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Zhaxylykova D, Alibekov A, Lee W. Seasonal variation and removal of microplastics in a central Asian urban wastewater treatment plant. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116597. [PMID: 38896961 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
This paper investigated the MP presence and removal in the urban WWTP in Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan. MP concentrations in the 100-5000 μm size were analyzed across treatment stages with a modified treatment process scheme, and their removal efficiencies were evaluated. The WWTP effluent displayed a low MP concentration (4.06 ± 3.06 MP/L to 5.44 ± 3.51 MP/L), but considering the daily wastewater discharge (253,900,000 L/day), it can significantly contribute to the MP pollution of aquatic systems. Seasonal variation was observed in the influent, with higher abundance during summer, while no significant trend was observed in the effluent. The WWTP achieved an 88.6-93.0 % removal efficiency, with mechanical treatment and granular filtration being the most effective, followed by biological treatment and UV disinfection. Fragments were the most abundant among the observed shapes (53.9-59.9 %) and black MPs dominated (44.7-67.5 %). Polyethylene (PE) emerged as the most prevalent polymer type among the MPs analyzed (31.6-35.7 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Zhaxylykova
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Digital Sciences and Engineering, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Alisher Alibekov
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Digital Sciences and Engineering, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Woojin Lee
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Digital Sciences and Engineering, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan; Laboratory of Environmental Systems, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan.
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2
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Ma M, Huo M, Coulon F, Ali M, Tang Z, Liu X, Ying Z, Wang B, Song X. Understanding microplastic presence in different wastewater treatment processes: Removal efficiency and source identification. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172680. [PMID: 38663631 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Municipal effluents discharged from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are a considerable source of microplastics in the environment. The dynamic profiles of microplastics in treatment units in WWTPs with different treatment processes remain unclear. This study quantitatively analyzed microplastics in wastewater samples collected from different treatment units in two tertiary treatment plants with distinct processes. The influents contained an average of 15.5 ± 3.5 particles/L and 38.5 ± 2.5 particles/L in the two WWTPs with in the oxidation ditch process and the integrated fixed-film activated sludge process, respectively. Interestingly, microplastic concentrations in the influent were more influenced by the population density in the served area than sewage volume or served population equivalent. Throughout the treatment process, concentrations were reduced to 1.5 ± 0.5 particles/L and 1.0 ± 1.0 particles/L in the final effluents, representing an overall decrease of 90% and 97%, in WWTPs with the oxidation ditch process and integrated fixed-film activated sludge process, respectively. A significant proportion of the microplastics were removed during the primary treatment stage in both WWTPs, with better performance for foam, film, line-shaped and large-sized microplastics. Most microplastics were accumulated in activated sludge, indicating its key role as the primary sink in WWTPs. The multiple correspondence analysis identified laundry washing and daily necessities such as packaging and containers as the major contributors to microplastics in WWTPs. The study proposed recommendations for upgrading WWTPs, modifying designs, and implementing strategies to reduce microplastic sources, aiming to minimize the release of microplastics into the environment. These findings can shed lights on the sources of microplastics in WWTPs, and advance our understanding of the mechanisms for more effective microplastic removals in wastewater treatment technologies in future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China; Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Mingxin Huo
- Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China.
| | - Frederic Coulon
- School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, UK
| | - Mukhtiar Ali
- Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhiwen Tang
- Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhian Ying
- Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Judicial Expertise Center, Dalian Public Security Bureau, Dalian 116031, China
| | - Xin Song
- Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China.
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Zhang Y, Xu X, Xu J, Li Z, Cheng L, Fu J, Sun W, Dang C. When antibiotics encounter microplastics in aquatic environments: Interaction, combined toxicity, and risk assessments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172455. [PMID: 38636871 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172455] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotics and microplastics (MPs), known as emerging pollutants, are bound to coexist in aquatic environments due to their widespread distribution and prolonged persistence. To date, few systematic summaries are available for the interaction between MPs and antibiotics in aquatic ecosystems, and a comprehensive reanalysis of their combined toxicity is also needed. Based on the collected published data, we have analyzed the source and distribution of MPs and antibiotics in global aquatic environments, finding their coexistence occurs in a lot of study sites. Accordingly, the presence of MPs can directly alter the environmental behavior of antibiotics. The main influencing factors of interaction between antibiotics and MPs have been summarized in terms of the characteristics of MPs and antibiotics, as well as the environmental factors. Then, we have conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the combined toxicity of antibiotics and MPs on aquatic organisms and the related toxicity indicators, suggesting a significant adverse effect on algae, and inapparent on fish and daphnia. Finally, the environmental risk assessments for antibiotics and MPs were discussed, but unfortunately the standardized methodology for the risk assessment of MPs is still challenging, let alone assessment for their combined toxicity. This review provides insights into the interactions and environment risks of antibiotics and MPs in the aquatic environment, and suggests perspectives for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Dezhou Eco-environment Monitoring Center of Shandong Province, Dezhou, 253000, China
| | - Zhang Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Long Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jie Fu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Weiling Sun
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of All Material Fluxes in River Ecosystems, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chenyuan Dang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Multi-media Pollution Cooperative Control in Yangtze Basin, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
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4
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Tulloch CL, Cotterell BM, Pântea I, Jones DL, Golyshin PN. Selective microbial attachment to LDPE plastic beads during passage through the wastewater network. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142618. [PMID: 38880260 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Urban wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) represent key point-source discharges of microplastics (MP) into the environment, however, little is known about the microbial carrying capacity of plastics travelling through them. The purpose of this study was to quantify the number of cells that become associated with MP at different locations within a WWTP, and to assess differences in microbiome communities. We conducted a field experiment incubating low density polyethylene (LDPE) MP beads in WWTP influent and effluent, as well as tracking free floating beads during passage in wastewater from a large municipal hospital to an urban WWTP, where they were subsequently recovered. Using two cell counting methods - automated flow cytometric true absolute cell counts and indirect cell quantification via protein content based on a model E. coli cell - we quantified cell attachment to LDPE beads. LDPE associated counts ranged from 350 x 103 cells cm-2 after incubation in wastewater effluent, and 990 x 103 cells cm-2 after incubation in wastewater influent. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to determine the bacterial community structure of the plastic-associated microbiomes. Our results showed that distinct bacterial communities developed on the LDPE MP following exposure to each wastewater type. Influent (untreated) wastewater LDPE-associated microbiomes were dominated by Bacillota whereas the microbes that attached in wastewater effluent (tertiary treated) were dominated by Pseudomonadota. In conclusion, this study provides clear evidence that microplastics migrating through the sewer network and WWTP rapidly accumulate microbiomes with unique microbial community structures varying from sewage influent to effluent. These findings demonstrate the differential microbiological risk from MP associated with routine wastewater discharges to those released from intermittent combined sewer overflows (CSOs) during storm events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance L Tulloch
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK.
| | - Benjamin M Cotterell
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Igor Pântea
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Davey L Jones
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK; Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Peter N Golyshin
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
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5
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Rizvi NB, Sarwar A, Waheed S, Iqbal ZF, Imran M, Javaid A, Kim TH, Khan MS. Nano-based remediation strategies for micro and nanoplastic pollution. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 265:104380. [PMID: 38875891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Due to rapid urbanization, there have been continuous environmental threats from different pollutants, especially from microplastics. Plastic products rapidly proliferate significantly contributing to the occurrence of micro-plastics, which poses a significant environmental risk. These microplastics originated from diverse sources and are characterized by their persistent and widespread occurrence; human health and the entire ecosystem are adversely affected by them. The removal of microplastics not only requires innovative technologies but also efficient materials capable of effectively eliminating them from our environment. The progress made so far has highlighted the advantages of utilizing the dimensional and structural properties of nanomaterials to increase the effectiveness of existing methods for micro-plastic treatment, aiming for a more sustainable approach to their removal. In the current review, we demonstrate a thorough overview of the sources, occurrences, and potential harmful effects of microplastics, followed by a further discussion of promising technologies used for their removal. An in-depth examination of both advantages and a few limitations of all these given technologies, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches, has been discussed. Additionally, the review explores the use of nanomaterials as an effective means to overcome obstacles and improve the efficiency of microplastic elimination methods. n conclusion, this review addresses, current challenges in this field and outlines the future perspectives for further research in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayab Batool Rizvi
- Centre for Clinical and Nutritional Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Sarwar
- Centre for Clinical and Nutritional Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Saba Waheed
- Centre for Clinical and Nutritional Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Zeenat Fatima Iqbal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Ayesha Javaid
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Tak H Kim
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Muhammad Shahzeb Khan
- Sulaiman Bin Abdullah Aba Al-Khail Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences (SA-CIRBS), Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences, International Islamic University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan.
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6
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Umeh OR, Ophori DU, Ibo EM, Eke CI, Oyen TP. Groundwater systems under siege: The silent invasion of microplastics and cock-tails worldwide. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124305. [PMID: 38830527 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contamination is one of the significant escalating environmental concerns worldwide, and this stems from the increasing production and unlawful disposal of plastic materials. Regretfully, the synthesis of plastic materials is expected to triple in the upcoming years. Nevertheless, MPs pollution in marine, aquatic, and terrestrial settings has received much attention, unlike in groundwater systems. This study exhaustively reviewed varying degrees of recent publications in various search engines and provided a detailed state of current knowledge and research progress vis-à-vis MPs and cock-tail pollution in groundwater systems. Evidently, groundwater sources are severely contaminated as a result of growing anthropogenic activities and vertical movement of MPs and cock-tails from the atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic environments, however, fewer researchers have fixated their attention on estimating the occurrence of MPs in groundwater resources, while sufficient information regarding their sources, sampling methods, abundance, transport pathways, fate, modeling techniques, appropriate and adequate data, sorption properties, separation from other environmental media, toxicity, and remedial measures are extensively lacking. In addition, MPs may combine with other toxic emerging contaminants to improve migration and toxicity; however, no research has been conducted to fully understand cock-tail migration mechanisms and impacts in groundwater systems. Over time, groundwater may be regarded as the primary sink for MPs, if effective actions are neglected. Overall, this study detected a lack of concern and innumerable voids in this field; hence, vital and nascent research gaps were identified for immediate, advanced, and interdisciplinary research investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odera R Umeh
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Duke U Ophori
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Eziafakaego M Ibo
- Department of Environmental Management, Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute, Ibadan, Oyo State, 200002, Nigeria.
