1
|
Angon PB, Islam MS, KC S, Das A, Anjum N, Poudel A, Suchi SA. Sources, effects and present perspectives of heavy metals contamination: Soil, plants and human food chain. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28357. [PMID: 38590838 PMCID: PMC10999863 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Heavy metal (HM) poisoning of agricultural soils poses a serious risk to plant life, human health, and global food supply. When HM levels in agricultural soils get to dangerous levels, it harms crop health and yield. Chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) are the main heavy metals. The environment contains these metals in varying degrees, such as in soil, food, water, and even the air. These substances damage plants and alter soil characteristics, which lowers crop yield. Crop types, growing circumstances, elemental toxicity, developmental stage, soil physical and chemical properties, and the presence and bioavailability of heavy metals (HMs) in the soil solution are some of the factors affecting the amount of HM toxicity in crops. By interfering with the normal structure and function of cellular components, HMs can impede various metabolic and developmental processes. Humans are exposed to numerous serious diseases by consuming these affected plant products. Exposure to certain metals can harm the kidneys, brain, intestines, lungs, liver, and other organs of the human body. This review assesses (1) contamination of heavy metals in soils through different sources, like anthropogenic and natural; (2) the effect on microorganisms and the chemical and physical properties of soil; (3) the effect on plants as well as crop production; and (4) entering the food chain and associated hazards to human health. Lastly, we identified certain research gaps and suggested further study. If people want to feel safe in their surroundings, there needs to be stringent regulation of the release of heavy metals into the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prodipto Bishnu Angon
- Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Shafiul Islam
- Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Shreejana KC
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuwan University, Nepal
- Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Plant Science, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Arpan Das
- Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Nafisa Anjum
- Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Amrit Poudel
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuwan University, Nepal
- Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Plant Science, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Shaharia Akter Suchi
- Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bui TH, Zuverza-Mena N, Dimkpa CO, Nason SL, Thomas S, White JC. PFAS remediation in soil: An evaluation of carbon-based materials for contaminant sequestration. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123335. [PMID: 38211874 PMCID: PMC10922530 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The presence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soils is a global concern as these emerging contaminants are highly resistant to degradation and cause adverse effects on human and environmental health at very low concentrations. Sequestering PFAS in soils using carbon-based materials is a low-cost and effective strategy to minimize pollutant bioavailability and exposure, and may offer potential long-term remediation of PFAS in the environment. This paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of current insights on sequestration of PFAS in soil using carbon-based sorbents. Hydrophobic effects originating from fluorinated carbon (C-F) backbone "tail" and electrostatic interactions deriving from functional groups on the molecules' "head" are the two driving forces governing PFAS sorption. Consequently, varying C-F chain lengths and polar functional groups significantly alter PFAS availability and leachability. Furthermore, matrix parameters such as soil organic matter, inorganic minerals, and pH significantly impact PFAS sequestration by sorbent amendments. Materials such as activated carbon, biochar, carbon nanotubes, and their composites are the primary C-based materials used for PFAS adsorption. Importantly, modifying the carbon structural and surface chemistry is essential for increasing the active sorption sites and for strengthening interactions with PFAS. This review evaluates current literature, identifies knowledge gaps in current remediation technologies and addresses future strategies on the sequestration of PFAS in contaminated soil using sustainable novel C-based sorbents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trung Huu Bui
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Nubia Zuverza-Mena
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Christian O Dimkpa
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Sara L Nason
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Sara Thomas
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Jason C White
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kordala N, Wyszkowski M. Zeolite Properties, Methods of Synthesis, and Selected Applications. Molecules 2024; 29:1069. [PMID: 38474578 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051069] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Zeolites, a group of minerals with unique properties, have been known for more than 250 years. However, it was the development of methods for hydrothermal synthesis of zeolites and their large-scale industrial applications (oil processing, agriculture, production of detergents and building materials, water treatment processes, etc.) that made them one of the most important materials of the 20th century, with great practical and research significance. The orderly, homogeneous crystalline and porous structure of zeolites, their susceptibility to various modifications, and their useful physicochemical properties contribute to the continuous expansion of their practical applications in both large-volume processes (ion exchange, adsorption, separation of mixture components, catalysis) and specialized ones (sensors). The following review of the knowledge available in the literature on zeolites aims to present the most important information on the properties, synthesis methods, and selected applications of this group of aluminosilicates. Special attention is given to the use of zeolites in agriculture and environmental protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kordala
