio Piccinini
- Centro Ricerche Produzioni Animali S.p.A. (CRPA), Reggio Emilia, RE, Italy
| | - Chiara Misci
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Gabriele Bellotti
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Eren Taskin
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Pier Sandro Cocconcelli
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
| | - Edoardo Puglisi
- Department for Sustainable Food Process, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, PC, Italy
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22
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Misic C, Rafael A, Covazzi Harriague A. Organic matter production and recycling in marine biofilm developing on common and new plastics. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 180:105729. [PMID: 36007343 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To face the recent pandemic and comply with international legislation, new plastic objects (surgical masks, nitrile gloves, compostable plastics) have been produced, with a significant increase of their input into the marine environment, together with other common plastics. Given that floating plastic provides a suitable surface for settlement of micro-organism, biofilm accretion was studied in laboratory experiments. The characteristics of biofilm in terms of organic matter production and recycling were evaluated under natural and forced conditions, some of them resembling anthropogenic-affected states (eutrophication) and others environmental variability (darkness and oligotrophy). Under natural conditions, the different plastics, due to their structure and composition, hosted different biofilms. Thicker biofilm was observed on surgical mask and compostable plastic (organic carbon maxima of 35.0 ± 4.7 μg cm-2 and 4.3 ± 0.8 μg cm-2, respectively). Compostable plastic hosted a higher carbohydrate quantity than polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene and nitrile (on average 8.0 ± 0.8 μg cm-2 vs 3.6 ± 1.6 μg cm-2 for the others). The multi-layer structure of masks and the composition of compostable plastic were the main factors responsible for these differences. Polystyrene and nitrile hosted a higher photoautotrophic biomass, with chlorophyll-a maxima higher than 50 μg cm-2 vs values lower than 10 μg cm-2 for compostable plastic. Inhibition of photosynthetic activity (darkness) allowed a greater biofilm mass, which in natural aphotic zone, may enhance the sinking of plastics. The large availability of carbon (eutrophication) allowed thicker biofilms, providing seawater of additional organic matter load. These biofilms could protect pathogenic organisms, especially on disposable protection equipment, allowing a larger spreading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Misic
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Italy.
| | - Adisy Rafael
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Italy
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23
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Hassan HMA, Betiha MA, Negm NA, El-Hashemy MA, El-Sayed MY, El-Aassar MR, Alsohaimi IH. Valuation of rice straw residues: Production of silylated methylcellulose containing propylamine and propylethylenediamine for use as anticorrosion and antibacterial. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 220:1241-1252. [PMID: 36030975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.08.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Green technology is a scientific movement seeking to eliminate industrial chemicals and replace them with natural products by valorizing natural resources or biological waste. In this work, we present the extraction of cellulose from rice straw and chemically modified water-dispersible cellulose (methylcellulose) by performing a methylation process. The methylcellulose is chemically bonded to N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine, and (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane compounds to produce a cellulose-organosilane hybrid. The prepared compounds were studied with appropriate techniques such as 1H NMR, XRD, FTIR, TGA, Raman spectroscopy, FE-SEM, and AFM. The prepared materials were used as corrosion inhibitors of steel in 1 N H2SO4 for studies of potentiodynamic polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The materials were also studied as antibacterial agents. The results indicate the successful use of a modified extracted cellulose hybrid in the corrosion field and as an antibacterial agent. Quantum chemical assessments based on density functional theory (DFT) of the trimethoxysilyl propylamine and dimethoxymethylsilyl propylethylenediamine grafted methylcellulose were calculated. The results obtained showed the agreement of the theoretical data with the experimental data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M A Hassan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia.
| | - M A Betiha
- Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute, Cairo 11727, Nasr City, Egypt.
