Papers

Microplastic pollution in Southern Atlantic marine waters: Review of current trends, sources, and perspectives

This review examines the current state of microplastic pollution research in the Southern Atlantic Ocean, where contamination levels are among the highest found globally. Researchers found that despite the severity of pollution, relatively few studies have been conducted in this region, and there is still no consensus on standardized sampling methods. The study calls for more research on microplastic distribution, chemical interactions, and potential risks to both marine ecosystems and human health.

Keratin nanofiber: sustainable innovation in the nonwoven textile sector to mitigate the generation of microplastic

Biodegradation assessment of polymer-based films by bacterial species in the marine environment and its correlation with microplastic production and toxicity

Researchers tested five polymer-based film materials in marine environments and measured biodegradation, bacterial colonization, and microplastic formation, finding that polymer composition strongly determines both marine biodegradability and the amount of microplastic debris generated during degradation.

Plastic pellets make Excirolana armata more aggressive: Intraspecific interactions and isopod mortality differences between populations

Exposure to plastic pellet leachates made the intertidal isopod Excirolana armata significantly more aggressive in intraspecific interactions, suggesting that chemical contamination from microplastics can alter animal behavior and potentially affect population dynamics.

Microplastic contamination in marine sediment from different regions of the Blue Amazon, Bahia, Brazil

Emerging contaminants – general aspects: sources, substances involved, and quantification

This review covers a range of emerging environmental contaminants — including microplastics in water bodies, pharmaceuticals, illicit drugs, and medical-use metals — discussing their sources, harmful effects, and detection methods. It provides useful context for understanding how microplastics fit into the broader landscape of modern chemical pollution threatening human and ecosystem health.

Adsorption rates of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in plastic pellets from marine water in laboratory simulations

Investigation of Phosphonic Acids Based on Raman and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

Researchers investigated phosphonic acid compounds, including ATMP and DTPMP widely used in water treatment and scale control, using Raman spectroscopy and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to characterize their molecular properties and support environmental monitoring of these emerging contaminants.

Effect of Virgin PP Substitution with Recycled Plastic Caps in the Manufacture of a Product for the Telephony Sector

Researchers evaluated partial and total substitution of virgin polypropylene with recycled plastic cap material for manufacturing telephone industry signage labels, finding via life cycle assessment that using recycled PP flakes achieved up to 81% improvement in the global environmental indicator compared to fossil-derived polymer.