Microplastics and Pollutants

Microplastics (MPs) are miniscule plastic fragments formed as a result of the breakdown of larger plastic materials and a variety of consumer products. These minuscule particles, measuring less than 5 mm, may inadvertently enter the respiratory system, potentially causing breathing issues contingent on an individual’s susceptibility and the nature of the plastic involved. We, the consumers, unwisely discard old (and unused) plastics after mere single use, which has now construed to have pose a significant environmental challenge as the materials build up in waterways and landforms. Adding to the above, improper disposal of tons of plastic wastes poses a huge threat to humans, animals, and the environment as well. Plastics break into microns and accumulate, raising concerns about environmental and human harm. As a consequence, plastics impact daily life, from technology to healthcare, yet their single-use disposal harms ecosystems. While there is ample research on environmental effects, only limited study exists on their impact within human bodies. Consequently, this chapter discusses sources, entry, effects, and associated hazards of these micro-/nanoplastics on human and environmental health, along with an effort to offer strategies to prevent or reduce usage of plastics.

This book chapter, which focuses on the underlying mechanisms, offers a thorough description of the photodegradation of plastics and the subsequent creation of microplastics. Plastic photodegradation is recognized as a key mechanism contributing to the production of microplastic particles. Plastic pollution has grown to be a significant environmental hazard.

The concept of photodegradation and its application to plastic materials are introduced at the beginning of the chapter. It investigates the basic mechanisms and procedures involved in the photodegradation of plastics, such as the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the start of chain scission, the impact of environmental conditions, and the generation of oxidative products. The complex interaction of various variables finally aids in the breaking up of plastics into smaller microplastic particles.

The many types of plastics found in the environment and their varying susceptibilities to photodegradation are also covered in this chapter. It sheds light on how various plastics react when exposed to UV radiation by analyzing the impact of polymer structure, chemical composition, and additives on the photodegradation process.

The chapter explores the physical and chemical processes that result in the production of microplastics to comprehend the mechanisms underlying their development during photodegradation. It investigates how mechanical stresses like abrasion and erosion affect the broken-down plastic particles as well as how weathering and environmental factors affect the development of microplastics as a result.

This chapter also discusses the environmental effects of plastic photodegradation and microplastic production. It discusses the dangers and concerns that might be posed by microplastics, including the possibility of toxicity, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification in food webs as well as the ingestion by species.

This chapter seeks to contribute to the creation of solutions for reducing plastic pollution by giving a thorough understanding of the mechanisms underlying the photodegradation of plastics and the ensuing generation of microplastics. Incorporating modifications and additives that increase the durability and UV resistance of plastics stresses the significance of sustainable materials design. Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of efficient waste management procedures to reduce the release of plastic trash into the environment and urges additional studies to produce creative ways for resolving this urgent issue.

Overall, this book chapter is a useful tool for academics, environmental scientists, and decision-makers who want to understand the processes that lead to plastic photodegradation and the consequent creation of microplastics. It provides insights into the intricate mechanisms causing plastic pollution and establishes the foundation for the creation of successful mitigation techniques in the future.

Plastics have become an essential aspect of our modern culture, giving several benefits due to their adaptability and durability. However, given their tenacity and accumulation in ecosystems, they have caused serious environmental consequences. In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in the breakdown of macro-plastics into micro- and nano-forms, which is triggered by numerous elements such as light, water, and heat. For the evaluation of the long-term effects of plastic pollution on ecosystems, it is essential to comprehend the nature of polymers and their vulnerability to degradation. The essential elements impacting the breakdown of macro-plastics and the subsequent creation of micro- and nano-plastics are highlighted in this abstract, which provides a thorough review of the degradation processes.

Macro-plastic deterioration is a complicated process that is impacted by several environmental conditions. The deterioration process is started and accelerated in a substantial way by exposure to sunshine or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. By causing photooxidation, UV light breaks apart polymer chains and creates free radicals. These radicals encourage more deterioration, making macro-plastics brittle and prone to breaking up into smaller pieces.

Additionally, water, both freshwater and saltwater, is essential for the breakdown of macro-plastics. Polymer chains deteriorate as a result of hydrolysis, a chemical process in which chemical bonds are broken in the presence of water. Temperature, pH, and the presence of certain microbes or enzymes can all improve the hydrolytic process. Additionally, macro-plastics can be further broken down into tiny pieces by mechanical forces such as wave action and abrasion against rocks and sediments.

The pace at which macro-plastics degrade is substantially influenced by temperature, both ambient and raised. The mobility of polymer chains is increased, and the degradative processes are sped up at higher temperatures. The fragmentation of macro-plastics can be further accelerated by the synergistic interaction of high temperatures, UV light, and water.

