1
|
Zeng D, Yang C, Huang Z, Liu Y, Liu S, Zhang Z, Huang W, Dang Z, Chen C. Heteroaggregation kinetics of nanoplastics and soot nanoparticles in aquatic environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134564. [PMID: 38743982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Heteroaggregation between polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) and soot nanoparticles (STNPs) in aquatic environments may affect their fate and transport. This study investigated the effects of particle concentration ratio, electrolytes, pH, and humic acid on their heteroaggregation kinetics. The critical coagulation concentration (CCC) ranked CCCPSNPs > CCCPSNPs-STNPs > CCCSTNPs, indicating that heteroaggregation rates fell between homoaggregation rates. In NaCl solution, as the PSNPs/STNPs ratio decreased from 9/1 to 3/7, heteroaggregation rate decreased and CCCPSNPs-STNPs increased from 200 to 220 mM due to enhanced electrostatic repulsion. Outlier was observed at PSNPs/STNPs= 1/9, where CCCPSNPs-STNPs= 170 mM and homoaggregation of STNPs dominated. However, in CaCl2 solution where calcium bridged with STNPs, heteroaggregation rate increased and CCCPSNPs-STNPs decreased from 26 to 5 mM as the PSNPs/STNPs ratio decreasing from 9/1 to 1/9. In composite water samples, heteroaggregation occurred only at estuarine and marine salinities. Acidic condition promoted heteroaggregation via charge screening. Humic acid retarded or promoted heteroaggregation in NaCl or CaCl2 solutions by steric hindrance or calcium bridging, respectively. Other than van der Waals attraction and electrostatic repulsion, heteroaggregation was affected by steric hindrance, hydrophobic interactions, π - π interactions, and calcium bridging. The results highlight the role of black carbon on colloidal stability of PSNPs in aquatic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Zeng
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chen Yang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ziqing Huang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yanjun Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Sijia Liu
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weilin Huang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Zhi Dang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chengyu Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xian Z, Guo F, Chen M, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Wu H, Dai J, Zhang X, Chen Y. Plant-microbe involvement: How manganese achieves harmonious nitrogen-removal and carbon-reduction in constructed wetlands. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 402:130794. [PMID: 38703966 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130794] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Carbon deficits in inflow frequently lead to inefficient nitrogen removal in constructed wetlands (CWs) treating tailwater. Solid carbon sources, commonly employed to enhance denitrification in CWs, increase carbon emissions. In this study, MnO2 was incorporated into polycaprolactone substrates within CWs, significantly enhancing NH4+-N and NO3--N removal efficiencies by 48.26-59.78 % and 96.84-137.23 %, respectively. These improvements were attributed to enriched nitrogen-removal-related enzymes and increased plant absorption. Under high nitrogen loads (9.55 ± 0.34 g/m3/d), emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, and N2O) decreased by 147.23-202.51 %, 14.53-86.76 %, and 63.36-87.36 %, respectively. N2O emissions were reduced through bolstered microbial nitrogen removal pathways by polycaprolactone and MnO2. CH4 accumulation was mitigated by the increased methanotrophs and dampened methanogenesis, modulated by manganese. Additionally, manganese-induced increases in photosynthetic pigment contents (21.28-64.65 %) fostered CO2 sequestration through plant photosynthesis. This research provides innovative perspectives on enhancing nitrogen removal and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in constructed wetlands with polymeric substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Xian
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Fucheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; Chongqing Water & Environment Holdings Group Ltd., Chongqing 400042, PR China
| | - Mengli Chen
- Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, PR China
| | - Yichu Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Zihang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Hao Wu
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Jingyi Dai