| | - Nabel A Negm
- Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute, Cairo 11727, Nasr City, Egypt
| | - Mohammed A El-Hashemy
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia; Air Pollution Research Department, Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Y El-Sayed
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia
| | - M R El-Aassar
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Awasthi SK, Kumar M, Kumar V, Sarsaiya S, Anerao P, Ghosh P, Singh L, Liu H, Zhang Z, Awasthi MK. A comprehensive review on recent advancements in biodegradation and sustainable management of biopolymers. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 307:119600. [PMID: 35691442 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen upsurge in plastic manufacturing and its utilization in various fields, such as, packaging, household goods, medical applications, and beauty products. Due to various adverse impacts imposed by synthetic plastics on the health of living well-being and the environment, the biopolymers have been emerged out an alternative. Although, the biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are entirely degradable. However, the other polymers, such as poly (lactic acid) (PLA) are only partially degradable and often not biosynthesized. Biodegradation of the polymers using microorganisms is considered an effective bioremediation approach. Biodegradation can be performed in aerobic and anaerobic environments. In this context, the present review discusses the biopolymer production, their persistence in the environment, aerobic biodegradation, anaerobic biodegradation, challenges associated with biodegradation and future perspectives. In addition, this review discusses the advancement in the technologies associated with biopolymer production, biodegradation, and their biodegradation standard in different environmental settings. Furthermore, differences in the degradation condition in the laboratory as well as on-site are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Manish Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vinay Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Surendra Sarsaiya
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Prathmesh Anerao
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pooja Ghosh
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Lal Singh
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Hong Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Zengqiang Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, PR China.
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25
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Willis B, Fytianos G. Towards Microplastic Reduction Within Institutions. WATER, AIR, AND SOIL POLLUTION 2022; 233:337. [PMID: 35965691 PMCID: PMC9361896 DOI: 10.1007/s11270-022-05790-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Globally, universities, institutions, and companies are aiming to reduce the use of single-use plastics as plastic litter, and plastic degradation generates secondary microplastics, all of which cause negative impacts on the environment. In this study the authors conducted a questionnaire-based survey to assess the willingness and motivation of stakeholders within academic settings to change daily habits to minimize plastic and microplastic pollution. The questionnaire, which was answered by 276 individuals with affiliation to the American Farm School or collaborating academic institutions, but primarily the American Farm School, was used to draw conclusions. Results showed that most stakeholders are ready to adapt to eliminate the use of single-use plastic within their institution and showed a high level of willingness to participate in cleaning campaigns. It is crucial to combine any new measures or policies with the proper education around why these measures are being enforced, so as to raise awareness and receptivity to those that are not familiar with microplastics and microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Willis
- Department of Environmental Science, Perrotis College, American Farm School, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Fytianos
- Department of Environmental Science, Perrotis College, American Farm School, Thessaloniki, Greece
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26
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Carbon Footprint and Total Cost Evaluation of Different Bio-Plastics Waste Treatment Strategies. CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/cleantechnol4020035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
To address the problem of fossil-based pollution, bio-plastics have risen in use in a wide range of applications. The current waste management system still has some weakness for bio-plastics waste (BPW) treatment, and quantitative data is lacking. This study combines environmental and economic assessments in order to indicate the most sustainable and suitable BPW management treatment between organic, plastic and mixed wastes. For the scope, the carbon footprint of each scenario was calculated by life cycle assessment (LCA), while the total cost of the waste management system was used as an economic parameter. The economic evaluation revealed that the organic, plastic and mixed waste treatment routes reached a total cost of 120.35, 112.21 and 109.43 EUR, respectively. The LCA results showed that the incomplete degradation of BPW during anaerobic digestion and composting led to the disposal of the compost produced, creating an environmental burden of 324.64 kgCO2-Eq. for the organic waste treatment route, while the mixed and plastic treatment routes obtained a benefit of −87.16 and −89.17 kgCO2-Eq. respectively. This study showed that, although the current amount of BPW does not affect the treatment process of organic, plastic and mixed wastes, it can strongly affect the quality of the output, compromising its further reuse. Therefore, specific improvement of waste treatment should be pursued, particularly with regard to the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, which remains a promising technology for BPW treatment.