Due to its exceptional qualities, plastic is one of the materials that are most frequently produced and utilised worldwide. Microplastics (MPs), a new class of emerging contaminants, have been produced in our environment as a result of the increased manufacture and consumption of plastic goods. In aquatic ecosystems, MPs (≤5 mm) are a contaminant that ecotoxicologists are becoming more concerned about, both for organism and the ecosystem. The primary ones are produced in the MP size range and remain as such, whereas secondary MPs are produced as a result of the fragmentation of bigger plastic particles, which subsequently penetrate the aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric ecosystems. MPs have a variety of physical-chemical characteristics that make them multifunctional stressors, making it very challenging to understand their effects. Despite the fact that MP contamination is pervasive in air, water, and land, these ecosystems are frequently thought of separately even though they are actually interconnected. There are comparatively fewer researches in India on the emerging problem of MP contamination in every aspect of our environment. Furthermore, there is still much to learn about the effects of MPs on different ecosystems. By evaluating the scientific literature that is currently available, this review article aims to convey current knowledge about MP pollution in India’s aquatic systems, terrestrial systems, atmosphere, and food supply. The cause and the consequences of MPs for various organisms were discussed with available literature. In the end, our report outlines the current issues and makes recommendations for the direction of future investigations into MP pollution. This would make it easier to achieve the objectives of this emergent pollution control.

Despite plastic being an important convenience of contemporary living, microplastic pollution has recently gained international attention. From the deepest oceans to the air we breathe, microplastic particles smaller than 5 mm are present everywhere. Microplastics have been discovered even in the most isolated areas of the planet, such as the arctic and mountainous regions. Their small size, lighter weight, and bulk make them easily dispersible by wind. Even the food and water we consume contain small amounts of plastic. They influence all levels of biological organisation and have been found to have an impact on the living world. Human blood, lung tissue, colon, placenta, stool, and breast milk have all been shown to contain microplastics. But it is still unclear how they affect our health. There is currently a dearth of information on the main additives of concern utilised in the plastic industry, their destiny after microplastics are released into the environment, and their ensuing impact on human health when combined with micro and nanoplastics. The definition of microplastics and their possible impact on human health are examined in this chapter. This chapter also explores the pervasiveness of microplastics in food and associated items. The cause and consequences of microplastics are discussed based on existing information in this field, in an attempt to fulfil the knowledge gaps.

The pervasive presence of microplastics in the environment has sparked growing concerns regarding their potential ecological and health impacts. This chapter presents a comprehensive exploration of the application of infrared spectroscopy as a robust analytical tool for the identification and quantification of microplastics in various environmental matrices. It provides an overview of the significance of addressing the microplastic issue and the pivotal role of infrared spectroscopy in this context. The fundamental principles and instrumentation of infrared spectroscopy identify and characterize microplastics in environmental samples and highlights the utilization of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for distinguishing various plastic polymers. This chapter also addresses the complexities and limitations in quantifying microplastics through infrared spectroscopy, discussing associated challenges, and proposing potential solutions. Furthermore, it offers an extensive review of existing research in the field, showcasing advancements and methodologies employed for the measurement and detection of microplastics using IR spectroscopy. In conclusion, the chapter outlines prospects and advancements in the detection of microplastics through infrared spectroscopy, emphasizing the critical role of this analytical approach in addressing the global issue of microplastic pollution. This chapter serves as an invaluable resource for researchers, environmental scientists, and policymakers seeking a deeper understanding of and effective solutions for the microplastic pollution problem.

Microplastics remain already ubiquitous in water environments, interacting and acting as vectors of several contaminants, including endocrine disrupting compounds. Consequently, it is essential to understand the interaction mechanisms between contaminants and microplastics and know possible factors that can influence this process. This study evaluated estriol (E3) sorption on pristine and degraded polyamide microplastics under the absence and presence of organic matter. The photodegradation process caused changes in the hydrophobicity of the microplastics, while the surface area and crystallinity remained unchanged over the exposure time. The data showed that E3 sorption is influenced by particle degradation due to the insertion of oxygenated groups on the polymer structural. In addition, the presence of organic matter has been shown to affect the sorption of E3 negatively. On the other hand, the kinetics showed that the process occurs in a few steps, and the sorption proportion of transfer of E3 molecules from the liquid to the solid phase is greater than the process of intraparticle diffusion. Hydrophobic interactions have been shown to play an essential role in the sorption process in pristine and degraded microplastics. At the same time, hydrogen bonds and linkages of organic matter and contaminants to the particles across bridges have also been recommended. The data demonstrate that organic matter can significantly affect the transport and sorption of E3 in the water environment and represent a risk to these ecosystems.

An emerging concern for the environment, especially marine systems, is microplastics; these plastics with a micro or nano size interact with their environment causing terrible damages; algae are the first barrier encountered by microplastics; this induces a double impact: in one side algae can transform microplastics and reduce their pollution impact, and in another side microplastics can affect algae population but most importantly can induce changes in their composition and the quality of the nutrient and active ingredients produced by algae; these changes are drastic but could be in each way negative or positive.

This review will highlight the effects of microplastic pollution on algae population, nutraceutical, and active ingredients content; the different classes of algae will be defined and their content and effect presented to be able to make the connection between the presence of microplastics in algae environment and the quality and quantity of their content of nutrients and active ingredients.

