We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Distinct polymer-dependent sorption of persistent pollutants associated with Atlantic salmon farming to microplastics
Summary
Researchers found that HDPE, PP, PET, and PVC microplastics placed near Atlantic salmon farms sorbed different persistent organic pollutants depending on polymer type, demonstrating that microplastics in aquaculture environments can act as vectors for chemical contaminants with implications for seafood safety.
Interactions of microplastics and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) associated with Atlantic salmon farming were studied to assess the potential role of microplastics in relation to the environmental impact of aquaculture. HDPE, PP, PET and PVC microplastics placed for 3 months near fish farms sorbed POPs from aquafeeds. PET and PVC sorbed significantly higher levels of dioxins and PCBs compared to HDPE, while the levels sorbed to PP were intermediate and did not differ statistically from PET, PVC or HDPE. In addition, the composition of dioxins accumulated in caged blue mussels did not reflect the patterns observed on the microplastics, probably due to polymer-specific affinity of POPs. In conclusion, the results of this study show that microplastics occurring near fish farms can sorb aquafeed-associated POPs and, therefore, microplastics could potentially be vectors of such chemicals in the marine environment and increase the environmental impact of fish farming.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics in feed affect the toxicokinetics of persistent halogenated pollutants in Atlantic salmon
Atlantic salmon fed diets where persistent organic pollutants were pre-sorbed onto 125-250 micron microplastics accumulated more POPs in their fillets than fish fed contaminated feed without microplastics. Depuration was also slower for several contaminants in the microplastic-exposed group, suggesting that microplastics alter toxicokinetics in fish.
Enrichment of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Microplastics from Coastal Waters
Researchers quantified how microplastics concentrate persistent organic pollutants compared to suspended particulate matter in coastal seawater. They found that the concentrating effect of microplastics on these pollutants was one to two orders of magnitude greater than that of natural suspended particles. The study provides precise measurements of enrichment factors, suggesting that microplastics may serve as significant carriers of toxic organic chemicals in marine environments.
Adsorption and Desorption Behaviour of Polychlorinated Biphenyls onto Microplastics’ Surfaces in Water/Sediment Systems
Researchers evaluated the adsorption and desorption behavior of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) onto polystyrene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate microplastics of varying sizes in marine water/sediment systems. Results showed that polymer type and particle size influenced PCB binding capacity, with microplastics acting as potential vectors for transferring persistent organic pollutants to marine biota through the food chain.
Transport of persistent organic pollutants: Another effect of microplastic pollution?
This review examines how microplastics act as vectors for persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in aquatic environments, covering the physical and chemical factors governing pollutant adsorption and desorption. The authors discuss how interactions between microplastics and POPs vary with polymer type, particle properties, and environmental conditions, and when these interactions may result in toxic effects on aquatic organisms.
Mechanistic Insights into PFAS Adsorption on Microplastics: Effects of Contaminant Properties and Water Chemistry
Researchers investigated how two widely detected PFAS compounds, PFOS and PFOA, adsorb onto five common types of microplastics in aquatic environments. The study found that contaminant properties and water chemistry significantly influence adsorption behavior, confirming that microplastics can serve as carriers for PFAS transport in waterways.