1
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Ma M, Han R, Han R, Xu D, Li F. Binding between Cu 2+/Zn 2+ and aged polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate microplastics in swine wastewaters: Adsorption behavior, and mechanism insights. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124685. [PMID: 39111531 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have aroused growing environmental concerns due to their biotoxicity and vital roles in accelerating the spread of toxic elements. Illuminating the interactions between MPs and heavy metals (HMs) is crucial for understanding the transport and fate of HM-loaded MPs in specific environmentally relevant scenarios. Herein, the adsorption of copper (Cu2+) and zinc (Zn2+) ions over polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) particulates before and after heat persulfate oxidation (HPO) treatment was comprehensively evaluated in simulated and real swine wastewaters. The effects of intrinsic properties (i.e., degree of weathering, size, type) of MPs and environmental factors (i.e., pH, ionic strength, and co-occurring species) on adsorption were investigated thoroughly. It was observed that HPO treatment expedites the fragmentation of pristine MPs, and renders MPs with a variety of oxygen-rich functional groups, which are likely to act as new active sites for binding both HMs. The adsorption of both HMs is pH- and ionic strength-dependent at a pH of 4-6. Co-occurring species such as humic acid (HA) and tetracycline (TC) appear to enhance the affinity of both aged MPs for Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions via bridging complexation. However, co-occurring nutrient species (e.g., phosphate and ammonia) demonstrate different impacts on the adsorption, improving uptake of Cu2+ by precipitation while lowering affinity for Zn2+ owing to the formation of soluble zinc-ammonia complex. Spectroscopic analysis indicates that the dominant adsorption mechanism mainly involves electrostatic interactions and surface complexation. These findings provided fundamental insights into the interactions between aged MPs and HMs in swine wastewaters and might be extended to other nutrient-rich wastewaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Ma
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Ruxin Han
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Ruoqi Han
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Defu Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Feihu Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China; NUIST Reading Academy, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing 210044, China.
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2
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Deo L, Benjamin LK, Osborne JW. Critical review on unveiling the toxic and recalcitrant effects of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems and their degradation by microbes. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:896. [PMID: 39230754 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-13023-0] [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: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Production of synthetic plastic obtained from fossil fuels are considered as a constantly growing problem and lack in the management of plastic waste has led to severe microplastic pollution in the aquatic ecosystem. Plastic particles less than 5mm are termed as microplastics (MPs), these are pervasive in water and soil, it can also withstand longer period of time with high durability. It can be broken down into smaller particles and can be adsorbed by various life-forms. Most marine organisms tend to consume plastic debris that can be accumulated easily into the vertebrates, invertebrates and planktonic entities. Often these plastic particles surpass the food chain, resulting in the damage of various organs and inhibiting the uptake of food due to the accumulation of microplastics. In this review, the physical and chemical properties of microplastics, as well as their effects on the environment and toxicity of their chemical constituents are discussed. In addition, the paper also sheds light on the potential of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae which play a pivotal role in the process of microplastics degradation. The mechanism of microbial degradation, the factors that affect degradation, and the current advancements in genetic and metabolic engineering of microbes to promote degradation are also summarized. The paper also provides information on the bacterial, algal and fungal degradation mechanism including the possible enzymes involved in microplastic degradation. It also investigates the difficulties, limitations, and potential developments that may occur in the field of microbial microplastic degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loknath Deo
- Department of Plant Pathology and Entomology, VIT-School of Agricultural Innovation and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lincy Kirubhadharsini Benjamin
- Department of Plant Pathology and Entomology, VIT-School of Agricultural Innovation and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jabez William Osborne
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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3
