Boosting visible-light photocatalytic degradation of polystyrene nanoplastics with immobilized CuxO obtained by anodization

High-Efficiency photocatalytic degradation of polystyrene microplastics using In2O3-rGO nanocomposite catalysts under visible Light

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Researchers developed an indium oxide-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite catalyst that degrades polystyrene microplastics under visible light, achieving 56% degradation of 500 nm particles in 12 hours, with FTIR and Raman analysis confirming carbonyl group formation and the degraded particles aggregating into larger clusters suitable for filtration removal from drinking water.

Advanced photocatalytic materials for micro/nanoplastic degradation: A comprehensive review

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Tiny plastic particles called micro- and nanoplastics are turning up everywhere, in our oceans, soil, and likely our bodies, raising concerns about long-term health effects. This review rounds up the latest science on using light-activated materials (photocatalysts) to break down these plastic particles, including newer "green" methods made from plants, algae, and bacteria that could make cleanup cheaper and more eco-friendly. While these technologies are still being developed rather than ready for widespread use, they represent a promising direction for tackling plastic pollution at its source.

Nanotechnology-Enhanced Photocatalysis for Microplastic Degradation: A Sustainable Approach

Investigating the Effect of Various Experimental Parameters on Visible Light-Driven TiO2-based Photocatalysis for the Remediation of Aqueous Phase Polystyrene Microplastics

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This study optimized TiO2-based photocatalysts—including Ag-TiO2 and TiO2/CNT composites—under visible light irradiation and achieved up to 57.84% degradation of polystyrene microplastics in water over 120 hours, with pH and catalyst dosage identified as key process parameters. Advancing photocatalytic degradation technologies is important for breaking down persistent plastic particles in water systems before they are ingested by aquatic organisms or enter drinking water supplies.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Microplastic in the Environment

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Researchers reviewed photocatalytic degradation as a promising approach for breaking down microplastics in the environment, finding it may offer advantages over incineration and filtration — though practical challenges around scale and efficiency remain.