Plastic pollution is an emerging global concern. The rise in use and lack of better recycling management of plastic result in its accumulation in water bodies and lands and hence also affects the organisms at each trophic level. The long-term persistence of plastics in the ecosystem results in the degradation and leaching of plastics, resulting in the formation of microplastics with a size range of micrometers. Microalgae produce more than half the amount of oxygen. Understanding the interaction between microplastics and microalgae is important for understanding the build-up and aggregation of microplastics in larger living organisms at the grassroots level. Microplastics and microalgae affect each other’s properties. In the present chapter, our primary objective is to impart knowledge pertaining to the genesis of microplastics, a novel concept of epimicroplastic algae, the colonization of microplastics by microalgae, the detrimental effects of microplastics on microalgae, the bioavailability of microplastics, and how microplastics persist in the ecosystem and are transferred to higher organisms.

Plastic global production increased from 1.7 million tons in the 1950s to 335 million tons in 2016, and trends based on production, demographics, and consumer use patterns suggest an increase in plastic use in the future. East Asia contributes significantly to the accumulation of microplastics in marine environments due to its rapid industrialization, urbanization, and dense population. Research in this region has associated microplastics with environmental, ecological, and human health impacts. Albeit this existing research, it is vital to review the regional and species differences in microplastics (MPs) biocontamination reagents and discuss handling MPs separation with a focus on organisms. Highlighting these methodological issues as the research progresses can provide a better understanding to overcome these challenges in the region. It is also essential to discuss the regulatory landscape and mitigation strategies implemented and discuss future directions in MPs research. Addressing MPs environmental and ecological impacts in East Asia will require a multifaceted approach. It involves strengthening of regional research on the mechanisms, monitoring, prevention, and control of plastic waste and MPs pollution in marine environments and assessing their ecological and environmental impact and risks to human health. In order to do this, international and regional cooperation is needed, as well as the involvement of governments, non-government organizations, industries, academia, and society.

There is a growing fascination with electrochemical sensors designed for detecting microplastics and/or nanoplastics (MPs/NPs). Among the various methods available, the electrochemical approach stands out for its numerous advantages. These advantages include potential energy efficiency, monitoring, and diagnostic capabilities, low-temperature and low-pressure operation, versatility, scalability, selectivity, and environmental friendliness. In particular, the focus is on exploring changes in electrochemical properties to study the interaction between MPs and electrodes. This chapter briefly explains MPs contamination with its impact and discusses the MPs detection with electrochemical techniques. Several recent examples of such techniques are presented, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in combination with flow cytometry, chronoamperometry, and voltammetry. Finally, this chapter extensively explores the existing challenges encountered in electrochemical sensing of MPs in diverse environmental samples. It also highlights the potential opportunities in this field, paving the way for further advancements in the identification and monitoring of MPs/NPs in our environment. The goal is to enhance our understanding and ability to detect these harmful pollutants effectively.

There is a growing concern about how microplastics could harm human health and ecosystems. The ability of microplastics to transport hydrophobic organic contaminants is well recognized. The potential for hydrophilic compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, to be adsorbed onto plastic substrates has been demonstrated by a recent study on these chemicals. Due to their extensive use, these substances are now pervasively in the environment and coexist with microplastics. Particular matrices’ physical and chemical characteristics control how plastics and pharmaceuticals are distributed and what happens when vectors transport them. This chapter’s objectives were to summarize and assess the various microplastic-pharmaceutical interactions and factors that affect the fate and mobility of hydrophilic chemicals, such as medications and personal care products (PPCPs), as well as their adsorption on microplastic surfaces. Kinetic microplastic investigations that have mostly focused on antibiotics have drawn some attention to a number of PPCP compounds, including steroidal hormones, antibacterial treatments, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The chapter also examines ecological factors that impact medicines, such as the sorption of PPCPs onto microplastics, such as pH, salinity, and dissolved organics. The ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics absorbed by PPCP on ecosystems and human health are also being investigated.

The environment is expected to be contaminated with more microfibres as plastic-based personal protective equipment gains importance among general population, as observed during COVID-19 pandemic. Because of human activity, microfibres are released into the environment and stay there. Their capacity to absorb and transport harmful substances, ease of incorporation into living beings’ cells, and interference with physiological processes all pose potential dangers to the environment, especially to aquatic animals and human health. This investigation looks at the origins and pathways by which microfibers enter the aquatic environment, their destiny and behaviour, and their effects on aquatic organisms. It’s important to note that, despite the fact that the aquatic environment is significantly contaminated by microplastics, research on the issue is limited. In addition, nothing is known about microfibres in aquatic systems. In addition, nothing is known about microfibres in aquatic systems. Knowledge gaps will be revealed by a review of this chapter: (i) the ecological fate of microfibers; (ii) carrying out toxicological research in environmentally appropriate settings; (iii) analysing biota toxicity processes and creating mitigation plans to safeguard human health; and (iv) looking into contaminants conveyed by microfibers. Additionally, governmental actions and circular economy policies may aid in lowering microfibre contamination.