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Yeo JCC, Muiruri JK, Fei X, Wang T, Zhang X, Xiao Y, Thitsartarn W, Tanoto H, He C, Li Z. Innovative biomaterials for food packaging: Unlocking the potential of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymers. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 163:213929. [PMID: 39024863 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213929] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolyesters show a good balance between sustainability and performance, making them a competitive alternative to conventional plastics for ecofriendly food packaging. With an emphasis on developments over the last decade (2014-2024), this review examines the revolutionary potential of PHAs as a sustainable food packaging material option. It also delves into the current state of commercial development, competitiveness, and the carbon footprint associated with PHA-based products. First, a critical examination of the challenges experienced by PHAs in terms of food packaging requirements is undertaken, followed by an assessment of contemporary strategies addressing permeability, mechanical properties, and processing considerations. The various PHA packaging end-of-life options, including a comprehensive overview of the environmental impact and potential solutions will also be discussed. Finally, conclusions and future perspectives are elucidated with a view of prospecting PHAs as future green materials, with a blend of performance and sustainability of food packaging solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayven Chee Chuan Yeo
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Joseph Kinyanjui Muiruri
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE(2)), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xunchang Fei
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Residues and Resource Reclamation Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, 1 Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637141, Singapore
| | - Tong Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xikui Zhang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yihang Xiao
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Warintorn Thitsartarn
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Hendrix Tanoto
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Chaobin He
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117576, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Zibiao Li
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore; Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE(2)), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117576, Republic of Singapore.
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2
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Ou W, Wang H, Ye Y, Zhao H, Zhang Y, Hou Z. Hydrogenation of the benzene rings in PET degraded chemicals over meso-HZSM-5 supported Ru catalyst. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134964. [PMID: 38901261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Chemical upcycling of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to value-added products can reduce the emission of CO2, microplastics and toxic chemicals. In this work, mesoporous H-type Zeolite Socony Mobil-5 (HZSM-5) supported Ru catalyst (Ru/m-HZSM-5) was synthesized and tested in the hydrogenation of PET degraded chemicals (bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate, dimethyl terephthalate, diethyl terephthalate, and terephthalic acid). Characterizations disclosed that Ru/m-HZSM-5 catalyst possesses mesopores (a dominant channel of 5.32 nm), enlarged specific surface area (404 m2·g-1), and Ru NPs dispersed highly (40.6 %) compared to that of Ru/HZSM-5. And also, it was found that Ru/m-HZSM-5 was capable for the hydrogenation of benzene rings in these PET degraded chemicals with large sizes (1.09-1.82 nm). In particular, the conversion of BHET and the selectivity of BHCD over Ru/m-HZSM-5 reached 95.5 % and 95.6 % at 120 °C within 2 h. And Ru/m-HZSM-5 could be recycled at least five times without obvious loss of activity and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weitao Ou
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Han Wang
- Zhejiang Hengyi Petrochemical Research Institute Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 311200, China
| | - Yingdan Ye
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Huaiyuan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China; Zhejiang Hengyi Petrochemical Research Institute Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 311200, China.
| | - Yibin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Zhaoyin Hou
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China; Zhejiang Hengyi Petrochemical Research Institute Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 311200, China.
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Yuan C, Hu L, Ren Z, Xu X, Gui X, Gong XA, Wu R, Sima J, Cao X. Marine microplastics enhance release of arsenic in coastal aquifer during seawater intrusion process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 475:134804. [PMID: 38880042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), omnipresent contaminants in the ocean, could be carried by seawater intrusion into coastal aquifers, which might affect the fate of heavy metals existing in aquifers. Herein, we investigated the release behavior of arsenic (As) in coastal aquifers during MPs-containing seawater intrusion by applying laboratory experiment and numerical simulation. We found that seawater with marine MPs enhanced the release of As in aquifers, especially for dissolved As(V) and colloidal As. Negatively charged MPs competed with As(V) for the adsorption sites on iron (hydr)oxides in aquifers, resulting in the desorption of As(V). In addition, MPs could promote the release of Fe-rich colloids by imparting negative charge to its surface and providing it with sufficient repulsive force to detach from the matrix, thereby leading to the release of As associated with Fe-rich colloid. We also developed a modeling approach that well described the transport of As in coastal aquifer under the impact of MPs, which coupled variable density flow and kinetically controlled colloids transport with multicomponent reactive transport model. Our findings elucidated the enhancement of MPs on the release of As in aquifers during seawater intrusion, which provides new insights into the risk assessment of MPs in coastal zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengpeng Yuan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Liyang Hu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zhefan Ren
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyun Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Xiangyang Gui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xuan-Ang Gong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Rui Wu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingke Sima
- State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Xuhui, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Xinde Cao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; National Field Observation and Research Station of Erhai Lake Ecosystem, Yunnan 671000, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Solid Waste Treatment and Resource Recovery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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Rahman E, BinAhmed S, Keyes P, Alberg C, Godfreey-Igwe S, Haugstad G, Xiong B. Nanoscale Abrasive Wear of Polyethylene: A Novel Approach To Probe Nanoplastic Release at the Single Asperity Level. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:13845-13855. [PMID: 38874627 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09649] [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: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing concern that nanoplastic pollution may pose planetary threats to human and ecosystem health. However, a quantitative and mechanistic understanding of nanoplastic release via nanoscale mechanical degradation of bulk plastics and its interplay with photoweathering remains elusive. We developed a lateral force microscope (LFM)-based nanoscratch method to investigate mechanisms of nanoscale abrasive wear of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) surfaces by a single sand particle (simulated by a 300 nm tip) under environmentally relevant load, sliding motion, and sand size. For virgin LDPE, we found plowing as the dominant wear mechanism (i.e., deformed material pushed around the perimeter of scratch). After UVA-weathering, the wear mechanism of LDPE distinctively shifted to cutting wear (i.e., deformed material detached and pushed to the end of scratch). The shift in the mechanism was quantitatively described by a new parameter, which can be incorporated into calculating the NP release rate. We determined a 10-fold higher wear rate due to UV weathering. We also observed an unexpected resistance to initiate wear for UV-aged LDPE, likely due to nanohardness increase induced by UV. For the first time, we report 0.4-4 × 10-3 μm3/μm sliding distance/μN applied load as an initial approximate nanoplastic release rate for LDPE. Our novel findings reveal nanoplastic release mechanisms in the environment, enabling physics-based prediction of the global environmental inventory of nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsanur Rahman
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Dr SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Sara BinAhmed
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Dr SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Phoebe Keyes
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Dr SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Claire Alberg
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Dr SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Stacy Godfreey-Igwe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 33 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Greg Haugstad
- Characterization Facility, University of Minnesota, 100 Union St. SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Boya Xiong
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Dr SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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5
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Yan Y, Yang H, Du Y, Li X, Li X. Effects and molecular mechanisms of polyethylene microplastic oxidation on wheat grain quality. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134816. [PMID: 38850928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134816] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene microplastics (PE MPs) are the main MPs in agricultural soils and undergo oxidation upon environmental exposure. However, the influence of MP oxidation on phytotoxicity (especially for crop fruit) is still limited. This study aimed to explore the effect of PE MP oxidation on crop toxicity. Herein, a combination of plant phenotyping, metabolomic, and transcriptomic approaches was used to evaluate the effects of low-oxidation PE (LOPE) and high-oxidation PE (HOPE) on wheat growth, grain quality, and related molecular mechanisms using pot experiments. The results showed that HOPE induced a stronger inhibition of wheat growth and reduction in protein content and mineral elements than LOPE. This was accompanied by root ultrastructural damage and downregulation of carbohydrate metabolism, translation, nutrient reservoir activity, and metal ion binding gene expression. Compared with HOPE, LOPE activated a stronger plant defense response by reducing the starch content by 22.87 %, increasing soluble sugar content by 44.93 %, and upregulating antioxidant enzyme genes and crucial metabolic pathways (e.g., starch and sucrose, linoleic acid, and phenylalanine metabolism). The presence of PE MPs in the environment exacerbates crop growth inhibition and fruit quality deterioration, highlighting the need to consider the environmental and food safety implications of MPs in agricultural soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Huijie Yang
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Yuan Du
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Li
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xiaokang Li
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
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Li J, Chen K, Lin L, Han S, Meng F, Hu E, Qin W, Gao Y, Jiang J. Product Selection Toward High-Value Hydrogen and Bamboo-Shaped Carbon Nanotubes from Plastic Waste by Catalytic Microwave Processing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39102504 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
The escalating levels of plastic waste and energy crises underscore the urgent need for effective waste-to-energy strategies. This study focused on converting polypropylene wastes into high-value products employing various iron-based catalysts and microwave radiative thermal processing. The Al-Fe catalysts exhibited exceptional performance, achieving a hydrogen utilization efficiency of 97.65% and a yield of 44.07 mmol/g PP. The gas yields increased from 19.99 to 94.21 wt % compared to noncatalytic experiments. Furthermore, this catalytic system produced high-value bamboo-shaped carbon nanotubes that were absent in other catalysts. The mechanism analysis on catalytic properties and product yields highlighted the significance of oxygen vacancies in selecting high-value products through two adsorption pathways. Moreover, the investigation examined the variations in product distribution mechanisms between conventional and microwave pyrolysis, in which microwave conditions resulted in 4 times higher hydrogen yields. The technoeconomic assessment and Monte Carlo risk analysis further compared the disparity. The microwave technique had a remarkable internal rate of return (IRR) of 39%, leading to an income of $577/t of plastic with a short payback period of 2.5 years. This research offered sustainable solutions for the plastic crisis, validating the potential applicability of commercializing the research outcomes in real-world scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Li
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kailun Chen
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Li Lin
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Siyu Han
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fanzhi Meng
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Endian Hu
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Weikai Qin
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuchen Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jianguo Jiang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Regional Environmental Quality, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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7
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Wang Z, Kong Y, Cao X, Liu N, Wang C, Li X, Xing B. Co-photoaging inhibited the heteroaggregation between polystyrene nanoplastics and different titanium dioxide nanoparticles. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 259:121831. [PMID: 38810346 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121831] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Heteroaggregation between nanoplastics (NPs) and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) determines their environmental fates and ecological risks in aquatic environments. However, the co-photoaging scenario of NPs and TiO2NPs, interaction mechanisms of TiO2NPs with (aged) NPs, as well as the dependence of their heteroaggregation on TiO2NPs facets remain elusive. We found the critical coagulation concentration (CCC) of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) with coexisting RTiO2NPs was 1.9 - 2.2 times larger than that with coexisting ATiO2NPs, suggesting a better suspension stability of PSNPs+RTiO2NPs. In addition, CCC of TiO2NPs with coexisting photoaged PSNPs (APSNPs) was larger 1.7 - 2.2 times than that with PSNPs coexisting, indicating photoaging inhibited their heteroaggregation due to increasing electrostatic repulsion derived from increased negative charges on APSNPs and the polymer-derived dissolved organic carbon. Coexisted TiO2NPs promoted oxidation of PSNPs with the action of HO· and O2·- under UV light, leading to inhibited heteroaggregation. Moreover, Van der Waals and Lewis-acid interaction dominated the formation of primary heteroaggregates of PSNPs-TiO2NPs (ESE = ‒2.20 ∼ ‒2.78 eV) and APSNPs-TiO2NPs (ESE = ‒3.29 ∼ ‒3.67 eV), respectively. The findings provide a mechanistic insight into the environmental process of NPs and TiO2NPs, and are significant for better understanding their environmental risks in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Yu Kong
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xuesong Cao
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Chuanxi Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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8