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen X, Chen CE, Cheng S, Sweetman AJ. Bisphenol A sorption on commercial polyvinyl chloride microplastics: Effects of UV-aging, biofilm colonization and additives on plastic behaviour in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124218. [PMID: 38815887 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Chemical additives are important components in commercial microplastics and their leaching behaviour has been widely studied. However, little is known about the potential effect of additives on the adsorption/desorption behaviour of pollutants on microplastics and their subsequent role as vectors for pollutant transport in the environment. In this study, two types of commercial polyvinyl chloride (PVC1 and PVC2) microplastics were aged by UV irradiation and biotic modification via biofilm colonization to investigate the adsorption and desorption behaviour of bisphenol A (BPA). Surface cracks and new functional groups (e.g., O-H) were found on PVC1 after UV irradiation, which increased available adsorption sites and enhanced H‒bonding interaction, resulting in an adsorption capacity increase from 1.28 μg/L to 1.85 μg/L. However, the adsorption and desorption capacity not showed significant changes for PVC2, which might be related to the few characteristic changes after UV aging with the protection of light stabilizers and antioxidants. The adsorption capacity ranged from 1.28 μg/L to 2.06 μg/L for PVC1 and PVC2 microplastics, and increased to 1.62 μg/L-2.95 μg/L after colonization by biofilms. The increased adsorption ability might be related to the N-H functional group, amide groups generated by microorganisms enhancing the affinity for BPA. The opposite effect was observed for desorption. Plasticizers can be metabolized during biofilm formation processes and might play an important role in microorganism colonization. In addition, antioxidants and UV stabilizers might also indirectly influence the colonization of microorganisms' on microplastics by controlling the degree to which PVC microplastics age under UV. The amount of biomass loading on the microplastics would further alter the adsorption/desorption behaviour of contaminants. This study provides important new insights into the evaluation of the fate of plastic particles in natural environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxin Chen
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
| | - Chang-Er Chen
- Environmental Research Institute, School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety and MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Shengming Cheng
- Environmental Research Institute, School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety and MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Andrew J Sweetman
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ma WJ, Zhang HM, Ma ZS, You XJ, Wei XY, Li Y, Tian Y. Meta-analyzing the mechanism of pyrogenic biochar strengthens nitrogen removal performance in sulfur-driven autotrophic denitrification system: Evidence from metatranscriptomics. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 253:121296. [PMID: 38367378 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121296] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Sulfur-driven autotrophic denitrification (SAD) exhibits significant benefits in treating low carbon/nitrogen wastewater. This study presents an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and highly efficient method for enhancing nitrogen removal performance. The addition of biochar prepared at 300 °C (BC300) notably increased nitrogen removal efficiency by 31.60 %. BC300 concurrently enhanced electron production, the activities of the electron transfer system, and electron acceptors. With BC300, the ratio of NADH/NAD+ rose 2.00±0.11 times compared to without biochar, and the expression of NAD(P)H dehydrogenase genes was markedly up-regulated. In the electron transfer system, BC300 improved the electroactivity of extracellular polymeric substances and the activities of NADH dehydrogenase and complex III in intracellular electron transfer. Subsequently, electrons were directed into denitrification enzymes, where the nar, nir, nor, and nos related genes were highly expressed with BC300 addition. Significantly, BC300 activated the Clp and quorum sensing systems, positively influencing numerous gene expressions and microbial communication. Furthermore, the O%, H%, molar O/C, and aromaticity index in biochar were identified as crucial bioavailable parameters for enhancing nitrogen removal in the SAD process. This study not only confirms the application potential of biochar in SAD, but also advances our comprehension of its underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jie Ma
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Han-Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China.
