We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Fibrous Microplastics Release from Textile Production Phases: A Brief Review of Current Challenges and Applied Research Directions
Summary
This review examines how microplastic fibers are shed during various stages of textile production, from spinning and weaving to dyeing and finishing. Researchers found that fibrous microplastics account for roughly half to 70% of all microplastics found in global wastewater, primarily originating from synthetic fabric manufacturing and household laundering. The study identifies gaps in current knowledge and explores recycling technologies and regulatory approaches that could help reduce textile microplastic pollution.
Microplastics (MPs), particularly fibrous MPs, have emerged as a significant environmental concern due to their pervasive presence in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The textile industry is a significant contributor to MP pollution, particularly through the production of synthetic fibers and natural/synthetic blends, which release substantial amounts of fibrous MPs. Among the various types of MPs, fibrous MPs account for approximately 49-70% of the total MP load found in wastewater globally, primarily originating from textile manufacturing processes and the domestic laundering of synthetic fabrics. MP shedding poses a significant challenge for environmental management, requiring a comprehensive examination of the mechanisms and strategies for the mitigation involved. To address the existing knowledge gaps regarding MP shedding during the textile production processes, this brief review examines the current state of MP shedding during textile production, covering both dry and wet processes, and identifies the sources and pathways of MPs from industrial wastewater treatment plants to the environment. It further provides a critical evaluation of the existing recycling and upcycling technologies applicable to MPs, highlighting their current limitations and exploring their potential for future applications. Additionally, it explores the potential for integrating sustainable practices and developing regulatory frameworks to facilitate the transition towards a circular economy within the textile industry. Given the expanding application of textiles across various sectors, including medical, agricultural, and environmental fields, the scope of microplastic pollution extends beyond conventional uses, necessitating urgent attention to the impact of fibrous MP release from both synthetic and bio-based textiles. This brief review consolidates the current knowledge and outlines the critical research gaps to support stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers in formulating effective, science-based strategies for reducing textile-derived microplastic pollution and advancing environmental sustainability.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics and Fibrous Fragments Generated during the Production and Maintenance of Textiles
This review examines how microplastics and fibrous fragments are generated during textile production and maintenance, noting that textiles account for more than a third of microplastics in surface waters. Researchers found that mechanical, thermal, chemical, and biological damage during manufacturing and early washing cycles are major sources of fiber release. The study emphasizes the need for textile manufacturers to address fiber shedding through improved production processes and material design.
From production to pollution: a review of microfiber release mechanisms and mitigation strategies in the textile industry
This review examines the origins, pathways, and environmental impacts of microfiber pollution from the textile industry. Researchers found that microfibers are released during both textile manufacturing and garment use, and that solutions include biodegradable fiber development, washing machine filtration systems, and advanced wastewater treatment. The study emphasizes that collaboration among industry, governments, research institutions, and consumers is critical to reducing microfiber release.
A review of the current status of microfiber pollution research in textiles
This review synthesizes research on microfiber shedding from textiles, examining how fiber properties (length, diameter, twist, surface treatment) influence how much a fabric sheds during laundering. Microfibers from textile washing are one of the largest sources of microplastic fiber pollution in wastewater and aquatic environments globally.
Microplastic emissions in textile wet processing: Progress, challenges, and mitigation strategies
This review examines how textile wet processing, including dyeing and finishing operations, contributes to microplastic emissions that are more substantial in volume and chemically diverse than those from domestic laundry. Researchers found that mechanical forces, water, and chemical treatments during industrial processing release significant quantities of synthetic microfibers into wastewater. The study explores mitigation strategies including bioengineered materials, improved textile design, surface coatings, and enhanced filtration technologies.
Microplastic pollution from textiles: A literature review
This review examines the current state of knowledge on microplastic pollution, focusing specifically on synthetic microfibre shedding from textiles during washing and the significance of this source for marine and freshwater contamination.