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Bucci S, Richon C, Bakels L. Exploring the Transport Path of Oceanic Microplastics in the Atmosphere. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:14338-14347. [PMID: 39078311 PMCID: PMC11325545 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) have been recognized as an emerging atmospheric pollutant, yet uncertainties persist in their emissions and concentrations. With a bottom-up approach, we estimate 6-hourly MP fluxes at the ocean-atmosphere interface, using as an input the monthly ocean surface MP concentrations simulated by the global oceanic model (NEMO/PISCES-PLASTIC, Nucleus for European Modeling of the Ocean, Pelagic Interaction Scheme for Carbon and Ecosystem Studies), a size distribution estimate for the MP in the micrometer range, and a sea salt emission scheme. The atmospheric dispersion is then simulated with the Lagrangian model FLEXPART. We identify hotspot sources in the tropical regions and highlight the seasonal variability of emissions, atmospheric concentrations, and deposition fluxes both on land and ocean surfaces. Due to the variability of MP concentration during the year, the MP flux from the sea surface appears to follow a seasonality opposite to that of sea salt aerosol emissions. The comparison with existing observations of MP in the marine atmosphere suggests an underestimation of one to 2 orders of magnitude in our current knowledge of the MP in the oceans' surface. In addition, we show that the MP in the micrometer range is transported efficiently around the globe and can penetrate and linger in the stratosphere over time scales of months. The interaction of these particles with the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere is still mostly unknown and deserves to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bucci
- Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, University of Vienna, Universitätsring 1, Vienna 1010, Austria
| | - Camille Richon
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie et du Climat: Expérimentations et Approches Numériques, Institut Pierre Simon Laplace (LOCEAN-IPSL), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, IRD, MNHN, 75005 Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie Physique et Spatiale (LOPS), UMR 197 CNRS/IFREMER/IRD/UBO, Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer, Plouzané 29280, France
| | - Lucie Bakels
- Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, University of Vienna, Universitätsring 1, Vienna 1010, Austria
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4
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Chowdhury OS, Schmidt PJ, Anderson WB, Emelko MB. Advancing Evaluation of Microplastics Thresholds to Inform Water Treatment Needs and Risks. ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 2:441-452. [PMID: 39049895 PMCID: PMC11264269 DOI: 10.1021/envhealth.3c00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Although human health impacts of microplastics are not well understood, concern regarding chemical contaminants retained on or within them is growing. Drinking water providers are increasingly asked about these risks, but strategies for evaluating them and the extent of treatment needed to manage them are currently lacking. Microplastics can potentially induce health effects if the concentration of contaminants adsorbed to them exceeds predetermined drinking water guidelines (e.g., Maximum Contaminant Levels). The risk posed by microplastics due to adsorbed contaminants is difficult to determine, but a worst-case scenario can be evaluated by using adsorption capacity. Here, a "Threshold Microplastics Concentration" (TMC) framework is developed to evaluate whether waterborne microplastic concentrations can potentially result in the intake of regulated contaminants on/in microplastics at levels of human health concern and identify treatment targets for managing associated health risk. Exceeding the TMC does not indicate an immediate health risk; it informs the need for detailed risk assessment or further treatment evaluation to ensure particle removal targets are achieved. Thus, the TMC concept and framework provide an updateable, science-based screening tool to determine if there is a need for detailed risk assessment or treatment modification due to waterborne microplastics in supplies used for potable water production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar S. Chowdhury
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - Philip J. Schmidt
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - William B. Anderson
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - Monica B. Emelko
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
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5
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Brahana P, Patel R, Bharti B. Surface Science View of Perfluoroalkyl Acids (PFAAs) in the Environment. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2024; 4:173-185. [PMID: 39035868 PMCID: PMC11258754 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.3c00079] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a notorious category of anthropogenic contaminants, detected across various environmental domains. Among these PFAS, perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) stand out as a focal point in discussions due to their historical industrial utilization and environmental prominence. Their extensive industrial adoption is a direct consequence of their remarkable stability and outstanding amphiphilic properties. However, these very traits that have made PFAAs industrially desirable also render them environmentally catastrophic, leading to adverse consequences for ecosystems. The amphiphilic nature of PFAAs has made them highly unique in the landscape of anthropogenic contaminants and, thereby, difficult to study. We believe that well-established principles from surface science can connect the amphiphilic nature of PFAAs to their accumulation and transport in the environment. Specifically, we discuss the role of interfacial science in describing the stability, interfacial uptake (air-liquid and solid-liquid), and wetting capability of PFAAs. Surface science principles can provide new insights into the environmental fate of PFAAs, as well as provide context on their deleterious effects on both the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip
