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Ko K, Chung H. Fluorescence microfluidic system for real-time monitoring of PS and PVC sub-micron microplastics under flowing conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 950:175016. [PMID: 39059645 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Plastics, recognized for their convenience, disposability, and recyclability, have emerged as a significant ecological challenge, particularly with the prevalence of microplastics (MPs, 1 μm - 5 mm) and sub-micron MPs (100 - 1000 nm) in natural environments. While extensive research has focused on their occurrence and environmental impacts, quantification methods developed for MPs exhibit limitations when applied to sub-micron MPs due to their smaller size. This study addresses these limitations by introducing a novel monitoring system that integrates fluorescence labeling with a microfluidic device and particle tracking software, enabling automated quantification and size measurement of both spherical and fragmented MPs of size in the sub-micrometer range. Results showed that the developed system enabled fast quantification and size measurement of 500- and 1000-nm polystyrene (PS) sub-micron MP beads and fragmented PS and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sub-micron MPs. Additionally, fluorescence labeling enabled the real-time discrimination of PS and PVC sub-micron MPs. Lastly, the microfluidic system allowed the monitoring of sub-micron MPs within a small quantity of water samples. This automated system has a high potential for swift and real-time monitoring of sub-micron MPs in the environment. By enhancing our ability to detect and quantify sub-micron MPs, this study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of their presence and distribution in environmental systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwanyoung Ko
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Haegeun Chung
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Høiberg MA, Stadler K, Verones F. Disentangling marine plastic impacts in Life Cycle Assessment: Spatially explicit Characterization Factors for ecosystem quality. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175019. [PMID: 39059661 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Inputs of persistent plastic items to marine environments continue to pose a serious and long-term threat to marine fauna and ecosystem health, justifying further interventions on local and global scales. While Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is frequently used for sustainability evaluations by industries and policymakers, plastic leakage to the environment and its subsequent impacts remains absent from the framework. Incorporating plastic pollution in the assessments requires development of both inventories and impact assessment methods. Here, we propose spatially explicit Characterization Factors (CF) for quantifying the impacts of plastic entanglement on marine megafauna (mammals, birds and reptiles) on a global scale. We utilize Lagrangian particle tracking and a Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD) model along with species susceptibility records to estimate potential entanglement impacts stemming from lost plastic-based fishing gear. By simulating plastic losses from fishing hotspots within all Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) we provide country-specific impact estimates for use in LCA. The impacts were found to be similar across regions, although the median CF associated with Oceania was higher compared to Europe, Africa and Asia. Our findings underscore the presence of susceptible species across the world and the transboundary issue of plastic pollution. We discuss the application of the factors and identify areas of further refinement that can contribute towards a comprehensive assessment of macroplastic pollution in sustainability assessments. Degradation and beaching rates for different types of fishing gear remain a research gap, along with population-level effects on marine taxa beyond surface breathing megafauna. Increasing the coverage of impacts specific to the marine realm in LCA alongside other stressors can facilitate informed decision-making towards more sustainable marine resource management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe A Høiberg
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Konstantin Stadler
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Francesca Verones
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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3
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Wang S, Yu H, Li W, Song E, Zhao Z, Xu J, Gao S, Wang D, Xie Z. Biodegradation of four polyolefin plastics in superworms (Larvae of Zophobas atratus) and effects on the gut microbiome. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135381. [PMID: 39088959 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated superworms (larvae of Zophobas atratus) ability to degrade polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) within their digestive system. This study aimed to compare the ability of superworms to degrade the above four polyolefin plastics over a duration of 30 days. In this study, the degradation rate of PE was the highest, and the final average weight of superworms, as well as the final plastic mass loss consumed by them, significantly increased (73.38 % and 52.33 %, respectively) when PE was fed with wheat bran (1:1 [w/w]). FTIR and TGA indicated the occurrence of oxidation and biodegradation processes in the four polyolefin plastics when exposed to superworms. In addition, the molecular weights (Mw and Mn) of excreted polymer residues decreased by 3.1 % and 2.87 % in PE-fed superworms, suggesting that the depolymerization of PE was not entirely dependent on the gut microbial community. The analysis of the gut microbial communities revealed that the dominant microbial community were different for each type of plastic. The results indicate that the gut microbiome of superworms exhibited remarkable adaptability in degrading various types of plastics, and the intake preferences and efficiency of different plastics are associated with different dominant microbial community species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibing Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Hong Yu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Enze Song
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhao
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030800, China
| | - Jing Xu
- College of Chemistry and Material Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Shangkun Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Dandan Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China.
| | - Zhihong Xie
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China.
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4
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Ding MQ, Ding J, Yang SS, Ren XR, Shi SN, Zhang LY, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Effects of plastic aging on biodegradation of polystyrene by Tenebrio molitor larvae: Insights into gut microbiome and bacterial metabolism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176130. [PMID: 39260508 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Plastics aging reduces resistance to microbial degradation. Plastivore Tenebrio molitor rapidly biodegrades polystyrene (PS, size: < 80 μm), but the effects of aging on PS biodegradation by T. molitor remain uncharacterized. This study examined PS biodegradation over 24 days following three pre-treatments: freezing with UV exposure (PS1), UV exposure (PS2), and freezing (PS3), compared to pristine PS (PSv) microplastic. The pretreatments deteriorated PS polymers, resulting in slightly higher specific PS consumption (602.8, 586.1, 566.7, and 563.9 mg PS·100 larvae-1·d-1, respectively) and mass reduction rates (49.6 %, 49.5 %, 49.2 %, and 48.7 %, respectively) in PS1, PS2, and PS3 compared to PSv. Improved biodegradation correlated with reduced molecular weights and the formation of oxidized functional groups. Larvae fed more aged PS exhibited greater gut microbial diversity, with microbial community and metabolic pathways shaped by PS aging, as supported by co-occurrence network analysis. These findings indicated that the aging treatments enhanced PS biodegradation by only limited extent but impacted greater on gut microbiome and bacterial metabolic genes, indicating that the T. molitor host have highly predominant capability to digest PS plastics and alters gut microbiome to adapt the PS polymers fed to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Qi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Xin-Ran Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shao-Nan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Lu-Yan Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Chemistry, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Zhang P, Tang X, Qin N, Shuai Y, Wang J, Wang H, Ouyang Z, Jia H. Advanced understanding of the natural forces accelerating aging and release of black microplastics (tire wear particles) based on mechanism and toxicity analysis. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 266:122409. [PMID: 39270502 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Currently, tire wear particles (TWPs), a typical type of black microplastics (MPs), are frequently overlooked as the major source of MPs in aquatic environments. TWPs are widely distributed and exhibit complex environmental behaviors. However, how natural forces affect the aging and release behavior of TWPs at the nano(micro)scale remains inadequately explored. This study systematically investigated the aging behavior and mechanism of TWPs under the action of simulated natural light and high-temperature in both dry and wet environments, as well as the effect of aging treatment on the released leachate. The findings demonstrated that aging treatment significantly altered the physicochemical properties of TWPs, including chain scission and surface oxidation, and facilitated the release of heavy metals and organic additives in the meantime. In particular, the leaching concentration of Zn exhibited a positive linear relationship with exposure time. In the thermal-aging process, the oxidation of TWPs was primarily caused by superoxide anion (O2•-). During the photo-aging exposure, TWPs exhibited heightened electron-donating capacity, resulting in the formation of more O2•- and singlet oxygen (1O2) to attack TWPs. Moreover, the analysis of leachate produced under light and high-temperature conditions suggested that heavy metals exerted low ecological risks in water. Nonetheless, the photo-aging process enhanced the toxicity of released leachate to L929 cells, which could be attributed to highly toxic additive transformation products (such as HMMM-411 and 6PPD-Q) and more heavy metals. These findings shed light on the fate of TWPs and the ecological risks posed by aged TWPs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puxing Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xiwang Tang
- Hebei Engineering Research Center for Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Coastal Areas, Hebei University of Environmental Engineering, Qinhuangdao 066102, China
| | - Ning Qin
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yiping Shuai
- School of General Education, Hunan University of Information Technology, Changsha, 410148, China
| | - Jingzhen Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Change and Disaster in Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Han Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhuozhi Ouyang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Hanzhong Jia
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
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6
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Al-Darraji A, Oluwoye I, Lagat C, Tanaka S, Barifcani A. Erosion of rigid plastics in turbid (sandy) water: quantitative assessment for marine environments and formation of microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024. [PMID: 39221511 DOI: 10.1039/d4em00122b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical degradation (erosion) of plastics in the marine environment has been reported in many literature studies but without quantitative information. This type of degradation is crucial as it accounts for most of the initial microplastic products, in marine environments (e.g., rivers and oceans). Here, we quantify the erosion of plastics by water-borne sediments under typical perpendicular water velocities and sand loads of turbid rivers and coastal oceans. Polypropylene (PP) shows the highest response to water-borne erosion, with a surface degradation rate of 5160 μm per year (4.44 mg per mm2 per year), compared with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with a degradation rate of 1874 μm per year (1.79 mg per mm2 per year), resulting in the formation of microplastics (MPs). The rate of formation of such microplastic particles (>10 μm), as characterised by a laser direct infrared (LDIR) chemical imaging system, amounts to 669 particles per mm2 per year for PP and 187 particles per mm2 per year for HDPE, exhibiting average particle sizes of 60 μm and 23 μm in the same order. Furthermore, surface microscopy provided valuable insights into the dominant erosion mechanisms, revealing three distinct zones and the surface features reveal the brittle erosion behaviours. These results will enable a better assessment of degradation and lifetime prediction of plastics in turbid rivers and coastal oceans, allowing precise estimation of the rate of formation of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Al-Darraji
- Discipline of Chemical Engineering, WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Ibukun Oluwoye
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
- Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Christopher Lagat
- Discipline of Petroleum Engineering, WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shuhei Tanaka
- Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ahmed Barifcani
- Discipline of Petroleum Engineering, WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia
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7
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Apicella A, Malafeev KV, Scarfato P, Incarnato L. Generation of Microplastics from Biodegradable Packaging Films Based on PLA, PBS and Their Blend in Freshwater and Seawater. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2268. [PMID: 39204488 PMCID: PMC11360359 DOI: 10.3390/polym16162268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers and their blends have been advised as an eco-sustainable solution; however, the generation of microplastics (MPs) from their degradation in aquatic environments is still not fully grasped. In this study, we investigated the formation of bio-microplastics (BMPs) and the changes in the physicochemical properties of blown packaging films based on polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS) and a PBS/PLA 70/30 wt% blend after degradation in different aquatic media. The tests were carried out in two temperature/light conditions to simulate degradation in either warm water, under sunlight exposure (named Warm and Light-W&L), and cold deep water (named Cold and Dark-C&D). The pH changes in the aqueous environments were evaluated, while the formed BMPs were analyzed for their size and shape alongside with variations in polymer crystallinity, surface and mechanical properties. In W&L conditions, for all the films, the hydrolytic degradation led to the reorganization of the polymer crystalline phases, strong embrittlement and an increase in hydrophilicity. The PBS/PLA 70/30 blend exhibited increased resistance to degradation with respect to the neat PLA and PBS films. In C&D conditions, no microparticles were observed up to 12 weeks of degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paola Scarfato
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (A.A.); (K.V.M.); (L.I.)
