Catalytic approaches for the removal of microplastics from water: Recent advances and future opportunities

MIRANDA ZOPPAS, FERNANDA; SACCO, NICOLÁS; SOFFIETTI, JESICA; DEVARD, ALEJANDRA; AKHTER, FAHEEM; MARCHESINI, FERNANDA ALBANA

Chemical Engineering Journal Advances

Elsevier

Año: 2023 vol. 16 p. 1 - 11

2666-8211

Microplastics, which are small plastic particles, have become a growing environmental concern due to theirprevalence in aquatic and terrestrial environments. They persist for decades and potentially centuries due to theirresistance to degradation and can harm organisms and release toxic chemicals. There has been increasing interestin developing methods for their removal from the environment, particularly from water. Catalytic processes haveshown promise as a potential method for microplastic elimination, including biological methods, advancedoxidation processes, and hydrolysis. This review article focuses on recent advances in catalytic processes for theremoval of microplastics from water, including various types of catalysts and their applications. It also discussesthe potential for catalytic processes to be integrated into real-world water treatment systems for the removal ofmicroplastics. The review highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with the removal of microplastics from the environment and aims to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainablemethods for addressing this growing environmental issue. Future research should focus on developing hybridcatalyst systems that combine the strengths of multiple processes for improved efficiency and effectiveness.Additionally, research should explore the use of natural materials and biological processes for microplasticelimination, which may offer more sustainable and environmentally friendly options. Collaboration betweenscientists, engineers, policymakers, and the public will be critical for the development and implementation ofthese systems. The elimination of microplastics from the environment requires a multifaceted approach, andcontinued research and collaboration are necessary to develop effective and sustainable methods for theirremoval and to protect the health of our environment and communities.