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Emerging Technology and Trends to Remove Micro- and Nanoplastics in Aquatic Media
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Scientists reviewed 38 technologies designed to remove tiny plastic particles (called microplastics and nanoplastics) from water sources like rivers, lakes, and oceans. These microscopic plastic pieces can end up in our drinking water and food chain, potentially affecting human health. The researchers found that while many removal technologies exist, most are still being tested and need more development and funding to work on a large scale.
Here we identify existing and emerging aquatic microplastic (MP) removal technologies using predetermined criteria. These focused on devices that collect at minimum MPs; those that additionally removed macroplastics (MaP) or nanoplastics (NPs) were also considered. Additionally, technologies must collect plastics in situ from aquatic ecosystems, regardless of the specific medium. Entries were collected from Duke University’s Plastic Pollution Prevention and Collection Inventory, managed by Duke University’s Nicholas Institute and found through searches on Google, in peer-reviewed publications, and in patent databases. The results delivered 38 technologies, which are discussed in relation to larger industry trends like aquatic medium, collection method, and use status (testing/pilot, in commercial use, or inactive). The findings suggest the need for monitoring existing removal systems, encouraging developers to move beyond initial invention, funding technological scalability, and further testing collection techniques.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.