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An Z, Chen F, Hou L, Chen Q, Liu M, Zheng Y. Microplastics promote methane emission in estuarine and coastal wetlands. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 259:121853. [PMID: 38843628 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121853] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Increasing microplastic (MP) pollution poses significant threats to estuarine and coastal ecosystems. However, the effects of MPs on the emission of methane (CH4), a potent greenhouse gas, within these ecosystems and the underlying regulatory mechanisms have not been elucidated. Here, a combination of 13C stable isotope-based method and molecular techniques was applied to investigate how conventional petroleum-based MPs [polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)] and biodegradable MPs [polylactic acid (PLA) and polyadipate/butylene terephthalate (PBAT)] regulate CH4 production and consumption and thus affect CH4 emission dynamics in estuarine and coastal wetlands. Results indicated that both conventional and biodegradable MPs enhanced the emission of CH4 (P < 0.05), with the promoting effect being more significant for biodegradable MPs. However, the mechanisms by which conventional and biodegradable MPs promote CH4 emissions were different. Specifically, conventional MPs stimulated the emission of CH4 by inhibiting the processes of CH4 consumption, but had no significant effect on CH4 production rate. Nevertheless, biodegradable MPs promoted CH4 emissions via accelerating the activities the methanogens while inhibiting the oxidation of CH4, thus resulting in a higher degree of promoting effect on CH4 emissions than conventional MPs. Consistently, quantitative PCR further revealed a significant increase in the abundance of methyl-coenzyme M reductase gene (mcrA) of methanogens under the exposure of biodegradable MPs (P < 0.05), but not conventional MPs. Furthermore, the relative abundance of most genes involved in CH4 oxidation exhibited varying degrees of reduction after exposure to all types of MPs, based on metagenomics data. This study reveals the effects of MPs on CH4 emissions in estuarine and coastal ecosystems and their underlying mechanisms, highlighting that the emerging biodegradable MPs exhibited a greater impact than conventional MPs on promoting CH4 emissions in these globally important ecosystems, thereby accelerating global climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhirui An
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Yangtze Delta Estuarine Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education & Shanghai, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Feiyang Chen
- Research Center for Monitoring and Environmental Sciences, Taihu Basin & East China Sea Ecological Environment Supervision and Administration Authority, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Lijun Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Yangtze Delta Estuarine Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education & Shanghai, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Qiqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Yangtze Delta Estuarine Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education & Shanghai, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Min Liu
- School of Geographic Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Science (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yanling Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Yangtze Delta Estuarine Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education & Shanghai, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Geographic Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Science (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
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9
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Cao J, Liang H, Yang J, Zhu Z, Deng J, Li X, Elimelech M, Lu X. Depolymerization mechanisms and closed-loop assessment in polyester waste recycling. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6266. [PMID: 39048542 PMCID: PMC11269573 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50702-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcoholysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) waste to produce monomers, including methanolysis to yield dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and glycolysis to generate bis-2-hydroxyethyl terephthalate (BHET), is a promising strategy in PET waste management. Here, we introduce an efficient PET-alcoholysis approach utilizing an oxygen-vacancy (Vo)-rich catalyst under air, achieving space time yield (STY) of 505.2 gDMT·gcat-1·h-1 and 957.1 gBHET·gcat-1·h-1, these results represent 51-fold and 28-fold performance enhancements compared to reactions conducted under N2. In situ spectroscopy, in combination with density functional theory calculations, elucidates the reaction pathways of PET depolymerization. The process involves O2-assisted activation of CH3OH to form CH3OH* and OOH* species at Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites, highlighting the critical role of Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites in ester bond activation and C-O bond cleavage. Moreover, a life cycle assessment demonstrates the viability of our approach in closed-loop recycling, achieving 56.0% energy savings and 44.5% reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions. Notably, utilizing PET textile scrap further leads to 58.4% reduction in initial total operating costs. This research offers a sustainable solution to the challenge of PET waste accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Cao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Huaxing Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, Halle, Germany.
| | - Menachem Elimelech
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Xinglin Lu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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10
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Ding J, He D, Du P, Wu J, Hu Q, Chen Q, Jiao X. Design Photocatalysts to Boost Carrier Dynamics in Plastics Photoconversion into Fuels. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:35865-35873. [PMID: 38970473 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c07664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Solar-driven plastics conversion into valuable fuels has attracted broad attention in recent years, which has enormous potential for plastics recycling in the future. However, it usually encounters low conversion efficiency, where one of the reasons is attributed to the poor carrier dynamics in the photocatalytic process. In this Perspective, we critically review the developed strategies, involving defect engineering, doping engineering, heterojunction engineering, and composite construction, for boosted carrier separation efficiency. In addition, we provide an outlook for more potential strategies to engineer catalysts for promoted carrier dynamics. Finally, we also propose prospects for the future research direction of plastics photoconversion into fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Ding
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Dongpo He
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Peijin Du
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jiacong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qinyuan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qingxia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xingchen Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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11
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Tang-Siri J, Vibhatabandhu P, Srithongouthai S. Occurrence of microplastics and ecological risk assessment during tidal changes in the Chao Phraya River estuary, Thailand. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 200:106647. [PMID: 39032189 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
River estuaries are specific transition zones that connect coastal and terrestrial environments and are recognized as primary conveyors for land-derived plastics to open oceans. The present study is the first to investigate tidal effects on microplastics (MPs) in the Chao Phraya River estuary. MPs (16-5000 μm) were collected from the water column during the changes in tidal current in order to analyze abundance, characteristics, and ecological risk. The abundance of MPs varied from 1.37 to 4.51 pieces/L and an average of 4.0 ± 3.8 pieces/L were found during the tidal cycle, which implied moderate to relatively high contamination when compared to other estuaries. Moreover, the average abundance of MPs during the low tide period was comparatively higher than that in other tidal phenomena. Morphological characteristics revealed that shape of fragments, shade of blue, size of 16-100 μm and PTFE is dominant in the MPs. The pollution load index (PLICPRE) was 5.98, which denoted that the Chao Phraya River estuary is polluted with MPs at a low contamination level. In contrast, the risk index (RICPRE) of MPs in the water column during the tidal cycle was 318.8, which indicated that the estuarine ecosystem of the Chao Phraya River is under considerable risk. In the present study, an ecological risk assessment was conducted for the Chao Phraya River estuary, which provides basic reference data for the management of pollution control related to MPs in the Chao Phraya River basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiradet Tang-Siri
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Pathompong Vibhatabandhu
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Sarawut Srithongouthai
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand; Research Unit (RU) of Waste Utilization and Ecological Risk Assessment, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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12
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Wang Z, Song J, Zhang H, Deng K, Yu H, Xu Y, Wang H, Wang L. Electrocatalytic Valorization of Nitrate and Polyester Plastic for Simultaneous Production of Ammonia and Glycolic Acid. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2404124. [PMID: 39016131 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemical upcycling of nitrate and polyester plastic into valuable products is an ideal solution to realize the resource utilization. Here, the co-production of ammonia (NH3) and glycolic acid (GA) via electrochemical upcycling of nitrate and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics over mesoporous Pd3Au film on Ni foam (mPd3Au/NF), which is synthesized by micelle-assisted replacement method, is proposed. The mPd3Au/NF with well-developed mesoporous structure provides abundant active sites and facilitated transfer channels and strong electronic effect. As such, the mPd3Au/NF exhibits high Faraday efficiencies of 97.28% and 95.32% at 0.9 V for the formation of NH3 and GA, respectively. Theoretical results indicate that the synergistic effect of Pd and Au can optimize adsorption energy of key intermediates *NOH and *OCH2-CH2OH on active sites and increase bond energy of C─C band, thereby improving the activity and selectivity for the formation of NH3 and GA. This work proposes a promising strategy for the simultaneous conversation of nitrate and PET plastic into high-value NH3 and GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Jiale Song
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Hugang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Kai Deng
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Hongjie Yu
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - You Xu
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Hongjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Liang Wang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green-Chemical Synthesis Technology, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
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13
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Li K, Cheng JL, Wang MY, Xiong W, Huang HY, Feng LW, Cai Z, Zhu JB. Kinetic Resolution Polymerization Enabled Chemical Synthesis of Perfectly Isotactic Polythioesters. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202405382. [PMID: 38682252 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405382] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Isotactic polythioesters (PTEs) that are thioester analogs to natural polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have attracted growing attention due to their distinct properties. However, the development of chemically synthetic methods for preparing isotactic PTEs has long been an intricate endeavour. Herein, we report the successful synthesis of perfectly isotactic PTEs via stereocontrolled ring-opening polymerization. This binaphthalene-salen aluminium (SalBinam-Al) catalyst promoted a robust polymerization of rac-α-substituted-β-propiothiolactones (rac-BTL and rac-PTL) with highly kinetic resolution, affording perfectly isotactic P(BTL) and P(PTL) with Mn up to 276 kDa. Impressively, the isotactic P(BTL) formed a supramolecular stereocomplex with improved thermal property (Tm=204 °C). Ultimately, this kinetic resolution polymerization enabled the facile isolation of enantiopure (S)-BTL, which could efficiently convert to an important pharmaceutical building block (S)-2-benzyl-3-mercapto-propanoic acid. Isotactic P(PTL) served as a tough and ductile material comparable to the commercialized polyolefins. This synthetic system allowed to access of isotactic PTEs, establishing a powerful platform for the discovery of sustainable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Liang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Yuan Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Wei Xiong
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Hao-Yi Huang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Liang-Wen Feng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Zhongzheng Cai
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Bo Zhu
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan) College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
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14
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Su X, Huang X, Zhang Y, Yang L, Wen T, Yang X, Zhu G, Zhang J, Tang Y, Li Z, Ding J, Li R, Pan J, Chen X, Huang F, Rillig MC, Zhu YG. Nitrifying niche in estuaries is expanded by the plastisphere. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5866. [PMID: 38997249 PMCID: PMC11245476 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50200-8] [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: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The estuarine plastisphere, a novel ecological habitat in the Anthropocene, has garnered global concerns. Recent geochemical evidence has pointed out its potential role in influencing nitrogen biogeochemistry. However, the biogeochemical significance of the plastisphere and its mechanisms regulating nitrogen cycling remain elusive. Using 15N- and 13C-labelling coupled with metagenomics and metatranscriptomics, here we unveil that the plastisphere likely acts as an underappreciated nitrifying niche in estuarine ecosystems, exhibiting a 0.9 ~ 12-fold higher activity of bacteria-mediated nitrification compared to surrounding seawater and other biofilms (stone, wood and glass biofilms). The shift of active nitrifiers from O2-sensitive nitrifiers in the seawater to nitrifiers with versatile metabolisms in the plastisphere, combined with the potential interspecific cooperation of nitrifying substrate exchange observed among the plastisphere nitrifiers, collectively results in the unique nitrifying niche. Our findings highlight the plastisphere as an emerging nitrifying niche in estuarine environment, and deepen the mechanistic understanding of its contribution to marine biogeochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xinrong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Yiyue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
| | - Leyang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Teng Wen
- School of Geography, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xiaoru Yang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Guibing Zhu
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100085, Beijing, China
| | - Jinbo Zhang
- School of Geography, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Liebig Centre for Agroecology and Climate Impact Research, Justus Liebig University, Gießen, Germany
| | - Yijia Tang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2015, Australia
| | - Zhaolei Li
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jing Ding
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Ruilong Li
- School of Marine Science, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Junliang Pan
- School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xinping Chen
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Fuyi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China
| | - Matthias C Rillig
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yong-Guan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China.