| | - Zi-Shang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Xiu-Jia You
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Xin-Yue Wei
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Yue Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education, MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, No.2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Yu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment (SKLUWRE), School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu H. Microplastic inhibits the sorption of trichloroethylene on modified biochar. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2024; 89:1981-1995. [PMID: 38678403 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.112] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Biochar (BC) was used to remove trichloroethylene (TCE) from soil and water phases, and BC modification changed the sorption behavior of pollutants. Microplastics are emerging pollutants in the soil and water phases. Whether microplastics can affect the sorption of TCE by modified BC is not clear. Thus, batch sorption kinetics and isotherm experiments were conducted to elucidate the sorption of TCE on BC, and BC combined with polyethylene (PE) or polystyrene (PS). The results showed that HCl and NaOH modification increased TCE sorption on BC, while HNO3 modification inhibited TCE sorption on BC. When PE/PS and BC coexisted, the TCE sorption capacity decreased significantly on BC-CK + PE, BC-HCl + PE, BC-HNO3 + PE, BC-NaOH + PE, and BC-NaOH + PS, which was likely due to the preferential sorption of PE/PS on BC samples. We concluded that microplastics can change TCE sorption behavior and inhibit TCE sorption on BC samples. Thus, the interaction of BC and microplastics should be considered when BC is used for TCE removal in soil and water remediation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hainan Lu
- State Environment Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai 200233, China E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Guo S, Lyu H, Liu W, He Y, Tang J. Self-motivated photoaging of microplastics by biochar-dissolved organic matter under different pyrolysis temperatures. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170043. [PMID: 38218483 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Dissolved organic matter (DOM) released from biochar (BDOM) can interact with microplastics (MPs) in the environment, inevitably affecting their environmental behaviour. Information regarding the influence of BDOM on MPs during photoaging and associated variations in the MP aging mechanism remains unclear. This study evaluated the effect of BDOM on the aging of polystyrene (PS) MPs. The results showed that among three pyrolysis temperatures, low-temperature BDOM significantly enhanced the photoaging process of PS MPs, with the smallest average particle size and highest carbonyl index value after 15 days of aging under light conditions. The DOM level decreased after 5 days, increased after 5-10 days, and stabilised after 15 d. BDOM accelerates PS MPs aging, leading to more DOM released from PS, which can be transformed into 1O2 via triplet-excited state (3DOM⁎ and 3PS⁎) to further enhance PS MPs aging, resulting in the realisation of the self-accelerated aging process of PS MPs. 1O2 plays a crucial role in the self-motivated accelerated aging process of PS MPs. These findings provide new insights into the effects of the DOM structure and composition on reactive oxygen species generation during MPs aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saisai Guo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Honghong Lyu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Clean Energy and Pollution Control, School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China.
| | - Weitao Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuhe He
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jingchun Tang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Luo M, Liu Q, Tao Y, Jiang X, Zang L, Yu H, Liu Y, Wang H, Niu Y, Niu Y. Aging properties and cadmium remediation mechanism of biochar in sediment from phosphorus-rich water. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133062. [PMID: 38043425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133062] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is the main heavy metal pollutant in sediments from East China. The biochar-sediment nexus can provide carbon sequestration and pollution control. In this work, an in situ study was conducted to investigate the long-term effects and control mechanism of biochar and the effect of biochar aging on Cd stabilization in overlying water-pore water-sediment. The Cd2+ concentration in the overlying water was positively correlated with total nitrogen (0.960, P < 0.05), total organic carbon (0.983, P < 0.05), and total phosphorus (0.993, P < 0.01) in pore water. Biochar stabilized Cd2+ by increasing the pH and oxidation-reduction potential of the sediment environment and promoting the formation of Cd1.25Ca0.75(P2O7) on the biochar surface in sediment from phosphorus-rich water. These changes were closely related to the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area and average pore size of the biochar. Within 60 days, the biochar in the sediment underwent aging, which was closely related to the preparation temperature of the biochar. The organic composition of biochar prepared at a low temperature (≤ 300 °C) and the surface structure of biochar prepared at a high temperature (≥ 500 °C) were altered. The biochar parameter changes were in the order of pore volume > Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area > pore size. Our results show that biochar modification can enhance the remediation capacity of biochar, but may be unfavorable to biochar anti-aging. This knowledge will support policymakers and researchers when exploring long-term biochar use in contamination control and strengthen future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingke Luo
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Qian Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yanru Tao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Xia Jiang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Longfei Zang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Hui Yu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yaqing Liu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Haonan Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yuan Niu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Yong Niu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Institute of Lake Ecology and Environment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tang S, Gong J, Song B, Cao W, Li J. Remediation of biochar-supported effective microorganisms and microplastics on multiple forms of heavy metals in eutrophic lake. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133098. [PMID: 38064949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
In mineral-rich areas, eutrophic lakes are at risk of HMs pollution. However, few papers focused on the repair of HMs in eutrophic environment. Our study analyzed multiple forms of HMs, pore structure and microbial responses in the water-sediment system of eutrophic lake treated with biochar, Effective Microorganisms (EMs) or/and microplastics (MPs). As biochar provided an ideal carrier for EMs, the remediation of biochar-supported EMs (BE) achieved the greatest repairment that improved the bacterial indexes and greatly decreased the most HMs in various forms across the water-sediment system, and it also reduced metal mobility, bioavailability and ecological risk. The addition of aged MPs (MP) stimulated the microbial activity and significantly reduced the HMs levels in different forms due to the adsorption of biofilms/EPS adhered on MPs, but it increased metals mobility and ecological risks. The strong adsorption and high mobility of aged MPs would increase enrichment of HMs and cause serious ecological hazards. The incorporation of BE and MP (MBE) also greatly reduced the HMs in full forms, which was primarily ascribed to the adsorption of superfluous biofilms/EPS, but it distinctly depressed the microbial activity. The single addition of biochar and EMs resulted in the inability of HMs to be adsorbed due to the preferentially adsorption of dissolved nutrients and the absence of effective carrier, respectively. In the remediation cases, the remarkable removal of HMs was principally accomplished by the adsorption of HMs with molecular weight below 100 kDa, especially 3 kDa ∼100 kDa, which had higher specific surfaces and abundant active matters, resulting in higher adsorption onto biofilms/EPS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqun Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Institute, Hunan University, Shenzhen 518000, PR China
| | - Jilai Gong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Institute, Hunan University, Shenzhen 518000, PR China.