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27
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Gadaleta G, De Gisi S, Picuno C, Heerenklage J, Cafiero L, Oliviero M, Notarnicola M, Kuchta K, Sorrentino A. The influence of bio-plastics for food packaging on combined anaerobic digestion and composting treatment of organic municipal waste. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 144:87-97. [PMID: 35334386 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The use of bio-plastic-based packaging as an alternative to conventional plastic packaging is increasing. Among the plethora of different bio-based plastics, the most relevant ones are those that, at the end of their life, can be treated with the organic fraction of municipal solid waste. Even in these cases, their impact on the waste processing and recycling is not always positive. This study aim to assess on a laboratory scale the influence on combined anaerobic digestion and composting industrial processes of a bio-based plastic film, namely cellulose acetate (CA), in pure and modified (additions of additive) forms. CA films were mixed with organic waste and subjected to: (i) anaerobic digestion; (ii) active composting and (iii) two stages of curing composting. Anaerobic digestion and composting were monitored through methane yield and oxygen uptake respectively; additionally, the bio-plastics degree of disintegration was assessed during all the processes. The final disintegration of pure and modified CA was 73.82% and 54.66%, respectively. Anaerobic digestion contributes to the disintegration of the material, while aerobic treatment appears to be nearly ineffective, especially for modified CA. The presence of cellulose acetate during anaerobic digestion of food waste increased the methane yield by about 4.5%. Bioassay confirmed the absence of possible toxic effects on the final compost from the bio-plastic treatment. Although bio-based materials are not the only solution to plastic pollution, the findings confirm the need to upgrade the organic waste treatment plants and the necessity to revise the requirements for the use of compost in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Gadaleta
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Sabino De Gisi
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Caterina Picuno
- Hamburg University of Technology - Sustainable Resource and Waste Management, Blohmstraße 15, D-21079 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joern Heerenklage
- Hamburg University of Technology - Sustainable Resource and Waste Management, Blohmstraße 15, D-21079 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Livia Cafiero
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB), National Research Council (CNR), P.le E. Fermi, 1, I-80055 Portici (Napoli), Italy
| | - Maria Oliviero
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB), National Research Council (CNR), P.le E. Fermi, 1, I-80055 Portici (Napoli), Italy
| | - Michele Notarnicola
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering and Chemistry (DICATECh), Politecnico di Bari, Via E. Orabona n.4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Kerstin Kuchta
- Hamburg University of Technology - Sustainable Resource and Waste Management, Blohmstraße 15, D-21079 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Sorrentino
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB), National Research Council (CNR), P.le E. Fermi, 1, I-80055 Portici (Napoli), Italy
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28
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High poly ε-caprolactone biodegradation activity by a new Acinetobacter seifertii isolate. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2022; 67:659-669. [PMID: 35384558 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-022-00964-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Poly(ε-caprolactone; PCL) is an attractive biodegradable polymer that has been increasingly used to solve environmental problems caused by plastic wastes. In the present study, 468 bacterial isolates were recovered from soil samples and screened for PCL degradation activity. Of the isolates, 37 (7.9%) showed PCL depolymerase activity on PCL agar medium, with the highest activity being by isolate S22 which was identified using 16S rRNA and rpoB gene sequencing as Acinetobacter seifertii. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the degradation of PCL films after treatment with A. seifertii S22. The PCL depolymerase activity of A. seifertii S22 relied on the activity of esterase which occurred at an optimum temperature of 30-40 °C. The highest PCL depolymerase activity (35.5 ± 0.7 U/mL) was achieved after culturing A. seifertii S22 for 6 h in mineral salt medium (MSM) containing 0.1% Tween 20 and 0.02% ammonium sulfate as the carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, which was approximately 20-fold higher than for cultivation in MSM supplemented with 0.1% PCL as sole carbon source. The results suggested that A. seifertii S22 or its enzymes could be used for PCL bioplastic degradation.
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29
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Miloloža M, Bule K, Prevarić V, Cvetnić M, Ukić Š, Bolanča T, Kučić Grgić D. Assessment of the Influence of Size and Concentration on the Ecotoxicity of Microplastics to Microalgae Scenedesmus sp., Bacterium Pseudomonas putida and Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14061246. [PMID: 35335576 PMCID: PMC8952821 DOI: 10.3390/polym14061246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The harmful effects of microplastics are not yet fully revealed. This study tested harmful effects of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics were tested. Growth inhibition tests were conducted using three microorganisms with different characteristics: Scenedesmus sp., Pseudomonas putida, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The growth inhibition test with Scenedesmus sp. is relatively widely used, while the tests with Pseudomonas putida and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were, to our knowledge, applied to microplastics for the first time. The influence of concentration and size of microplastic particles, in the range of 50–1000 mg/L and 200–600 µm, was tested. Determined inhibitions on all three microorganisms confirmed the hazardous potential of the microplastics used. Modeling of the inhibition surface showed the increase in harmfulness with increasing concentration of the microplastics. Particle size showed no effect for Scenedesmus with PE, PP and PET, Pseudomonas putida with PS, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae with PP. In the remaining cases, higher inhibitions followed a decrease in particle size. The exception was Scenedesmus sp. with PS, where the lowest inhibitions were obtained at 400 µm. Finally, among the applied tests, the test with Saccharomyces cerevisiae proved to be the most sensitive to microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Miloloža
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
| | - Kristina Bule
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
| | - Viktorija Prevarić
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
| | - Matija Cvetnić
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
| | - Šime Ukić
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
- Correspondence: (Š.U.); (D.K.G.); Tel.: +385-1-4597-217 (Š.U.); Fax: +385-1-4597-250 (Š.U.)
| | - Tomislav Bolanča
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
- Department for Packaging, Recycling and Environmental Protection, University North, 48000 Koprivnica, Croatia
| | - Dajana Kučić Grgić
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.M.); (K.B.); (V.P.); (M.C.); (T.B.)