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, China.
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China.
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100085, Beijing, China.
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15
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Chen H, Huang D, Zhou W, Deng R, Yin L, Xiao R, Li S, Li F, Lei Y. Hotspots lurking underwater: Insights into the contamination characteristics, environmental fates and impacts on biogeochemical cycling of microplastics in freshwater sediments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135132. [PMID: 39002483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
The widespread presence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments has become a significant concern, with freshwater sediments acting as terminal sinks, rapidly picking up these emerging anthropogenic particles. However, the accumulation, transport, degradation and biochemical impacts of MPs in freshwater sediments remain unresolved issues compared to other environmental compartments. Therefore, this paper systematically revealed the spatial distribution and characterization information of MPs in freshwater (rivers, lakes, and estuaries) sediments, in which small-size (<1 mm), fibers, transparent, polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP) predominate, and the average abundance of MPs in river sediments displayed significant heterogeneity compared to other matrices. Next, the transport kinetics and drivers of MPs in sediments are summarized, MPs transport is controlled by the particle diversity and surrounding environmental variability, leading to different migration behaviors and transport efficiencies. Also emphasized the spatio-temporal evolution of MPs degradation processes and biodegradation mechanisms in sediments, different microorganisms can depolymerize high molecular weight polymers into low molecular weight biodegradation by-products via secreting hydrolytic enzymes or redox enzymes. Finally, discussed the ecological impacts of MPs on microbial-nutrient coupling in sediments, MPs can interfere with the ecological balance of microbially mediated nutrient cycling by altering community networks and structures, enzyme activities, and nutrient-related functional gene expressions. This work aims to elucidate the plasticity characteristics, fate processes, and potential ecological impact mechanisms of MPs in freshwater sediments, facilitating a better understanding of environmental risks of MPs in freshwater sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Danlian Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China; Greater Bay Area Institute for Innovation, Hunan University, Guangzhou 511300, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Wei Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Rui Deng
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, Anhui 230009, PR China
| | - Lingshi Yin
- College of Water Resources & Civil Engineering, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, PR China
| | - Ruihao Xiao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Sai Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Fei Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Yang Lei
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control, Hunan University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
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16
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Wu Y, Li Z, Deng Y, Bian B, Xie L, Lu X, Tian J, Zhang Y, Wang L. Mangrove mud clam as an effective sentinel species for monitoring changes in coastal microplastic pollution. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134617. [PMID: 38749247 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134617] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The worldwide mangrove shorelines are experiencing considerable contamination from microplastics (MPs). Finding an effective sentinel species in the mangrove ecosystem is crucial for early warning of ecological and human health risks posed by coastal microplastic pollution. This study collected 186 specimens of the widely distributed mangrove clam (Geloina expansa, Solander, 1786) from 18 stations along the Leizhou Peninsula, the largest mangrove coast in Southern China. This study discovered that mangrove mud clams accumulated a relatively high abundance of MPs (2.96 [1.61 - 6.03] items·g-1) in their soft tissue, wet weight, as compared to previously reported levels in bivalves. MPs abundance is significantly (p < 0.05 or 0.0001) influenced by coastal urban development, aquaculture, and shell size. Furthermore, the aggregated MPs exhibit a significantly high polymer risk index (Level III, H = 353.83). The estimated annual intake risk (EAI) from resident consumption, as calculated via a specific questionnaire survey, was at a moderate level (990 - 2475, items·g -1·Capita -1). However, the EAI based on suggested nutritional standards is very high, reaching 113,990 (79,298 - 148,681), items·g -1·Capita -1. We recommend utilizing the mangrove mud clam as sentinel species for the monitoring of MPs pollution changing across global coastlines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinglin Wu
- Western Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood Resource Sustainable Utilization, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, Guangdong, People's Republic of China; School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zitong Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanxia Deng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingbing Bian
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Xie
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianye Lu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingqiu Tian
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyun Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, People's Republic of China
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17
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Xu S, Li H, Xiao L, Feng S, Fan J, Pawliszyn J. Monitoring Poly(methyl methacrylate) and Polyvinyl Dichloride Micro/Nanoplastics in Water by Direct Solid-Phase Microextraction Coupled to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2024; 96:10772-10779. [PMID: 38902946 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
A simple, sustainable, and sensitive monitoring approach of micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) in aqueous samples is crucial since it helps in assessing the extent of contamination and understanding the potential risks associated with their presence without causing additional stress to the environment. In this study, a novel strategy for qualitative and quantitative determination of MNPs in water by direct solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was proposed for the first time. Spherical poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and irregularly shaped polyvinyl dichloride (PVDC) were used to evaluate the feasibility and performance of the proposed method. The results demonstrated that both PMMA and PVDC MNPs were efficiently extracted by the homemade SPME coating of nitrogen-doped porous carbons (N-SPCs) and exhibited sufficient thermal decomposition in the GC-MS injection port. Excellent extraction performances of N-SPCs coating for MNPs are attributed to hydrophobic cross-linking, electrostatic forcing, hydrogen bonding, and pore trapping. Methyl methacrylate was identified as the marker for PMMA, while 1,3-dichlorobenzene and 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene were the indicators for PVDC. Under the optimal extraction and decomposition conditions, the proposed method exhibited ultrahigh sensitivity, with a limit of detection of 0.0041 μg/L for PMMA and 0.0054 μg/L for PVDC. Notably, a programmed temperature strategy for the GC-MS injector was developed to discriminate and eliminate the potential interferences of intrinsic indicator compounds. Owing to the integration of sampling, extraction, injection, and decomposition into one step by SPME, the proposed method demonstrates exceptional sensitivity, eliminating the necessity for complex sample pretreatment procedures and the use of organic solvents. Finally, the proposed method was successfully applied in the determination of PMMA and PVDC MNPs in real aqueous samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengrui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, PR China
| | - Huimin Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, PR China
| | - Li Xiao
- Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental Pollution and Control, Ministry of Education, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, PR China
| | - Suling Feng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, PR China
| | - Jing Fan
- Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental Pollution and Control, Ministry of Education, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, PR China
| | - Janusz Pawliszyn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1, Canada
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18
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Song X, Li C, Qiu Z, Wang C, Zeng Q. Ecotoxicological effects of polyethylene microplastics and lead (Pb) on the biomass, activity, and community diversity of soil microbes. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:119012. [PMID: 38704010 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119012] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and heavy metals are ubiquitous and persistent contaminants that are widely distributed worldwide, yet little is known about the effects of their interaction on soil ecosystems. A soil incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the individual and combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) and lead (Pb) on soil enzymatic activities, microbial biomass, respiration rate, and community diversity. The results indicate that the presence of PE-MPs notably reduced soil pH and elevated soil Pb bioavailability, potentially exacerbated the combined toxicity on the biogeochemical cycles of soil nutrients, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, and the activities of soil urease, sucrase, and alkaline phosphatase. Soil CO2 emissions increased by 7.9% with PE-MPs alone, decreased by 46.3% with single Pb, and reduced by 69.4% with PE-MPs and Pb co-exposure, compared to uncontaminated soils. Specifically, the presence of PE-MPs and Pb, individually and in combination, facilitated the soil metabolic quotient, leading to reduced microbial metabolic efficiency. Moreover, the addition of Pb and PE-MPs modified the composition of the microbial community, leading to the enrichment of specific taxa. Tax4Fun analysis showed the effects of Pb, PE-MPs and their combination on the biogeochemical processes and ecological functions of microbes were mainly by altering amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, membrane transport, and signal transduction. These findings offer valuable insights into the ecotoxicological effects of combined PE-MPs and Pb on soil microbial dynamics, reveals key assembly mechanisms and environmental drivers, and highlights the potential threat of MPs and heavy metals to the multifunctionality of soil ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiliang Song
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Changjiang Li
- School of Environment Science & Spatial Informatics, China University of Mining & Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Zhennan Qiu
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Chenghui Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Qiangcheng Zeng
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China.