| | - Chima I Eke
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Toritseju P Oyen
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
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7
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Li X, Liu W, Zhang J, Wang Z, Guo Z, Ali J, Wang L, Yu Z, Zhang X, Sun Y. Effective removal of microplastics by filamentous algae and its magnetic biochar: Performance and mechanism. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142152. [PMID: 38679178 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, filamentous algae blooms and microplastics (MPs) pollution have become two major ecological and environmental problems in urban water systems. In order to solve these two problems at the same time, this study explored the loading capacity of MPs on fresh filamentous algae, and successfully synthesized magnetic filamentous algae biochar loading with Fe3O4 by hydrothermal method, with the purpose of removing MPs from water. The magnetic filamentous algal biochar was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and so on. Experiments on adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms and optimum pH were carried out to explore the adsorption mechanism of MPs on magnetic filamentous algal biochar. The adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm models were evaluated, and the selection criterion for the appropriate model was determined by using the residual sum of squares (RSS) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC). Microscope images revealed that fresh filamentous algae could interact with MPs in the form of entanglement, adhesion and encapsulation. The average load of MPs in filamentous algae samples was 14.1 ± 5 items/g dry weight. The theoretical maximum adsorption capacities of polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) by raw biochar (A500) and magnetic biochar with Fe3O4 (M2A500) were 176.99 mg/g and 215.58 mg/g, respectively. The adsorbent materials gave better reusability because they could be reused up to five times. Overall, these findings have provided new insights into the use of filamentous algae for in situ remediation of fluvial MPs pollution, as well as feasible strategies for the recycling of algal waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Wenjia Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingshen Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Zhibin Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Zhiwei Guo
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jafar Ali
- Key Lab of Groundwater Resources and Environment (Jilin University), Ministry of Education, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Zhisheng Yu
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiru Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yangzhao Sun
- Norwegian Water Research Institute, Økernveien 94, 0579, Oslo, Norway
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Kukkola A, Schneidewind U, Haverson L, Kelleher L, Drummond JD, Sambrook Smith G, Lynch I, Krause S. Snapshot Sampling May Not Be Enough to Obtain Robust Estimates for Riverine Microplastic Loads. ACS ES&T WATER 2024; 4:2309-2319. [PMID: 38752202 PMCID: PMC11091885 DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.4c00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been described as key contributors of microplastics (MPs) to aquatic systems, yet temporal fluctuations in MP concentrations and loads downstream are underexplored. This study investigated how different sampling frequencies (hourly, weekly, and monthly) affect MP estimates in a stream linked to a single WWTP. Utilizing fluorescence microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, considerable hourly variations in MP concentrations were discovered, while the polymer composition remained consistent. This temporal variability in MP loads was influenced by MP concentration, discharge rates, or a mix of both. These results show a high uncertainty, as relying on sparse snapshot samples combined with annual discharge data led to significant uncertainties in MP load estimates (over- and/or underestimation of emissions by 3.8 billion MPs annually at this site). Our findings stress the necessity of higher-frequency sampling for better comprehending the hydrodynamic factors influencing MP transport. This improved understanding enables a more accurate quantification of MP dynamics, crucial for downstream impact assessments. Therefore, preliminary reconnaissance campaigns are essential for designing extended, representative site-monitoring programs and ensuring more precise trend predictions on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kukkola
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
| | - Uwe Schneidewind
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
| | - Lee Haverson
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
| | - Liam Kelleher
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
- Institute
of Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2SA, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer D. Drummond
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
| | - Gregory Sambrook Smith
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
| | - Iseult Lynch
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
- Institute
of Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2SA, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Krause
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
- LEHNA
- Laboratoire d’ecologie des hydrosystemes naturels et anthropises, University of Lyon, Darwin C & Forel, 3-6 Rue Raphaël Dubois, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
- Institute
of Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2SA, United Kingdom
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Li D, Yang C, Li Y. A multi-subsystem collaborative Bi-LSTM-based adaptive soft sensor for global prediction of ammonia-nitrogen concentration in wastewater treatment processes. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 254:121347. [PMID: 38422697 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Ammonia-nitrogen concentration is a key water quality indicator, which reflects changes in pollutant components during wastewater treatment processes. The timely and accurate detection results contribute to optimizing control and operational management of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), but current detection methods only focus on the effluent location. This paper proposes a multi-subsystem collaborative Bi-LSTM-based adaptive soft sensor to achieve the global prediction of ammonia-nitrogen concentration. Firstly, the wastewater treatment process is divided into several independent subsystems depending on the reaction mechanism, and the variable selection is performed using mutual information. Subsequently, the bidirectional long short-term memory network (Bi-LSTM) is employed to construct a model for predicting ammonia-nitrogen concentration within each subsystem, and the outputs between neighboring subsystems are incorporated as a set of new variables added into the training dataset to strengthen their connection. Finally, to address performance degradation caused by environmental factors, a probability density function (PDF)-based dynamic moving window method is proposed to enhance the robustness. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed soft sensor are validated in the Benchmark Simulation Model no. 1 (BSM1). The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed soft sensor can accurately predict the global ammonia-nitrogen concentration in the face of different weather conditions including sunny, rainy, and stormy days. This study contributes to the stable operation of WWTPs with higher treatment efficiency and lower economic costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Li
- The School of Automation, Central South University, Changsha 410 083, China
| | - Chunhua Yang
- The School of Automation, Central South University, Changsha 410 083, China.
| | - Yonggang Li
- The School of Automation, Central South University, Changsha 410 083, China
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10
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Zhao K, Li C, Li F. Research progress on the origin, fate, impacts and harm of microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes in wastewater treatment plants. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9719. [PMID: 38678134 PMCID: PMC11055955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60458-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies reported microplastics (MPs), antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). There is still a lack of research progress on the origin, fate, impact and hazards of MPs and ARGs in WWTPs. This paper fills a gap in this regard. In our search, we used "microplastics", "antibiotic resistance genes", and "wastewater treatment plant" as topic terms in Web of Science, checking the returned results for relevance by examining paper titles and abstracts. This study mainly explores the following points: (1) the origins and fate of MPs, antibiotics and ARGs in WWTPs; (2) the mechanisms of action of MPs, antibiotics and ARGs in sludge biochemical pools; (3) the impacts of MPs in WWTPs and the spread of ARGs; (4) and the harm inflicted by MPs and ARGs on the environment and human body. Contaminants in sewage sludge such as MPs, ARGs, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria enter the soil and water. Contaminants can travel through the food chain and thus reach humans, leading to increased illness, hospitalization, and even mortality. This study will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms of action among MPs, antibiotics, ARGs, and the harm they inflict on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Songliao Aquatic Environment, Ministry of Education, Jilin Jianzhu University, 5088 Xincheng Street, Changchun, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengzhi Li
- Key Laboratory of Songliao Aquatic Environment, Ministry of Education, Jilin Jianzhu University, 5088 Xincheng Street, Changchun, 130118, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria at Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Fengxiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Songliao Aquatic Environment, Ministry of Education, Jilin Jianzhu University, 5088 Xincheng Street, Changchun, 130118, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria at Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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11
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Johnson JL, Dodder NG, Mladenov N, Steinberg L, Richardot WH, Hoh E. Comparison of Trace Organic Chemical Removal Efficiencies between Aerobic and Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactors Treating Municipal Wastewater. ACS ES&T WATER 2024; 4:1381-1392. [PMID: 38633364 PMCID: PMC11019542 DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.3c00542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Evaluating persistent trace organic chemicals (TOrCs) and transformation products (TPs) in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) is essential, given that MBRs are now widely implemented for wastewater treatment and water reuse. This research applied comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC/TOF-MS)-based nontargeted analysis to compare the effectiveness of parallel aerobic and anaerobic MBRs (AeMBRs and AnMBRs, respectively), treating the same municipal wastewater. The average total chromatographic feature peak area abundances were significantly reduced by 84% and 72% from influent to membrane permeate in both the AeMBR and AnMBR (p < 0.05), respectively. However, the reduction of the average number of chromatographic features was significant for only AeMBR treatment (p = 0.006). A similar number of TPs were generated during both AeMBR and AnMBR treatments (165 vs 171 compounds, respectively). The overall results suggest that the AeMBR was more effective for reducing the diversity of TOrCs than the AnMBR, but both aerobic and anaerobic processes had a similar reduction of TOrC abundance. Suspect screening analysis using GC×GC/TOF-MS, which resulted in the tentative identification of 351 TOrCs, proved to be a powerful approach for uncovering compounds previously unreported in wastewater, including many fragrances and personal care products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade L. Johnson
- School
of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182, United States
- San
Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Nathan G. Dodder
- School
of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182, United States
- San
Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Natalie Mladenov
- Department
of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Lauren Steinberg
- Department
of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - William H. Richardot
- San
Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Eunha Hoh
- School
of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182, United States
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12
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Du T, Qian L, Shao S, Xing T, Li T, Wu L. Comparison of sulfide-induced transformation of biodegradable and conventional microplastics: Mechanism and environmental fate. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 253:121295. [PMID: 38354663 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have been massively produced and used as potential substitutes for conventional plastics, resulting in their inevitable entry into the environment and generation of biodegradable microplastics (MPs). The sulfidation transformation of MPs is an important process for their transformation in anoxic environments (e.g., sediments, anaerobic activated sludges) that can alter their environmental effects and risks. However, how sulfides induce the transformation of biodegradable MPs and whether they are similar to conventional MPs remains unknown. In the present study, we compared the transformation and mechanism of conventional polyethylene (PE) MPs and biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) MPs during sulfidation. The results demonstrated that sulfidation resulted in oxidation of PE MPs, whereas PBAT MPs underwent reduction and had higher physical damage, as evidenced by fragmentation, chain scission and organic compound release. Besides, reactive oxygen species and sulfide species played important roles in the sulfidation of PE and PBAT MPs, respectively. The presence of ester groups in PBAT MPs led to their hydrolysis, causing chain scission and further reduction. Furthermore, sulfidation caused a higher degree of adsorption and toxicity alterations in PBAT MPs than in PE MPs. This work uncovers critical abiotic transformation behaviors of biodegradable microplastics and highlights the necessity of considering microplastic structural features to accurately predict microplastic occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Du
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Liwen Qian
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Song Shao
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tianran Xing
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tong Li
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Lijun Wu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
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13
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Nohara NML, Ariza-Tarazona MC, Triboni ER, Nohara EL, Villarreal-Chiu JF, Cedillo-González EI. Are you drowned in microplastic pollution? A brief insight on the current knowledge for early career researchers developing novel remediation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170382. [PMID: 38307272 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) composed of different polymers with various shapes, within a vast granulometric distribution (1 μm - 5 mm) and with a wide variety of physicochemical surface and bulk characteristics spiral around the globe, with different atmospheric, oceanic, cryospheric, and terrestrial residence times, while interacting with other pollutants and biota. The challenges of microplastic pollution are related to the complex relationships between the microplastic generation mechanisms (physical, chemical, and biological), their physicochemical properties, their interactions with other pollutants and microorganisms, the changes in their properties with aging, and their small sizes that facilitate their diffusion and transportation between the air, water, land, and biota, thereby promoting their ubiquity. Early career researchers (ERCs) constitute an essential part of the scientific community committed to overcoming the challenges of microplastic pollution with their new ideas and innovative scientific perspectives for the development of remediation technologies. However, because of the enormous amount of scientific information available, it may be difficult for ERCs to determine the complexity of this environmental issue. This mini-review aims to provide a quick and updated overview of the essential insights of microplastic pollution to ERCs to help them acquire the background needed to develop highly innovative physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, as well as valorization proposals and environmental education and awareness campaigns. Moreover, the recommendations for the development of holistic microplastic pollution remediation strategies presented here can help ERCs propose technologies considering the environmental, social, and practical dimensions of microplastic pollution while fulfilling the current government policies to manage this plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoly Milhardo Lourenço Nohara
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy
| | - Eduardo Rezende Triboni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Evandro Luís Nohara
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Taubaté, R. Daniel Daneli, no number, Taubaté, Brazil
| | - Juan Francisco Villarreal-Chiu
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico; Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología (CIByN), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Km. 10 autopista al Aeropuerto Internacional Mariano Escobedo, Apodaca 66628, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy.