J. Brahana
- Cain Department of Chemical
Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Ruchi Patel
- Cain Department of Chemical
Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Bhuvnesh Bharti
- Cain Department of Chemical
Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
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6
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Choi S, Lee S, Kim MK, Yu ES, Ryu YS. Challenges and Recent Analytical Advances in Micro/Nanoplastic Detection. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8846-8854. [PMID: 38758170 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing ecological concerns, studies on microplastics and nanoplastics are still in their initial stages owing to technical hurdles in analytical techniques, especially for nanoplastics. We provide an overview of the general attributes of micro/nanoplastics in natural environments and analytical techniques commonly used for their analysis. After demonstrating the analytical challenges associated with the identification of nanoplastics due to their distinctive characteristics, we discuss recent technological advancements for detecting nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyeop Choi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungha Lee
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Ki Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Sang Yu
- Materials and Components Research Division, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, Daejeon 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sang Ryu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Micro/Nano System, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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7
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Zandieh M, Griffiths E, Waldie A, Li S, Honek J, Rezanezhad F, Van Cappellen P, Liu J. Catalytic and biocatalytic degradation of microplastics. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20230018. [PMID: 38939860 PMCID: PMC11189586 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20230018] [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: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a surge in annual plastic production, which has contributed to growing environmental challenges, particularly in the form of microplastics. Effective management of plastic and microplastic waste has become a critical concern, necessitating innovative strategies to address its impact on ecosystems and human health. In this context, catalytic degradation of microplastics emerges as a pivotal approach that holds significant promise for mitigating the persistent effects of plastic pollution. In this article, we critically explored the current state of catalytic degradation of microplastics and discussed the definition of degradation, characterization methods for degradation products, and the criteria for standard sample preparation. Moreover, the significance and effectiveness of various catalytic entities, including enzymes, transition metal ions (for the Fenton reaction), nanozymes, and microorganisms are summarized. Finally, a few key issues and future perspectives regarding the catalytic degradation of microplastics are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Zandieh
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Erin Griffiths
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Ecohydrology Research GroupDepartment of Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Alexander Waldie
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Shuhuan Li
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Ecohydrology Research GroupDepartment of Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - John Honek
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Fereidoun Rezanezhad
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Ecohydrology Research GroupDepartment of Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Philippe Van Cappellen
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Ecohydrology Research GroupDepartment of Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Water InstituteUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
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8
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Choi JS, Yoon H, Heo Y, Kim TH, Park JW. Comparison of gut toxicity and microbiome effects in zebrafish exposed to polypropylene microplastics: Interesting effects of UV-weathering on microbiome. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134209. [PMID: 38581880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134209] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Weathered microplastics (MPs) exhibit different physicochemical properties compared to pristine MPs, thus, their effects on the environment and living organisms may also differ. In the present study, we investigated the gut-toxic effects of virgin polypropylene MPs (PP) and UV-weathered PP MPs (UV-PP) on zebrafish. The zebrafish were exposed to the two types of PP MPs at a concentration of 50 mg/L each for 14 days. After exposure, MPs accumulated primarily within the gastrointestinal tract, with UV-PP exhibiting a higher accumulation than PP. The ingestion of PP and UV-PP induced gut damage in zebrafish and increased the gene expression and levels of enzymes related to oxidative stress and inflammation, with no significant differences between the two MPs. Analysis of the microbial community confirmed alterations in the abundance and diversity of zebrafish gut microorganisms in the PP and UV-PP groups, with more pronounced changes in the PP-exposed group. Moreover, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis confirmed the association between changes in the gut microorganisms at the phylum and genus levels with cellular responses, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage. This study provides valuable insights regarding the environmental impact of MPs on organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Soo Choi