- Correspondence: (Š.U.); (D.K.G.); Tel.: +385-1-4597-217 (Š.U.); Fax: +385-1-4597-250 (Š.U.)
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30
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The Influence of Additives and Environment on Biodegradation of PHBV Biocomposites. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14040838. [PMID: 35215751 PMCID: PMC8963093 DOI: 10.3390/polym14040838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The biodegradation of polyhydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) ternary biocomposites containing nature-based plasticizer acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), heterogeneous nucleation agents-calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and spray-dried lignin-coated cellulose nanocrystals (L-CNC)-in vermicomposting, freshwater biotope, and thermophilic composting have been studied. The degree of disintegration, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and the evaluation of surface images taken by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were conducted for the determination influence of different environments and additives on the biodegradation of PHBV. Furthermore, the method adapted from ISO 14855-1 standard was used for thermophilic composting. It is a method based on the measurement of the amount of carbon dioxide evolved during microbial degradation. The highest biodegradation rate was observed in the thermophilic condition of composting. The biodegradation level of all PHBV-based samples was, after 90 days, higher than 90%. Different mechanisms of degradation and consequently different degradation rate were evaluated in vermicomposting and freshwater biotope. The surface enzymatic degradation, observed during the vermicomposting process, showed slightly higher biodegradation potential than the hydrolytic attack of freshwater biotope. The application of ATBC plasticizers in the PHBV matrix caused an increase in biodegradation rate in all environments. However, the highest biodegradation rate was achieved for ternary PHBV biocomposites containing 10 wt. % of ATBC and 10 wt. % of CaCO3. A considerable increase in the degree of disintegration was evaluated, even in freshwater biotope. Furthermore, the slight inhibition effect of L-CNC on the biodegradation process of ternary PHBV/ATBC/L-CNC could be stated.
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31
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Biopolymers: Global Carbon Footprint and Climate Change. Biopolymers 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-98392-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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32
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Birania S, Kumar S, Kumar N, Attkan AK, Panghal A, Rohilla P, Kumar R. Advances in development of biodegradable food packaging material from agricultural and
agro‐industry
waste. J FOOD PROCESS ENG 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpe.13930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Birania
- Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- AICRP on Post Harvest Engineering & Technology (Hisar Centre), Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Nitin Kumar
- Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Arun Kumar Attkan
- Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Anil Panghal
- AICRP on Post Harvest Engineering & Technology (Hisar Centre), Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Priyanka Rohilla
- Centre of Food Science and Technology, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
| | - Ravi Kumar
- Department of Processing and Food Engineering College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar Haryana India
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33
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Cucina M, de Nisi P, Tambone F, Adani F. The role of waste management in reducing bioplastics' leakage into the environment: A review. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 337:125459. [PMID: 34320741 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.125459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics are becoming more and more widespread as substitutes for petroleum-derived plastics due to their biodegradability. Bioplastics degradation under different environments has been described and reported to depend mainly on bioplastics' compositions and the environmental conditions. Incomplete degradation during waste management processes and leakage of bioplastics into the environment are becoming major concerns that need to be further investigated. In this context, the present paper aimed to review recent literature dealing with biodegradation of bioplastics under industrial (e.g. anaerobic digestion and composting) and natural (e.g. soil and water) environments, and to link it to the potential bioplastics' leakage into the environment. Reviewed data were used to estimate the potential role of waste management processes in decreasing the potential leakage of bioplastics. Depending on bioplastics' type and processing conditions, waste management can effectively reduce bioplastics' potential leakage, decreasing the concentration of these materials that can reach the natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Cucina
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Patrizia de Nisi
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Fulvia Tambone
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Adani
- Gruppo Ricicla Lab. - DiSAA - Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
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34
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Abstract
The environmental impacts of five waste management scenarios for polylactic acid (PLA)-based bioplastics and food waste were quantified using life cycle assessment. Laboratory experiments have demonstrated the potential for a pretreatment process to accelerate the degradation of bioplastics and were modeled in two of the five scenarios assessed. The five scenarios analyzed in this study were: (1a) Anaerobic digestion (1b) Anaerobic digestion with pretreatment; (2a) Compost; (2a) Compost with pretreatment; (3) Landfill. Results suggested that food waste and pretreated bioplastics disposed of with an anaerobic digester offers life cycle and environmental net total benefits (environmental advantages/offsets) in several areas: ecotoxicity (−81.38 CTUe), eutrophication (0 kg N eq), cumulative energy demand (−1.79 MJ), global warming potential (0.19 kg CO2), and human health non-carcinogenic (−2.52 CTuh). Normalized results across all impact categories show that anaerobically digesting food waste and bioplastics offer the most offsets for ecotoxicity, eutrophication, cumulative energy demand and non-carcinogenic. Implications from this study can lead to nutrient and energy recovery from an anaerobic digester that can diversify the types of fertilizers and decrease landfill waste while decreasing dependency on non-renewable technologies. Thus, using anaerobic digestion to manage bioplastics and food waste should be further explored as a viable and sustainable solution for waste management.