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8
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Cheung CKH, Not C. Early signs of plastic degradation and fragmentation: A 40-day study in marine environments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116809. [PMID: 39126776 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Conventional plastics are widely present in the ocean as marine plastic debris. This in-situ study investigates the degradability and fragmentation of seven common conventional plastics (PET, PVC, PS, EPS, PP, HDPE, and LDPE) in natural marine environments over a 40-day period. All plastics showed significant chemical changes and oscillating plastic oxidation levels, indicating the synergistic processes of oxidation and removal of oxidation products. Polystyrenes and polymers with heteroatoms showed the largest degradation potentials, while pure polyolefins exhibited the highest fragmentation risks. SEM images suggest potentials of EPS and pure polyolefins in generating microplastic fragments, and polymers with heteroatoms in generating nanoplastic fragments. PS did not exhibit any surface degradation signs, potentially due to enhanced crystallinity through oxidation. The findings highlight the need for reduced usage of EPS and pure polyolefins which are commonly applied as disposable utensils and food packaging, and prioritized cleanup of these polymers to reduce microplastic pollution in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coco Ka Hei Cheung
- Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong; The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
| | - Christelle Not
- Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong; The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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9
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Rostampour S, Cook R, Jhang SS, Li Y, Fan C, Sung LP. Changes in the Chemical Composition of Polyethylene Terephthalate under UV Radiation in Various Environmental Conditions. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2249. [PMID: 39204469 PMCID: PMC11358994 DOI: 10.3390/polym16162249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate has been widely used in the packaging industry. Degraded PET micro(nano)plastics could pose public health concerns following release into various environments. This study focuses on PET degradation under ultraviolet radiation using the NIST SPHERE facility at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in saturated humidity (i.e., ≥95% relative humidity) and dry conditions (i.e., ≤5% relative humidity) with varying temperatures (30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C) for up 20 days. ATR-FTIR was used to characterize the chemical composition change of degraded PET as a function of UV exposure time. The results showed that the cleavage of the ester bond at peak 1713 cm-1 and the formation of the carboxylic acid at peak 1685 cm-1 were significantly influenced by UV radiation. Furthermore, the formation of carboxylic acid was considerably higher at saturated humidity and 50 °C conditions compared with dry conditions. The ester bond cleavage was also more pronounced in saturated humidity conditions. The novelty of this study is to provide insights into the chemical degradation of PET under environmental conditions, including UV radiation, humidity, and temperature. The results can be used to develop strategies to reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rostampour
- PREP Associate, Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Rachel Cook
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA;
| | - Song-Syun Jhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, University Rd., Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Yuejin Li
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Chunlei Fan
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA; (Y.L.); (C.F.)
| | - Li-Piin Sung
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA;
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10
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Yin LZ, Luo XQ, Li JL, Liu Z, Duan L, Deng QQ, Chen C, Tang S, Li WJ, Wang P. Deciphering the pathogenic risks of microplastics as emerging particulate organic matter in aquatic ecosystem. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134728. [PMID: 38805824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134728] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are accumulating rapidly in aquatic ecosystems, providing habitats for pathogens and vectors for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), potentially increasing pathogenic risks. However, few studies have considered microplastics as particulate organic matter (POM) to elucidate their pathogenic risks and underlying mechanisms. Here, we performed microcosm experiments with microplastics and natural POM (leaves, algae, soil), thoroughly investigating their distinct effects on the community compositions, functional profiles, opportunistic pathogens, and ARGs in Particle-Associated (PA) and Free-Living (FL) bacterial communities. We found that both microplastics and leaves have comparable impacts on microbial community structures and functions, enriching opportunistic pathogens and ARGs, which may pose potential environmental risks. These effects are likely driven by their influences on water properties, including dissolved organic carbon, nitrate, DO, and pH. However, microplastics uniquely promoted pathogens as keystone species and further amplified their capacity as hosts for ARGs, potentially posing a higher pathogenic risk than natural POM. Our research also emphasized the importance of considering both PA and FL bacteria when assessing microplastic impacts, as they exhibited different responses. Overall, our study elucidates the role and underlying mechanism of microplastics as an emerging POM in intensifying pathogenic risks of aquatic ecosystems in comparison with conventional natural POM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Zi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering Thrust, Systems Hub, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jia-Ling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zetao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Li Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qi-Qi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Chen Chen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Urban Ecological Environment Simulation and Protection, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Shaojun Tang
- Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering Thrust, Systems Hub, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen-Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Pandeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Ecology & School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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11
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Safdar A, Ismail F, Safdar M, Imran M. Eco-friendly approaches for mitigating plastic pollution: advancements and implications for a greener future. Biodegradation 2024; 35:493-518. [PMID: 38310578 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10062-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global problem since the extensive use of plastic in industries such as packaging, electronics, manufacturing and construction, healthcare, transportation, and others. This has resulted in an environmental burden that is continually growing, which has inspired many scientists as well as environmentalists to come up with creative solutions to deal with this problem. Numerous studies have been reviewed to determine practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions to regulate plastic waste by leveraging microbes' innate abilities to naturally decompose polymers. Enzymatic breakdown of plastics has been proposed to serve this goal since the discovery of enzymes from microbial sources that truly interact with plastic in its naturalistic environment and because it is a much faster and more effective method than others. The scope of diverse microbes and associated enzymes in polymer breakdown is highlighted in the current review. The use of co-cultures or microbial consortium-based techniques for the improved breakdown of plastic products and the generation of high-value end products that may be utilized as prototypes of bioenergy sources is highlighted. The review also offers a thorough overview of the developments in the microbiological and enzymatic biological degradation of plastics, as well as several elements that impact this process for the survival of our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Safdar
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
| | - Maryem Safdar
- University College of Conventional Medicine, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Institute of Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 5180600, Guangdong Province, China.
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12
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Peng BY, Wang WX. Microplastics Biofragmentation and Degradation Kinetics in the Plastivore Insect Tenebrio molitor. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39028927 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c05113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
The insect Tenebrio molitor possesses an exceptional capacity for ultrafast plastic biodegradation within 1 day of gut retention, but the kinetics remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the biofragmentation and degradation kinetics of different microplastics (MPs), i.e., polyethylene (PE), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), and poly(lactic acid) (PLA), in T. molitor larvae. The intestinal reactions contributing to the in vivo MPs biodegradation were concurrently examined by utilizing aggregated-induced emission (AIE) probes. Our findings revealed that the intestinal biofragmentation rates essentially followed the order of PLA > PE > PVC. Notably, all MPs displayed retention effects in the intestine, with PVC requiring the longest duration for complete removal/digestion. The dynamic rate constant of degradable MPs (0.2108 h-1 for PLA) was significantly higher than that of persistent MPs (0.0675 and 0.0501 h-1 for PE and PVC, respectively) during the digestive gut retention. Surprisingly,T. molitor larvae instinctively modulated their internal digestive environment in response to in vivo biodegradation of various MP polymers. Esterase activity and intestinal acidification both significantly increased following MPs ingestion. The highest esterase and acidification levels were observed in the PLA-fed and PVC-fed larvae, respectively. High digestive esterase activity and relatively low acidification levels inT. molitor larvae may, to some extent, contribute to more efficient MPs removal within the plastic-degrading insect. This work provided important understanding of MPs biofragmentation and intestinal responses to in vivo MPs biodegradation in plastic-degrading insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Yu Peng
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
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13
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Sucharitakul P, Wu WM, Zhang Y, Peng BY, Gao J, Wang L, Hou D. Exposure Pathways and Toxicity of Microplastics in Terrestrial Insects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11887-11900. [PMID: 38885123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02842] [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: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The detrimental effects of plastics on aquatic organisms, including those of macroplastics, microplastics, and nanoplastics, have been well established. However, knowledge on the interaction between plastics and terrestrial insects is limited. To develop effective strategies for mitigating the impact of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems, it is necessary to understand the toxicity effects and influencing factors of plastic ingestion by insects. An overview of current knowledge regarding plastic ingestion by terrestrial insects is provided in this Review, and the factors influencing this interaction are identified. The pathways through which insects interact with plastics, which can lead to plastic accumulation and microplastic transfer to higher trophic levels, are also discussed using an overview and a conceptual model. The diverse impacts of plastic exposure on insects are discussed, and the challenges in existing studies, such as a limited focus on certain plastic types, are identified. Further research on standardized methods for sampling and analysis is crucial for reliable research, and long-term monitoring is essential to assess plastic trends and ecological impacts in terrestrial ecosystems. The mechanisms underlying these effects need to be uncovered, and their potential long-term consequences for insect populations and ecosystems require evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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14
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Devi SS, Saifudeen N, Kumar KS, Kumar AB. Does the microplastics ingestion patterns and polymer composition vary across the oceanic zones? A case study from the Indian coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 204:116532. [PMID: 38824708 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
This study explores microplastic (MP) presence in the gastrointestinal tracts of deep-sea fish from the Central Indian Ocean, off the Indian coast. Among the 27 species examined, 19 showed MP contamination, averaging 2.68 ± 0.30 (±SE) MPs per individual. Polymer analysis via FTIR and micro-Raman identified several types, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polypropelene (PP), polyvinyl acetate (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyaniline (PANI), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polyethersulfone (PES), with PET being the most prevalent (33.33 %). MP ingestion was higher in benthopelagic fish and those at higher trophic levels, as indicated by comparisons across oceanic zones. Niche partitioning analysis suggests feeding behaviour as a primary influencer of MP ingestion in deep-sea fish rather than habitat or trophic level. The study proposes the potential use of deep-sea fish as indicators for assessing microplastic pollution across oceanic zones and deep-sea regions through bycatch monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvarna S Devi
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India
| | - Nasila Saifudeen
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India
| | | | - Appukuttannair Biju Kumar
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India.
