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Understanding microplastic aging driven by photosensitization of algal extracellular polymeric substances
Summary
Researchers found that substances released by algae significantly speed up the breakdown of polystyrene microplastics under sunlight. The algal compounds generate reactive molecules that attack the plastic surface, creating smaller fragments and releasing dissolved organic matter. The findings are particularly relevant for understanding how microplastics degrade in waterways affected by algal blooms.
The aging of microplastics (MPs) is extremely influenced by photochemically-produced reactive intermediates (PPRIs), which are mediated by natural photosensitive substances. Algal extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) can produce PPRIs when exposed to sunlight. Nonetheless, the specific role of EPS in the aging process of MPs remains unclear. This work systematically explored the aging process of polystyrene (PS) MPs in the EPS secreted by Chlorella vulgaris under simulated sunlight irradiation. The results revealed that the existence of EPS accelerated the degradation of PS MPs into particles with sizes less than 1 µm, while also facilitating the formation of hydroxy groups on the surface. The release rate of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from PS MPs was elevated from 0.120 mg·L·day to 0.577 mg·L·day. The primary factor contributing to the elevated levels of DOM was humic acid-like compounds generated through the breakdown of PS. EPS accelerated the aging process of PS MPs by primarily mediating the formation of triplet excited states (EPS*), singlet oxygen (O), and superoxide radicals (O), resulting in indirect degradation. EPS* was found to have the most substantial impact. This study makes a significant contribution to advance understanding of the environmental fate of MPs in aquatic environments impacted by algal blooms.