We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
The exploitation of bio-electrochemical system and microplastics removal: Possibilities and perspectives
AI summary Read the abstract
This review explores bio-electrochemical systems as a sustainable alternative for removing microplastics from water, since current removal methods are costly, energy-intensive, and can release toxic chemicals. Bio-electrochemical systems use microorganisms to generate electricity while simultaneously treating wastewater, offering a cleaner approach. Though still in early research stages, this technology could provide an efficient and environmentally friendly way to reduce microplastic contamination in water supplies.
Microplastic (MP) pollution has caused severe concern due to its harmful effect on human beings and ecosystems. Existing MP removal methods face many obstacles, such as high cost, high energy consumption, low efficiency, release of toxic chemicals, etc. Thus, it is crucial to find appropriate and sustainable methods to replace common MP removal approaches. Bio-electrochemical system (BES) is a sustainable clean energy technology that has been successfully applied to wastewater treatment, seawater desalination, metal removal, energy production, biosensors, etc. However, research reports on BES technology to eliminate MP pollution are limited. This paper reviews the mechanism, hazards, and common treatment methods of MP removal and discusses the application of BES systems to improve MP removal efficiency and sustainability. Firstly, the characteristics and limitations of common MP removal techniques are systematically summarized. Then, the potential application of BES technology in MP removal is explored. Furthermore, the feasibility and stability of the potential BES MP removal application are critically evalauted while recommendations for further research are proposed.
More Papers Like This
Review and future outlook for the removal of microplastics by physical, biological and chemical methods in water bodies and wastewaters
AI summary Read the abstract
This review compares physical, biological, and chemical methods for removing microplastics from water and wastewater, including newer approaches like advanced membranes, bacterial degradation, and electrochemical treatment. Each method has trade-offs between removal efficiency, cost, and environmental impact, and no single technique currently solves the problem completely. The review emphasizes that developing effective microplastic removal technology is urgent for protecting both ecosystems and human drinking water supplies.
Microplastics in aquatic systems: An in-depth review of current and potential water treatment processes
AI summary Read the abstract
This review provides a detailed examination of microplastic contamination in aquatic systems and evaluates current and emerging water treatment technologies for their removal. Researchers assessed methods ranging from conventional coagulation and filtration to advanced techniques like membrane bioreactors and electrochemical processes. The study concludes that while no single technology fully eliminates microplastics, combining multiple treatment approaches offers the most promising path forward.
Electrochemical remediation of microplastics: Progress and prospects in water treatment
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines electrochemical methods for removing microplastics from water, including electrocoagulation, electro-oxidation, and the electro-Fenton process. Evidence indicates that electro-oxidation can achieve removal rates as high as 99 percent under optimized conditions. The study highlights these techniques as promising alternatives for water treatment but calls for further research to scale them up for real-world applications.
Technologies to eliminate microplastic from water: Current approaches and future prospects
AI summary Read the abstract
This review surveys the different technologies available for removing microplastics from water, from basic filtration to advanced methods like magnetic separation and electrochemical treatment. Conventional approaches struggle with very small particles, while newer techniques are more effective but expensive and energy-intensive. Biological methods using bacteria, fungi, and algae offer a more eco-friendly alternative but need further development.
A mini review of recent advances in environmentally friendly microplastic removal technologies in water systems
AI summary Read the abstract
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.
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.