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15
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Corti A, Mugnaioli E, Manariti A, Paoli G, Petri F, Tersigni PFM, Ceccarini A, Castelvetro V. Natural iron-containing minerals catalyze the degradation of polypropylene microplastics: a route to self-remediation learnt from the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:45162-45176. [PMID: 38958859 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34120-0] [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: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Virgin and environmentally aged polypropylene (PP) micropowders (V-PP and E-PP, respectively) were used as reference microplastics (MPs) in comparative photo- and thermo-oxidative ageing experiments performed on their mixtures with a natural ferrous sand (NS) and with a metal-free silica sand (QS). The ferrous NS was found to catalyze the photo-oxidative degradation of V-PP after both UV and simulated solar light irradiation. The catalytic activity in the V-PP/NS mixture was highlighted by the comparatively higher fraction of photo-oxidized PP extracted in dichloromethane, and the higher carbonyl index of the bulk polymer extracted with boiling xylene, when compared with the V-PP/QS mixture. Similarly, NS showed a catalytic effect on the thermal degradation (at T = 60 °C) of E-PP. The results obtained indicate that, under suitable environmental conditions (in this case, an iron-containing sediment or soil matrix, combined with simulated solar irradiation), the degradation of some types of MPs could be much faster than anticipated. Given the widespread presence of iron minerals (including the magnetite and iron-rich serpentine found in NS) in both coastal and mainland soils and sediments, a higher than expected resilience of the environment to the contamination by this class of pollutants is anticipated, and possible routes to remediation of polluted natural environments by eco-compatible iron-based minerals are envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Corti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G Moruzzi 13, 56124, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP - Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Enrico Mugnaioli
- CISUP - Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Earth Science, University of Pisa, Via S Maria 53, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonella Manariti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G Moruzzi 13, 56124, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP - Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Paoli
- CISUP - Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Petri
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G Moruzzi 13, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alessio Ceccarini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G Moruzzi 13, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valter Castelvetro
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G Moruzzi 13, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
- CISUP - Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
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16
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Vijayakumar N, Sanjay AV, Al-Ghanim KA, Nicoletti M, Baskar G, Kumar R, Govindarajan M. Development of Biodegradable Bioplastics with Sericin and Gelatin from Silk Cocoons and Fish Waste. TOXICS 2024; 12:453. [PMID: 39058105 PMCID: PMC11281016 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12070453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The bioplastics sector promotes environmentally friendly means of cutting down on the usage of fossil fuels, plastic waste, and environmental pollution. Plastic contamination has detrimental effects on both ecological systems and the global food supply. The approach we present here to resolve this issue involves the integration of sericin and gelatin, obtained from cocoon and fish waste, respectively, with nano-reinforced cellulose crystals, to develop a biodegradable and compostable plastic material. The use of cocoon and fish wastes for the extraction of sericin and gelatin presents an environmentally beneficial approach since it contributes to waste reduction. The sericin level found in silk cocoon waste was determined to be 28.08%, and the gelatin amount in fish waste was measured to be 58.25%. The inclusion of sericin and gelatin in bioplastics was accompanied by the incorporation of glycerol, vinegar, starch, sodium hydroxide, and other coloring agents. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) examination of bioplastics revealed the presence of functional groups that corresponded to the sericin and gelatin components. The tensile strength of the bioplastic material was measured to be 27.64 MPa/psi, while its thickness varied between 0.072 and 0.316 mm. The results of burial experiments indicated that the bioplastic material had a degradation rate of 85% after 14 days. The invention exhibits potential as a viable alternative for packaging, containment, and disposable plastic materials. The use of this sustainable approach is recommended for the extraction of sericin and gelatin from silk cocoons and fish waste, with the intention of using them as raw materials for bioplastic production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natesan Vijayakumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar 608002, Tamil Nadu, India; (N.V.); (A.V.S.)
| | - Aathiyur Velumani Sanjay
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar 608002, Tamil Nadu, India; (N.V.); (A.V.S.)
| | - Khalid A. Al-Ghanim
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Marcello Nicoletti
- Department of Environmental Biology, In Unam Sapientiam, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gurunathan Baskar
- Department of Biotechnology, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Chennai 600119, Tamil Nadu, India;
- School of Engineering, Lebanese American University, Byblos 1102 2801, Lebanon
| | - Ranvijay Kumar
- University Centre for Research and Development, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Punjab, India;
| | - Marimuthu Govindarajan
- Unit of Vector Control, Phytochemistry and Nanotechnology, Department of Zoology, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar 608002, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Zoology, Government College for Women (Autonomous), Kumbakonam 612001, Tamil Nadu, India
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17
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Zhou R, Huang X, Xie Z, Ding Z, Wei H, Jin Q. A review focusing on mechanisms and ecological risks of enrichment and propagation of antibiotic resistance genes and mobile genetic elements by microplastic biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118737. [PMID: 38493850 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118737] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging ubiquitous pollutants in aquatic environment and have received extensive global attention. In addition to the traditional studies related to the toxicity of MPs and their carrier effects, their unique surface-induced biofilm formation also increases the ecotoxicity potential of MPs from multiple perspectives. In this review, the ecological risks of MPs biofilms were summarized and assessed in detail from several aspects, including the formation and factors affecting the development of MPs biofilms, the selective enrichment and propagation mechanisms of current pollution status of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in MPs biofilms, the dominant bacterial communities in MPs biofilms, as well as the potential risks of ARGs and MGEs transferring from MPs biofilms to aquatic organisms. On this basis, this paper also put forward the inadequacy and prospects of the current research and revealed that the MGEs-mediated ARG propagation on MPs under actual environmental conditions and the ecological risk of the transmission of ARGs and MGEs to aquatic organisms and human beings are hot spots for future research. Relevant research from the perspective of MPs biofilm should be carried out as soon as possible to provide support for the ecological pollution prevention and control of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Zhou
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, 30 Puzhu Southern Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Xirong Huang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, 30 Puzhu Southern Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Zhongtang Xie
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Process, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Zhuhong Ding
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, 30 Puzhu Southern Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Hengchen Wei
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, 30 Puzhu Southern Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Qijie Jin
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, 30 Puzhu Southern Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
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18
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Ali M, Xu D, Yang X, Hu J. Microplastics and PAHs mixed contamination: An in-depth review on the sources, co-occurrence, and fate in marine ecosystems. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 257:121622. [PMID: 38733961 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic contaminants that have been found in marine ecosystems. This review aims to explore the sources and mechanisms of PAHs and MPs mixed contamination in marine environments. Understanding the released sources of PAHs and MPs is crucial for proposing appropriate regulations on the release of these contaminants. Additionally, the mechanisms of co-occurrence and the role of MPs in distributing PAHs in marine ecosystems were investigated in detail. Moreover, the chemical affinity between PAHs and MPs was proposed, highlighting the potential mechanisms that lead to their persistence in marine ecosystems. Moreover, we delve into the various factors influencing the co-occurrence, chemical affinity, and distribution of mixed contaminants in marine ecosystems. These factors, including environmental characteristics, MPs properties, PAHs molecular weight and hydrophobicity, and microbial interactions, were critically examined. The co-contamination raises concerns about the potential synergistic effects on their degradation and toxicity. Interesting, few studies have reported the enhanced photodegradation and biodegradation of contaminants under mixed contamination compared to their individual remediation. However, currently, the remediation strategies reported for PAHs and MPs mixed contamination are scarce and limited. While there have been some initiatives to remove PAHs and MPs individually, there is a lack of research specifically targeting the removal of mixed contaminants. This deficiency highlights the need for further investigation and the development of effective remediation approaches for the efficient remediation of PAHs and MPs from marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukhtiar Ali
- Advanced Water Technology Laboratory, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Dong Xu
- Advanced Water Technology Laboratory, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
| | - Xuan Yang
- Advanced Water Technology Laboratory, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Jiangyong Hu
- Advanced Water Technology Laboratory, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Block E1A, #07-01, 1 Engineering Drive 2, Singapore 117576, Singapore.