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Rolsky C, Kelkar V. Degradation of Polyvinyl Alcohol in US Wastewater Treatment Plants and Subsequent Nationwide Emission Estimate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116027. [PMID: 34205161 PMCID: PMC8199957 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a water-soluble plastic commercially used in laundry and dish detergent pods (LDPs) for which a complete understanding of its fate in the environment and subsequent consequences is lacking. The objective of this study was to estimate the US nationwide emissions of PVA resulting from domestic use of LDPs, corroborated by a nationwide, online consumer survey and a literature review of its fate within conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Peer-reviewed publications focusing on the degradation of PVA in critical processes of WWTPs were shortlisted as a part of the literature review, and subsequent degradation data was extracted and applied to a model with a set of assumptions. Survey and model results estimated that approximately 17,200 ± 5000 metric ton units per year (mtu/yr) of PVA are used from LDPs in the US, with 10,500 ± 3000 mtu/yr reaching WWTPs. Literature review data, when incorporated into our model, resulted in ~61% of PVA ending up in the environment via the sludge route and ~15.7% via the aqueous phase. PVA presence in the environment, regardless of its matrix, is a threat to the ecosystem due to the potential mobilization of heavy metals and other hydrophilic contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Rolsky
- Biodesign Center for Environmental Health Engineering, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
- Plastic Oceans International, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(480)-323-9993
| | - Varun Kelkar
- Biodesign Center for Environmental Health Engineering, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, 660 S. College Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
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36
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Expanding Policy for Biodegradable Plastic Products and Market Dynamics of Bio-Based Plastics: Challenges and Opportunities. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13116170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Bio-plastics are rapidly growing in popularity, and many new techniques and approaches are emerging as a result of intensive research and development (R&D) activities. Many industries worldwide are installing their new production capability. Bio-plastics have attracted political leaders’ interest, especially in light of the evolving bio-economic orientation, through their use of renewable resources and their effects on sustainable growth. Related market determinants are defined, classified, and used as a base for their own estimates. The evolution of global production capacity is modeled annually for the timeframe up to 2030 by applying a system dynamics strategy. For a long-term forecast to catch the inherent volatility, various scenarios are identified and added to the model to represent different trends in the price of gross domestic product (GDP), oil, and bioplastic feedstock. Thus, our findings show the sensitivity in the macro-economic climate of the bioplastics sector. The simulations are completed by a debate on the regulatory environment and its future effect on industry development at the European level. The findings show considerable potential for development but are vulnerable to political and economic impacts.
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37
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Biologically Derived Gels for the Cleaning of Historical and Artistic Metal Heritage. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11083405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the general global rise of attention and research to seek greener attitudes, the field of cultural heritage (CH) makes no exception. In the last decades, an increasing number of sustainable and biologically based solutions have been proposed for the protection and care of artworks. Additionally, the safety of the target artwork and the operator must be kept as core goals. Within this scenario, new products and treatments should be explored and implemented in the common conservation praxes. Therefore, this review addressing metal heritage is aimed to report biologically derived gel formulations already proposed for this specific area as reliable tools for cleaning. Promising bio-gel-based protocols, still to be implemented in metal conservation, are also presented to promote their investigation by stakeholders in metal conservation. After an opening overview on the common practices for cleaning metallic surfaces in CH, the focus will be moved onto the potentialities of gel-alternatives and in particular of ones with a biological origin. In more detail, we displayed water-gels (i.e., hydrogels) and solvent-gels (i.e., organogels) together with particular attention to bio-solvents. The discussion is closed in light of the state-of-the-art and future perspectives.