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Institute, Hunan University, Shenzhen 518000, PR China
| | - Weicheng Cao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Institute, Hunan University, Shenzhen 518000, PR China
| | - Juan Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Institute, Hunan University, Shenzhen 518000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bhatia SK, Kumar G, Yang YH. Understanding microplastic pollution: Tracing the footprints and eco-friendly solutions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169926. [PMID: 38199349 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human health. These are plastic particles measuring <5 mm and are categorized as primary and secondary based on their origin. Primary MPs are used in various products like cosmetics, scrubs, body wash, and toothpaste, while secondary MPs are generated through the degradation of plastic products. These have been detected in seas, rivers, snow, indoor air, and seafood, posing potential risks to human health through the food chain. Detecting and quantifying MPs are essential to understand their distribution and abundance in the environment. Various microscopic (fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy) and spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) have been reported to analyse MPs. Despite the challenges in scalable removal methods, biological systems have emerged as promising options for eco-friendly MPs remediation. Algae, bacteria, and fungi have shown the potential to adsorb and degrade MPs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) offering hope for mitigating this global crisis. This review examines the sources, impacts, detection, and biological removal of MPs, highlighting future directions in this crucial field of environmental conservation. By fostering global collaboration and innovative research a path towards a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations can be promised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Kant Bhatia
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, Box 8600 Forus, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Meng Z, Wu J, Huang S, Xin L, Zhao Q. Competitive adsorption behaviors and mechanisms of Cd, Ni, and Cu by biochar when coexisting with microplastics under single, binary, and ternary systems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169524. [PMID: 38142002 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of coexistence with microplastics and co-ageing with the soil on adsorption behaviors and mechanisms of biochar for heavy metals were investigated. Adsorption experiments of Cd, Ni, and Cu by microplastics, biochar, and their combination were conducted in single, binary, and ternary systems. The results indicated that the heavy metal adsorption by microplastics was ranked as Ni > Cd > Cu, which increased with decreasing particle size, and the adsorption capacity of microplastics was enhanced after dry-wet and freeze-thaw ageing. Biochar preferentially adsorbed Cd in the single system, while the maximum adsorption of Cu was observed in the binary and ternary systems due to the minimizing impact of competition on the Cu adsorption by biochar. The heavy metal adsorption by the combination of microplastics and biochar was less than that by single biochar, and the smaller the particle size of microplastics, the greater the negative effects on heavy metal adsorption. Coexistence with microplastics reduced Cd adsorption of biochar by 0.72 %-50.35 %, Ni adsorption by 1.17 %-30.43 %, and Cu adsorption by 5.78 %-47.88 %, respectively. Moreover, coexistence with microplastics exacerbated the adverse impacts of competition on biochar adsorption for heavy metals. The contribution percentages of biochar mineral mechanisms for heavy metal adsorption were ranked as Cu > Cd > Ni. When coexisting with microplastics or after ageing, the mineral mechanisms of heavy metal adsorption by biochar significantly decreased. This study investigated the competitive adsorption behaviors and mechanisms of heavy metals by biochar when coexisting with microplastics, which highlighted that the application of biochar for the remediation of heavy metal pollution should be concerned with the impacts of microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuowen Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources Engineering and Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Jingwei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources Engineering and Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Shuang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources Engineering and Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Lei Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources Engineering and Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Qin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources Engineering and Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao S, Zhang C, Zhang Q, Huang Q. Small microplastic particles promote tetracycline and aureomycin adsorption by biochar in an aqueous solution. