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Degradation mechanism of microplastics and potential risks during sewage sludge co-composting: A comprehensive review
Xinwei Sun1, A N Anoopkumar2, Aravind Madhavan3
1College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712 100, China.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) as a kind of emerging contaminants, widely exists in various kinds of medium, sewage sludge (SS) is no exception. In the sewage treatment process, a large number of microplastics will be deposited in SS. More seriously, microplastics in sewage sludge can migrate to other environmental media and threaten human health. Therefore, it is necessary to remove MPs from SS. Among the various restorations, aerobic composting is emerging as a green microplastic removal method. There are more and more reports of using aerobic compost to degrade microplastics. However, there are few reports on the degradation mechanism of MPs in aerobic composting, hindering the innovation of aerobic composting methods. Therefore, in this paper, the degradation mechanism of MPs in SS is discussed based on the environmental factors such as physical, chemical and biological factors in the composting process. In addition, this paper expounds the MPs in potential hazards, and combined with the problems in the present study were studied the outlook.
Insights
Aerobic composting offers a green method to remove microplastics (MPs) from sewage sludge (SS). This study explores the degradation mechanisms of MPs during aerobic composting, addressing environmental factors and potential hazards.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive emerging contaminants found in various environmental media, including sewage sludge (SS).
- MPs accumulate in SS during wastewater treatment, posing risks of migration to other environmental compartments and threatening human health.
- Effective removal of MPs from SS is crucial for environmental protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the degradation mechanism of microplastics (MPs) in sewage sludge (SS) during aerobic composting.
- To elucidate the influence of physical, chemical, and biological factors on MP degradation in aerobic composting systems.
- To discuss the potential hazards associated with MPs and identify future research directions for improved aerobic composting methods.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on microplastic degradation during aerobic composting.
- Analysis of physical, chemical, and biological factors influencing microplastic breakdown in sewage sludge.
- Examination of potential environmental and health risks posed by microplastics in sewage sludge.
Main Results:
- Aerobic composting is identified as a promising green technology for microplastic removal from sewage sludge.
- Key environmental factors (physical, chemical, biological) influencing microplastic degradation pathways are discussed.
- Potential hazards of microplastics in sewage sludge and their environmental implications are highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the degradation mechanisms of microplastics in aerobic composting is essential for optimizing this technology.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions governing microplastic breakdown and to mitigate associated risks.
- Aerobic composting holds potential as a sustainable solution for managing microplastic-contaminated sewage sludge.
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