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38
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An Overview of Plastic Waste Generation and Management in Food Packaging Industries. RECYCLING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/recycling6010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Over the years, the world was not paying strict attention to the impact of rapid growth in plastic use. This has led to unprecedented amounts of mixed types of plastic waste entering the environment unmanaged. Packaging plastics account for half of the global total plastic waste. This paper seeks to give an overview of the use, disposal, and regulation of food packaging plastics. Demand for food packaging is on the rise as a result of increasing global demand for food due to population growth. Most of the food packaging are used on-the-go and are single use plastics that are disposed of within a short space of time. The bulk of this plastic waste has found its way into the environment contaminating land, water and the food chain. The food industry is encouraged to reduce, reuse and recycle packaging materials. A wholistic approach to waste management will need to involve all stakeholders working to achieve a circular economy. A robust approach to prevent pollution today rather than handling the waste in the future should be adopted especially in Africa where there is high population growth.
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39
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Biodegradation of Wasted Bioplastics in Natural and Industrial Environments: A Review. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12156030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The problems linked to plastic wastes have led to the development of biodegradable plastics. More specifically, biodegradable bioplastics are the polymers that are mineralized into carbon dioxide, methane, water, inorganic compounds, or biomass through the enzymatic action of specific microorganisms. They could, therefore, be a suitable and environmentally friendly substitute to conventional petrochemical plastics. The physico-chemical structure of the biopolymers, the environmental conditions, as well as the microbial populations to which the bioplastics are exposed to are the most influential factors to biodegradation. This process can occur in both natural and industrial environments, in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, with the latter being the least researched. The examined aerobic environments include compost, soil, and some aquatic environments, whereas the anaerobic environments include anaerobic digestion plants and a few aquatic habitats. This review investigates both the extent and the biodegradation rates under different environments and explores the state-of-the-art knowledge of the environmental and biological factors involved in biodegradation. Moreover, the review demonstrates the need for more research on the long-term fate of bioplastics under natural and industrial (engineered) environments. However, bioplastics cannot be considered a panacea when dealing with the elimination of plastic pollution.
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40
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Biodegradation of Bioplastic Using Anaerobic Digestion at Retention Time as per Industrial Biogas Plant and International Norms. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12104231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bioplastics are gaining interest as an alternative to fossil-based plastics. In addition, biodegradable bioplastics may yield biogas after their use, giving an additional benefit. However, the biodegradability time in international norms (35 days) far exceeds processing times in anaerobic digestion facilities (21 days). As the bioplastic packaging does not indicate the actual biodegradability, it is important to understand the time required to biodegrade bioplastic if it ends up in the anaerobic digestion facility along with other organic waste. For this work, cellulose bioplastic film and polylactic acid (PLA) coffee capsules were digested anaerobically at 55 ℃ for 21 days and 35 days, which are the retention times for industrial digestors and as set by international norms, respectively. Different sizes of bioplastics were examined for this work. Bioplastic film produced more biogas than bioplastic coffee capsules. The biodegradability of bioplastic was calculated based on theoretical biogas production. With an increase in retention time, biogas production, as well as biodegradability of bioplastic, increased. The biodegradability was less than 50% at the end of 35 days for both bioplastics, suggesting that complete degradation was not achieved, and thus, the bioplastic would not be suitable for use in biogas digesters currently in use.
