Chemical methods to remove microplastics from wastewater: A review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Water Treatment Engineering
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) are a pervasive environmental pollutant found in various water sources.
• Research has extensively covered MP origins, detection, and ecotoxicity, but removal strategies are under-explored.
• Wastewater treatment systems are critical points for addressing MP contamination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze chemical approaches for microplastic removal in wastewater.
• To systematically explore coagulation precipitation, electrocoagulation, and advanced oxidation methods.
• To provide a comparative analysis of these MP removal techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of chemical mitigation strategies for microplastics.
• Systematic exploration of coagulation precipitation mechanisms and operations.
• Analysis of electrocoagulation processes and their effectiveness.
• Examination of advanced oxidation methods for MP degradation and removal.

Main Results:

• Coagulation precipitation, electrocoagulation, and advanced oxidation show potential for MP removal.
• Each method has distinct mechanisms, operational dynamics, strengths, and limitations.
• Comparative analysis highlights varying efficiencies and applicability in wastewater treatment.

Conclusions:

• This review consolidates knowledge on chemical MP removal techniques.
• Findings contribute to the theoretical basis for microplastic elimination from wastewater.
• Identifies future research needs and potential challenges in MP mitigation strategies.