We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Co-accumulation characteristics and interaction mechanism of microplastics and PFASs in a large shallow lake
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers examined how microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as forever chemicals, accumulate together in Taihu Lake, China. They found that microplastics can adsorb and concentrate these persistent chemicals on their surfaces, with the interaction strength depending on plastic type and environmental conditions. The study raises concerns that microplastics may act as carriers that spread forever chemicals through freshwater ecosystems.
Microplastics (MPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) coexist widely in lakes and affect ecological security. The coexistence characteristics and adsorption-desorption mechanisms between MPs and typical PFASs were explored in a typical eutrophic shallow lake (Taihu Lake). Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) are the primary types of MPs in Taihu Lake, with average abundances in water and sediment of 18630 n/m and 584 n/kg, respectively. The average concentrations of PFASs in water and sediment are 288.93 ng/L and 4.33 ng/g, with short-chain PFASs (C4-C7) being the main pollutants. Perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) in both water and sediment contributed 38.48 % and 44.53 %, respectively, followed by hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA). The morphological characteristics of MPs influence the distribution of long-chain PFAS in lake water, while the presence of HFPO-DA and perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) in sediment is directly linked to the concentration and size of MPs. A combination of field investigations and indoor experiments revealed that the irreversible adsorption characteristics between MPs and HFPO-DA may promote the high cumulative flux of HFPO-DA in sediment, and the biofilm on the surface of MPs significantly accelerates this accumulation process. The results provide a new perspective on the co-transport behavior of emerging pollutants in aquatic environments.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics as carriers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aquatic environment: interactions and ecotoxicological effects
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed how microplastics serve as carriers for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), sometimes called forever chemicals, in aquatic environments. The study found that PFAS can attach to microplastic surfaces and accumulate in organisms through the food chain, potentially amplifying the toxic effects of both pollutants. The findings suggest that the combined presence of microplastics and PFAS poses a greater environmental and health risk than either pollutant alone.
Interaction of microplastics with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in water: A review of the fate, mechanisms and toxicity
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how microplastics act as carriers for PFAS ("forever chemicals") in water, with the two pollutants interacting through various chemical mechanisms that affect their movement through the environment. The combined presence of microplastics and PFAS raises concerns about increased toxicity, since microplastics can transport these persistent chemicals into organisms and potentially concentrate their harmful effects.
Molecular-Scale Insights into the Interactions between Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Polyethylene
AI summary Read the abstract
Scientists found that tiny plastic particles called microplastics can strongly attract and hold onto toxic "forever chemicals" called PFAS, which are already found in drinking water and food. This means microplastics in our environment could act like sponges that collect these harmful chemicals and potentially transport them to new places, including into our bodies. The research helps explain why these two types of pollution might work together to create bigger health risks than either one alone.
The unheeded inherent connections and overlap between microplastics and poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances: A comprehensive review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review reveals the overlooked connection between microplastics and PFAS (forever chemicals), showing that these two widespread pollutants often come from the same products and interact in the environment. Microplastics can absorb PFAS onto their surfaces and transport them through water systems, potentially increasing exposure for aquatic organisms and humans. Understanding this overlap is important because the combined effects may be more harmful than either pollutant alone.
Perfluoroalkylated Substances (PFAS) Associated with Microplastics in a Lake Environment
AI summary Read the abstract
This study examined how microplastics interact with PFAS ("forever chemicals") in a lake environment by deploying different plastic types in the water for up to three months. Researchers found that microplastics in natural conditions absorbed 24 to 259 times more PFAS than plastics tested in clean lab water, largely because organic and inorganic matter that accumulates on plastic surfaces enhances chemical absorption. The findings suggest that microplastics in the environment may concentrate harmful chemicals at levels that pose risks to aquatic life.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.