- Environmental Exposure & Toxicology Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, 17 Jegok-gil, Jinju 52834, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakwon Yoon
- Department of Biological Enivronment, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunwi Heo
- Environmental Exposure & Toxicology Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, 17 Jegok-gil, Jinju 52834, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hee Kim
- Advanced Textile R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan 426-171, Republic of Korea
| | - June-Woo Park
- Environmental Exposure & Toxicology Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, 17 Jegok-gil, Jinju 52834, Republic of Korea; Human and Environmental Toxicology Program, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 217, Gajeong-ro, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Müller ND, Kirtane A, Schefer RB, Mitrano DM. eDNA Adsorption onto Microplastics: Impacts of Water Chemistry and Polymer Physiochemical Properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:7588-7599. [PMID: 38624040 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Adsorption of biomacromolecules onto polymer surfaces, including microplastics (MPs), occurs in multiple environmental compartments, forming an ecocorona. Environmental DNA (eDNA), genetic material shed from organisms, can adsorb onto MPs which can potentially either (1) promote long-range transport of antibiotic resistant genes or (2) serve to gain insights into the transport pathways and origins of MPs by analyzing DNA sequences on MPs. However, little is known about the capacity of MPs to adsorb eDNA or the factors that influence sorption, such as polymer and water chemistries. Here we investigated the adsorption of extracellular linear DNA onto a variety of model MP fragments composed of three of the most environmentally prevalent polymers (polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene) in their pristine and photochemically weathered states. Batch adsorption experiments in a variety of water chemistries were complemented with nonlinear modeling to quantify the rate and extent of eDNA sorption. Ionic strength was shown to strongly impact DNA adsorption by reducing or inhibiting electrostatic repulsion. Polyethylene terephthalate exhibited the highest adsorption capacity when normalizing for MP specific surface area, likely due to the presence of ester groups. Kinetics experiments showed fast adsorption (majority adsorbed under 30 min) before eventually reaching equilibrium after 1-2 h. Overall, we demonstrated that DNA quickly binds to MPs, with pseudo-first- and -second-order models describing adsorption kinetics and the Freundlich model describing adsorption isotherms most accurately. These insights into DNA sorption onto MPs show that there is potential for MPs to act as vectors for genetic material of interest, especially considering that particle-bound DNA typically persists longer in the environment than dissolved DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas D Müller
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anish Kirtane
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roman B Schefer
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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10
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Jansen MAK, Andrady AL, Bornman JF, Aucamp PJ, Bais AF, Banaszak AT, Barnes PW, Bernhard GH, Bruckman LS, Busquets R, Häder DP, Hanson ML, Heikkilä AM, Hylander S, Lucas RM, Mackenzie R, Madronich S, Neale PJ, Neale RE, Olsen CM, Ossola R, Pandey KK, Petropavlovskikh I, Revell LE, Robinson SA, Robson TM, Rose KC, Solomon KR, Andersen MPS, Sulzberger B, Wallington TJ, Wang QW, Wängberg SÅ, White CC, Young AR, Zepp RG, Zhu L. Plastics in the environment in the context of UV radiation, climate change and the Montreal Protocol: UNEP Environmental Effects Assessment Panel, Update 2023. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2024; 23:629-650. [PMID: 38512633 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-024-00552-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This Assessment Update by the Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) considers the interactive effects of solar UV radiation, global warming, and other weathering factors on plastics. The Assessment illustrates the significance of solar UV radiation in decreasing the durability of plastic materials, degradation of plastic debris, formation of micro- and nanoplastic particles and accompanying leaching of potential toxic compounds. Micro- and nanoplastics have been found in all ecosystems, the atmosphere, and in humans. While the potential biological risks are not yet well-established, the widespread and increasing occurrence of plastic pollution is reason for continuing research and monitoring. Plastic debris persists after its intended life in soils, water bodies and the atmosphere as well as in living organisms. To counteract accumulation of plastics in the environment, the lifetime of novel plastics or plastic alternatives should better match the functional life of products, with eventual breakdown releasing harmless substances to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel A K Jansen
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Anthony L Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Janet F Bornman
- Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.
