Microplastic Contamination in Soils: A Review from Geotechnical Engineering View

Area of Science:

• Geotechnical Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Soil Science

Background:

• Microplastic contamination is a pervasive global issue affecting ecosystems and health.
• Existing research primarily focuses on environmental, chemical, agricultural, and health impacts of microplastics in soils.
• A geotechnical engineering perspective on microplastic contamination in soils is currently lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the degradation, existence, and persistence of microplastics in soils.
• To assess the role of geotechnical structures, like landfills, as sources of microplastic contamination.
• To explore other geotechnical applications as potential local microplastic sources.
• To emphasize geotechnical engineering's role in microplastic mitigation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on microplastics in soils.
• Analysis of geotechnical designs of solid waste disposal facilities.
• Discussion of microplastic migration risks from landfills.
• Identification of other geotechnical engineering applications as potential microplastic sources.

Main Results:

• Microplastics degrade, exist, and persist in soils through various physical and biochemical processes.
• Landfills, due to their geotechnical design, are significant contributors to soil microplastic contamination.
• Other geotechnical applications, such as soil improvement with tire chips or synthetic fibers, also represent potential microplastic sources.
• Geotechnical engineering principles are vital for understanding microplastic behavior and developing mitigation strategies.

Conclusions:

• Geotechnical engineering offers a critical lens for studying microplastic contamination in soils.
• Landfills and other geotechnical applications require careful consideration regarding their contribution to microplastic pollution.
• Further research integrating geotechnical engineering is essential for effective microplastic mitigation and management.