Synergistic Pollution: Interactions Among Polyethylene, Surfactants, and Antibiotics in an Aquatic Environment

This study investigates the potential synergistic interactions in aquatic environments among three common pollutants: polyethylene microplastics, antibiotics, and surfactants. Using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, the penicillin-streptomycin concentration was monitored in solutions containing polyethylene (PE) and one of three surfactants: sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), rhamnolipids, and chitosan. The UV-Vis absorption spectra showed increases in absorbance over time for the water control and SDS samples, suggesting potential leaching of additives from the PE. In contrast, the chitosan sample showed no change in absorbance, which could indicate the chitosan acts as a barrier to potential leaching from the PE. The rhamnolipid sample, however, showed clear evidence of a chemical reaction, in the form of a precipitate and gas formation. These findings suggest that interactions among these pollutants could alter their behavior when present together. Such synergistic effects may influence pollutant transport and toxicity, impacting aquatic ecosystems and human health through contaminated water sources.