| | | | - Alkiviadis F Bais
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastazia T Banaszak
- Unidad Académica Sistemas Arrecifales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - Paul W Barnes
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environment Program, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Laura S Bruckman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rosa Busquets
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kingston University London, Kingston Upon Thames, UK
| | | | - Mark L Hanson
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Samuel Hylander
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Robyn M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Roy Mackenzie
- Centro Universitario Cabo de Hornos, Universidad de Magallanes, Puerto Williams, Chile
- Millennium Institute Biodiversity of Antarctic and Subantarctic Ecosystems BASE, Santiago, Chile
- Cape Horn International Center CHIC, Puerto Williams, Chile
| | - Sasha Madronich
- UV-B Monitoring and Research Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Patrick J Neale
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, MD, USA
| | - Rachel E Neale
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine M Olsen
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachele Ossola
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | | | - Irina Petropavlovskikh
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
- Ozone and Water Vapor Division, NOAA ESRL Global Monitoring Laboratory, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Laura E Revell
- School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Sharon A Robinson
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - T Matthew Robson
- UK National School of Forestry, University of Cumbria, Ambleside Campus, Ambleside, UK
- Organismal & Evolutionary Ecology, Viikki Plant Science Centre, Faculty of Biological & Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kevin C Rose
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Keith R Solomon
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Mads P Sulbæk Andersen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Barbara Sulzberger
- Retired From Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dubendorf, Switzerland
| | - Timothy J Wallington
- Center for Sustainable Systems, School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qing-Wei Wang
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Sten-Åke Wängberg
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Richard G Zepp
- ORD/CEMM, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Liping Zhu
- State Key Lab for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
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11
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Bang RS, Verster L, Hong H, Pal L, Velev OD. Colloidal Engineering of Microplastic Capture with Biodegradable Soft Dendritic "Microcleaners". LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:5923-5933. [PMID: 38428025 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The introduction of colloidal principles that enable efficient microplastic collection from aquatic environments is a goal of great environmental importance. Here, we present a novel method of microplastic (MP) collection using biodegradable hydrogel soft dendritic colloids (hSDCs). These dendritic colloids have abundant nanofibrils and a large surface area, which provide an abundance of interfacial interactions and excellent networking capabilities, allowing for the capture of plastic particles and other contaminants. Here, we show how the polymer composition and morphology of the hSDCs can impact the capture of microplastics modeled by latex microbeads. Additionally, we use colloidal DLVO theory to interpret the capture efficiencies of microbeads of different sizes and surface functional groups. The results demonstrate the microplastic remediation efficiency of hydrogel dendricolloids and highlight the primary factors involved in the microbead interactions and adsorption. On a practical level, the results show that the development of environmentally benign microcleaners based on naturally sourced materials could present a sustainable solution for microplastic cleanup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Bang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Lucille Verster
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Haeleen Hong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Lokendra Pal
- Department of Forest Biomaterials, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Orlin D Velev
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
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12
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Junck J, Diagboya PN, Peqini A, Rohnke M, Düring RA. Mechanistic interpretation of the sorption of terbuthylazine pesticide onto aged microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123502. [PMID: 38316252 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123502] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose a global concern due to their ubiquitous distribution. Once in the environment, they are subject to aging, which changes their chemical-physical properties and ability to interact with organic pollutants, such as pesticides. Therefore, this study investigated the interaction of the hydrophobic herbicide terbuthylazine (TBA), which is widely used in agriculture, with artificially aged polyethylene (PE) MP (PE-MP) to understand how aging affects its sorption. PE was aged by an accelerated weathering process including UV irradiation, hydrogen peroxide, and ultrasonic treatment, and aged particles were characterized in comparison to pristine particles. Sorption kinetics were performed for aged and pristine materials, while further sorption studies with aged PE-MP included determining environmental factors such as pH, temperature, and TBA concentration. Sorption of TBA was found to be significantly lower on aged PE-MP compared to pristine particles because aging led to the formation of oxygen-containing functional groups, resulting in a reduction in hydrophobicity and the formation of negatively charged sites on oxidized surfaces. For pristine PE-MP, sorption kinetics were best described by the pseudo-second-order model, while it was intra-particle diffusion for aged PE-MP as a result of crack and pore formation. Sorption followed a decreasing trend with increasing pH, while it became less favorable at higher temperatures. The isotherm data revealed a complex sorption process on altered, heterogeneous surfaces involving hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions, and the process was best described by the Sips adsorption isotherm model. Desorption was found to be low, confirming a strong interaction. However, thermodynamic results imply that increased temperatures, such as those resulting from climate change, could promote the re-release of TBA from aged PE-MP into the environment. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) confirmed TBA sorption onto PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Junck