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19
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Zhao S, Rillig MC, Bing H, Cui Q, Qiu T, Cui Y, Penuelas J, Liu B, Bian S, Monikh FA, Chen J, Fang L. Microplastic pollution promotes soil respiration: A global-scale meta-analysis. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2024; 30:e17415. [PMID: 39005227 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.17415] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution likely affects global soil carbon (C) dynamics, yet it remains uncertain how and to what extent MP influences soil respiration. Here, we report on a global meta-analysis to determine the effects of MP pollution on the soil microbiome and CO2 emission. We found that MP pollution significantly increased the contents of soil organic C (SOC) (21%) and dissolved organic C (DOC) (12%), the activity of fluorescein diacetate hydrolase (FDAse) (10%), and microbial biomass (17%), but led to a decrease in microbial diversity (3%). In particular, increases in soil C components and microbial biomass further promote CO2 emission (25%) from soil, but with a much higher effect of MPs on these emissions than on soil C components and microbial biomass. The effect could be attributed to the opposite effects of MPs on microbial biomass vs. diversity, as soil MP accumulation recruited some functionally important bacteria and provided additional C substrates for specific heterotrophic microorganisms, while inhibiting the growth of autotrophic taxa (e.g., Chloroflexi, Cyanobacteria). This study reveals that MP pollution can increase soil CO2 emission by causing shifts in the soil microbiome. These results underscore the potential importance of plastic pollution for terrestrial C fluxes, and thus climate feedbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Haijian Bing
- Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yongxing Cui
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josep Penuelas
- CSIC, Global Ecology Unit CREAF- CSIC- UAB, Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
- CREAF, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Caalonia, Spain
| | - Baiyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shiqi Bian
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fazel Abdolahpur Monikh
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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20
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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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21
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Chen L, Bi T, Lizundia E, Liu A, Qi L, Ma Y, Huang J, Lu Z, Yu L, Deng H, Chen C. Biomass waste-assisted micro(nano)plastics capture, utilization, and storage for sustainable water remediation. Innovation (N Y) 2024; 5:100655. [PMID: 39040688 PMCID: PMC11260858 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2024.100655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) have become a significant environmental concern due to their widespread presence in the biosphere and potential harm to ecosystems and human health. Here, we propose for the first time a MNPs capture, utilization, and storage (PCUS) concept to achieve MNPs remediation from water while meeting economically productive upcycling and environmentally sustainable plastic waste management. A highly efficient capturing material derived from surface-modified woody biomass waste (M-Basswood) is developed to remove a broad spectrum of multidimensional and compositional MNPs from water. The M-Basswood delivered a high and stable capture efficiency of >99.1% at different pH or salinity levels. This exceptional capture performance is driven by multiscale interactions between M-Basswood and MNPs, involving physical trapping, strong electrostatic attractions, and triggered MNPs cluster-like aggregation sedimentation. Additionally, the in vivo biodistribution of MNPs shows low ingestion and accumulation of MNPs in the mice organs. After MNPs remediation from water, the M-Basswood, together with captured MNPs, is further processed into a high-performance composite board product where MNPs serve as the glue for utilization and storage. Furthermore, the life cycle assessment (LCA) and techno-economic analysis (TEA) results demonstrate the environmental friendliness and economic viability of our proposed full-chain PCUS strategy, promising to drive positive change in plastic pollution and foster a circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Chen
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Tingting Bi
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Erlantz Lizundia
- Life Cycle Thinking Group, Department of Graphic Design and Engineering Projects, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48013 Bilbao, Spain
- BCMaterials, Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures, Edif. Martina Casiano, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Anxiong Liu
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Luhe Qi
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yifan Ma
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Ziyang Lu
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Le Yu
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Hongbing Deng
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Chaoji Chen
- Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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22
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Gray A, Mayer K, Gore B, Gaesser M, Ferguson N. Microplastic burden in native (Cambarus appalachiensis) and non-native (Faxonius cristavarius) crayfish along semi-rural and urban streams in southwest Virginia, USA. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 258:119494. [PMID: 38936498 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Our comparative assessment is the first study to investigate microplastic body burden in native (Cambarus appalachiensis) and non-native (Faxonius cristavarius) crayfish along a semi-rural and urban stream across different seasons. Crayfish, sediment, and surface water were collected, processed, and characterized using μRaman spectroscopy to compare microplastic polymer types and shapes across compartments. Average surface water concentrations were significantly higher in our urban stream compared to our semi-rural stream (17.3 ± 2.4 particles/L and 9.9 ± 1.3 particles/L, respectively; P = 0.015). Average sediment concentrations were similar between urban and semi-rural streams (140 ± 14.5 particles/kg and 139 ± 22.5 particles/kg, respectively; P = 0.957). Our findings showed a significant interactive effect of season, site, and nativity (i.e., species) regarding microplastic body burden in crayfish (P = 0.004). The smaller, non-native crayfish amassed more microplastic particles than the native crayfish (0.4-2.0 particles/g versus 0.4-0.8 particles/g, respectively). Fibers and fragments were the most common polymer shapes across compartments, with white and black being the dominant particle colors. Our study identified 13 plastic polymer types in crayfish and three in surface water and sediment; polypropylene was the most common polymer across compartments. This study provides evidence that crayfish body burden of microplastics can differ across species, seasons, and locations, highlighting the need for future studies to consider that sublethal impacts associated with microplastic body burden may vary by region and species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Gray
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 926 W Campus Dr., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA.
| | - Kathleen Mayer
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 926 W Campus Dr., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Beija Gore
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 926 W Campus Dr., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Megan Gaesser
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 926 W Campus Dr., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Nathan Ferguson
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 926 W Campus Dr., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA; Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Cheatham Hall, RM 101 (MC0321) 310 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
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23
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Yang S, Li Y, Nie M, Liu X, Wang Q, Chen N, Zhang C. Lifecycle Management for Sustainable Plastics: Recent Progress from Synthesis, Processing to Upcycling. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2404115. [PMID: 38869422 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Plastics, renowned for their outstanding properties and extensive applications, assume an indispensable and irreplaceable role in modern society. However, the ubiquitous consumption of plastic items has led to a growing accumulation of plastic waste. Unreasonable practices in the production, utilization, and recycling of plastics have led to substantial energy resource depletion and environmental pollution. Herein, the state-of-the-art advancements in the lifecycle management of plastics are timely reviewed. Unlike typical reviews focused on plastic recycling, this work presents an in-depth analysis of the entire lifecycle of plastics, covering the whole process from synthesis, processing, to ultimate disposal. The primary emphasis lies on selecting judicious strategies and methodologies at each lifecycle stage to mitigate the adverse environmental impact of waste plastics. Specifically, the article delineates the rationale, methods, and advancements realized in various lifecycle stages through both physical and chemical recycling pathways. The focal point is the attainment of optimal recycling rates for waste plastics, thereby alleviating the ecological burden of plastic pollution. By scrutinizing the entire lifecycle of plastics, the article aims to furnish comprehensive solutions for reducing plastic pollution and fostering sustainability across all facets of plastic production, utilization, and disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangqiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- The Research Department of Resource Carbon Neutrality, Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu, 610213, China
| | - Yijun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- The Research Department of Resource Carbon Neutrality, Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu, 610213, China
| | - Min Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xingang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- The Research Department of Resource Carbon Neutrality, Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu, 610213, China
| | - Ning Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- The Research Department of Resource Carbon Neutrality, Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu, 610213, China
| | - Chuhong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- The Research Department of Resource Carbon Neutrality, Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu, 610213, China
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24
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Choi S, Lee S, Kim MK, Yu ES, Ryu YS. Challenges and Recent Analytical Advances in Micro/Nanoplastic Detection. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8846-8854. [PMID: 38758170 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing ecological concerns, studies on microplastics and nanoplastics are still in their initial stages owing to technical hurdles in analytical techniques, especially for nanoplastics. We provide an overview of the general attributes of micro/nanoplastics in natural environments and analytical techniques commonly used for their analysis. After demonstrating the analytical challenges associated with the identification of nanoplastics due to their distinctive characteristics, we discuss recent technological advancements for detecting nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyeop Choi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungha Lee
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Ki Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Sang Yu
- Materials and Components Research Division, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, Daejeon 34129, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sang Ryu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Institute of Precision Public Health, Korea University, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Micro/Nano System, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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25
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Song T, Liu J, Han S, Li Y, Xu T, Xi J, Hou L, Lin Y. Effect of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on the soil-soybean system: A perspective on rhizosphere microbial community and soil element cycling. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108781. [PMID: 38880060 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
As an exogenous carbon input, microplastics (MPs), especially biodegradable MPs, may significantly disrupt soil microbial communities and soil element cycling (CNPS cycling), but few studies have focused on this. Here, we focused on assessing the effects of conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE), biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), and polylactic acid (PLA) MPs on rhizosphere microbial communities and CNPS cycling in a soil-soybean system. The results showed that PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs were more detrimental to soybean growth than LDPE-MPs, resulting in a reduction in shoot nitrogen (14.05% and 11.84%) and shoot biomass (33.80% and 28.09%) at the podding stage. In addition, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) increased by 20.91% and 66.59%, while nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) significantly decreased by 56.91% and 69.65% in soils treated with PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs, respectively. PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs mainly enhanced copiotrophic bacteria (Proteobacteria) and suppressed oligotrophic bacteria (Verrucomicrobiota, Gemmatimonadota, etc.), increasing the abundance of CNPS cycling-related functional genes. LDPE-MPs tended to enrich oligotrophic bacteria (Verrucomicrobiota, etc.) and decrease the abundance of CNPS cycling-related functional genes. Correlation analysis revealed that MPs with different degradation properties selectively affected the composition and function of the bacterial community, resulting in changes in the availability of soil nutrients (especially NO3--N). Redundancy analysis further indicated that NO3--N was the primary constraining factor for soybean growth. This study provides a new perspective for revealing the underlying ecological effects of MPs on soil-plant systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiao Song
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jiaxi Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Siqi Han
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Tengqi Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jiao Xi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Lijun Hou
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Yanbing Lin
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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26
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Yu F, Qin Q, Zhang X, Ma J. Characteristics and adsorption behavior of typical microplastics in long-term accelerated weathering simulation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024; 26:882-890. [PMID: 38693902 DOI: 10.1039/d4em00062e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics can function as carriers in the environment, absorbing various toxins and spreading to diverse ecosystems. Toxins accumulated in microplastics have the potential to be re-released, posing a threat. In this study, two typical plastics, namely polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS), along with the degradable plastic poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), were subjected to a long-term ultraviolet alternating weathering experiment. The study investigated the variations in the weathering process and pollutant adsorption of microplastics of different particle sizes. Furthermore, the adsorption capacity of microplastics for various pollutants was assessed. The findings indicate that particle size significantly influences weathering, leading to variations in adsorption capacity. The weathered PE displays a higher adsorption capacity for azo dyes. Additionally, the adsorption capacity of PBAT for neutral red is double that of antibiotics. Importantly, the maximum adsorption capacity of PBAT for pollutants after aging is approximately 10 times greater than that of PE. Consequently, degradable plastics undergoing weathering in the natural environment may pose a higher ecological risk than traditional plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yu
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, No. 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, P. R. China
| | - Qiyu Qin
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, No. 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, P. R. China
| | - Xiaochen Zhang
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, No. 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, P. R. China
| | - Jie Ma
- School of Civil Engineering, Kashi University, Kashi 844000, China.