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41
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Calabro' PS, Folino A, Fazzino F, Komilis D. Preliminary evaluation of the anaerobic biodegradability of three biobased materials used for the production of disposable plastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 390:121653. [PMID: 31740299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have been introduced to the market to substitute "traditional", non-biodegradable, petro-based plastics to alleviate plastic pollution. Biochemical methane potential tests were carried out on compostable bags made of MaterBi®, biodegradable bottle wine corks and cellulosic plates to examine the anaerobic biodegradability of those materials. The impact of four factors: type of pretreatment (predigestion, mechanical, alkaline, predigestion and alkaline), digestion duration, type of inoculum and temperature were statistically evaluated through regression modeling. Anaerobic tests on compostable and polyethylene bags (control) were carried out in mesophilic (35 °C) and thermophilic (55 °C) conditions, while tests on bottle wine corks and cellulosic plates were carried out in mesophilic conditions only. After 15 days of digestion, a dry mass reduction of 22.8 ± 6.2 % and 27.6 ± 14.0 % for mesophilic and thermophilic tests respectively was recorded for MaterBi®. Chemical pretreatment with NaOH led to a mass reduction of 78.2 ± 7.2 % and was the only statistically significant factor to affect both methane yields and dry mass loss. A higher digestion temperature led to an increased mass loss without a concurrent increase in methane production. The cellulosic plates were completely degraded (99.9 ± 0.03 % mass reduction), while the wine bottle corks weight did not change.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Calabro'
- Department of Civil, Energy, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Università Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, via Graziella - loc. Feo di Vito, 89122 Reggio Calabria, Italy.
| | - A Folino
- Department Agraria, Università Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, loc. Feo di Vito, 89122 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - F Fazzino
- Department of Civil, Energy, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Università Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, via Graziella - loc. Feo di Vito, 89122 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - D Komilis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Vas. Sofias 12, 671 00, Xanthi, Greece
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Sintim HY, Bary AI, Hayes DG, English ME, Schaeffer SM, Miles CA, Zelenyuk A, Suski K, Flury M. Release of micro- and nanoparticles from biodegradable plastic during in situ composting. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 675:686-693. [PMID: 31039503 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.04.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Plastic is ubiquitous in modern life, but most conventional plastic is non-biodegradable and accumulates as waste after use. Biodegradable plastic is a promising alternative to conventional plastic. However, biodegradable plastics must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that they undergo complete degradation and have no adverse impact on the environment. We evaluated the degradation of biodegradable plastics during 18-week full-scale composting, and determined whether additives from the plastics are released upon degradation. Two biodegradable plastic films-one containing polybutylene co-adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT) and the other containing polylactic acid/poly-hydroxy-alkanoate (PLA/PHA)-were placed into meshbags and buried in the compost. Degradation was assessed by image analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, electrophoretic mobility, δ13C isotope analyses, and single particle mass spectrometry of mulch fragments. The results showed >99% macroscopic degradation of PLA/PHA and 97% for PBAT film. Polymers in the biodegradable films degraded; however, micro- and nanoparticles, most likely carbon black, were observed on the meshbags. Overall, biodegradable plastics hold promise, but the release of micro- and nanoparticles from biodegradable plastic upon degradation warrants additional investigation and calls for longer field testing to ensure that either complete biodegradation occurs or that no long-term harm to the environment is caused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Y Sintim
- Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, United States of America; Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Andy I Bary
- Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, United States of America; Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Douglas G Hayes
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
| | - Marie E English
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
| | - Sean M Schaeffer
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
| | - Carol A Miles
- Department of Horticulture, Washington State University, WSU Mount Vernon, Northwestern Washington Research & Extension Center, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, United States of America
| | - Alla Zelenyuk
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354, United States of America
| | - Kaitlyn Suski
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354, United States of America
| | - Markus Flury
- Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, United States of America; Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America.
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43
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Biopolymer-Based Films Enriched with Stevia rebaudiana Used for the Development of Edible and Soluble Packaging. COATINGS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/coatings9060360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is an increasing concern toward the plastic pollution of the environment, in general, and of oceans, in particular, as a result of disposable packaging in the food industry. Thus, it is extremely necessary that we identify solutions for this problem. This study was aimed at identifying a viable alternative—biopolymer-based, edible, and renewable food packaging—and succeeded in doing so. For this work, 30 films with different characteristics and properties were obtained using agar and sodium alginate as film-forming materials and glycerol for plasticization. Tests were performed, such as physical properties, microstructure, mechanical properties, microbiological characteristics, and solubility assessment, showing that edible materials can be used to package powdered products and dehydrated vegetables, or to cover fruits and vegetables, cheese slices, and sausages. These materials come from renewable resources, are easily obtained, and can be immediately applied in the food industry, thus being a viable alternative to food packaging.
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44
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Somsunan R, Noppakoon S, Punyodom W. Effect of G40 plasticizer on the properties of ternary blends of biodegradable PLA/PBS/G40. JOURNAL OF POLYMER RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10965-019-1748-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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