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14
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Yang FA, Hou YN, Cao C, Huang C, Shen S, Ren N, Wang AJ, Guo J, Wei W, Ni BJ. Electroactive properties of EABs in response to long-term exposure to polystyrene microplastics/nanoplastics and the underlying adaptive mechanisms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133438. [PMID: 38198865 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Given widespread presence of polystyrene (PS) microplastics/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs), the electroactive responses and adaptation mechanisms of electroactive biofilms (EABs) exposed long-term to PS-containing aquatic environments remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the impacts of PS MPs/NPs on electroactivity of EABs. Results found that EABs exhibited delayed formation upon initially exposure but displayed an increased maximum current density (Imax) after subsequent exposure for up to 55 days. Notably, EABs exposure to NH2PS NPs (EAB-NH2PSNPs) demonstrated a 50% higher Imax than the control, along with a 17.84% increase in viability and a 58.10% increase in biomass. The cytochrome c (c-Cyts) content in EAB-NH2PSNPs rose by 178.35%, benefiting the extracellular electron transfer (EET) of EABs. Moreover, bacterial community assembly indicated the relative abundance of electroactive bacteria increased to 87.56% in EAB-NH2PSNPs. The adaptability mechanisms of EABs under prolonged exposure to PS MPs/NPs predominantly operate by adjusting viability, EET, and bacterial community assembly, which were further confirmed a positive correlation with Imax through structural equation model. These findings provide deeper insights into long-term effects and mechanisms of MPs/NPs on the electroactive properties of EABs and even functional microorganisms in aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Ai Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science and Technology, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Tianjin Chengjian University, Tianjin 300384, China; National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Ya-Nan Hou
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science and Technology, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Tianjin Chengjian University, Tianjin 300384, China; National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China; Water Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Ce Cao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science and Technology, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Tianjin Chengjian University, Tianjin 300384, China; National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Cong Huang
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.
| | - Shaoheng Shen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science and Technology, School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Tianjin Chengjian University, Tianjin 300384, China; National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Nanqi Ren
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ai-Jie Wang
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jianbo Guo
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- Water Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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15
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Qin ZH, Siddiqui MA, Xin X, Mou JH, Varjani S, Chen G, Lin CSK. Identification of microplastics in raw and treated municipal solid waste landfill leachates in Hong Kong, China. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141208. [PMID: 38219986 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are indispensable in modern society but also pose a persistent threat to the environment. In particular, microplastics (MPs) have a substantial environmental impact on ecosystems. Municipal solid waste landfill leachates are a source of MPs, but leakage of MPs from leachates has only been reported in a few studies. As a modern city, Hong Kong has a remarkably high population density and a massive plastic waste generation. However, it depends on conventional landfilling for plastic waste management and traditional thermal ammonia stripping for leachate treatment. Yet, the MP leakage from landfill leachates in Hong Kong has not been disclosed. This is the first study that aimed to identify, quantify, and characterise MPs in raw and treated leachates, respectively, from major landfill sites in Hong Kong. The concentrations of MPs varied from 49.0 ± 24.3 to 507.6 ± 37.3 items/L among the raw leachate samples, and a potential correlation was found between the concentration of MPs in the raw leachate sample from a given landfill site and the annual leachate generation of the site. Most MPs were 100-500 μm fragments or filaments and were transparent or yellow. Regarding the polymeric materials among the identified MPs, poly(ethylene terephthalate) and polyethylene were the most abundant types, comprising 45.30% and 21.37% of MPs, respectively. Interestingly, leachates treated by ammonia stripping contained higher concentrations of MPs than raw leachate samples, which demonstrated that the traditional treatment process may not be sufficient regarding the removal of emerging pollutants, such as MPs. Overall, our findings provide a more comprehensive picture of the pollution of MPs in landfill leachates in Hong Kong and highlight the urgent need for adopting the consideration of MPs into the conventional mindset of waste management systems in Hong Kong.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Qin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Muhammad Ahmar Siddiqui
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiayin Xin
- Beaty Water Research Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Union Street, Queen's University, Kingston, K7L 3Z6, Canada
| | - Jin-Hua Mou
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Guanghao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Sze Ki Lin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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16
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Yuan P, Wang Y, Chen X, Gao P. An overview of microplastic pollution in the environment over the megacity of Shanghai during 2013-2022. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168986. [PMID: 38040359 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that have been globally found in the environment, and have become a focus of intensive management for the Shanghai government in China. Although there are several studies reporting the abundance of microplastics (MPs) in different matrices in Shanghai city, the general data are still limited. This work comprehensively reviews microplastic (MP) pollution in the water, sediment, atmosphere, and soil of Shanghai during 2013-2022. A summary of characteristics such as the abundance, shape, and polymer composition of MPs is presented. Additionally, the pollution trends, traceability, and ecological risks of MPs are analyzed and evaluated. Based on the analytical results, we find that the inland water in Shanghai city is the most contaminated with the highest abundance of MPs at 14.76 × 103 particles/m3 on average, while the abundances of MPs in the external water, inland sediment, external sediment, indoor atmosphere, outdoor atmosphere, inland soil, and external soil are 2.78 × 103 particles/m3, 0.80 × 103 particles/kg, 1.37 × 103 particles/kg, 0.03 × 103 particles/m3, 0.08 × 103 particles/m3, 0.27 × 103 particles/kg, and 0.18 × 103 particles/kg, respectively. Polyethylene and polypropylene are the top two detected polymer compositions of MPs. Results of ecological risk assessment using risk index and pollution load index models indicate that the risks of MPs in the water and sediment of the Yangtze Estuary are high. It is noteworthy that the abundances of MPs at the junction site of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River as well as in the Yangtze Estuary exhibited an increasing trend between 2017 and 2019. This work contributes to a comprehensive overview of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city during 2013-2022 and provides important data for local governments to develop urgent strategies for the management of MP pollution. However, more investigations are increasingly needed for better understand the production, migration, ecological risk, and management of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peikun Yuan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaoqian Chen
- Bioassay and Safety Assessment Laboratory, Shanghai Academy of Public Measurement, 201203 Shanghai, China
| | - Pin Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; National & Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Municipal Sewage Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agroenvironmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.
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17
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Wang Q, Chen M, Min Y, Shi P. Aging of polystyrene microplastics by UV/Sodium percarbonate oxidation: Organic release, mechanism, and disinfection by-product formation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 464:132934. [PMID: 37976854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and transformation of microplastics (MPs) in environment has attracted considerable attention. However, the release characteristics of MP-derived dissolved organic matter (MP-DOM) under oxidation conditions and the effect of DOM on subsequent chlorination disinfection by-product (DBP) still lacks relevant information. This study focused on the conversion of polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) in the advanced oxidation of ultraviolet-activated sodium percarbonate (UV/SPC-AOP) and the release characteristics of MP-DOM. The DBP formation potential of MP-DOM was also investigated. As a result, UV/SPC significantly enhanced the aging and fragmentation of PSMPs. Under UV irradiation, the fluorescence peak intensity and position of humus-like and protein-like components of MP-DOM were correlated with SPC concentration. The aging MP suspension was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and various alkyl-cleavage and oxidation products were identified. Quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) detection confirmed that carbonate and hydroxyl radicals jointly dominated the conversion of PSMPs. The formation of DBP was related to the components of MP-DOM. Overall, these results help to understand the aging behavior of MPs in AOP. Moreover, MP-DOM released by MPs after AOP oxidation may be a precursor of DBPs, which deserved more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Materials Protection and Advanced Materials in Electric Power, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, PR China
| | - Muxin Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Materials Protection and Advanced Materials in Electric Power, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, PR China
| | - Yulin Min
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Materials Protection and Advanced Materials in Electric Power, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200090, PR China
| | - Penghui Shi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Materials Protection and Advanced Materials in Electric Power, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200090, PR China.