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 4 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Mirosław Wyszkowski
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 4 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Borah G, Deka H. Vermiremediation of heavy metals (HMs)-contaminated agricultural land: synergistic changes in soil enzyme activities and earthworm's growth parameters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:115266-115278. [PMID: 37880396 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
In this investigation the heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr and Ni) remediation potential of Eisenia fetida was studied in the crude oil polluted soil. The potential of E. fetida was evaluated based on the decrease in concentrations of Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr and Ni, and improvement in the soil enzyme activities at the end of 90 days of experimental trials. Moreover, soil health quality, inter-relationship between the enzyme activities and the growth parameters of E. fetida and synergistic relation among the enzyme activities were also evaluated through G-Mean and T-QSI indices, chord plot analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) to confirm the performance of E. fetida during vermiremediation. The results revealed that the soil treated with E. fetida showed a reduction in the concentration of Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr and Ni by 17.4% 19.45%, 9.44%, 23.8% and 9.6% respectively by end of the experimental trials. The cellulase, amylase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, urease, dehydrogenase and catalase activities in the E. fetida-treated soil were enhanced by 89.83%, 99.17%, 142%, 109.9%, 92.9%, 694.3% and 274.5% respectively. The results of SEM-EDS revealed enhancement in the O, K, Na, Mg and P content by 62.36%, 96.2%, 97.9%, 93.7% and 98.2% respectively by the end of the experimental trial. The G-Mean and T-QSI indices also confirmed the improvement in soil enzyme activities thereby indicating the positive influence of E. fetida on soil decontamination process. The chord plot indicated the interrelationship between the earthworm's growth parameters and enzyme activities of the soil as indicated by the high linkage between the nodes. Finally, the PCA confirmed the negative effect of the heavy metals on the soil enzyme activities and synergistic interrelationship between the enzyme activities during the vermiremediation process. Thus, this study demonstrated the changes in the soil enzyme activities and their interconnected influences during vermiremediation of crude oil sourced heavy metals from polluted soil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glory Borah
- Ecology and Environmental Remediation Laboratory, Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Hemen Deka
- Ecology and Environmental Remediation Laboratory, Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wyszkowski M, Wyszkowska J, Kordala N, Zaborowska M. Molecular Sieve, Halloysite, Sepiolite and Expanded Clay as a Tool in Reducing the Content of Trace Elements in Helianthus annuus L. on Copper-Contaminated Soil. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:1827. [PMID: 36902943 PMCID: PMC10004638 DOI: 10.3390/ma16051827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of copper soil contamination on the trace element content of sunflower aerial parts and in roots. Another aim was to assess whether the introduction of selected neutralizing substances (molecular sieve, halloysite, sepiolite and expanded clay) into the soil could reduce the impact of copper on the chemical composition of sunflower plants. Copper soil contamination with 150 mg Cu2+ kg-1 of soil and 10 g of each adsorbent per kg of soil were used. Soil contamination with copper caused a significant increase in the content of this element in the aerial parts (by 37%) and roots (by 144%) of sunflower. Enriching the soil with the mineral substances reduced the amount of copper in the aerial parts of sunflower. Halloysite had the greatest effect (35%), while expanded clay had the smallest effect (10%). An opposite relationship was found in the roots of this plant. In copper-contaminated objects, a decrease in the content of cadmium and iron and an increase in the concentrations of nickel, lead and cobalt in the aerial parts and roots of sunflower were observed. The applied materials reduced the content of the remaining trace elements more strongly in the aerial organs than in the roots of sunflower. Molecular sieve had the greatest reducing effect on the content of trace elements in sunflower aerial organs, followed by sepiolite, while expanded clay had the least impact. The molecular sieve also reduced the content of iron, nickel, cadmium, chromium, zinc and, especially, manganese, whereas sepiolite reduced the content of zinc, iron, cobalt, manganese and chromium in sunflower aerial parts. Molecular sieve contributed to a slight increase in the content of cobalt, while sepiolite had the same effect on the content of nickel, lead and cadmium in the aerial parts of sunflower. All materials decreased the content of chromium in sunflower roots, molecular sieve-zinc, halloysite-manganese, and sepiolite-manganese and nickel. The materials used in the experiment, especially the molecular sieve and to a lesser extent sepiolite, can be used effectively to reduce the content of copper and some other trace elements, particularly in the aerial parts of sunflower.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirosław Wyszkowski
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 4 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jadwiga Wyszkowska
- Department of Soil Science and Microbiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 3 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Natalia Kordala
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 4 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zaborowska
- Department of Soil Science and Microbiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Łódzki 3 Sq., 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|