- Research Center for Environmental Functional Materials, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
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27
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Wang J, Li X, Zhang T, Chai X, Xu M, Feng M, Cai C, Chen Z, Qian X, Zhao Y. Photovoltaic-driven Ni(ii)/Ni(iii) redox mediator for the valorization of PET plastic waste with hydrogen production. Chem Sci 2024; 15:7596-7602. [PMID: 38784748 PMCID: PMC11110143 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc01613k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrocatalytic valorization of PET plastic waste provides an appealing route by converting intermittent renewable energy into valuable chemicals and high-energy fuels. Normally, anodic PET hydrolysate oxidation and cathodic water reduction reactions occur simultaneously in the same time and space, which increases the challenges for product separation and operational conditions. Although these problems can be addressed by utilizing membranes or diaphragms, the parasitic cell resistance and high overall cost severely restrict their future application. Herein, we introduce a Ni(ii)/Ni(iii) redox mediator to decouple these reactions into two independent processes: an electrochemical process for water reduction to produce hydrogen fuel assisted by the oxidation of the Ni(OH)2 electrode into the NiOOH counterpart, followed subsequently by a spontaneous chemical process for the valorization of PET hydrolysate to produce formic acid with a high faradaic efficiency of ∼96% by the oxidized NiOOH electrode. This decoupling strategy enables the electrochemical valorization of PET plastic waste in a membrane-free system to produce high-value formic acid and high-purity hydrogen production. This study provides an appealing route to facilitate the transformation process of PET plastic waste into high-value products with high efficiency, low cost and high purity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianying Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University 1239 Siping Rd. Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Xin Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Ting Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Xinyu Chai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Mingze Xu
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University 1239 Siping Rd. Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Menglei Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Chengcheng Cai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Zuofeng Chen
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University 1239 Siping Rd. Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Xufang Qian
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Yixin Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composite, Shanghai Jiao Tong University 800 Dongchuan Rd. Shanghai 200240 China
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28
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Pal A, Wong AR, Lamb JR. Chemically Recyclable, High Molar Mass Polyoxazolidinones via Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization. ACS Macro Lett 2024; 13:502-507. [PMID: 38625148 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The development of robust methods for the synthesis of chemically recyclable polymers with tunable properties is necessary for the design of next-generation materials. Polyoxazolidinones (POxa), polymers with five-membered urethanes in their backbones, are an attractive target because they are strongly polar and have high thermal stability, but existing step-growth syntheses limit molar masses and methods to chemically recycle POxa to monomer are rare. Herein, we report the synthesis of high molar mass POxa via ring-opening metathesis polymerization of oxazolidinone-fused cyclooctenes. These novel polymers show <5% mass loss up to 382-411 °C and have tunable glass transition temperatures (14-48 °C) controlled by the side chain structure. We demonstrate facile chemical recycling to monomer and repolymerization despite moderately high monomer ring-strain energies, which we hypothesize are facilitated by the conformational restriction introduced by the fused oxazolidinone ring. This method represents the first chain growth synthesis of POxa and provides a versatile platform for the study and application of this emerging subclass of polyurethanes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan Pal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Allison R Wong
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Jessica R Lamb
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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29
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Galgani F, Rangel-Buitrago N. White tides: The plastic nurdles problem. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134250. [PMID: 38613955 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134250] [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: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
The proliferation of plastic pollution, particularly from nurdles (small plastic pellets used in manufacturing), poses significant environmental and ecological risks. Originating with the invention of Bakelite in 1907 and escalating post-World War II with advanced petrochemical technologies, nurdles are the second largest source of primary microplastic pollution globally. Each year an estimated 445,970 tonnes of nurdles enter the environment worldwide. Nurdle spills, such as those along Spain's Galician coast and other global incidents, underline the need for improved spill response, preventive measures, and international regulatory coordination. The environmental impact of nurdles, compared to more visible oil spills, is insidious and long-lasting due to their persistence and widespread dispersion. Current regulations, like the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) guidelines, reveal gaps in enforcement and fail to fully address the long-term consequences of spills. Recent technological innovations and policy interventions aim to mitigate risks, but there's an urgent need for coordinated global action, stricter controls, and investment in biodegradable alternatives to safeguard marine environments and ensure ecological sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Galgani
- Unité Ressources Marines en Polynésie Francaise, Institut Français de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer (Ifremer), BP 49, Vairao, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programade Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
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30
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Li NY, Zhong B, Guo Y, Li XX, Yang Z, He YX. Non-negligible impact of microplastics on wetland ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171252. [PMID: 38423326 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171252] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
There has been much concern about microplastic (MP) pollution in marine and soil environments, but attention is gradually shifting towards wetland ecosystems, which are a transitional zone between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This paper comprehensively reviews the sources of MPs in wetland ecosystems, as well as their occurrence characteristics, factors influencing their migration, and their effects on animals, plants, microorganisms, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It was found that MPs in wetland ecosystems originate mainly from anthropogenic sources (sewage discharge, and agricultural and industrial production) and natural sources (rainfall-runoff, atmospheric deposition, and tidal effects). The most common types and forms of MPs identified in the literature were polyethylene and polypropylene, fibers, and fragments. The migration of MPs in wetlands is influenced by both non-biological factors (the physicochemical properties of MPs, sediment characteristics, and hydrodynamic conditions) and biological factors (the adsorption and growth interception by plant roots, ingestion, and animal excretion). Furthermore, once MPs enter wetland ecosystems, they can impact the resident microorganisms, animals, and plants. They also have a role in global warming because MPs act as unique exogenous carbon sources, and can also influence GHG emissions in wetland ecosystems by affecting the microbial community structure in wetland sediments and abundance of genes associated with GHG emissions. However, further investigation is needed into the influence of MP type, size, and concentration on the GHG emissions in wetlands and the underlying mechanisms. Overall, the accumulation of MPs in wetland ecosystems can have far-reaching consequences for the local ecosystem, human health, and global climate regulation. Understanding the effects of MPs on wetland ecosystems is essential for developing effective management and mitigation strategies to safeguard these valuable and vulnerable environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Ying Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Bo Zhong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Yun Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
| | - Xian-Xiang Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Geography and Tourism, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 400047, China
| | - Zao Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi-Xin He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China.
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31
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Majrashi MAA, Bairwan RD, Mushtaq RY, Khalil HPSA, Badr MY, Alissa M, Abdullah CK, Ali BA, Rizg WY, Hosny KM. Novel enhancement of interfacial interaction and properties in biodegradable polymer composites using green chemically treated spent coffee ground microfiller. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 266:131333. [PMID: 38574916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131333] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the potential of utilizing green chemically treated spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as micro biofiller reinforcement in Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) biopolymer composites. The aim is to assess the impact of varying SCG concentrations (1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 7 %) on the functional, thermal, mechanical properties and biodegradability of the resulting composites with a PHBV matrix. The samples were produced through melt compounding using a twin-screw extruder and compression molding. The findings indicate successful dispersion and distribution of SCGs microfiller into PHBV. Chemical treatment of SCG microfiller enhanced the interfacial bonding between the SCG and PHBV, evidenced by higher water contact angles of the biopolymer composites. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) confirmed the successful interaction of treated SCG microfiller, contributing to enhanced mechanical characteristics. A two-way ANOVA was conducted for statistical analysis. Mass losses observed after burying the materials in natural soil indicated that the composites degraded faster than the pure PHBV polymer suggesting that both composites are biodegradable, particularly at high levels of spent coffee grounds (SCG). Despite the possibility of agglomeration at higher concentrations, SCG incorporation resulted in improved functional properties, positioning the green biopolymer composite as a promising material for sustainable packaging and diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Ali A Majrashi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 23890, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahul Dev Bairwan
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Rayan Y Mushtaq
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - H P S Abdul Khalil
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; Green Biopolymer, Coatings and Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia.