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18
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Yu Y, Kumar M, Bolan S, Padhye LP, Bolan N, Li S, Wang L, Hou D, Li Y. Various additive release from microplastics and their toxicity in aquatic environments. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123219. [PMID: 38154772 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Additives may be present in amounts higher than 50% within plastic objects. Additives in plastics can be gradually released from microplastics (MPs) into the aquatic environment during their aging and fragmentation because most of them do not chemically react with the polymers. Some are known to be hazardous substances, which can cause toxicity effects on organisms and pose ecological risks. In this paper, the application of functional additives in MPs and their leaching in the environment are first summarized followed by their release mechanisms including photooxidation, chemical oxidation, biochemical degradation, and physical abrasion. Important factors affecting the additive release from MPs are also reviewed. Generally, smaller particle size, light irradiation, high temperature, dissolved organic matter (DOM) existence and alkaline conditions can promote the release of chemicals from MPs. In addition, the release of additives is also influenced by the polymer's structure, electrolyte types, as well as salinity. These additives may transfer into the organisms after ingestion and disrupt various biological processes, leading to developmental malformations and toxicity in offspring. Nonetheless, challenges on the toxicity of chemicals in MPs remain hindering the risk assessment on human health from MPs in the environment. Future research is suggested to strengthen research on the leaching experiment in the actual environment, develop more techniques and analysis methods to identify leaching products, and evaluate the toxicity effects of additives from MPs based on more model organisms. The work gives a comprehensive overview of current process for MP additive release in natural waters, summarizes their toxicity effects on organisms, and provides recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yu
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Manish Kumar
- Amity Institute of Environmental Sciences, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Shiv Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia; Healthy Environments and Lives (HEAL) National Research Network, Australia
| | - Lokesh P Padhye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia; Healthy Environments and Lives (HEAL) National Research Network, Australia
| | - Sixu Li
- Beijing No.4 High School International Campus, Beijing, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
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19
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Tang X, Chen L, Ding Y, Liu H, Li M, Yang Y. Impact of nanoplastics on the biodegradation, ecotoxicity, and key genes involved in imidacloprid metabolic pathways in papyrus (Cyperus papyrus L.). CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:140910. [PMID: 38072197 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Both nanoplastics (NPs) and imidacloprid (IMI) are widely distributed in the environment and have attracted significant attention due to their adverse effects on ecosystems. Constructed wetlands have the potential to remove IMI, but there is still limited understanding of how wetland plants interact with IMI, especially when influenced by different charged NPs. This study assessed their ecotoxicological effects, as well as the fate and transformation of IMI in papyrus (Cyperus papyrus L.) under the influence of different charged NPs and identified key driving genes in the plant. Results show that simultaneous exposure to positively charged PS-NH2 and IMI inhibited plant growth. The combined action of NPs and IMI intensified their toxicity, enhancing lipid peroxidation and altering antioxidant enzyme activities. The IMI removal efficiency, which was primarily driven by biodegradation, was 80.61%, 88.91%, and 74.71% in the IMI-alone, co-IMI/PS_COOH, and co-IMI/PS_NH2 systems, respectively. PS-NH2 restricted the roots-to-shoots translocation ability of IMI. PS-COOH enhanced IMI oxidation and nitro reduction, while PS-NH2 inhibited 2-OH-IMI dehydrogenation to IMI-olefin in papyrus. Transcriptomics and gene network analysis identified the genes encoding CYP450 enzymes, reductases, hydrolases, dehydrogenases, and peroxidases as those influencing IMI biodegradation. These enzymes play a crucial role in the hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, reduction, and oxidation processes during biodegradation of IMI in the presence of NPs. This study expands the understanding of the impact of differently charged NPs on the IMI remediation efficacy of papyrus, thus providing new insights into the phytoremediation of organic contaminants in constructed wetlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Tang
- Key Laboratory of Land Resources Evaluation and Monitoring in Southwest, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, 610068, China; College of Geography and Resources, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610101, China.
| | - Luying Chen
- College of Geography and Resources, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610101, China
| | - Yang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Land Resources Evaluation and Monitoring in Southwest, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, 610068, China; College of Geography and Resources, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610101, China
| | - Huanping Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical and Subtropical Aquatic Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education, Department of Ecology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Muzi Li
- College of Geography and Resources, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610101, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical and Subtropical Aquatic Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education, Department of Ecology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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20
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Liu Q, Li Y, Sun Y, Xie K, Zeng Q, Hao Y, Yang Q, Pu Y, Shi S, Gong Z. Deterioration of sludge characteristics and promotion of antibiotic resistance genes spread with the co-existing of polyvinylchloride microplastics and tetracycline in the sequencing batch reactor. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167544. [PMID: 37797771 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
With the continuous increase in microplastics (MPs) and tetracycline (TC) entering wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) along with sewage, the co-existence of MPs and TC in the biological treatment of wastewater has attracted extensive attention. This study investigated the effect of 1 mg/L polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MPs and 100 ng/L TC co-existing on sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) (S2) treating phenol wastewater in contrast to the control with TC alone (S1). The phenol removal efficiency was significantly inhibited by the co-existence of PVC MPs and TC. Sludge characteristics were also distinctively influenced. The decreased zone sludge velocity (ZSV) and increased sludge volume index (SVI) indicated that the combined effect of PVC MPs and TC deteriorated sludge settleability, which had positive and negative linear correlations with extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) content and the protein (PN)/polysaccharide (PS) ratio, respectively. Moreover, the decreased and increased relative abundances of potential phenol-degraders and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) carriers may elucidate the inhibition of phenol removal and promotion of ARGs propagation with the co-occurrence of PVC MPs and TC. In addition, the enhanced potential ARGs hosts, loss of the EPS protective effect, and increased membrane permeability induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) jointly promoted ARGs dissemination in the co-existence of PVC MPs and TC. Notably, the co-occurrence of ARGs and mobile genetic element (MGEs) indicated that the co-existence of PVC MPs and TC promoted the spread of some transposase-associated ARGs mediated by horizontal gene transfer (HGT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangwei Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Yuxin Li
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Yanan Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Kunpeng Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Qianzhi Zeng
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Yiming Hao
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Yunhong Pu
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China
| | - Shengnan Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China..
| | - Zheng Gong
- School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University; Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology of Liaoning Province, Dalian, Liaoning 116081, PR China..
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21
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Gnoffo C, Frache A. Identification of Plastics in Mixtures and Blends through Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 16:71. [PMID: 38201736 PMCID: PMC10780318 DOI: 10.3390/polym16010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In this paper, the possibility of detecting polymers in plastic mixtures and extruded blends has been investigated. Pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (py-GC/MS) allows researchers to identify multicomponent mixtures and low amounts of polymers without high spatial resolution, background noise and constituents mix interfering, as with molecular spectrometry techniques normally used for this purpose, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In total, 15 solid mixtures of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA) and polycarbonate (PC) in various combinations have been qualitatively analyzed after choosing their characteristic pyrolysis products and each polymer has been detected in every mix; thus, in extruded blends of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), PP and PS had varying weight percentages of the individual constituents ranging from 10 up to 90. Moreover, quantitative analysis of these polymers has been achieved in every blend with a trend that can be considered linear with coefficients of determination higher than 0.9, even though the limits of quantification are lower with respect to the ones reported in the literature, probably due to the extrusion process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberto Frache
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, V.le Teresa Michel, 5, 15121 Alessandria, Italy;
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22
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Zhang Z, Zhang H, Qiang H, Liu P, Guo X, Zhu L. Different microbial assemblage colonized on microplastics and clay particles in aerobic sludge treatment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166473. [PMID: 37659565 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a combination of property analysis and high-throughput sequencing was used to investigate the microbial colonization ability and their community structures and functions in polypropylene microplastics (PPMPs), polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) and montmorillonite (MMT), respectively as the representatives of artificial and natural substrates in aerobic sludge treatment. After 45 d of incubation, the surface properties of substrates were altered with the increased oxygen functional groups and surface roughness, indicating microbial settlement. Moreover, MPs had different microbial structures from that of MMT, and PSMPs exhibited higher microbial diversity and abundance than PPMPs and MMT. Also, these substrates changed the inherent ecological niche in sludge. Especially, the abundance of some pathogens (e.g., Pseudomonas, Klebsiella and Flavobacterium) was increased in MPs, and the disease risk of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes metabolic pathway (e.g., Infectious diseases: Bacterial, Infectious diseases: Parasitic and Immune diseases) was higher. Also, the presence of MPs inhibited the decomposition of organic matter including soluble chemical oxygen demand and protein compared to natural substrates. The findings revealed the crucial vector role of MPs for microbes and the effect on aerobic sludge treatment, highlighting the necessity of MP removal in sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Haiyu Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Hong Qiang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Peng Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Xuetao Guo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
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23
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Zhou T, Wu J, Liu Y, Xu A. Seawater Accelerated the Aging of Polystyrene and Enhanced Its Toxic Effects on Caenorhabditis elegans. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17219. [PMID: 38139049 PMCID: PMC10743734 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants and pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Although previous studies have documented the mechanisms and toxic effects of aging MPs in various environments, the impact of the marine environment on MPs remains unclear. In the present study, the aging process of polystyrene (PS) in seawater was simulated and the changes in its physicochemical properties were investigated. Our results showed that the surface of the PS eroded in the seawater, which was accompanied by the release of aged MPs with a smaller size. In situ optical photothermal infrared microspectroscopy revealed that the mechanism of PS aging was related to the opening of the carbonyl group and breaking of the bond between carbon and benzene removal. To verify the toxic effects of aged PS, Caenorhabditis elegans was exposed to PS. Aged PS resulted in a greater reduction in locomotion, vitality, and reproduction than virgin PS. Mechanistically, aged PS led to oxidative stress, high glutathione s-transferase activity, and high total glutathione in worms. Together, our findings provided novel information regarding the accelerated aging of PS in seawater and the increased toxicity of aged PS, which could improve our understanding of MPs' ecotoxicity in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Graduate Students, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Jiajie Wu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Graduate Students, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Graduate Students, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - An Xu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Graduate Students, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
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24
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Khedre AM, Ramadan SA, Ashry A, Alaraby M. Seasonal variations of microplastic in sediment, Chironomus sp. larvae, and chironomid tubes in two wastewater sites in Sohag Governorate, Egypt. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:125846-125865. [PMID: 38008829 PMCID: PMC10754750 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30855-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination is an acknowledged global problem that poses a severe risk to aquatic ecosystem biota. Nevertheless, little is known about their prevalence in animal construction. The main objective of our study was to reduce the gap information of seasonal abundance, distribution, composition, and risk assessment of MP contamination. The concentrations of MPs in sediment, Chironomus sp. larvae, and their tubes were found to be higher in site 2 (S2) than in site 1 (S1) during the four seasons of the year. However, MP concentrations ranged from 312 ± 64.7 to 470 ± 70 items/kg dry weight, 0.79 ± 0.16 to 1.1 ± 0.3 particles/individual, and 0.5 ± 0.04 to 0.9 ± 0.04 particles/tube in sediment, Chironomus, and chironomid tubes, respectively. Blue and red polyester fibers are the most dominant MPs which are distributed in sediment, Chironomus, and chironomid tubes. The length of the dominant fiber accumulates in Chironomus, and their tubes are highly varied compared to that of the substrate. Additionally, we found that the mean number of MPs/individual larvae in the fourth instar was significantly higher than that in the second instar. Risk indicators for the environment, polymer risk assessment, and pollution load were estimated, where they were higher in S2 than in S1 correlated to MPs abundance and polymer type. The seasonal fluctuation in MP concentration, characterization, and risk in the two sites could depend on the amount of sewage effluent discharged into the wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which was reflected by Chironomus sp. larvae. Therefore, further research should be done to adopt the applicability of Chironomus as MP bioindicators in various freshwater environments throughout the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza M Khedre
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Somaia A Ramadan
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Ali Ashry
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Alaraby
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Liu S, Su C, Lu Y, Xian Y, Chen Z, Wang Y, Deng X, Li X. Effects of microplastics on the properties of different types of sewage sludge and strategies to overcome the inhibition: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166033. [PMID: 37543332 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as an emerging pollutant. When microplastics enter wastewater treatment plants, the plant traps most of the microplastics in the sludge during sewage treatment. Therefore, the effects of microplastics on sludge removal performance, and on the physical and chemical properties and microbial communities in sludge, have attracted extensive attention. This review mainly describes the presence of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants, and the effects of microplastics on the decontamination efficiency and physicochemical properties of activated sludge, aerobic granular sludge, anaerobic granular sludge and anaerobic ammonium oxidation sludge. Further, the review summarizes the effects of microplastics on microbial activity and microbial community dynamics in various sludges in terms of type, concentration, and contact time. The mechanisms used to strengthen the reduction of microplastics, such as biochar and hydrochar, are also discussed. This review summarizes the mechanism by which microplastics influence the performance of different types of sludge, and proposes effective strategies to mitigate the inhibitive effect of microplastics on sludge and discusses removal technologies of microplastics in sewage. Biochar and hydrochar are one of the effective measures to overcome the inhibition of microplastics on sludge. Meanwhile, constructed wetland may be one of the important choice for the future removal of microplastics from sewage. The goal is to provide theoretical support and insights for ensuring the stable operation of wastewater treatment plants and reducing the impact of microplastics on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Chengyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China.