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Paul N Diagboya
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Environmental Fate of Chemicals and Remediation (EnFaCRe) Laboratory, Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria
| | - Aleksander Peqini
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Marcus Rohnke
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Center for Materials Research, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rolf-Alexander Düring
- Institute of Soil Science and Soil Conservation, Research Center for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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13
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Li C, Li X, Bank MS, Dong T, Fang JKH, Leusch FDL, Rillig MC, Wang J, Wang L, Xia Y, Xu EG, Yang Y, Zhang C, Zhu D, Liu J, Jin L. The "Microplastome" - A Holistic Perspective to Capture the Real-World Ecology of Microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4060-4069. [PMID: 38331396 PMCID: PMC10919093 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08849] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution, an emerging pollution issue, has become a significant environmental concern globally due to its ubiquitous, persistent, complex, toxic, and ever-increasing nature. As a multifaceted and diverse suite of small plastic particles with different physicochemical properties and associated matters such as absorbed chemicals and microbes, future research on microplastics will need to comprehensively consider their multidimensional attributes. Here, we introduce a novel, conceptual framework of the "microplastome", defined as the entirety of various plastic particles (<5 mm), and their associated matters such as chemicals and microbes, found within a sample and its overall environmental and toxicological impacts. As a novel concept, this paper aims to emphasize and call for a collective quantification and characterization of microplastics and for a more holistic understanding regarding the differences, connections, and effects of microplastics in different biotic and abiotic ecosystem compartments. Deriving from this lens, we present our insights and prospective trajectories for characterization, risk assessment, and source apportionment of microplastics. We hope this new paradigm can guide and propel microplastic research toward a more holistic era and contribute to an informed strategy for combating this globally important environmental pollution issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changchao Li
- Environment
Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Michael S. Bank
- Institute
of Marine Research, 5005 Bergen, Norway
- University
of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Tao Dong
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department
of Food Science and Nutrition and Research Institute for Future Food, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
- State Key
Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University
of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Frederic D. L. Leusch
- Australian
Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, 4222 Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Jie Wang
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lei Wang
- MOE Key
Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College
of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yu Xia
- School
of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Elvis Genbo Xu
- Department
of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense 5230, Denmark
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory
of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Environment
Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Dong Zhu
- Key Laboratory
of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Environment
Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Ling Jin
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
- State Key
Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University
of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong 999077, Hong Kong
- Department
of Health Technology and Informatics, The
Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
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14
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Brahana PJ, Al Harraq A, Saab LE, Roberg R, Valsaraj KT, Bharti B. Uptake and release of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) from macro and microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2023; 25:1519-1531. [PMID: 37602395 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00209h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are two of the most notable emerging contaminants reported in the environment. Micron and nanoscale plastics possess a high surface area-to-volume ratio, which could increase their potential to adsorb pollutants such as PFAS. One of the most concerning sub-classes of PFAS are the perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs). PFCAs are often studied in the same context as other environmental contaminants, but their amphiphilic properties are often overlooked in determining their fate in the environment. This lack of consideration has resulted in a diminished understanding of the environmental mobility of PFCAs, as well as their interactions with environmental media. Here, we investigate the interaction of PFCAs with polyethylene microplastics, and identify the role of environmental weathering in modifying the nature of interactions. Through a series of adsorption-desorption experiments, we delineate the role of the fluoroalkyl tail in the binding of PFCAs to microplastics. As the number of carbon atoms in the fluoroalkyl chain increases, there is a corresponding increase in the adsorption of PFCAs onto microplastics. This relationship can become modified by environmental weathering, where the PFCAs are released from the macro and microplastic surface after exposure to simulated sunlight. This study identifies the fundamental relationship between PFCAs and plastic pollutants, where they can mutually impact their thermodynamic and transport properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Brahana
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
| | - Ahmed Al Harraq
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
| | - Luis E Saab
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
| | - Ruby Roberg
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
| | - Kaillat T Valsaraj
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
| | - Bhuvnesh Bharti
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803, USA.