| | - Moutaz Y Badr
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - C K Abdullah
- Green Biopolymer, Coatings and Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Barakat A Ali
- Department of Laboratory Analysis, Belaro Commercials, Sharjah 60000, United Arab Emirates
| | - Waleed Y Rizg
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled M Hosny
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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32
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Piyathilake U, Lin C, Bolan N, Bundschuh J, Rinklebe J, Herath I. Exploring the hidden environmental pollution of microplastics derived from bioplastics: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141773. [PMID: 38548076 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141773] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Bioplastics might be an ecofriendly alternative to traditional plastics. However, recent studies have emphasized that even bioplastics can end up becoming micro- and nano-plastics due to their degradation under ambient environmental conditions. Hence, there is an urgent need to assess the hidden environmental pollution caused by bioplastics. However, little is known about the evolutionary trends of bibliographic data, degradation pathways, formation, and toxicity of micro- and nano-scaled bioplastics originating from biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and starch-based plastics. Therefore, the prime objective of the current review was to investigate evolutionary trends and the latest advancements in the field of micro-bioplastic pollution. Additionally, it aims to confront the limitations of existing research on microplastic pollution derived from the degradation of bioplastic wastes, and to understand what is needed in future research. The literature survey revealed that research focusing on micro- and nano-bioplastics has begun since 2012. This review identifies novel insights into microbioplastics formation through diverse degradation pathways, including photo-oxidation, ozone-induced degradation, mechanochemical degradation, biodegradation, thermal, and catalytic degradation. Critical research gaps are identified, including defining optimal environmental conditions for complete degradation of diverse bioplastics, exploring micro- and nano-bioplastics formation in natural environments, investigating the global occurrence and distribution of these particles in diverse ecosystems, assessing toxic substances released during bioplastics degradation, and bridging the disparity between laboratory studies and real-world applications. By identifying new trends and knowledge gaps, this study lays the groundwork for future investigations and sustainable solutions in the realm of sustainable management of bioplastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udara Piyathilake
- Environmental Science Division, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Kandy, 2000, Sri Lanka
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Jochen Bundschuh
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, The University of Southern Queensland, West Street, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Indika Herath
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Galgani F, Neal WJ. Navigating between socio-economic viability and environmental impacts: The sachets and sticks paradox. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:171022. [PMID: 38367726 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Sachets and plastic sticks, single-use packaging primarily constructed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), have proliferated globally for their convenience and multilayered construction that ensures product integrity. Especially prominent in emerging markets and amplified by pandemic-driven demand for hygiene products, these formats contribute significantly to fossil fuel industry revenue, aligning closely with petrochemical infrastructure developments such as fracking. While providing producers risk mitigation and cost-effective branding opportunities, these packaging types impose significant environmental tolls. The multimaterial layered composition of these materials hampers recycling efforts, and incineration releases toxins, exacerbating pollution. The plastics industry thus becomes an economic support for fossil fuel sectors facing declining oil demand. The growth of this sachet-stick economy represents a precarious balance between immediate economic benefits and long-term environmental ramifications. As global attention increasingly turns toward sustainability and pollution reduction, it becomes crucial to analyze the true environmental and socioeconomic costs of sachet and stick packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Francois Galgani
- Unité Ressources marines en Polynésie Francaise, Institut français de recherche pour l'exploitation de la mer (IFREMER), BP 49, Vairao, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - William J Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
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34
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Kang H, He D, Yan X, Dao B, Williams NB, Elliott GI, Streater D, Nyakuchena J, Huang J, Pan X, Xiao X, Gu J. Cu Promoted the Dynamic Evolution of Ni-Based Catalysts for Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic Upcycling. ACS Catal 2024; 14:5314-5325. [PMID: 38601783 PMCID: PMC11002824 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.3c05509] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Upcycling plastic wastes into value-added chemicals is a promising approach to put end-of-life plastic wastes back into their ecocycle. As one of the polyesters that is used daily, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste is employed here as the model substrate. Herein, a nickel (Ni)-based catalyst was prepared via electrochemically depositing copper (Cu) species on Ni foam (NiCu/NF). The NiCu/NF formed Cu/CuO and Ni/NiO/Ni(OH)2 core-shell structures before electrolysis and reconstructed into NiOOH and CuOOH/Cu(OH)2 active species during the ethylene glycol (EG) oxidation. After oxidation, the Cu and Ni species evolved into more reduced species. An indirect mechanism was identified as the main EG oxidation (EGOR) mechanism. In EGOR, NiCu60s/NF catalyst exhibited an optimal Faradaic efficiency (FE, 95.8%) and yield rate (0.70 mmol cm-2 h-1) for formate production. Also, over 80% FE of formate was achieved when a commercial PET plastic powder hydrolysate was applied. Furthermore, commercial PET plastic water bottle waste was employed as a substrate for electrocatalytic upcycling, and pure terephthalic acid (TPA) was recovered only after 1 h electrolysis. Lastly, density functional theory (DFT) calculation revealed that the key role of Cu was significantly reducing the Gibbs free-energy barrier (ΔG) of EGOR's rate-determining step (RDS), promoting catalysts' dynamic evolution, and facilitating the C-C bond cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Kang
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego
State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Dong He
- Department
of Physics, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Xingxu Yan
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Benjamin Dao
- Department
of Chemistry, California State University,
Long Beach, Long Beach, California 90840, United States
| | - Nicholas B. Williams
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego
State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Gregory I. Elliott
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego
State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, United States
| | - Daniel Streater
- Department
of Chemistry, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201, United States
| | - James Nyakuchena
- Department
of Chemistry, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201, United States
| | - Jier Huang
- Department
of Chemistry, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201, United States
| | - Xiaoqing Pan
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
- Department
of Physics and Astronomy, University of
California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Xiangheng Xiao
- Department
of Physics, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Jing Gu
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego
State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, United States
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35
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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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36
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Wu Y, Ma L, Wu J, Song M, Wang C, Lu J. High-Surface Area Mesoporous Sc 2O 3 with Abundant Oxygen Vacancies as New and Advanced Electrocatalyst for Electrochemical Biomass Valorization. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311698. [PMID: 38224594 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Scandium oxide (Sc2O3) is considered as omnipotent "Industrial Ajinomoto" and holds promise in catalytic applications. However, rarely little attention is paid to its electrochemistry. Here, the first nanocasting design of high-surface area Sc2O3 with abundant oxygen vacancies (mesoporous VO-Sc2O3) for efficient electrochemical biomass valorization is reported. In the case of the electro-oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), quantitative HMF conversion, high yield, and high faradic efficiency of FDCA via the hydroxymethylfurancarboxylic acid pathway are achieved by this advanced electrocatalyst. The beneficial effect of the VO on the electrocatalytic performance of the mesoporous VO-Sc2O3 is revealed by the enhanced adsorption of reactants and the reduced energy barrier in the electrochemical process. The concerted design, in situ and ex situ experimental studies and theoretical calculations shown in this work should shed light on the rational elaboration of advanced electrocatalysts, and contribute to the establishment of a circular carbon economy since the bio-plastic monomer and green hydrogen are efficiently synthesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Wu
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Liyao Ma
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Junxiu Wu
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Minwei Song
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Changlong Wang
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Jun Lu
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, P. R. China
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37
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Tuttle E, Wiman C, Muñoz S, Law KL, Stubbins A. Sunlight-Driven Photochemical Removal of Polypropylene Microplastics from Surface Waters Follows Linear Kinetics and Does Not Result in Fragmentation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:5461-5471. [PMID: 38489752 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c07161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Floating microplastics are susceptible to sunlight-driven photodegradation, which can convert plastic carbon to dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and can facilitate microplastic fragmentation by mechanical forces. To understand the photochemical fate of sub-millimeter buoyant plastics, ∼0.6 mm polypropylene microplastics were photodegraded while tracking plastic mass, carbon, and particle size distributions. Plastic mass loss and carbon loss followed linear kinetics. At most time points DOC accumulation accounted for under 50% of the total plastic carbon lost. DOC accumulation followed sigmoidal kinetics, not the exponential kinetics previously reported for shorter irradiations. Thus, we suggest that estimates of plastic lifespan based on exponential DOC accumulation are inaccurate. Instead, linear plastic-C mass and plastic mass loss kinetics should be used, and these methods result in longer estimates of photochemical lifetimes for plastics in surface waters. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that photoirradiation produced two distinct patterns of cracking on the particles. However, size distribution analyses indicated that fragmentation was minimal. Instead, the initial population of microplastics shrank in size during irradiations, indicating photoirradiation in tranquil waters (i.e., without mechanical forcing) dissolved sub-millimeter plastics without fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Tuttle
- Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, Assumption University, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
| | - Charlotte Wiman
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Samuel Muñoz
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Kara Lavender Law
- Sea Education Association, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02540, United States
| | - Aron Stubbins
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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38
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Erni-Cassola G, Dolf R, Burkhardt-Holm P. Microplastics in the Water Column of the Rhine River Near Basel: 22 Months of Sampling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:5491-5499. [PMID: 38478875 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Measured microplastic concentrations in river surface waters fluctuate greatly. This variability is affected by season and is codriven by factors, such as sampling methodologies, sampling site, or sampling position within site. Unfortunately, most studies comprise single-instance measurements, whereas extended sampling periods are better suited to assessing the relevance of such factors. Moreover, microplastic concentrations in riverine water column remain underexplored. Similar to the oceans, however, this compartment likely holds significant amounts of microplastics. By representatively sampling the entire Rhine River cross-section near Basel through five sampling points over 22 months, we found a median microplastic (50-3000 μm) concentration of 4.48 n m-3, and estimated a widely ranging load between 4.04 × 102 n s-1 and 3.57 × 105 n s-1. We also show that the microplastic concentration in the water column was not well explained by river discharge. This suggests that although high discharge events as observed here can over short time periods lead to peak microplastic concentrations (e.g., 1.23 × 102 n m-3), microplastic load variance was not dominated by discharge in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Erni-Cassola
- Man-Society-Environment (Programme MGU), Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, Basel CH-4051, Switzerland
| | - Reto Dolf
- Abteilung Umweltlabor, Amt für Umwelt und Energie, Department für Wirtschaft, Soziales und Umwelt des Kantons Basel-Stadt, Spiegelgasse 15, Basel CH-4001, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Burkhardt-Holm
- Man-Society-Environment (Programme MGU), Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, Basel CH-4051, Switzerland
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39
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Li Y, Wang S, Qian S, Liu Z, Weng Y, Zhang Y. Depolymerization and Re/Upcycling of Biodegradable PLA Plastics. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:13509-13521. [PMID: 38559974 PMCID: PMC10976375 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
With the escalating utilization of plastic products, global attention has been increasingly drawn to environmental pollution and recycling challenges stemming from plastic waste. Against this backdrop, biodegradable plastics have emerged as viable alternatives owing to their sustainability and capacity for biodegradation. Polylactic acid (PLA) presently commands the largest market share among biodegradable plastics, finding extensive application in products such as thin films, medical materials, and biodegradable straws. However, the widespread adoption of PLA is hindered by challenges such as high cost, low recycling rates, and complete degradation to H2O and CO2 in natural conditions. Therefore, it is imperative and time-sensitive to explore solutions for the depolymerization and re/upcycling of PLA waste plastics. This review comprehensively outlines the current landscape of PLA recycling methods, emphasizing the advantages and significance of chemical re/upcycling. The subsequent exploration encompasses recent breakthroughs and technical obstacles inherent in diverse chemical depolymerization methods. Ultimately, this review accentuates the impediments and forthcoming possibilities in the realm of PLA plastics, emphasizing the pursuit of closed-loop recycling and upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- YingChao Li
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Song Qian
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Zhijie Liu
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Yujing Weng
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
| | - Yulong Zhang
- College of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Henan Polytechnic
University, Jiaozuo 454000, China
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40
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Chen L, Shao H, Ren Y, Mao C, Chen K, Wang H, Jing S, Xu C, Xu G. Investigation of the adsorption behavior and adsorption mechanism of pollutants onto electron beam-aged microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170298. [PMID: 38272098 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, as an emerging pollutant, are widely distributed worldwide. Extensive research has been conducted to address the issue of microplastic pollution; however, effective methods for microplastic treatment are still lacking. This study innovatively utilizes electron beam technology to age and degrade microplastics. Compared to other treatment methods, electron beam technology can effectively promote the aging and degradation of microplastics. The Oxygen - carbon ratio of aged microplastics reached 0.071, with a mass loss of 48 % and a carbonyl index value of 0.69, making it the most effective method for short-term aging treatment in current research efforts. Theoretical calculations and experimental results demonstrate that a large number of oxygen-containing functional groups are generated on the surface of microplastics after electron beam irradiation, changing their adsorption performance for pollutants. Theoretical calculations show that an increase in oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface leads to a gradual decrease in hydrophobic pollutant adsorption capacity while increasing hydrophilic pollutant adsorption capacity for aged microplastics. Experimental studies were conducted to investigate the adsorption behavior and process of typical pollutants by aged microplastics which conform to pseudo-second-order kinetics and Henry model during the adsorption process, and the adsorption results are consistent with theoretical calculations. The results show that the degradation of microplastics is mainly due to hydroxyl radicals generated by electron beam irradiation, which can break the carbon chain of microplastics and gradually degrade them into small molecular esters and alcohols. Furthermore, studies have shown that microplastics can desorb pollutants in pure water and simulated gastric fluid. Overall, electron beam irradiation is currently the most effective method for degrading microplastics. These results also clearly elucidate the characteristics and mechanisms of the interaction between aged microplastics and organic pollutants, providing further insights for assessing microplastic pollution in real-world environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Haiyang Shao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Yingfei Ren
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Chengkai Mao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Kang Chen
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Hongyong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200444, PR China.