| | - Yiying Lu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yunchuan Xian
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Zhengpeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xue Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xinjuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
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26
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Pleskytė S, Uogintė I, Burbulytė A, Byčenkienė S. Characteristics and removal efficiency of microplastics at secondary wastewater treatment plant in Lithuania. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2023; 95:e10958. [PMID: 38149312 DOI: 10.1002/wer.10958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are the most significant barrier between anthropogenic microplastics and environmental ecosystems. The distribution and characteristics of microplastics in WWTPs remain uncertain and incompletely understood, particularly in northeastern Europe (Baltic States), where there is a lack of data on microplastic pollution and distribution. This study presents the removal efficiency and variation in characteristics of microplastics in different stages of the secondary WWTP during a 3-month sampling campaign in Lithuania. The abundance, size, shape, color, and chemical composition of microplastics in the wastewater at different treatment stages were thoroughly examined, in a size range from 20 to 1000 μm. On average, 2962 ± 25 particles/L of microplastic enter the studied WWTP. The obtained microplastic removal efficiency was 55.4% ± 3.9%, highlighting the necessity to enhance wastewater treatment strategies focusing on microplastic removal. Fragment-type microplastics smaller than 100 μm were removed from wastewater samples with the highest removal efficiency. Furthermore, our study includes recommendations to improve microplastic removal efficiency and contribute to mitigating microplastic pollution. PRACTITIONER POINTS: A large number of MPs in the size range of 20-1000 μm enter Lithuanian WWTP. Small-sized MPs within a range of 20-50 μm and 50-100 μm were removed with the highest efficiency of 54.07 ± 1.68% and 56.4 ± 2.43%, respectively. The shape and size of MPs have a major impact on the efficiency of their removal. Future research should prioritize the development of economical and energy-efficient systems, specifically designed for the removal of MPs in WWTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonata Pleskytė
- Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Uogintė
- Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Austėja Burbulytė
- Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
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27
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Zhao W, Hu T, Ma H, He S, Zhao Q, Jiang J, Wei L. Deciphering the role of polystyrene microplastics in waste activated sludge anaerobic digestion: Changes of organics transformation, microbial community and metabolic pathway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:166551. [PMID: 37633377 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitous in the natural environment, which inevitably affect the relevant biochemical process. Nevertheless, the knowledge about the impacts of microplastics on organics transformation and corresponding microbial metabolism response in anaerobic environment is limited. Here, polystyrene (PS) microplastics were selected as model microplastics to explore their potential impacts on organics transformation, microbial community and metabolic pathway during sludge anaerobic digestion system operation. The results indicated that the PS microplastics exhibited the dose-dependent effects on methane production, i.e., the additive of 20-40 particles/g TS of PS microplastics improved the maximum methane yield by 3.38 %-8.22 %, whereas 80-160 particles/g TS additive led to a 4.78 %-11.04 % declining. Overall, PS microplastics facilitated the solubilization and hydrolysis of sludge, but inhibited the acidogenesis process. Key functional enzyme activities were stimulated under low PS microplastics exposure, whereas were almost severely inhibited due to the increased oxidative stress induced from excess PS microplastics. Microbial community and further metabolic analysis indicated that low PS microplastics improved the acetotrophic and hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis, while a high level of PS microplastics shifted methanogenesis from acetotrophic to hydrogenotrophic pathway. Further analysis showed that the reacted PS microplastics exhibited greater toxicity and ecological than the raw PS microplastics due to that they are more likely to adsorb contaminants. These findings revealed the dosage-dependent relationships between microplastics and organics transformation process in anaerobic environments, providing new insights for assessing the impact of PS microplastics on sludge anaerobic digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Tianyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Hao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shufei He
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Qingliang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Junqiu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Liangliang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
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28
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Monira S, Roychand R, Bhuiyan MA, Pramanik BK. Role of water shear force for microplastics fragmentation into nanoplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116916. [PMID: 37597832 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are major recipients of microplastics (MPs) that break down into nanoplastics (NPs) during wastewater treatment through physical, chemical, and biological processes. In particular, mechanical stress induced by the mixing process commonly used in WWTPs is thought to play a crucial role in the production of secondary MPs/NPs, which are then discharged into the open water environment through the WWTP effluent. This study investigated the fragmentation of 250 and 106 μm-sized pristine and weathered polystyrene (PS) particles using a four-blade mechanical impeller. At an energy density level of 100 kJ/L, the 250 and 106 μm-sized pristine PS particles were broken down into mean sizes of 120.6 ± 19.1 and 95.6 ± 16.8 nm, respectively. The smallest sizes were found to be 90.9 ± 17.8 and 72.4 ± 19.6 nm due to the breakdown of 250 and 106 μm-sized weathered PS particles, respectively. The morphology of the PS particles after fragmentation also demonstrated the initiation of surface damage, such as cracks, pores and rough structures. This surface crack propagation, caused by mechanically induced water shear force, was identified as the primary mechanism of MP fragmentation into NPs. It was also found that NP levels significantly increased after 40 min of mixing, with at least a 28-fold increase in water solution at an energy density of 32 kJ/L. These results clearly show that the breakdown of MPs into NPs is a continuous process during wastewater treatment, posing a significant threat to the water environment through NP release by WWTP effluents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirajum Monira
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Rajeev Roychand
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
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29
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Kamaraj P, Vardhan Sridhar V, Vijaykumar Tharumasivam S, Parthasarathy S, Bupesh G, Kumar Raju N, Kumar Sahoo U, Nanda A, Saravanan KM. Carbon nanoparticles fabricated microfilm: A potent filter for microplastics debased water. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 336:122502. [PMID: 37666462 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics were found to be the major pollutant across the globe. Plastic microbeads, like 0.5 mm, are very small and mainly used for exfoliation. The marine species cannot distinguish between their usual food and these microbeads. Microbeads have the potential to transfer up the food chain, which may lead to consumption by humans in the end. Activated carbon from inexpensive sources has greatly interested separation systems, especially in water treatment. In that view, carbon nanoparticles were produced, combined with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer, and used as a membrane to trap the microplastic particles. UV-Vis, FTIR, TEM, and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the produced carbon nanoparticles. FT-RAMAN Spectroscopy studies, microbial viable cell count, and turbidity analysis followed the membrane preparation and post-treatment. The carbon nanoparticle fabricated nanofilm effectively eliminates the microbial count and microplastics and reduces the turbidity (0.13 NTU). This study confirms that the membrane effectively filters microplastics and other contaminants. Nowadays, nanofiltration technologies have been considered beneficial for eliminating microplastics to an efficiency of 95%. Further research is needed to determine a feasible low-cost, ecologically suitable, and effective solution to remove the microplastics in water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhu Kamaraj
- PG & Research Department of Biotechnology, Srimad Andavan Arts Science College(Autonomous), Tiruvanaikoil, Tiruchirappalli, 620005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vishnu Vardhan Sridhar
- PG & Research Department of Biotechnology, Srimad Andavan Arts Science College(Autonomous), Tiruvanaikoil, Tiruchirappalli, 620005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Siva Vijaykumar Tharumasivam
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Samayapuram, Tiruchirappalli, 621112, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Giridharan Bupesh
- Department of Forestry, Nagaland University (Central), Lumami, Nagaland, 798627, India.
| | - Nirmal Kumar Raju
- PG & Research Department of Physics, Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College (Autonomous), Tiruvanaikoil, Tiruchirappalli, 620005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Anima Nanda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Konda Mani Saravanan
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, 600073, Tamil Nadu, India
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Devi K, Singh AD, Dhiman S, Kour J, Bhardwaj T, Sharma N, Madaan I, Khanna K, Ohri P, Singh AP, Sirhindi G, Bhardwaj R, Kumar V. Current studies on the degradation of microplastics in the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:102010-102026. [PMID: 37670091 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29640-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Soil and water are two important basic ecosystems for the survival of different organisms. The excessive microplastic pollutants in soil have been directly discharged into the terrestrial ecosystems. Microplastic pollutants (MPs) constitute a ubiquitous global menace due to their durability, flexibility, and tough nature. MPs posed threat to the sustainability of the ecosystem due to their small size and easy transportation via ecological series resulting in the accumulation of MPs in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. After being emitted into the terrestrial ecosystem, the MPs might be aged by oxidative degeneration (photo/thermal), reprecipitation (bioturbation), and hetero-accumulation. The mechanism of adsorption, degradation, and breakdown of MPs into unaffected plastic debris is accomplished by using several biological, physical, and chemical strategies. This review presents the importance of ecosystems, occurrence and sources of MPs, its toxicity, and the alteration in the ecology of the ecosystems. The inhibitory impact of MPs on the ecosystems also documents to unveil the ecological hazards of MPs. Further research is required to study the immobilization and recovery efficiency of MPs on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamini Devi
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Arun Dev Singh
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Shalini Dhiman
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Jaspreet Kour
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Tamanna Bhardwaj
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Neerja Sharma
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Isha Madaan
- Government College of Education, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144001, India
- Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, 147002, India
| | - Kanika Khanna
- Department of Botany, D.A.V. University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144001, India
| | - Puja Ohri
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Amrit Pal Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Geetika Sirhindi
- Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, 147002, India
| | - Renu Bhardwaj
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Botany, Government Degree College, Jammu and Kashmir, Ramban, India.
