We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Chemical, physical, and biological techniques to remove microplastics
Summary
This review covers the chemical, physical, and biological techniques available for removing microplastics from the environment, comparing their effectiveness and practical limitations. Researchers found that while each approach has strengths, no single method is sufficient for complete removal across different environmental settings. The study suggests that combining multiple techniques offers the most promising path toward effective microplastic remediation.
Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic particles with a size of less than 5 mm that pose a global threat to ecosystems. They originate from various sources, including the degradation of macro plastics, resin pellets used in plastic manufacturing, and microbeads found in health and beauty products. These contaminants are generated during the use and disposal of plastic products, leading to a widespread presence of MPs in the environment. Due to their high specific surface area and strong hydrophobicity, MPs could absorb hazardous microorganisms and chemical contaminants from the environment, causing irreversible harm to humans. Numerous studies have demonstrated that treated MPs can act as carriers of pollutants, potentially impacting animals, and human beings through the adsorption of contaminants in the environment. Therefore, it is crucial to develop efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly methods for the removal of MPs from both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This chapter provides insights into different remediation approaches, including membrane filtration, adsorption, chemically induced coagulation-flocculation-sedimentation, bioremediation (such as enzymatic degradation and microbial degradation), construction of wetlands, and advanced oxidation processes such as UV/H 2 O 2 , O 3 , UV/visible light-induced photocatalysis , UV photolysis. These approaches aim to decompose MPs of various sizes as well as to mitigate MP pollution in the environment.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Critical review of microplastics removal from the environment
This review evaluates technologies for removing microplastics from the environment, including physical methods like filtration, chemical treatments, and biological approaches using microorganisms. Each method has trade-offs between effectiveness, cost, and scalability, and no single technology can solve the problem alone. The authors emphasize that reducing human exposure to microplastics requires combining better removal technologies with policies that limit plastic production and waste at the source.
Microplastics Removal Strategies in Aquatic Environments
This review examines and compares multiple strategies for removing microplastics from aquatic environments, including physical, physicochemical, and biological methods. Researchers found that each approach offers different trade-offs in removal efficiency and scalability, emphasizing the need for integrated treatment solutions given the global abundance of microplastics and their negative effects on aquatic ecosystems.
A Study on the Potential Microplastic Removal in Water
This study reviewed technologies for removing microplastic pollutants from water, examining physical, chemical, and biological treatment approaches applicable to wastewater treatment. The review assessed the effectiveness and limitations of current methods and discussed potential combinations to improve removal efficiency of microplastics across different size ranges.
Physical, thermal, chemical and biological approaches for plastics degradation–A review
Researchers reviewed physical, chemical, and biological methods for breaking down and removing microplastics from soil and water, covering everything from filtration and membranes to bacteria and fungi that digest plastic. Each method has trade-offs in effectiveness and cost, and the review concludes that combined, integrated approaches will likely be necessary for real-world cleanup.
Removal of Microplastic Contaminants from Aquatic Environment
This review examines technologies for removing microplastics from aquatic environments, covering physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods and their relative effectiveness. Identifying and improving removal strategies is urgent because microplastics are now found throughout drinking water sources, oceans, and freshwater systems, posing risks to wildlife and human health.