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A mini review of recent advances in environmentally friendly microplastic removal technologies in water systems
Summary
This review evaluates emerging low-energy approaches for removing microplastics from water, concluding that microalgae-based flocculation and triboelectricity-driven electrophoresis are the most promising environmentally friendly methods currently available. Applying these technologies as close as possible to contamination sources — such as inside wastewater treatment plants — minimizes energy use and prevents secondary pollution. The authors also stress that reducing plastic consumption remains the single most effective long-term strategy.
The current increase in microplastic (MP) occurrence worldwide is predicted to cause severe environmental crises in the future. Therefore, it is imperative to develop innovative MP removal technologies that can effectively mitigate MP emissions in any given scenario. This review discusses recent environmentally friendly advances in MP removal technologies that aim to overcome the limitations of current technologies, prevent secondary pollution, and utilize low energy. It also explores the potential applicability of these technologies under the current environmental conditions in South Korea. The core principles of these technologies, such as adsorption or flocculation, focus on minimizing the energy required to initiate and sustain these processes and on reducing the usage of adsorbents and flocculants. Employing microalgae as flocculants and triboelectricity for electrophoresis are identified as promising technologies. Incinerating MP-adsorbed materials from the process could be a viable disposal method, potentially serving as a source of heat energy. Consequently, technologies based on biochar or microalgae are especially advantageous in this context. The location where these technologies are applied plays a crucial role in their overall energy consumption. Ideally, implementation should occur as close as possible to points where MPs are found or within wastewater treatment plants. Froth flotation, microalgae flocculation, and triboelectricity-based electrophoresis are suitable methods in this regard. Establishing and enforcing administrative systems, laws, and policies globally to prevent MP occurrence remains critical. However, while these measures are vital, the most effective method for reducing MP occurrence is lowering plastic consumption alongside implementing stringent segregation and collection procedures.