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19
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Sharma S, Bhardwaj A, Thakur M, Saini A. Understanding microplastic pollution of marine ecosystem: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:41402-41445. [PMID: 37442935 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28314-1] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging as prominent pollutants across the globe. Oceans are becoming major sinks for these pollutants, and their presence is widespread in coastal regions, oceanic surface waters, water column, and sediments. Studies have revealed that microplastics cause serious threats to the marine ecosystem as well as human beings. In the past few years, many research efforts have focused on studying different aspects relating to microplastic pollution of the oceans. This review summarizes sources, migration routes, and ill effects of marine microplastic pollution along with various conventional as well as advanced methods for microplastics analysis and control. However, various knowledge gaps in detection and analysis require attention in order to understand the sources and transport of microplastics, which is critical to deploying mitigation strategies at appropriate locations. Advanced removal methods and an integrated approach are necessary, including government policies and stringent regulations to control the release of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Aprajita Bhardwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Monika Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anita Saini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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20
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Rostampour S, Cook R, Jhang SS, Li Y, Fan C, Sung LP. Changes in the Chemical Composition of Polyethylene Terephthalate Under UV Radiation in Various Environmental Conditions. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4402725. [PMID: 38826262 PMCID: PMC11142306 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4402725/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate has been widely used in the packaging industry. Degraded PET micro-nano plastics could pose public health concerns following release into various environments. This study focuses on PET degradation under ultraviolet radiation using the NIST SPHERE facility at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in saturated humidity (i.e., ≥ 95 % relative humidity) and dry conditions (i.e., ≤ 5 % relative humidity) with varying temperatures (30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C) for up 20 days. ATR-FTIR was used to characterize the chemical composition change of degraded PET as a function of UV exposure time. The results showed that the cleavage of the ester bond at peak 1713 cm-1 and the formation of the carboxylic acid at peak 1685 cm-1 are significantly influenced by UV radiation. Furthermore, the formation of carboxylic acid was considerably higher at saturated humidity and 50 °C conditions compared to dry conditions. The ester bond cleavage was also more pronounced in saturated humidity conditions. The novelty of this study is to provide insights into the chemical degradation of PET under environmental conditions, including UV radiation, humidity, and temperature. The results can be used to develop strategies to reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rostampour
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Rachel Cook
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
| | - Song Syun Jhang
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
| | - YueJin Li
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Chunlei Fan
- Bio Environmental Science Program, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Li-Piin Sung
- Infrastructure Materials Group, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
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21
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Tian JJ, Liu X, Ye L, Zhang Z, Quinn EC, Shi C, Broadbelt LJ, Marks TJ, Chen EYX. Redesigned Nylon 6 Variants with Enhanced Recyclability, Ductility, and Transparency. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202320214. [PMID: 38418405 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202320214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Geminal (gem-) disubstitution in heterocyclic monomers is an effective strategy to enhance polymer chemical recyclability by lowering their ceiling temperatures. However, the effects of specific substitution patterns on the monomer's reactivity and the resulting polymer's properties are largely unexplored. Here we show that, by systematically installing gem-dimethyl groups onto ϵ-caprolactam (monomer of nylon 6) from the α to ϵ positions, both the redesigned lactam monomer's reactivity and the resulting gem-nylon 6's properties are highly sensitive to the substitution position, with the monomers ranging from non-polymerizable to polymerizable and the gem-nylon properties ranging from inferior to far superior to the parent nylon 6. Remarkably, the nylon 6 with the gem-dimethyls substituted at the γ position is amorphous and optically transparent, with a higher Tg (by 30 °C), yield stress (by 1.5 MPa), ductility (by 3×), and lower depolymerization temperature (by 60 °C) than conventional nylon 6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Jie Tian
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1872, USA
| | - Xiaoyang Liu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3113, USA
| | - Liwei Ye
- Department of Chemistry and the Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3113, USA
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1872, USA
| | - Ethan C Quinn
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1872, USA
| | - Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1872, USA
| | - Linda J Broadbelt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3113, USA
| | - Tobin J Marks
- Department of Chemistry and the Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3113, USA
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1872, USA
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22
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He L, Ding J, Yang SS, Zang YN, Pang JW, Xing D, Zhang LY, Ren N, Wu WM. Molecular-Weight-Dependent Degradation of Plastics: Deciphering Host-Microbiome Synergy Biodegradation of High-Purity Polypropylene Microplastics by Mealworms. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6647-6658. [PMID: 38563431 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06954] [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: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The biodegradation of polypropylene (PP), a highly persistent nonhydrolyzable polymer, by Tenebrio molitor has been confirmed using commercial PP microplastics (MPs) (Mn 26.59 and Mw 187.12 kDa). This confirmation was based on the reduction of the PP mass, change in molecular weight (MW), and a positive Δδ13C in the residual PP. A MW-dependent biodegradation mechanism was investigated using five high-purity PP MPs, classified into low (0.83 and 6.20 kDa), medium (50.40 and 108.0 kDa), and high (575.0 kDa) MW categories to access the impact of MW on the depolymerization pattern and associated gene expression of gut bacteria and the larval host. The larvae can depolymerize/biodegrade PP polymers with high MW although the consumption rate and weight losses increased, and survival rates declined with increasing PP MW. This pattern is similar to observations with polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene (PE), i.e., both Mn and Mw decreased after being fed low MW PP, while Mn and/or Mw increased after high MW PP was fed. The gut microbiota exhibited specific bacteria associations, such as Kluyvera sp. and Pediococcus sp. for high MW PP degradation, Acinetobacter sp. for medium MW PP, and Bacillus sp. alongside three other bacteria for low MW PP metabolism. In the host transcriptome, digestive enzymes and plastic degradation-related bacterial enzymes were up-regulated after feeding on PP depending on different MWs. The T. molitor host exhibited both defensive function and degradation capability during the biodegradation of plastics, with high MW PP showing a relatively negative impact on the larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Ya-Ni Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- CECEP Digital Technology Co., Ltd., China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, Beijing 100096, China
| | - Defeng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Lu-Yan Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Nanqi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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23
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Ridley RS, Conrad RE, Lindner BG, Woo S, Konstantinidis KT. Potential routes of plastics biotransformation involving novel plastizymes revealed by global multi-omic analysis of plastic associated microbes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8798. [PMID: 38627476 PMCID: PMC11021508 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59279-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing efforts across various disciplines, the fate, transport, and impact of synthetic plastics on the environment and public health remain poorly understood. To better elucidate the microbial ecology of plastic waste and its potential for biotransformation, we conducted a large-scale analysis of all publicly available meta-omic studies investigating plastics (n = 27) in the environment. Notably, we observed low prevalence of known plastic degraders throughout most environments, except for substantial enrichment in riverine systems. This indicates rivers may be a highly promising environment for discovery of novel plastic bioremediation products. Ocean samples associated with degrading plastics showed clear differentiation from non-degrading polymers, showing enrichment of novel putative biodegrading taxa in the degraded samples. Regarding plastisphere pathogenicity, we observed significant enrichment of antimicrobial resistance genes on plastics but not of virulence factors. Additionally, we report a co-occurrence network analysis of 10 + million proteins associated with the plastisphere. This analysis revealed a localized sub-region enriched with known and putative plastizymes-these may be useful for deeper investigation of nature's ability to biodegrade man-made plastics. Finally, the combined data from our meta-analysis was used to construct a publicly available database, the Plastics Meta-omic Database (PMDB)-accessible at plasticmdb.org. These data should aid in the integrated exploration of the microbial plastisphere and facilitate research efforts investigating the fate and bioremediation potential of environmental plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney S Ridley
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
| | - Roth E Conrad
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Blake G Lindner
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Seongwook Woo
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Konstantinos T Konstantinidis
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
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24
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Angelescu DG. Molecular modeling of the carbohydrate corona formation on a polyvinyl chloride nanoparticle and its impact on the adhesion to lipid bilayers. J Chem Phys 2024; 160:144901. [PMID: 38591687 DOI: 10.1063/5.0198254] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The pervasive presence of nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment has gained increasing attention due to their accumulation in living organisms. These emerging contaminants inevitably interact with extracellular polymeric substances along respiratory or gastrointestinal tracts, and diverse organic coating on the surface of NPs, known as bio- or eco-corona, is formed. Although its impact on altering the NP properties and potential cell internalization has been extensively examined, studies on its role in NP partitioning in the cell membrane are elusive yet. In this work, molecular dynamics is used to investigate the formation of chitosan (CT) corona centered on a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanoparticle and the uptake of the resulting complex onto lipid membranes. Coarse-grained models compatible with the newly developed Martini 3.0 force field are implemented for the two polymers employing the atomistic properties as targets in the parameterization. The reliability of the coarse-grained polymer models is demonstrated by reproducing the structural properties of the PVC melt and of solvated CT strands, as well as by determining the conformation adopted by the latter at the NP surface. Results show that the spontaneous binding of CT chains of high and intermediate protonation degrees led to the formation of soft and hard corona that modulates the interaction of PVC core with model membranes. The structural changes of the corona adsorbed at the lipid-water interface enable a subsequent transfer of the NP to the center of the saturated lipid membranes and a complete or partial transition to a snorkel conformation depending on the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance in the CT-PVC complex. Overall, the computational investigation of the coarse-grained model system provides implications for understanding how the eco-corona development influences the uptake and implicit toxicology of NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Angelescu
