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Magnetic Nanoparticles for Microplastic Remediation: Recent Advances, Mechanistic Insights, and Environmental Implications
Summary
Researchers reviewed magnetic nanoparticle-based approaches — including magnetic biochar, carbon nanotube composites, and hydrophobic iron-silica nanocomposites — for capturing microplastics from water, finding strong removal efficiency across polymer types and particle sizes but identifying life-cycle safety and ecotoxicity assessment as critical gaps before field deployment.
The environment is significantly endangered by microplastics in aquatic life, which are characterised by their persistent nature, ease of transfer, and ability to absorb toxic substances. Mechanical, chemical, and biological methods are infrequently effective in capturing small, non-reactive particles. The large surface area, variable surface chemistry, and responsiveness to external magnetic fields of magnetic nanoparticles facilitate their capture and recovery. This investigation examines the advancements in magnetic nanoparticle-based remediation, encompassing adsorption, coagulation, and filtration. Composite and hybrid systems include magnetic biochar, magnetic carbon nanotubes, ferro-nanofluids, and hydrophobic Fe-silica nanocomposites. The authors employ SEM-EDS, TEM, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy to quantify particle–particle interactions, removal efficiency, polymer type, particle size, surface functionalization, and water chemistry. The life-cycle, ecotoxicity, and field validation investigations of magnetic nanoparticles do not adequately evaluate their environmental and toxicological impacts. Research indicates that magnetic techniques have the potential to effectively, accurately, and repeatedly eliminate microplastics. To progress, we must enhance safety, explore the future, and assess smaller-scale developments.