Biogenic ZnS quantum dots for efficient photocatalytic degradation of polyethylene microplastics in water

Nanotechnology-Enhanced Photocatalysis for Microplastic Degradation: A Sustainable Approach

Photocatalytic Degradation of Microplastic in the Environment

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Researchers reviewed photocatalytic degradation as a promising approach for breaking down microplastics in the environment, finding it may offer advantages over incineration and filtration — though practical challenges around scale and efficiency remain.

Advanced photocatalytic materials for micro/nanoplastic degradation: A comprehensive review

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Tiny plastic particles called micro- and nanoplastics are turning up everywhere, in our oceans, soil, and likely our bodies, raising concerns about long-term health effects. This review rounds up the latest science on using light-activated materials (photocatalysts) to break down these plastic particles, including newer "green" methods made from plants, algae, and bacteria that could make cleanup cheaper and more eco-friendly. While these technologies are still being developed rather than ready for widespread use, they represent a promising direction for tackling plastic pollution at its source.

Application of nanocomposites based on TiO2 and clay minerals for the photocatalytic degradation of low-density polyethylene microplastics

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Researchers tested TiO2-clay mineral nanocomposites as photocatalysts for degrading low-density polyethylene microplastics under UV-A light, achieving up to 31% mass loss with TiO2-kaolinite under acidic conditions, outperforming bare TiO2 due to an improved optical band gap and enhanced photocatalytic activity.

Towards a Microplastic-Free Ocean: Green Photocatalysis for Mitigation of Micro- and Nanoplastic Marine Pollution

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Researchers examined green photocatalysis as a strategy to degrade micro- and nanoplastics in marine environments, finding that sunlight-driven catalytic reactions can break down plastic particles and potentially reduce their ecological toxicity throughout oceanic food webs.