Membrane Filtration Technique for Remediation of Microplastics

Microplastics are defined as plastics smaller than 5mm found in the environment that are either pre-manufactured or result from the breakdown of various plastic products. The pollution caused by microplastics is a pressing global issue, stemming from the release of plastic products into air, water, and soil environments. Long-term durability of microplastics, attributed to their polymeric composition, and their ability to easily move across various ecosystems, make them a significant concern for biologists and environmentalists. They can infiltrate the food chain and necessitate more specialized separation procedures. Indeed, membrane filtration techniques can be utilized for their remediation. Membranes act as selective barriers that can differentiate between two phases and limit the movement of components based on their size, charge, or shape. The membrane filtration method has become increasingly popular for use in separation and purification processes due to its high selectivity, continuous operation, and ease of scaling up. Compared to other methods, the membrane filtration technique has a notably high efficiency in removing microplastics. The aim of this chapter is to familiarize readers with the membrane filtration method for microplastic remediation, its various types, and to offer an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of this technique.