| | - Shuting Jing
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Chengwei Xu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Gang Xu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, PR China; Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200444, PR China.
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41
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Hayler HJ, Groves TS, Guerrini A, Southam A, Zheng W, Perkin S. The surface force balance: direct measurement of interactions in fluids and soft matter. REPORTS ON PROGRESS IN PHYSICS. PHYSICAL SOCIETY (GREAT BRITAIN) 2024; 87:046601. [PMID: 38382100 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6633/ad2b9b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Over the last half-century, direct measurements of surface forces have been instrumental in the exploration of a multitude of phenomena in liquid, soft, and biological matter. Measurements of van der Waals interactions, electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions, structural forces, depletion forces, and many other effects have checked and challenged theoretical predictions and motivated new models and understanding. The gold-standard instrument for these measurements is thesurface force balance(SFB), orsurface forces apparatus, where interferometry is used to detect the interaction force and distance between two atomically smooth planes, with 0.1 nm resolution, over separations from about 1 µm down to contact. The measured interaction forcevs.distance gives access to the free energy of interaction across the fluid film; a fundamental quantity whose general form and subtle features reveal the underlying molecular and surface interactions and their variation. Motivated by new challenges in emerging fields of research, such as energy storage, biomaterials, non-equilibrium and driven systems, innovations to the apparatus are now clearing the way for new discoveries. It is now possible to measure interaction forces (and free energies) with control of electric field, surface potential, surface chemistry; to measure time-dependent effects; and to determine structurein situ. Here, we provide an overview the operating principles and capabilities of the SFB with particular focus on the recent developments and future possibilities of this remarkable technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J Hayler
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy S Groves
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Aurora Guerrini
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Astrid Southam
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Weichao Zheng
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Perkin
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
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42
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Song M, Wu Y, Zhao Z, Zheng M, Wang C, Lu J. Corrosion Engineering of Part-Per-Million Single Atom Pt 1/Ni(OH) 2 Electrocatalyst for PET Upcycling at Ampere-Level Current Density. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2403234. [PMID: 38504525 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The plastic waste issue has posed a series of formidable challenges for the ecological environment and human health. While conventional recycling strategies often lead to plastic down-cycling, the electrochemical strategy of recovering valuable monomers enables an ideal, circular plastic economy. Here a corrosion synthesized single atom Pt1/Ni(OH)2 electrocatalyst with part-per-million noble Pt loading for highly efficient and selective upcycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into valuable chemicals (potassium diformate and terephthalic acid) and green hydrogen is reported. Electro-oxidation of PET hydrolysate, ethylene glycol (EG), to formate is processed with high Faraday efficiency (FE) and selectivity (>90%) at the current density close to 1000 mA cm-2 (1.444 V vs RHE). The in situ spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations provide insights into the mechanism and the understanding of the high efficiency. Remarkably, the electro-oxidation of EG at the ampere-level current density is also successfully illustrated by using a membrane-electrode assembly with high FEs to formate integrated with hydrogen production for 500 h of continuous operation. This process allows valuable chemical production at high space-time yield and is highly profitable (588-700 $ ton-1 PET), showing an industrial perspective on single-atom catalysis of electrochemical plastic upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwei Song
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Yufeng Wu
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Ziyi Zhao
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Mengting Zheng
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Changlong Wang
- Institute of Circular Economy, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, P. R. China
| | - Jun Lu
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, 60439, USA
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43
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Hou Y, Fu Q, Zhong H, Yu J, Tao Y, Gong Z, Li J, Wei S, Qiu J, Wang J, Zhu F, Ouyang G. High-performance plastic-derived metal-free catalysts for organic pollutants degradation via Fenton-like reaction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170185. [PMID: 38244619 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The preparation of waste plastics-derived catalysts is an effective strategy for the waste reclamation. However, plastic-derived material is unsuitable for wastewater purification due to its small specific surface area (SSA) and inadequate active sites (such as N/O sites). Herein, we synthesized graphene-like nanosheets using g-C3N4 as the self-sacrificing soft template and plastic as the carbon precursor. Consequently, this strategy greatly promoted the efficiencies of the emerging organic pollutants degradation with the SSA and N content of the plastic-derived biochar increasing up to 1043.4 m2/g and 17.53 at.%, respectively. In detail, 100 % sulfadiazine (SD) removal could be achieved in 180 s via the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and the catalytic activity is far higher than previous research. Mechanism experiments corroborated that such a striking performance was attributed to the generation of SO4•-, O2•- and 1O2. Meanwhile, kinds of plastic precursors, even medical waste (i.e., masks, gauze, operating caps and degreasing cotton) were also applicable. And the practical application of the plastic-derived catalyst was further demonstrated by treating pollutants in a continuous flow mode with in situ fabricated membrane. This work provides valuable insights into waste plastics processing and water pollutants removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qi Fu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Huajie Zhong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Jiaxing Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yuan Tao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zeyu Gong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Jianqiang Li
- JiangXi ZhengPuYiHe Technology Co. Ltd, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Songbo Wei
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Junlang Qiu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Junhui Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China.