- Romanian Academy, "Ilie Murgulescu" Institute of Physical Chemistry, Splaiul Independentei 202, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
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25
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Liu Y, Ma B, Tian J, Zhao C. Coupled conversion of polyethylene and carbon dioxide catalyzed by a zeolite-metal oxide system. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn0252. [PMID: 38608025 PMCID: PMC11014447 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Zeolite-catalyzed polyethylene (PE) aromatization achieves reduction of the aromatic yield via hydrogenation and hydrogenolysis reactions. The hydrogen required for CO2 hydrogenation can be provided by H radicals formed during aromatization. In this study, we efficiently convert PE and CO2 into aromatics and CO using a zeolite-metal oxide catalyst (HZSM-5 + CuZnZrOx) at 380°C and under hydrogen- and solvent-free reaction conditions. Hydrogen, derived from the aromatization of PE over HZSM-5, diffuses through the Brønsted acidic sites of the zeolite to the adjacent CuZnZrOx, where it is captured in situ by CO2 to produce bicarbonate and further hydrogenated to CO. This favors aromatization while inhibiting hydrogenation and secondary hydrogenolysis reactions. An aromatic yield of 62.5 wt % is achieved, of which 60% consisted of benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX). The conversion of CO2 reaches values as high as 0.55 mmol gPE-1. This aromatization-hydrogen capture pathway provides a feasible scheme for the comprehensive utilization of waste plastics and CO2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular and Process Engineering, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Bing Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular and Process Engineering, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Jingqing Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular and Process Engineering, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular and Process Engineering, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
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26
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Gao J, Wang L, Wu WM, Luo J, Hou D. Microplastic generation from field-collected plastic gauze: Unveiling the aging processes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133615. [PMID: 38325096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Accumulation of plastic debris in the environment is a matter of global concern. As plastic ages, it generates microplastic (MP) particles with high mobility. Understanding how MPs are generated is crucial to controlling this emerging contaminant. In this study, we utilized high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic gauze, collected from urban settings, as a representative example of plastic waste. The plastic gauze was subjected to various aging conditions, including freeze-thaw cycling, mechanical abrasion, and UV irradiation. Following aging, the plastic gauze was rinsed with water, and the number of generated MPs were quantified. It was found that aged plastic gauze generated up to 334 million MP particles per m2 (> 10 µm) during rinsing, a number two orders of magnitude higher than unaged plastic. Fragmentation occurred in two dimensions for bulk MPs of all morphotypes. However, specific aging approaches (i.e., mechanical abrasion and UV irradiation) generated spheres and fibers via pseudo-3D fragmentation. Additionally, changes in molecular weight, size distribution, and surface oxidation characteristics unveiled a complex pattern (i.e., irregular changes with exposure time). This complexity underscores the intricate nature of plastic debris aging processes in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-4020, USA
| | - Jian Luo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0355, USA
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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27
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Wang Y, van Putten RJ, Tietema A, Parsons JR, Gruter GJM. Polyester biodegradability: importance and potential for optimisation. GREEN CHEMISTRY : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL AND GREEN CHEMISTRY RESOURCE : GC 2024; 26:3698-3716. [PMID: 38571729 PMCID: PMC10986773 DOI: 10.1039/d3gc04489k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
To reduce global CO2 emissions in line with EU targets, it is essential that we replace fossil-derived plastics with renewable alternatives. This provides an opportunity to develop novel plastics with improved design features, such as better reusability, recyclability, and environmental biodegradability. Although recycling and reuse of plastics is favoured, this relies heavily on the infrastructure of waste management, which is not consistently advanced on a worldwide scale. Furthermore, today's bulk polyolefin plastics are inherently unsuitable for closed-loop recycling, but the introduction of plastics with enhanced biodegradability could help to combat issues with plastic accumulation, especially for packaging applications. It is also important to recognise that plastics enter the environment through littering, even where the best waste-collection infrastructure is in place. This causes endless environmental accumulation when the plastics are non-(bio)degradable. Biodegradability depends heavily on circumstances; some biodegradable polymers degrade rapidly under tropical conditions in soil, but they may not also degrade at the bottom of the sea. Biodegradable polyesters are theoretically recyclable, and even if mechanical recycling is difficult, they can be broken down to their monomers by hydrolysis for subsequent purification and re-polymerisation. Additionally, both the physical properties and the biodegradability of polyesters are tuneable by varying their building blocks. The relationship between the (chemical) structures/compositions (aromatic, branched, linear, polar/apolar monomers; monomer chain length) and biodegradation/hydrolysis of polyesters is discussed here in the context of the design of biodegradable polyesters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Albert Tietema
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - John R Parsons
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan M Gruter
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Avantium Support BV Zekeringstraat 29 1014 BV Amsterdam The Netherlands
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28
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Li X, Zheng Y, Lu L, Eom J, Ru S, Li Y, Wang J. Trophic transfer of micro- and nanoplastics and toxicity induced by long-term exposure of nanoplastics along the rotifer (Brachionus plicatilis)-marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) food chain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123599. [PMID: 38369093 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging pollutants in the ocean, but their transfer and toxicity along the food chains are unclear. In this study, a marine rotifer (Brachionus plicatilis)-marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) food chain was constructed to evaluate the transfer of polystyrene MPs and NPs (70 nm, 500 nm, and 2 μm, 2000 μg/L) and toxicity of 70 nm PS-NPs (0, 20, 200, and 2000 μg/L) on marine medaka after long-term food chain exposure. The results showed that the amount of 70 nm NPs accumulated in marine medaka was 1.24 μg/mg, which was significantly higher than that of 500 nm NPs (0.87 μg/mg) and 2 μm MP (0.69 μg/mg). Long-term food chain exposure to NPs caused microflora dysbiosis, resulting in activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway, which induced liver inflammation. Moreover, NPs food chain exposure increased liver and muscle tissue triglyceride and lactate content, but decreased the protein, sugar, and glycogen content. NPs food chain exposure impaired reproductive function and inhibited offspring early development, which might pose a threat to the sustainability of marine medaka population. Overall, the study revealed the transfer of MPs and NPs and the effects of NPs on marine medaka along the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yuqi Zheng
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Lin Lu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Junho Eom
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shaoguo Ru
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yuejiao Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
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29
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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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30
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Palazot M, Soccalingame L, Froger C, Jolivet C, Bispo A, Kedzierski M, Bruzaud S. First national reference of microplastic contamination of French soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170564. [PMID: 38311079 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The recent emergence of studies on plastic contamination of terrestrial environments has revealed the presence of microplastics (MP) in a variety of soil types, from the most densely populated areas to the most remote ones. However, the concentrations and chemical natures of MP in soils vary between studies, and only a few ones have focused on this issue in France. The MICROSOF project aimed to establish the first national references for French soil contamination by microplastics. 33 soil samples randomly chosen on the French soil quality-monitoring network were analyzed. The study collected data on the abundance of microplastics in the [315-5000] μm range, their chemical nature and size, as well as mass abundance estimates and other relevant information. Results demonstrated that 76 % of the soil samples contained microplastics, in concentrations ranging from <6.7 to 80 MP.kg-1 (dry soil). Most samples from croplands, grasslands and vineyards and orchards were contaminated, whereas only one sample from forest contained MP, suggesting an increased risk of microplastic contamination in soils exposed to agricultural practices. The MP abundances are not statistically different from similar studies, indicating an intermediate level of contamination in French soils. Despite intervention reports and surveys, the sources remain unclear at this stage. For the first time, an overview of the state of soil contamination in France, as well as the potential risks is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maialen Palazot
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | - Lata Soccalingame
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | | | | | | | - Mikaël Kedzierski
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France.
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
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31
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Shi Y, Li D, Hill C, Yang L, Sheerin ED, Pilliadugula R, Wang JJ, Boland J, Xiao L. Micro and nano plastics release from a single absorbable suture into simulated body fluid. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133559. [PMID: 38301437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133559] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic polymers are widely used in medical devices and implants where biocompatibility and mechanical strength are key enablers of emerging technologies. One concern that has not been widely studied is the potential of their microplastics (MPs) release. Here we studied the levels of MP debris released following 8-week in vitro tests on three typical polyglycolic acid (PGA) based absorbable sutures (PGA 100, PGA 90 and PGA 75) and two nonabsorbable sutures (polypropylene-PP and polyamide-PA) in simulated body fluid. The MP release levels ranked from PGA 100 > > PGA 90 > PGA 75 > > PP ∼ PA. A typical PGA 100 suture released 0.63 ± 0.087 million micro (MPs > 1 µm) and 1.96 ± 0.04 million nano (NPs, 200-1000 nm) plastic particles per centimeter. In contrast, no MPs were released from the nonabsorbable sutures under the same conditions. PGA that was co-blended with 10-25% L-lactide or epsilon-caprolactone resulted in a two orders of magnitude lower level of MP release. These results underscore the need to assess the release of nano- and microplastics from medical polymers while applied in the human body and to evaluate possible risks to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhong Shi
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; TrinityHaus, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland
| | - Dunzhu Li
- College of Jiyang, Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji 311800, China.
| | - Christopher Hill
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland
| | - Luming Yang
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland
| | - Emmet D Sheerin
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland
| | - Rekha Pilliadugula
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland
| | - Jing Jing Wang
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland.
| | - John Boland
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland.
| | - Liwen Xiao
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland; TrinityHaus, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Dublin D02PN40, Ireland.