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Chattopadhyay P, Ariza-Tarazona MC, Cedillo-González EI, Siligardi C, Simmchen J. Combining photocatalytic collection and degradation of microplastics using self-asymmetric Pac-Man TiO 2. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:14774-14781. [PMID: 37465854 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr01512b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are a significant environmental threat and the lack of efficient removal techniques further amplifies this crisis. Photocatalytic semiconducting nanoparticles have the potential to degrade micropollutants, among them microplastics. The hydrodynamic effects leading to the propulsion of micromotors can lead to the accumulation of microplastics in close vicinity of the micromotor. Incorporating these different properties into a single photocatalytic micromotor (self-propulsion, phoretic assembly of passive colloids and photocatalytic oxidation of contaminants), we achieve a highly scalable, inherently-asymmetric Pac-Man TiO2 micromotor with the ability to actively collect and degrade microplastics. The target microplastics are homogeneous polystyrene microspheres (PS) to facilitate the optical degradation measurements. We cross-correlate the degradation with catalytic activity studies and critically evaluate the timescales required for all involved processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cristina Siligardi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Juliane Simmchen
- Chair of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, Dresden, Germany.
- Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1BX, UK
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Geppner L, Karaca J, Wegner W, Rados M, Gutwald T, Werth P, Henjakovic M. Testing of Different Digestion Solutions on Tissue Samples and the Effects of Used Potassium Hydroxide Solution on Polystyrene Microspheres. TOXICS 2023; 11:790. [PMID: 37755800 PMCID: PMC10536618 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic particles are ubiquitous in our environment, having entered the air, the water, the soil, and ultimately our food chain. Owing to their small size, these particles can potentially enter the bloodstream and accumulate in the organs. To detect microplastics using existing methods, they must first be isolated. The aim of this study was to develop a non-destructive method for efficiently and affordably isolating plastic particles. We investigated the digestion of kidney, lung, liver, and brain samples from pigs. Kidney samples were analyzed using light microscopy after incubation with proteinase K, pepsin/pancreatin, and 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution. Various KOH:tissue ratios were employed for the digestion of lung, liver, and brain samples. Additionally, we examined the effect of 10% KOH solution on added polystyrene microplastics using scanning electron microscopy. Our findings revealed that a 10% KOH solution is the most suitable for dissolving diverse organ samples, while enzymatic methods require further refinement. Moreover, we demonstrated that commonly used 1 µm polystyrene particles remain unaffected by 10% KOH solution even after 76 h of incubation. Digestion by KOH offers a simple and cost-effective approach for processing organ samples and holds potential for isolating plastic particles from meat products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesa Geppner
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Jakob Karaca
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Wencke Wegner
- Natural History Museum Vienna, Burgring 7, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Moritz Rados
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Tobias Gutwald
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Philemon Werth
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Maja Henjakovic
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Steiner Landstraße 124, 3500 Krems, Austria
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Edwards CC, McConnel G, Ramos D, Gurrola-Mares Y, Dhondiram Arole K, Green MJ, Cañas-Carrell JE, Brelsfoard CL. Microplastic ingestion perturbs the microbiome of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) and Aedes aegypti. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:884-898. [PMID: 37478409 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are common environmental pollutants; however, little is known about their effects after ingestion by insects. Here we fed Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (L.) and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) mosquito larvae 1 µm polystyrene MPs and examined the impacts of ingestion on adult emergence rates, gut damage, and fungal and bacterial microbiota. Results show that MPs accumulate in the larval guts, resulting in gut damage. However, little impact on adult emergence rates was observed. MPs are also found in adult guts postemergence from the pupal stage, and adults expel MPs in their frass after obtaining sugar meals. Moreover, MPs effects on insect microbiomes need to be better defined. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the relationship between MP ingestion and the microbial communities in Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti. The microbiota composition was altered by the ingestion of increasing concentrations of MPs. Amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) that contributed to differences in the bacterial and fungal microbiota composition between MP treatments were from the genera Elizabethkingia and Aspergillus, respectively. Furthermore, a decrease in the alpha diversity of the fungal and bacterial microbiota was observed in treatments where larvae ingested MPs. These results highlight the potential for the bacterial and fungal constituents in the mosquito microbiome to respond differently to the ingestion of MPs. Based on our findings and the effects of MP ingestion on the mosquito host micro- and mycobiome, MP pollution could impact the vector competence of important mosquito-transmitted viruses and parasites that cause human and animal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla-Cristina Edwards
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main St., Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Gabriella McConnel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, 1207 S. Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Daniela Ramos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main St., Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Yaizeth Gurrola-Mares
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main St., Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Kailash Dhondiram Arole
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Micah J Green
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Jaclyn E Cañas-Carrell
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, 1207 S. Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Corey L Brelsfoard
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main St., Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
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Du T, Shao S, Qian L, Meng R, Li T, Wu L, Li Y. Effects of photochlorination on the physicochemical transformation of polystyrene nanoplastics: Mechanism and environmental fate. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 243:120367. [PMID: 37499544 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120367] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
With the increasingly severe plastic pollution, the environmental behavior and effects of nanoplastics (NPs) have attracted much attention. The transformation of NPs in natural and engineered environments (e.g., photooxidation, disinfection) can significantly alter the physicochemical properties and thus affect the fate and toxicity of NPs. However, how solar irradiation with free chlorine, an inevitable process once NPs enter the environment from wastewater treatment plants, affects the physicochemical properties of NPs is still unclear. In this study, the behavior and mechanism of polystyrene (PS) NPs transformation in the solar/chlorine process were evaluated. The results demonstrated that solar irradiation significantly enhanced the physicochemical transformation of PS NPs during chlorination, including chain scission, surface oxidation, and organic release. In addition, two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy analysis using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and reactive species quenching experiments showed that chain scission and surface oxidation of PS NPs were primarily caused by direct oxidation of hydroxyl radicals and ozone, while reactive chlorine species played an indirect role. Moreover, photochlorination-induced changes in the properties of PS NPs enhanced the colloidal stability in synthetic wastewater solution and toxicity to Caenorhabditis elegans. These findings reveal an important transformation behavior of nanoplastics in the environment and emphasize the importance of accounting for photochlorination to accurately assess the ecological risk of nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Du
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Song Shao
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Liwen Qian
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Ru Meng
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tong Li
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Yao Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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35
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Yuan W, Xu EG, Li L, Zhou A, Peijnenburg WJGM, Grossart HP, Liu W, Yang Y. Tracing and trapping micro- and nanoplastics: Untapped mitigation potential of aquatic plants? WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120249. [PMID: 37356163 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics are emerging concerns due to their environmental ubiquity and currently largely unknown ecological impacts. Leveraging on a recently developed method using europium-doped polystyrene particles (PS-Eu), our present work aimed to accurately trace the uptake and transport of micro- and nanoplastics in aquatic plants and shed insights into the potential of different aquatic plants for trapping and removal of plastics from water environment. Seedlings of Vallisneria denseserrulata Makino (submerged plant), Iris tectorum Maxim (emergent plant), and Eichhornia crassipes Solms (floating plant) were exposed to 100 nm and 2 μm PS-Eu in freshwater (5 μg/mL) or sediments (5 μg/g) for 8 weeks. Fluorescence imaging clearly evidenced that PS-Eu mainly accumulated in the intercellular space and were transported from roots to leaves via the apoplastic path and vascular bundle. Mass spectrum analysis demonstrated that up to 6250 μg/g nanoplastics were trapped in aquatic plants (mainly in roots) with a bioconcentration factor of 306.5, depending on exposure routes and plant species. Owing to their excellent capture capability and high tolerance to plastic exposures, floating plants like E. crassipes are promising for immobilizing and removing fine plastics from the water environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenke Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Elvis Genbo Xu
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense 5230, Denmark
| | - Lianzhen Li
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Amei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Willie J G M Peijnenburg
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Center for Safety of Substances and Products, P.O. Box 1, Bilthoven, 3720, Netherlands; Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9518, Leiden 2300, Netherlands
| | - Hans-Peter Grossart
- Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Alte Fischerhuette 2, Neuglobsow, 16775, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 2, Potsdam 14469, Germany
| | - Wenzhi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China.
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36
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Eo S, Hong SH, Cho Y, Song YK, Han GM, Shim WJ. Spatial distribution and historical trend of microplastic pollution in sediments from enclosed bays of South Korea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115121. [PMID: 37302203 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Seafloor sediments are an important sink for microplastics (MPs), and the vertical profile of MP accumulation in a sediment core represents historical pollution trends. In this study, MP (20-5000 μm) pollution in surface sediments of urban, aquaculture, and environmental preservation sites in South Korea was evaluated, and the historical trend was investigated using age-dated core sediments from the urban and aquaculture sites. The abundance of MPs ranked in the order of urban, aquaculture, and environmental preservation sites. Polymer types were more diverse at the urban site compared to other sites, and expanded polystyrene was dominant in the aquaculture site. An increase in MP pollution and polymer types was observed from bottom to top of cores, and historical trends of MP pollution reflect local influences. Our results indicate that the characteristics of MPs are determined by human activities, and MP pollution should be addressed according to the characteristics of each site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soeun Eo
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Youna Cho
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Kyoung Song
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Basic Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Myung Han
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
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37
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Rani M, Ducoli S, Depero LE, Prica M, Tubić A, Ademovic Z, Morrison L, Federici S. A Complete Guide to Extraction Methods of Microplastics from Complex Environmental Matrices. Molecules 2023; 28:5710. [PMID: 37570680 PMCID: PMC10420958 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustainable development is a big global challenge for the 21st century. In recent years, a class of emerging contaminants known as microplastics (MPs) has been identified as a significant pollutant with the potential to harm ecosystems. These small plastic particles have been found in every compartment of the planet, with aquatic habitats serving as the ultimate sink. The challenge to extract MPs from different environmental matrices is a tangible and imperative issue. One of the primary specialties of research in environmental chemistry is the development of simple, rapid, low-cost, sensitive, and selective analytical methods for the extraction and identification of MPs in the environment. The present review describes the developments in MP extraction methods from complex environmental matrices. All existing methodologies (new, old, and proof-of-concept) are discussed and evaluated for their potential usefulness to extract MPs from various biotic and abiotic matrices for the sake of progress and innovation. This study concludes by addressing the current challenges and outlining future research objectives aimed at combating MP pollution. Additionally, a set of recommendations is provided to assist researchers in selecting appropriate analytical techniques for obtaining accurate results. To facilitate this process, a proposed roadmap for MP extraction is presented, considering the specific environmental compartments under investigation. By following this roadmap, researchers can enhance their understanding of MP pollution and contribute to effective mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rani
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Serena Ducoli
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Laura Eleonora Depero
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
| | - Miljana Prica
- Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Aleksandra Tubić
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Zahida Ademovic
- Faculty of Forestry, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Liam Morrison
- Earth and Ocean Sciences, School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, University of Galway, H91TK33 Galway, Ireland
| | - Stefania Federici
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia and INSTM Research Unit of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy (S.D.); (L.E.D.)
