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Key factors controlling transport of micro- and nanoplastic in porous media and its effect on coexisting pollutants
Summary
Researchers reviewed the key factors that control how micro- and nanoplastics move through porous media such as soil and sediment, and how they affect the transport of co-occurring pollutants. They found that microplastics can either facilitate or inhibit the movement of other contaminants depending on particle properties and environmental conditions. The review emphasizes the need to better understand these co-transport dynamics for predicting the environmental fate of plastic pollution.
Environmental behavior of micro- and nanoplastics (M&NPs) pollution is an emerging topic in environmental research. The strong adsorption capacities of microplastics and nanoplastics to other substances is a concern. As a carrier, M&NPs probably transfer certain hazardous pollutants over long distance and pose risks to ecosystem and human health. Therefore, understanding the interaction and cotransport of M&NPs with coexisting pollutants is designed and becomes popular for many researchers. This paper introduced the carrier function of M&NPs firstly. Then literature on cotransport of M&NPs with potential coexisting contaminants has been reviewed and discussed. Interacting with micro and nanoplastics, the transport of coexisting matter may be facilitated or inhibited. In reverse, transport and deposition of M&NPs influenced by changed external environment and properties of plastics particles. Finally, limitations of existing studies on cotransport of M&NPs in porous media and directions for future studies were given. This review could serve as a useful reference for predicting the transport of microplastics and coexisting pollutants in natural porous media.
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