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Experimental and Computational Validation on the Degradation Processes of Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics by Mineral Acids and Thermal Treatment
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Degradation of Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics by Mineral Acids: Experimental, Molecular Modelling and Optimization Studies
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Researchers found that acid rain — formed when atmospheric mineral acids react with oxygen — can degrade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics, with higher temperatures accelerating breakdown by attacking oxygen-containing parts of the plastic's structure. This suggests that environmental weathering from acid deposition may be an underappreciated factor in how PET plastics fragment into smaller particles in nature.
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This review outlines the mechanical, chemical, and biological degradation pathways of environmental microplastics, noting that degradation rates depend on polymer structure, chemical additives, and environmental conditions such as temperature and UV exposure. Understanding how microplastics break down is essential because degradation produces smaller nanoplastics and releases toxic additives, potentially increasing bioavailability and health risks over time.
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