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38
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Qiu Y, Zhang T, Zhang P. Fate and environmental behaviors of microplastics through the lens of free radical. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 453:131401. [PMID: 37086675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as plastics with a size of less than 5 mm, are ubiquitously present in the environment and become an increasing environmental concern. The fate and environmental behavior of MPs are significantly influenced by the presence of free radicals. Free radicals can cause surface breakage, chemical release, change in crystallinity and hydrophilicity, and aggregation of MPs. On the other hand, the generation of free radicals with a high concentration and oxidation potential can effectively degrade MPs. There is a limited review article to bridge the fate and environmental behaviors of MP with free radicals and their reactions. This paper reviews the sources, types, detection methods, generation mechanisms, and influencing factors of free radicals affecting the environmental processes of MPs, the environmental effects of MPs controlled by free radicals, and the degradation strategies of MPs based on free radical-associated technologies. Moreover, this review elaborates on the limitations of the current research and provides ideas for future research on the interactions between MPs and free radicals to better explain their environmental impacts and control their risks. This article aims to keep the reader abreast of the latest development in the fate and environmental behaviors of MP with free radicals and their reactions and to bridge free radical chemistry with MP control methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Rd., Tianjin 300350, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Tong Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Rd., Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region of China.
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Ariza-Tarazona MC, Siligardi C, Carreón-López HA, Valdéz-Cerda JE, Pozzi P, Kaushik G, Villarreal-Chiu JF, Cedillo-González EI. Low environmental impact remediation of microplastics: Visible-light photocatalytic degradation of PET microplastics using bio-inspired C,N-TiO 2/SiO 2 photocatalysts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115206. [PMID: 37392590 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles with sizes between 1 μm and 5 mm with a ubiquitous presence in aquatic ecosystems. MPs harm marine life and can cause severe health problems for humans. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) that involve the in-situ generation of highly oxidant hydroxyl radicals can be an alternative to fight MPs pollution. Of all the AOPs, photocatalysis has been proven a clean technology to overcome microplastic pollution. This work proposes novel C,N-TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts with proper visible-active properties to degrade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) MPs. Photocatalysis was performed in an aqueous medium and at room temperature, evaluating the influence of two pH values (pH 6 and 8). The results demonstrated that the degradation of the PET MPs by C,N-TiO2/SiO2 semiconductors is possible, achieving mass losses between 9.35 and 16.22 %.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy.
| | - Cristina Siligardi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy
| | - Hugo Alejandro Carreón-López
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - José Enrique Valdéz-Cerda
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Paolo Pozzi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy
| | - Garima Kaushik
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer 305817, India
| | - Juan Francisco Villarreal-Chiu
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico; Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología (CIByN), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Km. 10 Autopista al Aeropuerto Internacional Mariano Escobedo, Apodaca 66628, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy.
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40
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Kurniawan TA, Haider A, Ahmad HM, Mohyuddin A, Umer Aslam HM, Nadeem S, Javed M, Othman MHD, Goh HH, Chew KW. Source, occurrence, distribution, fate, and implications of microplastic pollutants in freshwater on environment: A critical review and way forward. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 325:138367. [PMID: 36907482 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The generation of microplastics (MPs) has increased recently and become an emerging issue globally. Due to their long-term durability and capability of traveling between different habitats in air, water, and soil, MPs presence in freshwater ecosystem threatens the environment with respect to its quality, biotic life, and sustainability. Although many previous works have been undertaken on the MPs pollution in the marine system recently, none of the study has covered the scope of MPs pollution in the freshwater. To consolidate scattered knowledge in the literature body into one place, this work identifies the sources, fate, occurrence, transport pathways, and distribution of MPs pollution in the aquatic system with respect to their impacts on biotic life, degradation, and detection techniques. This article also discusses the environmental implications of MPs pollution in the freshwater ecosystems. Certain techniques for identifying MPs and their limitations in applications are presented. Through a literature survey of over 276 published articles (2000-2023), this study presents an overview of solutions to the MP pollution, while identifying research gaps in the body of knowledge for further work. It is conclusive from this review that the MPs exist in the freshwater due to an improper littering of plastic waste and its degradation into smaller particles. Approximately 15-51 trillion MP particles have accumulated in the oceans with their weight ranging between 93,000 and 236,000 metric ton (Mt), while about 19-23 Mt of plastic waste was released into rivers in 2016, which was projected to increase up to 53 Mt by 2030. A subsequent degradation of MPs in the aquatic environment results in the generation of NPs with size ranging from 1 to 1000 nm. It is expected that this work facilitates stakeholders to understand the multi-aspects of MPs pollution in the freshwater and recommends policy actions to implement sustainable solutions to this environmental problem.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahtisham Haider
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan.
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Umer Aslam
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Nadeem
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Mohsin Javed
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, 54770, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
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41
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Monira S, Roychand R, Hai FI, Bhuiyan M, Dhar BR, Pramanik BK. Nano and microplastics occurrence in wastewater treatment plants: A comprehensive understanding of microplastics fragmentation and their removal. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 334:139011. [PMID: 37230299 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nano/microplastic (NP/MP) pollution is a growing concern for the water environment. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered the major recipients of MP before discharging into local waterbodies. MPs enter WWTPs mainly from synthetic fibers through washing activities and personal care products. To control and prevent NP/MP pollution, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics, fragmentation mechanisms, and the effectiveness of the current treatment processes used in WWTPs for NP/MP removal. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to (i) understand the detailed mapping of NP/MP in the WWTP, (ii) understand the fragmentation mechanisms of MP into NP, and (iii) investigate the removal efficiency of NP/MP by existing processes in the WWTP. This study found that fiber is the dominant shape of MP, and polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene are the major polymer type of MP in wastewater samples. Crack propagation and mechanical breakdown of MP due to water shear forces induced by treatment facilities (e.g., pumping, mixing, and bubbling) could be the major causes for NP generation in the WWTP. Conventional wastewater treatment processes are ineffective for the complete removal of MPs. Although these processes are capable of removing ∼95% of MPs, they tend to accumulate in sludge. Thus, a significant number of MPs may still be released into the environment from WWTPs on a daily basis. Therefore, this study suggested that using DAF process in the primary treatment unit can be an effective strategy to control MP in the initial stage before it goes to the secondary and tertiary stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirajum Monira
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Rajeev Roychand
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Faisal Ibney Hai
- School of Civil, Mining and Environmental Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Muhammed Bhuiyan
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Bipro Ranjan Dhar
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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42
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Zhou Y, Wu C, Li Y, Jiang H, Miao A, Liao Y, Pan K. Effects of nanoplastics on clam Ruditapes philippinarum at environmentally realistic concentrations: Toxicokinetics, toxicity, and gut microbiota. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 456:131647. [PMID: 37245360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are ubiquitous in marine environments, understanding to what extent nanoplastics accumulate in bivalves and the adverse effects derived from their retention is imperative for evaluating the detrimental effects in the benthic ecosystem. Here, using palladium-doped polystyrene nanoplastics (139.5 nm, 43.8 mV), we quantitatively determined nanoplastic accumulation in Ruditapes philippinarum and investigated its toxic effects by combining physiological damage assessments with a toxicokinetic model and 16 S rRNA sequencing. After a 14 days exposure, significant nanoplastic accumulation was observed, up to 17.2 and 137.9 mg·kg-1 for the environmentally realistic (0.02 mg·L-1) and ecologically (2 mg·L-1) relevant groups, respectively. Ecologically relevant nanoplastic concentrations evidently attenuated the total antioxidant capacity and stimulated excessive reactive oxygen species, which elicited lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, and pathological damage. The modeled uptake (k1) and elimination (k2) rate constants (from physiologically based pharmacokinetic model) were significantly negatively correlated with short-term toxicity. Although no obvious toxic effects were found, environmentally realistic exposures notably altered the intestinal microbial community structure. This work increases our understanding of how the accumulation of nanoplastics influences their toxic effects in terms of the toxicokinetics and gut microbiota, providing further evidence of their potential environmental risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Zhou
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution and Ecological Restoration, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Aijun Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210023, China
| | - Yongyan Liao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Marine Biodiversity Conservation, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Ke Pan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
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43
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Sethulekshmi S, Kalbar P, Shriwastav A. A unified modelling framework for type I (discrete) settling and rising of microplastics in primary sedimentation tanks. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 334:117444. [PMID: 36773453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117444] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Sewage treatment plants (STPs) are considered as a significant source of microplastic pollution into the terrestrial and aquatic environment. Existing observations suggest that primary treatment accounts for major microplastics removal in STPs, though with high variability due to the complex nature of the polymer compositions, abundance, and sizes in the incoming sewage. Here, we develop a unified modelling framework to simulate the Type I (or discrete) settling or rising behaviour of microplastics to predict their eventual fate in Primary Sedimentation Tank (PST). The model was developed as per the conventional design protocol for PST involving Stokes equation and modifications as per flow regime for settling of nylon and polystyrene microplastics. It was subsequently validated with independent column experiments for both settling (nylon and polystyrene) and rising (low-density polyethylene and polypropylene) microplastics in different size ranges. The validated model was then applied for multiple realistic scenarios of polymer compositions, relative abundance, and size distributions in the incoming sewage. The model predicts removals ranging from 12% to 94% for a mixture of microplastics in the size fraction 0-500 μm. Model simulations also suggest better microplastics removal with the integration of skimming in PST, and optimization of surface overflow velocity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sethulekshmi
- Environmental Science and Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400 076, India
| | - Pradip Kalbar
- Centre for Urban Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400 076, India
| | - Amritanshu Shriwastav
- Environmental Science and Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400 076, India.
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44
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Manu MK, Luo L, Kumar R, Johnravindar D, Li D, Varjani S, Zhao J, Wong J. A review on mechanistic understanding of microplastic pollution on the performance of anaerobic digestion. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 325:121426. [PMID: 36907239 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) has emerged as a promising technology for diverting the organic waste from the landfills along with the production of clean energy. AD is a microbial-driven biochemical process wherein the plethora of microbial communities participate in converting the putrescible organic matter into biogas. Nevertheless, the AD process is susceptible to the external environmental factors such as presence of physical (microplastics) and chemical (antibiotics, pesticides) pollutants. The microplastics (MPs) pollution has received recent attention due to the increasing plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems. This review was aimed for holistic assessment of impact of MPs pollution on AD process to develop efficient treatment technology. First, the possible pathways of MPs entry into the AD systems were critically evaluated. Further, the recent literature on the experimental studies pertaining to the impact of different types of MPs at different concentrations on the AD process was reviewed. In addition, several mechanisms such as direct exposure of MPs on the microbial cells, indirect impact of MPs through the leaching of toxic chemicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation on AD process were elucidated. Besides, the risk possessed by the increase of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) after the AD process due to the MPs stress on microbial communities were discussed. Overall, this review deciphered the severity of MPs pollution on AD process at different levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Manu
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Liwen Luo
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Reeti Kumar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Davidraj Johnravindar
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Dongyi Li
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Jun Zhao
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Jonathan Wong
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment and Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong.
