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Related Concept Videos

Plastic Deformations01:19

Plastic Deformations

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Plastic deformation represents a fundamental concept in materials science, which explains the irreversible change in the shape of a material when it experiences stress beyond its elastic capability. This phenomenon is important in structural engineering, especially in designing and analyzing cantilever beams—structures that are securely fixed at one end and bear loads at the opposite end. When these beams are subjected to loads within their elastic range, they will return to their...
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A material's elastic behavior is characterized by the disappearance of stress once the load is removed, allowing the material to return to its original state. However, when stress surpasses the yield point, yielding commences, marking the onset of plastic deformation or permanent set. This change from elastic to plastic behavior is influenced by the peak stress value and the duration before the load is removed. An intriguing observation occurs when a specimen is loaded, unloaded, and...
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Plasticity is the property where an object loses its elasticity and undergoes irreversible deformation, even after the deformation forces are eliminated. If a material deforms irreversibly without increasing stress or load, then this is called ideal plasticity. For example, when a force is applied to an aluminum rod, it changes its shape, but it does not return to its original shape once the force is removed. Plastic deformation or ductility is thus a permanent deformation or change in the...
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Carbon is the basis of all organic matter on Earth, and is recycled through the ecosystem in two primary processes: one in which carbon is exchanged among living organisms, and one in which carbon is cycled over long periods of time through fossilized organic remains, weathering of rocks, and volcanic activity. Human activities, including increased agricultural practices and the burning of fossil fuels, has greatly affected the balance of the natural carbon cycle.
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Separation and Identification of Conventional Microplastics from Farmland Soils
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A geological perspective of plastic pollution.

Nelson Rangel-Buitrago1, William J Neal2

  • 1Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.

The Science of the Total Environment
|June 18, 2023
PubMed
Summary

Plastic pollution is a key indicator of the Anthropocene, humanity's impact on Earth. Understanding the "Plastic Geological Cycle" is crucial for addressing this pervasive environmental threat and ensuring a sustainable future.

Keywords:
AnthropoceneLitterPlastic Geological CyclePlasticenePlastics

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Area of Science:

  • Geology
  • Environmental Science
  • Anthropocene Studies

Background:

  • The Anthropocene, a proposed geologic time division, signifies significant human impact on Earth's systems.
  • Key markers include the Great Acceleration Event Array (GAEA) and widespread pollutants like plastics.
  • Plastic pollution is a pervasive global concern, necessitating its study within the geological record.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight plastic pollution as a defining characteristic of the Anthropocene.
  • To introduce and explain the
  • Plastic Geological Cycle
  • and its role in the geologic record.
  • To advocate for public awareness and urgent action regarding plastic pollution.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of plastic production, use, and disposal data.
  • Examination of plastic degradation and fragmentation processes.
  • Study of plastic incorporation into sedimentary processes and rock formation.

Main Results:

  • Plastics are pervasive environmental pollutants and serve as a significant marker for the Anthropocene Epoch.
  • The
  • Plastic Geological Cycle
  • details the transformation of plastics into geological markers.
  • Over 91% of discarded plastics are not recycled, leading to environmental accumulation and geological incorporation.

Conclusions:

  • The proposed
  • Plasticene
  • stage within the Anthropocene is characterized by post-WWII plastic proliferation.
  • Studying plastics in the geologic record serves as a critical warning of their negative impacts.
  • Addressing plastic pollution is urgent for achieving a sustainable future.