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15
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Kim HY, Ashim J, Park S, Kim W, Ji S, Lee SW, Jung YR, Jeong SW, Lee SG, Kim HC, Lee YJ, Kwon MK, Hwang JS, Shin JM, Lee SJ, Yu W, Park JK, Choi SK. A preliminary study about the potential risks of the UV-weathered microplastic: The proteome-level changes in the brain in response to polystyrene derived weathered microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 233:116411. [PMID: 37354929 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116411] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The growing use of plastic materials has resulted in a constant increase in the risk associated with microplastics (MPs). Ultra-violet (UV) light and wind break down modify MPs in the environment into smaller particles known as weathered MPs (WMPs) and these processes increase the risk of MP toxicity. The neurotoxicity of weathered polystyrene-MPs remains unclear. Therefore, it is important to understand the risks posed by WMPs. We evaluated the chemical changes of WMPs generated under laboratory-synchronized environmentally mimetic conditions and compared them with virgin MPs (VMPs). We found that WMP had a rough surface, slight yellow color, reduced molecular weight, and structural alteration compared with those of VMP. Next, 2 μg of ∼100 μm in size of WMP and VMP were orally administered once a day for one week to C57BL/6 male mice. Proteomic analysis revealed that the WMP group had significantly increased activation of immune and neurodegeneration-related pathways compared with that of the VMP group. Consistently, in in vitro experiments, the human brain-derived microglial cell line (HMC-3) also exhibited a more severe inflammatory response to WMP than to VMP. These results show that WMP is a more profound inflammatory factor than VMP. In summary, our findings demonstrate the toxicity of WMPs and provide theoretical insights into their potential risks to biological systems and even humans in the ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Yeon Kim
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea; College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Janbolat Ashim
- Department of Brain Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Song Park
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Wansoo Kim
- School of Life Science, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative Bioresearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangho Ji
- Department of Brain Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seoung-Woo Lee
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yi-Rang Jung
- Department of Companion Animal Health Management, Daegu Health College, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Won Jeong
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Guen Lee
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Chul Kim
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jae Lee
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Kyung Kwon
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jung Min Shin
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Jun Lee
- Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
| | - Wookyung Yu
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jin-Kyu Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seong-Kyoon Choi
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Rashidi H, Shafiee O, Higgins DA. Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy Studies of Dye Diffusion on Fresh and Aged Polyethylene Terephthalate. Anal Chem 2023; 95:11849-11853. [PMID: 37531092 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics accumulate a wide variety of organic pollutants and thus may serve as efficient vectors for the transport of toxic substances. Much remains to be learned about how organic molecules interact with the surfaces of plastics and how these properties evolve as the microplastics are weathered. In this Letter, we report, for the first time, the application of confocal fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to studies of organic molecules adsorbed from aqueous solution onto the surfaces of synthetic secondary microplastics. Both fresh and artificially aged poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) plastics are employed. The plastics are artificially aged in a UV-ozone chamber. Raman and infrared spectra confirm the composition of the PET microplastics. Water contact angle and surface roughness measurements reveal, respectively, an increase in wettability and a change in the nature of roughness with aging, consistent with surface oxidation. Rhodamine B (RhB) dye is used as a fluorescent probe in FCS studies and serves as an analogue for organic pollutants commonly found on microplastics. The FCS results reveal the accumulation of dye on the PET surfaces as they age. Dye motion is significantly slower on the plastics than in bulk aqueous solution and occurs by anomalous subdiffusion. The rate of diffusion becomes dramatically slower and more anomalous as the plastics are aged. Surface diffusion is likely slowed by either ionic interactions or hydrogen bonding between the dye and plastic. These results provide new insights critical to the understanding of how microplastics accumulate and transport organic pollutants as they weather in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Rashidi
- Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, 213 CBC Building, Manhattan, Kansas 66506-0401, United States
| | - Omid Shafiee
- Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, 213 CBC Building, Manhattan, Kansas 66506-0401, United States
| | - Daniel A Higgins
- Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, 213 CBC Building, Manhattan, Kansas 66506-0401, United States
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17
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Wang H, Zhu J, He Y, Wang J, Zeng N, Zhan X. Photoaging process and mechanism of four commonly commercial microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 451:131151. [PMID: 36889070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are the widespread emerging pollutants in the terrestrial systems, and photo-oxidation is an effective process for aging MPs on land. Here, four common commercial MPs were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light to simulate the photo-aging of MPs on soil, and the changes in surface properties and eluates of photoaging MPs were studied. Results revealed that polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS) exhibited more pronounced physicochemical changes than polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) during photoaging on the simulated topsoil, due to the dechlorination of PVC and the debenzene ring of PS. Oxygenated groups accumulated in aged MPs were strongly correlated with dissolved organic matters (DOMs) leaching. Through analysis of the eluate, we found that photoaging altered the molecular weight and aromaticity of DOMs. PS-DOMs showed the greatest increase in humic-like substances after aging, whereas PVC-DOMs exhibited the highest amount of additive leaching. The chemical properties of additives explained their differences in photodegradation responses, which also accounted for the greater importance of chemical structure of MPs to their structural stability. These findings demonstrate that the extensive presence of cracks in aged MPs facilitates DOMs formation and the complexity of DOMs composition poses a potential threat to soil and groundwater safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqian Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China; Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Jiahui Zhu
