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Oxidative degradation of microplastics in aquatic systems: Environmental fate, toxicological concerns, and sustainable treatment strategies
Summary
Microplastics—tiny plastic particles that end up in our water and food—are a growing health concern, and this review looks at promising cleanup methods called "advanced oxidation processes" that use chemicals, light, or ozone to break plastics down before they reach us. Some lab tests show these methods can remove over 90% of microplastics from water, though scientists still need to work out issues like high energy costs and the possibility of creating new harmful byproducts. The bottom line: while we're not there yet, researchers are making real progress toward technologies that could one day significantly reduce microplastic contamination in our drinking water and environment.
Microplastics (MPs) pose significant environmental and health threats, ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems globally. Originating from both primary industrial sources and the breakdown of larger plastics, MPs accumulate in marine environments, impacting organisms through ingestion and bioaccumulation of toxins. Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs), such as ozonation, photocatalysis, and Fenton's reagent, have emerged as potential solutions for MP degradation. This review synthesizes current research, emphasizing recent findings and advancements in AOPs' efficacy for MP removal. Recent studies demonstrate notable results with modified Fenton and ozone-based processes achieving over 90 % removal efficiencies in laboratory conditions. Photocatalysis under UV irradiation has shown variable success, with visible light catalysis achieving up to 65 % degradation of polypropylene microplastics. Additionally, studies utilizing TiO 2 and TiO 2 /C composites have reported significant degradation percentages for various MP types. However, challenges including high energy consumption and potential byproduct formation necessitate further optimization for practical application. The review also addresses the matrix effect, where water composition influences AOP efficiency by interacting with reactive species. Strategies to mitigate these effects include optimizing process parameters and exploring hybrid treatment systems. In addition to technological advancements, the review highlights ongoing research into biodegradable materials and alternative technologies to mitigate MP pollution comprehensively. The synthesis underscores the need for integrated approaches, policy support, and continued innovation to achieve sustainable solutions.