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Microplastics in drinking water treatment – Current knowledge and research needs
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This review examines the current state of knowledge about microplastics in drinking water treatment, including how treatment plants remove these particles. Researchers found that conventional treatment processes like coagulation and filtration can remove a significant portion of microplastics, but some particles still pass through to finished water. The study identifies key research gaps around the effectiveness of different treatment technologies and the health implications of residual microplastics.
Microplastics (MPs) have recently been detected in oceans, seas and freshwater bodies worldwide, yet few studies have revealed the occurrence of MPs in potable water. Although the potential toxicological effects of MPs are still largely unknown, their presence in water intended for human consumption deserves attention. Drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) pose a barrier for MPs to enter drinking water; thus, the fate of MPs at DWTPs is of great interest. This review includes a summary of the available information on MPs in drinking water sources and in potable water, discusses the current knowledge on MP removal by different water treatment processes, and identifies the research needs regarding MP removal by DWTP technologies. A comparison of MPs with other common pollution agents is also provided. We concluded that special attention should be given to small-size MPs (in the range of several micrometres) and that the relationship between MP character and behaviour during distinct treatment processes should be explored.
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This review examines what is currently known about microplastics in drinking water systems and how well existing water treatment processes remove them. Researchers found that while conventional treatment steps like coagulation and filtration do reduce microplastic levels, significant amounts can still persist through to tap water. The study calls for more research into optimizing treatment processes and developing monitoring strategies specifically targeting microplastic contamination in drinking water.
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Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.