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Oligomers from the Synthetic Polymers: Another Potential Iceberg of New Pollutants
Summary
This review highlights oligomers, small molecules produced during plastic manufacturing and degradation, as an overlooked class of pollutants that may be even more harmful than microplastics. Unlike microplastics, oligomers are small enough to easily enter cells and may have direct toxic effects, yet most remain poorly studied with no established detection methods. As plastics break down in the environment, they release these oligomers, adding another layer of concern to the microplastics problem.
Pollution generated by synthetic polymers, particularly plastics, has become a significant global environmental problem. However, when compared to polymer-derived products like microplastics, oligomers have not received the attention they deserve. Oligomers are by-products of polymer production and intermediates of degradation. Despite the industrial advancements leading to an exponential increase in the production of new polymers, a majority of oligomers have remained inadequately researched. While the exposure and toxic effects of polylactic acid oligomers have been documented, the structures and fundamental properties of oligomers derived from most polymers are still poorly understood. This knowledge gap presents challenges in establishing effective analytical methods. Considering the potential of oligomers to act as new pollutants, it is imperative to investigate their environmental behavior, as well as their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties. This perspective highlights the research gap concerning oligomers.