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Distribution characteristics of microplastics and potentially toxic elements as co-contaminants in groundwater in mid-Brahmaputra Valley, northeastern India
Summary
Researchers found microplastics and toxic heavy metals contaminating groundwater in the Brahmaputra Valley of northeastern India, with polypropylene being the most common plastic type detected. The microplastics appeared to absorb heavy metals onto their surfaces, creating a combined pollution threat, and cancer risk assessments showed that about a third of samples posed potential health risks to children. This study demonstrates that even underground water sources used for drinking are not safe from microplastic contamination.
Groundwater is a vital source of freshwater, and its contamination by microplastics (MPs) and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is a growing concern. This study explores the occurrence and associated ecological and health risks of MP-PTE co-contamination in groundwater in the mid-Brahmaputra Valley, India. A total of 169 MPs, derived from polyamides, polyacetonitrile, polyethylene, polymethacrylates, polypropylene and polyvinylchlorides, were identified in 21 samples. Polypropylene MPs (41%) were the most abundant while polymethacrylate MPs (8%) were found to be the most hazardous, both ranking in hazard category V. The samples also contained elevated levels of Fe, Mn and Pb, with 26% of samples exceeding permissible limits. Spectroscopic analysis confirmed PTE adsorption onto MP surfaces suggesting a synergistic contamination mechanism. Risk assessment based on incremental lifetime cancer risk showed that 33% of samples posed potential risks to children and none for adults. Non-carcinogenic risks via oral intake were observed in 76% of samples for children and 24% for adults. Sites were categorized into four pollution-based clusters using hierarchical clustering. The PTE index rated 70% of samples as excellent, 25% as poor to very poor and 5% as unsuitable for drinking. These findings underscore the importance of integrated pollution control, reduced plastic usage and improved waste management strategies. Further research is needed to explore the long-term fate of MPs and their role in contaminant transportation under varying environmental conditions.
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