| | - Fang Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry/KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519087, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Test for Dangerous Chemicals, Guangdong Institute of Analysis (China National Analytical Center Guangzhou), Guangdong Academy of Science, 100 Xianlie Middle Road, Guangzhou 510070, China
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44
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Noman MA, Adyel TM, Trevathan-Tackett S, Macreadie PI. Plastic Paradox in Blue Carbon Ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4469-4475. [PMID: 38409667 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08717] [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: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are rapidly accumulating in blue carbon ecosystems, i.e., mangrove forests, tidal marshes, and seagrass meadows. Accumulated plastic is diverted from the ocean, but the extent and nature of impacts on blue carbon ecosystem processes, including carbon sequestration, are poorly known. Here, we explore the potential positive and negative consequences of plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems. We highlight the effects of plastic accumulation on organic carbon stocks and sediment biogeochemistry through microbial metabolism. The notion of beneficial plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems is controversial, yet considering the alternative impacts of plastics on oceanic and aboveground environments, this may be the "lesser of evils". Using environmental life cycle impact assessment, we propose a research framework to address the potential positive and negative impacts of plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems. Considering the multifaceted benefits, we prioritize expanding and managing blue carbon ecosystems, which may help with ecosystem conservation, as well as mitigating the negative effects of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abu Noman
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia 5095, Australia
| | - Stacey Trevathan-Tackett
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
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45
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Chen Y, Jing S, Wang Y, Song Z, Xie L, Shang X, Fu H, Yang X, Wang H, Wu M, Chen Y, Li Q, Zhang Y, Wang W, Zhang L, Wang R, Fang M, Zhang Y, Li W, Zhao D, Li C, Rudich Y, Wang L, Zhang R, Liu W, Wanger TC, Yu S, Chen J. Quantification and Characterization of Fine Plastic Particles as Considerable Components in Atmospheric Fine Particles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4691-4703. [PMID: 38323401 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06832] [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: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The negative effects of air pollution, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5, particles with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤2.5 μm), on human health, climate, and ecosystems are causing significant concern. Nevertheless, little is known about the contributions of emerging pollutants such as plastic particles to PM2.5 due to the lack of continuous measurements and characterization methods for atmospheric plastic particles. Here, we investigated the levels of fine plastic particles (FPPs) in PM2.5 collected in urban Shanghai at a 2 h resolution by using a novel versatile aerosol concentration enrichment system that concentrates ambient aerosols up to 10-fold. The FPPs were analyzed offline using the combination of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques that distinguished FPPs from other carbon-containing particles. The average FPP concentrations of 5.6 μg/m3 were observed, and the ratio of FPPs to PM2.5 was 13.2% in this study. The FPP sources were closely related to anthropogenic activities, which pose a potential threat to ecosystems and human health. Given the dramatic increase in plastic production over the past 70 years, this study calls for better quantification and control of FPP pollution in the atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqian Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Siyuan Jing
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Sustainable Agricultural Systems & Engineering Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yanting Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhe Song
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lifang Xie
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiaona Shang
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Technology, Shanghai 201418, China
| | - Hongbo Fu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Thermo Fisher Scientific China, No. 2517 Jinke Road 27, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Thermo Fisher Scientific China, No. 2517 Jinke Road 27, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Minghuo Wu
- School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Yinjuan Chen
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Molecular Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Qing Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Liwu Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Mingliang Fang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yuzhong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Weijun Li
- School of Earth Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Defeng Zhao
- IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather/Climate Extremes Impact and Public Health, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chunlin Li
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Yinon Rudich
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Lin Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Renhe Zhang
- IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather/Climate Extremes Impact and Public Health, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Thomas C Wanger
- Sustainable Agricultural Systems & Engineering Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
- China Rice Network, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Global Agroforestry Network, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shaocai Yu
- School of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Jianmin Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), National Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze Estuary, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather/Climate Extremes Impact and Public Health, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming (IEC), 3663 N. Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
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Cheng J, Xie J, Xi Y, Wu X, Zhang R, Mao Z, Yang H, Li Z, Li C. Selective Upcycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate towards High-valued Oxygenated Chemical Methyl p-Methyl Benzoate using a Cu/ZrO 2 Catalyst. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202319896. [PMID: 38197522 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202319896] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Upgrading of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste into valuable oxygenated molecules is a fascinating process, yet it remains challenging. Herein, we developed a two-step strategy involving methanolysis of PET to dimethyl terephthalate (DMT), followed by hydrogenation of DMT to produce the high-valued chemical methyl p-methyl benzoate (MMB) using a fixed-bed reactor and a Cu/ZrO2 catalyst. Interestingly, we discovered the phase structure of ZrO2 significantly regulates the selectivity of products. Cu supported on monoclinic ZrO2 (5 %Cu/m-ZrO2 ) exhibits an exceptional selectivity of 86 % for conversion of DMT to MMB, while Cu supported on tetragonal ZrO2 (5 %Cu/t-ZrO2 ) predominantly produces p-xylene (PX) with selectivity of 75 %. The superior selectivity of MMB over Cu/m-ZrO2 can be attributed to the weaker acid sites present on m-ZrO2 compared to t-ZrO2 . This weak acidity of m-ZrO2 leads to a moderate adsorption capability of MMB, and facilitating its desorption. Furthermore, DFT calculations reveal Cu/m-ZrO2 catalyst shows a higher effective energy barrier for cleavage of second C-O bond compared to Cu/t-ZrO2 catalyst; this distinction ensures the high selectivity of MMB. This catalyst not only presents an approach for upgrading of PET waste into fine chemicals but also offers a strategy for controlling the primary product in a multistep hydrogenation reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianian Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Jin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Yongjie Xi
- State Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research Institute of LICP, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000 Gansu, China
| | - Xiaojing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Ruihui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Zhihe Mao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Hongfang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Zelong Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Can Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalysis, Gansu Province, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, Liaoning, 116023, China
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Wang L, Zhang TL, Xiang Q, Fu CX, Qiao M, Ding LJ, Zhu D. Selective enrichment of virulence factor genes in the plastisphere under antibiotic and heavy metal pressures. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133319. [PMID: 38159517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The growing accumulation of plastic waste in the environment has created novel habitats known as the "plastisphere", where microorganisms can thrive. Concerns are rising about the potential for pathogenic microorganisms to proliferate in the plastisphere, posing risks to human health. However, our knowledge regarding the virulence and pathogenic potential of these microorganisms in the plastisphere remains limited. This study quantified the abundance of virulence factor genes (VFGs) in the plastisphere and its surrounding environments (water and soil) to better assess pathogenic risks. Our findings revealed a selective enrichment of VFGs in the plastisphere, which were attributed to the specific microbial community assembled. The presence of arsenic and ciprofloxacin in the plastisphere exerted additional co-selective pressures, intensifying the enrichment of VFGs. Notably, VFGs that encoded multiple functions or enhanced the survival of host microorganisms (e.g., encoding adherence functions) tended to accumulate in the plastisphere. These versatile and environmentally adaptable VFGs are more likely to be favored by bacteria in the environment, warranting increased attention in future investigations due to their potential for widespread dissemination. In terms of virulence and pathogenicity, this research offers new insights into evaluating pathogen-related risks in the plastisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Lun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen-Xi Fu
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Long-Jun Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China.
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48
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Rivas-Mena G, Sánchez-Guerrero-Hernández MJ, Yeste MP, Ramos F, González-Ortegón E. Microplastics in the stomach content of the commercial fish species Scomber colias in the Gulf of Cadiz, SW Europe. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116049. [PMID: 38290360 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116049] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Concerning microplastics (MPs) contamination is increasing due their negative impacts on marine food webs and their potential toxicity to wildlife and humans. In this study, we analyze the presence of MPs in the stomachs of the commercial fish species Scomber colias (Atlantic chub mackerel) in the Gulf of Cadiz (GoC). Out of the 104 analyzed stomachs, 90.4 % contained some type of MPs, with an average of 5.4 MPs per individual. Of the 1152 MPs analyzed, 91.1 % were fibers, and 8.9 % fragments type. Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectrometry analysis was performed on 152 items, revealing that 73.6 % were MPs. The most common synthetic polymers found were polyamide (64 %), polypropylene (15 %), polystyrene (12 %), polyvinyl chloride (5 %), and polyethylene (4 %). The consistent ingestion of synthetic polymers by the individuals of Atlantic chub mackerel across different zones might suggest an even distribution of MP contamination throughout the GoC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rivas-Mena
- Institute of Marine Sciences of Andalusia, Spanish National Research Council (ICMAN-CSIC), Puerto Real, Spain
| | - Miguel Jorge Sánchez-Guerrero-Hernández
- Institute of Marine Sciences of Andalusia, Spanish National Research Council (ICMAN-CSIC), Puerto Real, Spain; Spanish Institute of Oceanography, C.O. de Cádiz (IEO-CSIC), 11006 Cadiz, Spain
| | - María Pilar Yeste
- Department of Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering and Inorganic Chemistry, Institute of Research on Electron Microscopy and Materials (IMEYMAT), Faculty of Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Fernando Ramos
- Spanish Institute of Oceanography, C.O. de Cádiz (IEO-CSIC), 11006 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Enrique González-Ortegón
- Institute of Marine Sciences of Andalusia, Spanish National Research Council (ICMAN-CSIC), Puerto Real, Spain.
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49
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Gu YG, Jordan RW, Jiang SJ. Probabilistic risk assessment of microplastics on aquatic biota in coastal sediments. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141411. [PMID: 38350515 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
As an emerging form of pollution, microplastic contamination of the coastal ecosystems is one of the world's most pressing environmental concerns. Coastal sediments have been polluted to varying degrees by microplastics, and their ubiquitous presence in sediments poses a threat to marine organisms. However, there is currently no ecological risk assessment of microplastics on aquatic biota in sediments. This study, for the first time, established a new procedure to evaluate the toxicity of microplastics on aquatic biota in sediments, based on the probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) concept. The choice of Zhelin Bay as the case study site was based on its severe pollution status. The average content of microplastics in the sediments of Zhelin Bay was 2054.17 items kg-1 dry weight, and these microplastics consisted of 46 different species. Microplastics in sediments exist in five different forms, with the film form being the main composition, and the majority of microplastics have particle sizes ranging from 100 to 500 μm. Correlation analysis (CA) reveals significant negative correlations between microplastic abundance, and Al2O3 and SiO2. The toxicity of microplastics, based on the PRA concept, suggests that Zhelin Bay surface sediments had a low probability (3.43%) of toxic effects on aquatic biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Guang Gu
- South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510300, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China; Faculty of Science, Yamagata University, Yamagata, 990-8560, Japan; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fishery Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510300, 510300, China; Key Laboratory of Open-Sea Fishery Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510300, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, 572025, China.
| | - Richard W Jordan
- Faculty of Science, Yamagata University, Yamagata, 990-8560, Japan
| | - Shi-Jun Jiang
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China; College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 245700, China
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50
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Noman MA, Adyel TM, Macreadie PI, Trevathan-Tackett SM. Prioritising plastic pollution research in blue carbon ecosystems: A scientometric overview. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169868. [PMID: 38185172 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169868] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The Blue Carbon Ecosystems (BCEs), comprising mangroves, saltmarshes, and seagrasses, located at the land-ocean interface provide crucial ecosystem services. These ecosystems serve as a natural barrier against the transportation of plastic waste from land to the ocean, effectively intercepting and mitigating plastic pollution in the ocean. To gain insights into the current state of research, and uncover key research gaps related to plastic pollution in BCEs, this study conveyed a comprehensive overview using bibliometric, altmetric, and literature synthesis approaches. The bibliometric analysis revealed a significant increase in publications addressing plastic pollution in BCEs, particularly since 2018. Geographically, Chinese institutions have made substantial contributions to this research field compared to countries and regions with extensive BCEs and established blue carbon science programs. Furthermore, many studies have focused on mangrove ecosystems, while limited attention was given to exploring plastic pollution in saltmarsh, seagrass, and multiple ecosystems simultaneously. Through a systematic analysis, this study identified four major research themes in BCE-plastics research: a) plastic trapping by vegetated coastal ecosystems, b) microbial plastic degradation, c) ingestion of plastic by benthic organisms, and d) effects of plastic on blue carbon biogeochemistry. Upon synthesising the current knowledge in each theme, we employed a perspective lens to outline future research frameworks, specifically emphasising habitat characteristics and blue carbon biogeochemistry. Emphasising the importance of synergistic research between plastic pollution and blue carbon science, we underscore the opportunities to progress our understanding of plastic reservoirs across BCEs and their subsequent effects on blue carbon sequestration and mineralisation. Together, the outcomes of this review have overarching implications for managing plastic pollution and optimising climate mitigation outcomes through the blue carbon strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abu Noman
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia.
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia; STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes campus, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Stacey M Trevathan-Tackett
- Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia.
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