Membrane technology as a strategy for microplastics removal from landfill leachate: a review

ABSTRACT This study offers a comprehensive review of global microplastic (MP) contamination in landfill leachate (LL) and examines remediation strategies using membrane technologies such as ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF), reverse osmosis (RO), and membrane bioreactors (MBRs). Research investigations and full-scale applications of these technologies for treating LL demonstrate their efficacy as viable solutions for on-site leachate treatment, providing promise in mitigating LL toxicity and reducing the environmental and human health risks associated with MP pollution. While the size of MPs in LL may raise questions about the necessity of using NF and RO membranes for MP removal, these processes are commonly employed in many landfills to serve as barriers for MP retention. Despite the high efficacy of MBR systems in removing MPs, the accumulation of MPs in the biological sludge can adversely affect biological performance and membrane fouling, necessitating further exploration. In general, membrane technologies face challenges such as membrane fouling and the release of MPs. Therefore, further research is needed to address MP removal, understand membrane–MP interactions, explore cleaning strategies in LL treatment and their impact on MP release from membranes, and study the integrity of membranes after continuous exposure to LL under varied operating conditions.