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan He
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Nengde Zeng
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinhua Zhan
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Hu J, Lim FY, Hu J. Characteristics and behaviors of microplastics undergoing photoaging and Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) initiated aging. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 232:119628. [PMID: 36774752 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The fact that 94% of microplastics (MPs) ubiquitous in the environment are subject to natural weathering makes the aging study currently a research hotspot. This review summarized the physicochemical characteristics of MPs undergoing natural and artificial aging and evaluated current analytical methods used in aging studies. Besides, the differences in photoaging and aging induced by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) were discussed, leading to a conclusion that AOPs composed of oxidant and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation can better facilitate the alteration of MPs compared to UV irradiation alone. In addition, the environmental behavior of aged MPs was outlined and their adsorption properties for organics and metals were highlighted as a result of combined effects of hydrophobic, π-π, diffusion, and hydrogen bond interaction. Furthermore, the mechanisms of photoaging and AOPs-initiated aging were analyzed, mainly the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs). Finally, the applications of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) and three-dimensional fluorescence spectra using excitation emission matrix-parallel factor analysis (EEM-PARAFAC) were discussed for the aging process analysis. This overview plays an important role in explaining the aging characteristics of MPs and provides a theoretical foundation for further investigations into their toxicity and removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Hu
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore
| | - Fang Yee Lim
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore
| | - Jiangyong Hu
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore.
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19
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Constant M, Alary C, Weiss L, Constant A, Billon G. Trapped microplastics within vertical redeposited sediment: Experimental study simulating lake and channeled river systems during resuspension events. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121212. [PMID: 36740164 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste and its fragments (microplastics; <5 mm) have been observed in almost all types of environments. However, the mechanisms underlying the flow and transport processes of plastics are unknown. This is particularly valid for river sediments, where complex interactions occur between particles and influence their vertical and horizontal distribution patterns. In this study, we investigated the vertical redistribution of 14 pristine microplastics (MPs) with different densities, sizes, and shapes within disturbed sediment without lateral transport (i.e., low-velocity flow). MPs were spiked into sediments (height: 8 cm) in a column with a height of 1 m (diameter: 6 cm) filled to the top with water. The sediment was perturbed by turning the column upside-down to simulate remobilization and the subsequent deposition of sediment. After the complete sedimentation of the particles, the water column was filtered and the sediment was cut into vertical sections. MPs were then extracted from the sediment using sieves and a density separation method, and were counted under a stereomicroscope. Low-density polymers were mainly recovered in the water column and at the surface of the sediment, whereas high-density polymers were found within all sediment sections. The vertical distribution of high-density polymers changes primarily with the sediment grain size. The distribution of each polymer type changes depending on the size and/or shape of the particles with complex interactions. The observed distributions were compared with the expected distributions based only on the vertical velocity formulas. Overall, the formulas used did not explain the sedimentation of a portion of low-density polymers and predicted a lower distribution in the sediment than those observed in the experiment. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering MPs as multi-dimensional particles and provides clues to understand their fate in low-velocity flow systems, considering that they undergo scavenging in sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mel Constant
- Univ. Lille, Institut Mines-Télécom, Univ. Artois, Junia, ULR 4515 - LGCgE, Laboratoire de Génie Civil et géo-Environnement, F-59000, Lille, France.
| | - Claire Alary
- Univ. Lille, Institut Mines-Télécom, Univ. Artois, Junia, ULR 4515 - LGCgE, Laboratoire de Génie Civil et géo-Environnement, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Lisa Weiss
- Université de Toulouse III, CNES, CNRS, IRD, UMR 5566 - LEGOS, Laboratoire d'Etudes en Géophysique et Océanographie Spatiales, F-31400, Toulouse, France; Université de Bretagne Occidentale, IUEM, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, UMR 6523 - LOPS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Physique et Spatiale, F-29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Alix Constant
- Univ. Lille, Institut Mines-Télécom, Univ. Artois, Junia, ULR 4515 - LGCgE, Laboratoire de Génie Civil et géo-Environnement, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Gabriel Billon
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8516 - LASIRE, Laboratoire Avancé de Spectroscopie pour les Interactions, la Réactivité et l'Environnement, F-59000, Lille, France
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