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32
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He L, Yang SS, Ding J, Chen CX, Yang F, He ZL, Pang JW, Peng BY, Zhang Y, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate by Tenebrio molitor: Insights for polymer chain size, gut metabolome and host genes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133446. [PMID: 38219578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133446] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or polyester) is a commonly used plastic and also contributes to the majority of plastic wastes. Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae) are capable of biodegrading major plastic polymers but their degrading ability for PET has not been characterized based on polymer chain size molecular size, gut microbiome, metabolome and transcriptome. We verified biodegradation of commercial PET by T. molitor larvae in a previous report. Here, we reported that biodegradation of commercial PET (Mw 29.43 kDa) was further confirmed by using the δ13C signature as an indication of bioreaction, which was increased from - 27.50‰ to - 26.05‰. Under antibiotic suppression of gut microbes, the PET was still depolymerized, indicating that the host digestive enzymes could degrade PET independently. Biodegradation of high purity PET with low, medium, and high molecular weights (MW), i.e., Mw values of 1.10, 27.10, and 63.50 kDa with crystallinity 53.66%, 33.43%, and 4.25%, respectively, showed a mass reduction of > 95%, 86%, and 74% via broad depolymerization. Microbiome analyses indicated that PET diets shifted gut microbiota to three distinct structures, depending on the low, medium, and high MW. Metagenome sequencing, transcriptomic, and metabolic analyses indicated symbiotic biodegradation of PET by the host and gut microbiota. After PET was fed, the host's genes encoding degradation enzymes were upregulated, including genes encoding oxidizing, hydrolyzing, and non-specific CYP450 enzymes. Gut bacterial genes for biodegrading intermediates and nitrogen fixation also upregulated. The multiple-functional metabolic pathways for PET biodegradation ensured rapid biodegradation resulting in a half-life of PET less than 4 h with less negative impact by PET MW and crystallinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Cheng-Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Fan Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhi-Li He
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519080, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, Beijing 100089, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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Chen C, Du R, Tang J, Wang B, Li F, Zhang Z, Yu G. Characterization of microplastic-derived dissolved organic matter in freshwater: Effects of light irradiation and polymer types. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 185:108536. [PMID: 38471263 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108536] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the impacts of light irradiation and polymer types on the leaching behavior of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from microplastics (MPs) in freshwater. Polypropylene had the highest leaching capacity of DOM after photoaging, followed by polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While similarly low levels of DOM were observed in the remaining 5 MP suspensions under UV irradiation and in almost all MP suspensions (except PA) under darkness. These suggest that the photooxidation of some buoyant plastics may influence the carbon cycling of nature waters. Among 9 MP-derived leachates, PET leachates had the highest chromophoric DOM concentration and aromaticity, probably owing to the special benzene rings and carbonyl groups in PET structures and its fast degradation rate. Protein-like substances were the primary fluorescent DOM in MP suspensions (except PS), especially in darkness no other fluorescent substances were found. Considering the bio-labile properties of proteins together, MPs regardless of floating or suspended in an aquatic environment may have prevalent long-term effects on microbial activities. Besides, from monomers to hexamers with newly formed chemical bonds were identified in UV-irradiated MP suspensions. These results will contribute to a deep insight into the potential ecological effects related to MP degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunzhao Chen
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Roujia Du
- School of Environment, Beijing Key Laboratory for Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, Beijing Laboratory of Environmental Frontier Technologies, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Tang
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Bin Wang
- School of Environment, Beijing Key Laboratory for Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, Beijing Laboratory of Environmental Frontier Technologies, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Gang Yu
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China; School of Environment, Beijing Key Laboratory for Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, Beijing Laboratory of Environmental Frontier Technologies, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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Lazcano RF, Kelly JJ, Hoellein TJ. Biofilms on plastic litter in an urban river: Community composition and activity vary by substrate type. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2024; 96:e11008. [PMID: 38443318 DOI: 10.1002/wer.11008] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
In aquatic ecosystems, plastic litter is a substrate for biofilms. Biofilms on plastic and natural surfaces share similar composition and activity, with some differences due to factors such as porosity. In freshwaters, most studies have examined biofilms on benthic substrates, while little research has compared the activity and composition of biofilms on buoyant plastic and natural surfaces. Additionally, the influence of substrate size and successional stage on biofilm composition has not been commonly assessed. We incubated three plastics of distinct textures that are buoyant in rivers, low-density polyethylene (rigid; 1.7 mm thick), low-density polyethylene film (flexible; 0.0254 mm thick), and foamed polystyrene (brittle; 6.5 mm thick), as well as wood substrates (untreated oak veneer; 0.6 mm thick) in the Chicago River. Each material was incubated at three sizes (1, 7.5, and 15 cm2 ). Substrates were incubated at 2-10 cm depths and removed weekly for 6 weeks. On each substrate we measured chlorophyll concentration, biofilm biomass, respiration, and flux of nitrogen gas. We sequenced 16S and 23S rRNA genes at Weeks 1, 3, and 6 to capture biofilm community composition across successional stages. Chlorophyll, biomass, and N2 flux were similar across substrates, but respiration was greater on wood than plastics. Bacterial and algal richness and diversity were highest on foam and wood compared to polyethylene substrates. Bacterial biofilm community composition was distinct between wood and plastic substrates, while the algal community was distinct on wood and foam, which were different from each other and polyethylene substrates. These results indicate that polymer properties influence biofilm alpha and beta diversity, which may affect transport and distribution of plastic pollution and associated microbes, as well as biogeochemical processes in urban rivers. This study provides valuable insights into the effects of substrate on biofilm characteristics, and the ecological impacts of plastic pollution on urban rivers. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Plastic physical and chemical properties act as forces of selection for biofilm. Biofilm activity was similar among three different types of plastic. Community composition between plastic and wood was different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl F Lazcano
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - John J Kelly
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Timothy J Hoellein
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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35
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Nejat N, Sattari M, Mohsenpour R, Shi X, Rasta M. Microplastics abundance, distribution and composition in surface waters, sediments and fish species from Amir-Kalayeh Wetland, Northern Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:22024-22037. [PMID: 38400964 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32627-0] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is considered as a globally pervasive threat to aquatic ecosystems and many studies reported this pollution in different aquatic ecosystems. However, studies on MPs pollution in wetlands are still scarce. Therefore, the aim of present study was to investigate the presence of MPs in the surface water, sediment and different fish species of Amir-Kalayeh wetland, Northern Ian. Surface water and sediment samples were collected from six stations during June to July 2022. Moreover, the gills and gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of 54 fish specimens belonging to four species including Cyprinus carpio, Tinca tinca, Esox lucius and Silurus glanis were analysed. MPs were detected in all samples with an average of 2.15 ± 1.98 items/m3 for surface water, 51.66 ± 32.20 items/kg dry weight for sediments, 0.17 ± 0.17 items/individual for fish GIT and 0.12 ± 0.12 items/individual for fish gills. There was no significant relationship between MPs abundance in surface waters and sediments as well as between MPs abundance in environmental matrices and fish (P > 0.0.5). In terms of feeding habit, no significant differences were observed between the number of MPs found in omnivorous and carnivorous fish species (P > 0.05). Moreover, no significant relationship was detected between the MPs abundance in fish tissues and body size (P > 0.05). MPs were mainly fibers, mostly transparent, and in a range size of 70-5000 µm. The dominant MPs type was nylon in all samples. This study will help increase our knowledge about MPs pollution in inland freshwater systems and suggests that management policies take essential steps to reduce this insidious problem in freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Nejat
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmehsara, Iran
| | - Masoud Sattari
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmehsara, Iran
- Department of Marine Biology, The Caspian Sea Research Center, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Reza Mohsenpour
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmehsara, Iran
| | - Xiaotao Shi
- College of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Chine Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, Hubei, China
- Hubei International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Fish Passage, Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, Hubei, China
| | - Majid Rasta
- College of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Chine Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, Hubei, China.
- Hubei International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Fish Passage, Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, Hubei, China.
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36
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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.
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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.
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37
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Xu L, Bai X, Li K, Zhang G, Zhang M, Hu M, Huang Y. Human Exposure to Ambient Atmospheric Microplastics in a Megacity: Spatiotemporal Variation and Associated Microorganism-Related Health Risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:3702-3713. [PMID: 38356452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09271] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are found in various human tissues and are considered harmful, raising concerns about human exposure to microplastics in the environment. Existing research has analyzed indoor and occupational scenarios, but long-term monitoring of ambient atmospheric microplastics (AMPs), especially in highly polluted urban regions, needs to be further investigated. This study estimated human environmental exposure to AMPs by considering inhalation, dust ingestion, and dermal exposure in three urban functional zones within a megacity. The annual exposure quantity was 7.37 × 104 items for children and 1.06 × 105 items for adults, comparable with the human microplastic consumption from food and water. Significant spatiotemporal differences were observed in the characteristics of AMPs that humans were exposed to, with wind speed and rainfall frequency mainly driving these changes. The annual human AMP exposure quantity in urban green land spaces, which were recognized as relatively low polluted zones, was comparable with that in public service zones and residential zones. Notably, significant positive correlations between the AMP characteristics and the pathogenicity of the airborne bacterial community were discovered. AMP size and immune-mediated disease risks brought by atmospheric microbes showed the most significant relationship, where Sphingomonas might act as the potential key mediator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guangbao Zhang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
- PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
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38
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Kang P, Zhao Y, Wei T, Cai Y, Ji B, Addo-Bankas O. Interactions between MPs and PFASs in aquatic environments: A dual-character situation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 351:119907. [PMID: 38157575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119907] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have drawn great attention as emerging threats to aquatic ecosystems. Although the literature to study the MPs and PFASs alone has grown significantly, our knowledge of the overlap and interactions between the two contaminations is scarce due to the unawareness of it. Actually, numerous human activities can simultaneously release MPs and PFASs, and the co-sources of the two are common, meaning that they have a greater potential for interactions. The direct interaction lies in the PFASs adsorption by MPs in water with integrated mechanisms including electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, plus many influence factors. In addition, the existence and transportation of MPs and PFASs in the aquatic environment have been identified. MPs and PFASs can be ingested by aquatic organisms and cause more serious combined toxicity than exposure alone. Finally, curbing strategies of MPs and PFASs are overviewed. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can be an effective place to remove MPs from wastewater, while they are also an important point source of MPs pollution in water bodies. Although adsorption has proven to be a successful curbing method for PFASs, more technological advancements are required for field application. It is expected that this review can help revealing the unheeded relationship and interaction between MPs and PFASs in aquatic environments, thus assisting the further investigations of both MPs and PFASs as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiying Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, School of Water Resources and Hydroelectric Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Yaqian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, School of Water Resources and Hydroelectric Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China.