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 349:119332. [PMID: 37907026 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119332] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Biochar (BC) has been used to remove antibiotics from wastewater. Microplastics are emerging contaminants of wastewater. The capacities of microplastics for adsorbing antibiotics and the effects of microplastics of different types and particle sizes on antibiotic adsorption by BC have not been studied. Here, adsorption isotherm and kinetics experiments were performed to investigate tetracycline and aureomycin adsorption to polyvinyl chloride particles with diameters of 10, 100, 500, and 2000 μm, polylactic acid particles with diameters of 30, 100, 500, and 2000 μm (PLA30, PLA100, PLA500, and PLA2000, respectively), and wheat straw BC. The highest tetracycline adsorption capacity (25.00 mg g-1) was found for a PLA30 + BC. The tetracycline adsorption capacities of the other microplastic particles were 20.44-24.57 mg g-1. The highest aureomycin adsorption capacity (39.50 mg g-1) was found for 10 μm polyvinyl chloride particles and BC. The aureomycin adsorption capacities of the other microplastic particles were 32.21-38.42 mg g-1. The tetracycline adsorption capacities were 13.69%, 6.28%, 5.49%, and 4.54% higher for PLA30 + BC, PLA100 + BC, PLA500 + BC, and PLA2000 + BC, respectively, than for only BC. This may have been because there were more sites available per unit mass of microplastic for adsorbing tetracycline and dissolved organic carbon on small microplastic particles than large microplastic particles. The results indicated that microplastics can adsorb antibiotics and increase the amounts of antibiotics adsorbed by BC. Therefore, it is essential to consider potential interactions between BC and microplastics when BC is used to remove antibiotics from wastewater.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 12 South Zhongguancun Street, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Chuchen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 12 South Zhongguancun Street, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Qianru Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 12 South Zhongguancun Street, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Qilan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-arid Arable Land in Northern China, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 12 South Zhongguancun Street, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang L, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Cui X, Liu Y, Ruan R, Wu X, Cao L, Zhao L, Zheng H. Preparation and application of metal-modified biochar in the purification of micro-polystyrene polluted aqueous environment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 347:119158. [PMID: 37804638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119158] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have already spread across the globe and have been found in drinking water and human tissues. This may pose severe threats to human health and water environment. Therefore, this study accurately evaluated the removal effect of metal-modified biochar on polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) (1.0 μm) in the water environment using a high-throughput fluorescence quantification method. The results indicated that Fe-modified biochar (FeBC) and Fe/Zn-modified biochar (Fe/ZnBC) had good removal efficiencies for PS-MPs under the dosage of 3 g/L, which were 96.24% and 84.77%, respectively. Although pore effects were observed (such as "stuck", "trapped"), the electrostatic interaction was considered the main mechanism for the adsorption of PS-MPs on metal-modified biochar, whereas the formation of metal-O-PS-MPs may also contribute to the adsorption process. The removal efficiency of PS-MPs by FeBC was significantly reduced under alkaline conditions (pH = 9 and 11) or in the presence of weak acid ions (PO43-, CO32-, HCO3-). A removal efficiency of 72.39% and 78.33% of PS-MPs was achieved from tap water (TW) and lake water (LW) using FeBC when the initial concentration was 20 mg/L. However, FeBC had no removal effect on PS-MPs in biogas slurry (BS) and brewing wastewater (BW) due to the direct competitive adsorption of high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD). The findings of this study highlighted that metal-modified biochar had a potential application in purifying tap water or lake water which contaminated by MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China.
| | - Yunpu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| | - Xian Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| | - Yuhuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China.
| | - Roger Ruan
- Center for Biorefining and Dept. of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of Minnesota, Paul 55108, USA
| | - Xiaodan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| | - Leipeng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| | - Lantian Zhao
- Jiangxi Qiangsheng Technology Co., Ltd., Nanchang, Jiangxi 330052, PR China
| | - Hongli Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Engineering Research Center for Biomass Conversion, Ministry of Education, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, PR China
| |
Collapse
|