Wastewater as a potential source of microplastics in aquatic environments

Tanveer Adyel

Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstract

Abstract

Rapid increasing production and utilization of microplastics (MPs) raise concerns about environmental risks globally. Literature indicates that wastewater and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) play critical sources in releasing MPs to the environment. Among different MPs, microbeads added into the facial cleanser, and toothpaste can be directly discharged into wastewater through human activities. Synthetic clothing, i.e., polyester (PES) and nylon, might shed thousands of fibers into wastewater during the washing process. WWTPs are not designed to capture MPs, and therefore, a huge amount of MPs load can be discharged without or poor treatment, and can accumulate in aquatic environments. This work shows a comprehensive overview of available information on the presence of MPs in different freshwater environments, particularly rivers, along with MPs types, sizes, shapes, and properties. Moreover, the study also indicates significant technical advancement in MPs detection, characterization, and quantification from the complex sample matrix.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020
EventEGU General Assembly 2020 - Vienna, Austria
Duration: 4 May 20208 May 2020
https://www.egu2020.eu/

Conference

ConferenceEGU General Assembly 2020
Abbreviated titleEGU2020
Country/TerritoryAustria
CityVienna
Period4/05/208/05/20
Internet address

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