| | - Ting Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, School of Water Resources and Hydroelectric Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yamei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, School of Water Resources and Hydroelectric Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China
| | - Bin Ji
- School of Civil Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, PR China
| | - Olivia Addo-Bankas
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China; Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, School of Water Resources and Hydroelectric Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, 710048, PR China
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39
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James BD, Ward CP, Hahn ME, Thorpe SJ, Reddy CM. Minimizing the Environmental Impacts of Plastic Pollution through Ecodesign of Products with Low Environmental Persistence. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2024; 12:1185-1194. [PMID: 38273987 PMCID: PMC10806995 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c05534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
While plastic pollution threatens ecosystems and human health, the use of plastic products continues to increase. Limiting its harm requires design strategies for plastic products informed by the threats that plastics pose to the environment. Thus, we developed a sustainability metric for the ecodesign of plastic products with low environmental persistence and uncompromised performance. To do this, we integrated the environmental degradation rate of plastic into established material selection strategies, deriving material indices for environmental persistence. By comparing indices for the environmental impact of on-the-market plastics and proposed alternatives, we show that accounting for the environmental persistence of plastics in design could translate to societal benefits of hundreds of millions of dollars for a single consumer product. Our analysis identifies the materials and their properties that deserve development, adoption, and investment to create functional and less environmentally impactful plastic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D. James
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
- Department
of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Collin P. Ward
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Mark E. Hahn
- Department
of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Steven J. Thorpe
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of Toronto; Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E4, Canada
| | - Christopher M. Reddy
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
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40
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Oluwoye I, Machuca LL, Higgins S, Suh S, Galloway TS, Halley P, Tanaka S, Iannuzzi M. Degradation and lifetime prediction of plastics in subsea and offshore infrastructures. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166719. [PMID: 37673242 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Engineering and civil developments have relied on synthetic polymers and plastics (including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, etc.) for decades, especially where their durability protects engineering structures against corrosion and other environmental stimuli. Offshore oil and gas infrastructure and renewable energy platforms are typical examples, where these plastics (100,000 s of metric tonnes worldwide) are used primarily as functional material to protect metallic flowlines and subsea equipment against seawater corrosion. Despite this, the current literature on polymers is limited to sea-surface environments, and a model for subsea degradation of plastics is needed. In this review, we collate relevant studies on the degradation of plastics and synthetic polymers in marine environments to gain insight into the fate of these materials when left in subsea conditions. We present a new mathematical model that accounts for various physicochemical changes in the oceanic environment as a function of depth to predict the lifespan of synthetic plastics and the possible formation of plastic debris, e.g., microplastics. We found that the degradation rate of the plastics decreases significantly as a function of water depth and can be estimated quantitatively by the mathematical model that accounts for the effect (and sensitivity) of geographical location, temperature, light intensity, hydrostatic pressure, and marine sediments. For instance, it takes a subsea polyethylene coating about 800 years to degrade on ocean floor (as opposed to <400 years in shallow coastal waters), generating 1000s of particles per g of degradation under certain conditions. Our results demonstrate how suspended sediments in the water column are likely to compensate for the decreasing depth-corrected degradation rates, resulting in surface abrasion and the formation of plastic debris such as microplastics. This review, and the complementing data, will be significant for the environmental impact assessment of plastics in subsea infrastructures. Moreover, as these infrastructures reach the end of their service life, the management of the plastic components becomes of great interest to environmental regulators, industry, and the community, considering the known sizeable impacts of plastics on global biogeochemical cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibukun Oluwoye
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Laura L Machuca
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Stuart Higgins
- Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6824, Australia
| | - Sangwon Suh
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Peter Halley
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Shuhei Tanaka
- Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mariano Iannuzzi
- Curtin Corrosion Centre, Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Hoseini M, Stead J, Bond T. Ranking the accelerated weathering of plastic polymers. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2023; 25:2081-2091. [PMID: 37882078 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00295k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The timespans over which different plastics degrade in the environment are poorly understood. This study aimed to rank the degradation speed of five widespread plastic polymers-low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-in terms of their physicochemical properties. Five of the six samples were plastic films with identical dimensions, which allowed the influence of morphology to be excluded, with a polyethylene carrier bag (PEB) tested for comparison. An accelerated weathering chamber was used to photochemically degrade samples over 41 days, with degradation monitored via mass loss and changes to carbonyl index, crystallinity and contact angle. The mass loss ranking was PP ≫ LDPE > PEB > PS > PLA > PET. Estimates of the time needed for complete degradation ranged from 0.27 years for PP to 1179 years for PET. Therefore, mass loss in PP proceeded more rapidly than the other polymers, which was unexpected based on previous literature and is plausibly explained by the presence of an unlisted additive which accelerated degradation. Increases in carbonyl index proceeded more rapidly in PP and LDPE than the other polymers tested. However, changes in contact angle and crystallinity did not correspond to the mass loss ranking. Therefore, monitoring the carbonyl index during accelerated weathering trials can indicate which polymers will fragment more quickly. However, alternative approaches are needed to simulate conditions where photooxidation reactions are negligible, such as the ocean floor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hoseini
- School of Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Surrey, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Jess Stead
- School of Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Surrey, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
| | - Tom Bond
- School of Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Surrey, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
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42
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Yuan W, Hibi Y, Tamura R, Sumita M, Nakamura Y, Naito M, Tsuda K. Revealing factors influencing polymer degradation with rank-based machine learning. PATTERNS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 4:100846. [PMID: 38106610 PMCID: PMC10724228 DOI: 10.1016/j.patter.2023.100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The efficient treatment of polymer waste is a major challenge for marine sustainability. It is useful to reveal the factors that dominate the degradability of polymer materials for developing polymer materials in the future. The small number of available datasets on degradability and the diversity of their experimental means and conditions hinder large-scale analysis. In this study, we have developed a platform for evaluating the degradability of polymers that is suitable for such data, using a rank-based machine learning technique based on RankSVM. We then made a ranking model to evaluate the degradability of polymers, integrating three datasets on the degradability of polymers that are measured by different means and conditions. Analysis of this ranking model with a decision tree revealed factors that dominate the degradability of polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilin Yuan
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8561, Japan
| | - Yusuke Hibi
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science, 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0047, Japan
| | - Ryo Tamura
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8561, Japan
- Center for Basic Research on Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0044, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Masato Sumita
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Nakamura
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science, 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0047, Japan
| | - Masanobu Naito
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science, 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0047, Japan
| | - Koji Tsuda
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8561, Japan
- Center for Basic Research on Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0044, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
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43
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Osman DM, Yuan W, Shabaka S, Nyaga MP, Geng J, Yu Y, Yang Y. The threat of micro/nanoplastic to aquatic plants: current knowledge, gaps, and future perspectives. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 265:106771. [PMID: 38000132 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have been recognized as an emerging pollutant and have raised global concerns due to their widespread distribution in the environment and potential harm to living systems. However, research on the threat of micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) to the unique group of aquatic plants is far behind, necessitating a comprehensive review to summarize current research progress and identify future research needs. This review explores the sources and distribution patterns of MPs/NPs in aquatic environments, highlighting their uptake by aquatic plants through roots and leaves, and subsequent translocation via the vascular system facilitated by the transpiration stream. Exposure to MPs/NPs elicits diverse effects on the growth, physiology, and ecological interactions of aquatic plants, with variations influenced by plastic properties, plant species, and experimental conditions. Furthermore, the presence of MPs/NPs can impact the toxicity and bioavailability of other associated toxicants to aquatic plants. This review shows critical knowledge gaps and emphasizes the need for future research to bridge the current understanding of the limitations and challenges posed by MPs/NPs in aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donia M Osman
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wenke Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Soha Shabaka
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Egypt
| | - Muthii Patrick Nyaga
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Geng
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yongxiang Yu
- Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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44
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Fiandra EF, Shaw L, Starck M, McGurk CJ, Mahon CS. Designing biodegradable alternatives to commodity polymers. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8085-8105. [PMID: 37885416 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00556a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The development and widespread adoption of commodity polymers changed societal landscapes on a global scale. Without the everyday materials used in packaging, textiles, construction and medicine, our lives would be unrecognisable. Through decades of use, however, the environmental impact of waste plastics has become grimly apparent, leading to sustained pressure from environmentalists, consumers and scientists to deliver replacement materials. The need to reduce the environmental impact of commodity polymers is beyond question, yet the reality of replacing these ubiquitous materials with sustainable alternatives is complex. In this tutorial review, we will explore the concepts of sustainable design and biodegradability, as applied to the design of synthetic polymers intended for use at scale. We will provide an overview of the potential biodegradation pathways available to polymers in different environments, and highlight the importance of considering these pathways when designing new materials. We will identify gaps in our collective understanding of the production, use and fate of biodegradable polymers: from identifying appropriate feedstock materials, to considering changes needed to production and recycling practices, and to improving our understanding of the environmental fate of the materials we produce. We will discuss the current standard methods for the determination of biodegradability, where lengthy experimental timescales often frustrate the development of new materials, and highlight the need to develop better tools and models to assess the degradation rate of polymers in different environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuella F Fiandra
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - Lloyd Shaw
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - Matthieu Starck
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
| | | | - Clare S Mahon
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK.