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45
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Dent AR, Chadwick DDA, Eagle LJB, Gould AN, Harwood M, Sayer CD, Rose NL. Microplastic burden in invasive signal crayfish ( Pacifastacus leniusculus) increases along a stream urbanization gradient. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10041. [PMID: 37153013 PMCID: PMC10156447 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics are a globally pervasive pollutant with the potential to directly impact species and accumulate in ecosystems. However, there remains a relative paucity of research addressing their accumulation in freshwater ecosystems and a near absence of work in crayfish, despite their high ecological and economic importance. This study investigated the presence of microplastics in the invasive signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus along a stream urbanization gradient. The results demonstrate a ubiquitous presence of microplastics in crayfish digestive tracts at all sites and provide the first evidence of microplastic accumulation in tail tissue. Evidence of a positive linear trend was demonstrated between microplastic concentration in crayfish and upstream urban area size in generalized linear models. Evidence for a positive effect of the upstream urban area and a negative effect of crayfish length on microplastic concentrations in crayfish was demonstrated in multiple generalized linear regression models. Our results extend the current understanding of microplastics presence in freshwater ecosystems and demonstrate their presence in crayfish in the wild for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel D. A. Chadwick
- Department of GeographyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- PBA Applied EcologySettle, North YorkshireUK
| | - Lawrence J. B. Eagle
- Department of GeographyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- PBA Applied EcologySettle, North YorkshireUK
| | | | | | - Carl D. Sayer
- Department of GeographyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Neil L. Rose
- Department of GeographyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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46
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Svigruha R, Prikler B, Farkas A, Ács A, Fodor I, Tapolczai K, Schmidt J, Bordós G, Háhn J, Harkai P, Kaszab E, Szoboszlay S, Pirger Z. Presence, variation, and potential ecological impact of microplastics in the largest shallow lake of Central Europe. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 883:163537. [PMID: 37075990 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in the global ecosystem has generated a rapidly growing concern worldwide. Although their presence in the marine environment has been well-studied, much less data are available on their abundance in freshwaters. MPs alone and in combination with different chemicals has been shown to cause acute and chronic effects on algae and aquatic invertebrate and vertebrate species at different biological levels. However, the combined ecotoxicological effects of MPs with different chemicals on aquatic organisms are still understudied in many species and the reported data are often controversial. In the present study, we investigated, for the first time, the presence of MPs in Lake Balaton, which is the largest shallow lake of Central Europe and an important summer holiday destination. Moreover, we exposed neonates of the well-established ecotoxicological model organism Daphnia magna to different MPs (polystyrene [3 μm] or polyethylene [≤ 100 μm]) alone and in combination with three progestogen compounds (progesterone, drospirenone, levonorgestrel) at an environmentally relevant concentration (10 ng L-1) for 21 days. The presence of 7 polymer types of MPs in the size range of 50-100 μm was detected in Lake Balaton. Similarly to the global trends, polypropylene and polyethylene MPs were the most common types of polymer. The calculated polymer-independent average particle number was 5.5 particles m-3 (size range: 50 μm - 100 μm) which represents the values detected in other European lakes. Our ecotoxicological experiments confirmed that MPs and progestogens can affect D. magna at the behavioral (body size and reproduction) and biochemical (detoxification-related enzyme activity) levels. The joint effects were negligible. The presence of MPs may lead to reduced fitness in the aquatic biota in freshwaters such as Lake Balaton, however, the potential threat of MPs as vectors for progestogens may be limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réka Svigruha
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - Bence Prikler
- Eurofins-Wessling Hungary Ltd, 1045 Budapest, Hungary; Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Anna Farkas
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - András Ács
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - István Fodor
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Tapolczai
- Aquatic Botany and Microbial Ecology Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - János Schmidt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bordós
- Eurofins-Wessling Hungary Ltd, 1045 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Háhn
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Péter Harkai
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Edit Kaszab
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Sándor Szoboszlay
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Pirger
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 8237 Tihany, Hungary.
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47
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Shu X, Xu L, Yang M, Qin Z, Zhang Q, Zhang L. Spatial distribution characteristics and migration of microplastics in surface water, groundwater and sediment in karst areas: The case of Yulong River in Guilin, Southwest China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161578. [PMID: 36638986 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Karst regions, due to their unique topography, may be more susceptible to contaminants such as microplastics from other ecosystems. However, few studies reported the occurrence of microplastics in karst areas. Here, we investigated the abundance of microplastics in surface water, sediments and groundwater. In addition, their spatial distribution characteristics and migration were also analyzed in a typical karst area, Yulong River, Guilin, China. Microplastic pollution was found in the sediments, surface water and especially groundwater in Yulong River. The abundance of microplastics was 0-4 items/L, 247-1708 items/kg and 0-4 items/L in surface water, sediments and groundwater, respectively. Microplastics in surface water and groundwater were fiber-based, while those in sediments were fragment-based. Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are dominant microplastic types in Yulong River. Moreover, the abundance of microplastic pollution in different functional areas ranked as follows: living area > agricultural area > landscape area. Clustering analysis showed that disposable tableware and plastic bags used in tourism activities might be the main source of microplastics. More importantly, our findings suggested that microplastics in groundwater could be the result of hydraulic exchange between groundwater and surface water in karst areas, rather than soil infiltration. These findings provided us with a further understanding of the pollution of microplastics in karst rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Shu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China
| | - Lizhen Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China
| | - Minghao Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China
| | - Ziqi Qin
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Guilin University of Electronic Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China.
| | - Lishan Zhang
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Guilin University of Electronic Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, PR China
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48
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Yang J, Monnot M, Sun Y, Asia L, Wong-Wah-Chung P, Doumenq P, Moulin P. Microplastics in different water samples (seawater, freshwater, and wastewater): Removal efficiency of membrane treatment processes. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 232:119673. [PMID: 36764106 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The distribution and fate of microplastics in different water sources and their treatment plants (seawater, three municipal wastewaters, a pharmaceutical factory wastewater, and three drinking waters) in France were studied. Currently, research in this field is still under exploration since almost no relevant standards or policies have been introduced for the detection, the removal, or the discharge of microplastics. This study used an improved quantitative and qualitative analytical methodology for microplastic detection by μ-FTIR carried out with siMPle analytical software. By investigation, wastewater was determined to contain the most abundant microplastics in quantity (4,203-42,000 MP·L-1), then followed by surface water/groundwater (153-19,836 MP·L-1) and seawater (around 420 MP·L-1). Polyethylene was the dominant material in almost all water types followed by polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate. Almost all treatment technologies could remove microplastics whatever the feed water types and concentration of microplastics, though some treatment processes or transport pipes could cause additional contamination from microplastics. The four WWTPs, three DWTPs, and SWTP in France provided, respectively, 87.8-99.8%, 82.3-99.9%, 69.0-96.0% removal/retention of MPs in quantity, and provided 97.3-100%, 91.9-99.9%, 92.2-98.1% removal/retention of MPs in surface area. Moreover, ultrafiltration was confirmed to be an effective technology for microplastic retention and control of dimensions of microplastics in smaller ranges both in field-scale and lab-scale experiments. The 200 kDa ultrafiltration membrane could retain 70-100% and 80-100% of microplastics in quantity and in surface area, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Yang
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, M2P2, Equipe Procédés Membranaires (EPM), Marseille, France; Present affiliation: State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - M Monnot
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, M2P2, Equipe Procédés Membranaires (EPM), Marseille, France
| | - Y Sun
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, M2P2, Equipe Procédés Membranaires (EPM), Marseille, France
| | - L Asia
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCE, Marseille, France
| | | | - P Doumenq
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCE, Marseille, France
| | - P Moulin
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, M2P2, Equipe Procédés Membranaires (EPM), Marseille, France.
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49
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Zhang B, Wu Q, Gao S, Ruan Y, Qi G, Guo K, Zeng J. Distribution and removal mechanism of microplastics in urban wastewater plants systems via different processes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 320:121076. [PMID: 36641065 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution threatens water systems worldwide. As one of the most important parts of city wastewater treatment, wastewater treatment plants are not only microplastics interception barriers but also emission sources. Water samples were collected from each sewage treatment plant stage and sludge from the sludge dewatering room. Microplastics were extracted using wet peroxide oxidation and flotation, and the abundance, size, shape, and polymer type of microplastics were detected. Basis on the results, the influence of each process on the removal rate and characteristics of microplastics under the same influent source was analysed. The influent microplastic concentration in this study was 32.5 ± 1.0 n/L, which rapidly decreased after treatment. The removal rates of the sequencing batch reactor activated sludge, cyclic activated sludge, and anaerobic anoxic oxic technologies were 73.0%, 75.6%, and 83.9%, respectively. Most microplastics were transported to the sludge, and the concentration of microplastics in dehydrated sludge was 27.2 ± 3.1 n/g. Microplastics removal occurred primarily during the primary and secondary stages. Disposal processes, settling time, and process design affected wastewater treatment plant microplastic removal rates at each stage. Significant differences in microplastic characteristics were observed at each stage, with the most abundant being fragment shaped, particle sizes of 30-100 μm, and black in colour. Sixteen polymer types were identified using a Raman spectrometer. The predominant polymers are polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. This study demonstrates that optimising the process design of existing wastewater treatment plants is crucial for the prevention and control of microplastic pollution. It is suggested that the process settings of contemporary wastewater treatment plants should be studied in depth to develop a scientific foundation for avoiding and managing microplastic pollution in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Karst Geological Resources and Environment (Guizhou University), Ministry of Education, Guiyang, Guizhou 550000, China
| | - Qixin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Karst Geological Resources and Environment (Guizhou University), Ministry of Education, Guiyang, Guizhou 550000, China; College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550000, China.
| | - Shilin Gao
- College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550000, China
| | - Yunjun Ruan
- Institute of Advanced Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, College of Big Data and Information Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Guizhi Qi
- Key Laboratory of Karst Geological Resources and Environment (Guizhou University), Ministry of Education, Guiyang, Guizhou 550000, China
| | - Ke Guo
- Guiyang Research Academy of Eco-Environmental Science, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550000, China
| | - Jie Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Karst Geological Resources and Environment (Guizhou University), Ministry of Education, Guiyang, Guizhou 550000, China; College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550000, China
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Eun-Ju Kim
- Water Cycle Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, South Korea
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