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45
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Peng BY, Sun Y, Li P, Yu S, Xu Y, Chen J, Zhou X, Wu WM, Zhang Y. Biodegradation of polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, and polylactic acid microplastics in Tenebrio molitor larvae: Physiological responses. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118818. [PMID: 37633102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
It is widely understood that microplastics (MPs) can induce various biological stresses in macroinvertebrates that are incapable of biodegrading plastics. However, the biodegradation and physiological responses of plastic-degrading macroinvertebrates toward MPs of different degradability levels remain unexplored. In this study, Tenebrio molitor larvae (mealworms) were selected as a model of plastics-degrading macroinvertebrate, and were tested against three common plastics of different degradability rankings: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), and polylactic acid (PLA) MPs (size <300 μm). These three MPs were biodegraded with the rate sequence of PLA > PS > PVC, resulting in a reversed order of negative physiological responses (body weight loss, decreased survival, and biomass depletion) of mealworms. Simultaneously, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzyme activities, and lipid peroxidation were uniformly increased as polymer degradability decreased and intermediate toxicity increased. PVC MPs exhibited higher toxicity than the other two polymers. The oxidative stresses were effectively alleviated by supplementing co-diet bran. The T. molitor larvae fed with PLA plus bran showed sustainable growth without an increase in oxidative stress. The results provide new insights into the biotoxicity of MPs on macroinvertebrates and offer comprehensive information on the physiological stress responses of plastic-degrading macroinvertebrates during the biodegradation of plastics with different degradability levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Ying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Ping Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Siran Yu
- Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yazhou Xu
- National Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jiabin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xuefei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305-4020, United States.
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China; National Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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46
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Li Y, Lin X, Wang J, Xu G, Yu Y. Mass-based trophic transfer of polystyrene nanoplastics in the lettuce-snail food chain. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 897:165383. [PMID: 37422223 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the potential transfer of nanoplastics (NPs) from water to plants and subsequently to a higher trophic level, we established a food chain and evaluated the trophic transfer of polystyrene (PS) NPs based on mass concentrations by pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Lettuce plants were cultivated in Hoagland solution with varying concentrations of PS-NPs (0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 mg/L) for a period of 60 d and then a total of 7 g lettuce shoot was fed to snails for 27 d. Shoot biomass exposed at 1000 mg/L PS-NPs was reduced by 36.1 %. No significant change in root biomass was observed, however, root volume was reduced by 25.6 % at 100 mg/L. Moreover, PS-NPs were detected in both lettuce roots and shoots across all concentrations. Additionally, PS-NPs were transferred to snails and primarily found in feces (>75 %). Only 28 ng/g of PS-NPs were detected in the soft tissue of snails indirectly exposed at 1000 mg/L. Although PS-NPs were bio-diluted when transferred to species at higher trophic levels, they significantly inhibited the growth of snails, indicating that their potential risk to high trophic levels cannot be ignored. This study provides key information on trophic transfer and patterns of PS-NPs in food chains and helps to evaluate risk of NPs in terrestrial ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Li
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaolong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Guanghui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
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47
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Li Q, Xiao Y, Zhang W, Li S, Liu J, Yu Y, Wen Y, Zhang Y, Lei N, Wang Q. Single and combined toxicity effects of microplastics and perfluorooctanoic acid on submerged macrophytes and biofilms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 897:165370. [PMID: 37423285 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165370] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have contaminated nearly all types of ecosystems, including marine, terrestrial and freshwater habitats, posing a severe threat to the ecological environment. However, their combined toxicity on aquatic organisms (e.g., macrophytes) remains unknown. This study investigated single and combined toxic effects of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and PFOA on Vallisneria natans (V. natans) and associated biofilms. Results showed that MPs and PFOA significantly affected plant growth, while the magnitude of the effect was associated with concentrations of PFOA and the types of MPs, and antagonistic effects were induced at combined MPs and PFOA exposure. In addition, antioxidant responses in plants, such as promoted activities of SOD and POD, as well as increased content of GSH and MDA, were triggered effectively by exposure to MPs and PFOA alone and in combination. Ultrastructural changes revealed the stress response of leaf cells and the damage to organelles. Moreover, single and combined exposure to MPs and PFOA altered the diversity and richness of the microbial community in the leaf biofilms. These results indicated that the coexistence of MPs and PFOA can induce effective defense mechanisms of V. natans and change the associated biofilms at given concentrations in the aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Yunxing Xiao
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Weizhen Zhang
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China.
| | - Shuang Li
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Jing Liu
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Yangjinzhi Yu
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Yueling Wen
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Yumiao Zhang
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
| | - Ningfei Lei
- School of Ecological Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
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48
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Xu L, Li K, Zhang M, Guo J, Jia W, Bai X, Tian X, Huang Y. Plastic substrate and residual time of microplastics in the urban river shape the composition and structure of bacterial communities in plastisphere. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118710. [PMID: 37536136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The widespread secondary microplastics (MPs) in urban freshwater, originating from plastic wastes, have created a new habitat called plastisphere for microorganisms. The factors influencing the structure and ecological risks of the microbial community within the plastisphere are not yet fully understood. We conducted an in-site incubation experiment in an urban river, using MPs from garbage bags (GB), shopping bags (SB), and plastic bottles (PB). Bacterial communities in water and plastisphere incubated for 2 and 4 weeks were analyzed by 16S high-throughput sequencing. The results showed the bacterial composition of the plastisphere, especially the PB, exhibited enrichment of plastic-degrading and photoautotrophic taxa. Diversity declined in GB and PB but increased in SB plastisphere. Abundance analysis revealed distinct bacterial species that were enriched or depleted in each type of plastisphere. As the succession progressed, the differences in community structure was more pronounced, and the decline in the complexity of bacterial community within each plastisphere suggested increasing specialization. All the plastisphere exhibited elevated pathogenicity at the second or forth week, compared to bacterial communities related to natural particles. These findings highlighted the continually evolving plastisphere in urban rivers was influenced by the plastic substrates, and attention should be paid to fragile plastic wastes due to the rapidly increasing pathogenicity of the bacterial community attached to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China; PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China
| | - Jiabao Guo
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Weiqian Jia
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xudong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control of Zhejiang, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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49
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Town RM, van Leeuwen HP, Duval JFL. Effect of Polymer Aging on Uptake/Release Kinetics of Metal Ions and Organic Molecules by Micro- and Nanoplastics: Implications for the Bioavailability of the Associated Compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:16552-16563. [PMID: 37856883 PMCID: PMC10620988 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05148] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The main driver of the potential toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics toward biota is often the release of compounds initially present in the plastic, i.e., polymer additives, as well as environmentally acquired metals and/or organic contaminants. Plastic particles degrade in the environment via various mechanisms and at different rates depending on the particle size/geometry, polymer type, and the prevailing physical and chemical conditions. The rate and extent of polymer degradation have obvious consequences for the uptake/release kinetics and, thus, the bioavailability of compounds associated with plastic particles. Herein, we develop a theoretical framework to describe the uptake and release kinetics of metal ions and organic compounds by plastic particles and apply it to the analysis of experimental data for pristine and aged micro- and nanoplastics. In particular, we elucidate the contribution of transient processes to the overall kinetics of plastic reactivity toward aquatic contaminants and demonstrate the paramount importance of intraparticulate contaminant diffusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raewyn M. Town
- ECOSPHERE,
Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Herman P. van Leeuwen
- ECOSPHERE,
Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium
- Physical
Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University
& Research, Stippeneng
4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
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50
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Colwell J, Pratt S, Lant P, Laycock B. Hazardous state lifetimes of biodegradable plastics in natural environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 894:165025. [PMID: 37348710 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165025] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a critical problem that has the potential for long-lasting impact. While all plastics eventually break down to at least some degree, they can remain in different transition states, such as microplastics and nanoplastics, for extended periods of time before reaching complete mineralisation to non-hazardous end products. Each of the transition states represents different types of hazards, so it is critical to understand the factors driving the lifetimes of plastics within these states. To do this, we propose a framework for assessing plastic lifetimes in natural environments based on the flow of material through potentially hazardous states: macroplastic and mesoplastic, microplastic, nanoplastic and soluble products. State changes within this framework are underpinned by three key processes: fragmentation, depolymerisation, and bioassimilation, with the pathways for generation of the different plastic states, and the lifetimes within these states, varying widely for individual materials in different environments due to their dependence on polymer material type, form and properties, and environmental factors. The critical factors driving these processes can therefore appear complex, but molecular weight, crystallinity, oxygen and water diffusivity, and inherent polymer chain reactivity (including to enzymes) are key to our understanding. By analysing currently available data that take factors such as these into consideration, we have generated information on the most likely states in which a range of plastics with different environmental degradation behaviour may exist over time in natural environments. Polyethylene (PE), for example, should be expected to fragment and accumulate in the environment as microplastic and nanoplastic. Interestingly, the state-profile for the biodegradable plastic polylactic acid (PLA) is similar, albeit over shorter timeframes. PLA also likely fragments, but then the relatively slow process of abiotic depolymerisation results in accumulation of microplastic and nanoplastic. By contrast, the state-profile for the biodegradable plastic polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) would be expected to be very different. The bulk material is less susceptible to embrittlement and fragmentation as a primary path to biodegradation, since the rapid enzyme catalysed depolymerisation of exposed surfaces proceeds in conjunction with bioassimilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Colwell
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Steven Pratt
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Paul Lant
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Laycock
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
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