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Reciprocal Effects of the Ingested Environmental Pollutants, Arsenic and Boscalid, and Polystyrene Micro-nanoplastics on Their Intestinal Absorption in an In Vitro Triculture Small Intestinal Epithelium Model
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Metal Organic Framework (MOFs) for Adsorption and Degradation of Microplastics
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Evaluating the Environmental Factors on Microplastic Generation: An Accelerated Weathering Study
Journal Description
Microplastics
Microplastics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on the science and technology of primary and secondary microplastics published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus, EBSCO, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Environmental Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Environmental Science (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 34.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review and reviewer names are published annually in the journal.
- Journal Cluster of Polymer and Macromolecular Science: Polymers, Gels, Polysaccharides, Textiles, Macromol, Microplastics and Adhesives.
Impact Factor:
5.1 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.2 (2024)
Latest Articles
Microplastic Pollution in China’s Aquatic Systems: Spatial Distribution, Transport Pathways, and Controlling Strategies
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030041 - 3 Jul 2025
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Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a critical environmental challenge in China’s aquatic ecosystems, driven by rapid industrialization and population growth. This review synthesizes recent findings on the abundance, morphology, and polymer types of MPs in China’s freshwater systems (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) and coastal
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Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a critical environmental challenge in China’s aquatic ecosystems, driven by rapid industrialization and population growth. This review synthesizes recent findings on the abundance, morphology, and polymer types of MPs in China’s freshwater systems (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) and coastal marine environments. Spatial analysis reveals significant variability in MP abundance, ranging from 0.1 items/L in Tibet’s Lalu Wetland to 30.8 items/L in Beijing’s Qinghe River, with polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) dominating polymer profiles. Coastal regions exhibit distinct contamination patterns, with the Yellow Sea (5.3 ± 2.0 items/L) and the South China Sea (180 ± 80 items/m3) showing the highest MP loads, primarily as fibers and fragments. Fluvial transport, atmospheric deposition, and coastal anthropogenic activities (e.g., fisheries, tourism) are identified as major pathways for marine MP influx. Secondary MPs from degraded plastics and primary MPs from industrial/domestic effluents pose synergistic risks through the adsorption of heavy metals and organic pollutants. Human exposure routes—ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact—are linked to inflammatory, metabolic, and carcinogenic health outcomes. Policy interventions, including bans on microbeads and non-degradable plastics, demonstrate progress in pollution mitigation. This work underscores the urgency of integrated source control, advanced wastewater treatment, and transboundary monitoring to address MP contamination in aquatic ecosystems.
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Open AccessArticle
Plastic Pollution of the Tennessee River: Comparing Risk Perceptions and Preferred Policy Solutions Between Stakeholders and the Public
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Scott Greeves, Rachel McGovern and Michael McKinney
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030040 - 3 Jul 2025
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(1) Background: Plastic and microplastic pollution in freshwater systems has emerged as a significant environmental and human health concern, yet limited research has explored how affected communities perceive these risks and support related policy interventions. This study addresses this gap by comparing the
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(1) Background: Plastic and microplastic pollution in freshwater systems has emerged as a significant environmental and human health concern, yet limited research has explored how affected communities perceive these risks and support related policy interventions. This study addresses this gap by comparing the perceptions of pollution risk and preferred policy responses among stakeholders and the general public associated with the Tennessee River—one of the most plastic-polluted rivers globally. (2) Methods: Using an online survey, we collected data from 419 public respondents and 45 local stakeholders. Participants assessed perceived environmental and human health risks posed by six common pollutants and expressed support for a range of policy solutions. (3) Results: Results indicate that the public consistently perceives higher risks from pollutants than stakeholders, particularly for plastics, E. coli, and heavy metals. Surprisingly, stakeholders demonstrated significantly stronger support for regulatory policy interventions than the public, despite perceiving lower levels of pollution risk. Importantly, perceived harm from microplastics emerged as the most consistent predictor of policy support across all policy types. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that risk perceptions, particularly regarding microplastics, play a critical role in shaping policy preferences and highlight the importance of stakeholder engagement in designing effective freshwater pollution mitigation strategies.
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Open AccessReview
Research Progress on Source Analysis, Ecological Effects, and Separation Technology of Soil Microplastics
by
Kuan Chang, Yong Ma and Yulai Han
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030039 - 2 Jul 2025
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Soil microplastic pollution poses a significant threat to the integrity of terrestrial ecosystems and agricultural sustainability. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent progress on soil microplastic (MP) sources, ecological impacts, and separation technologies. Agricultural practices (e.g., residual plastic mulch and wastewater
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Soil microplastic pollution poses a significant threat to the integrity of terrestrial ecosystems and agricultural sustainability. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent progress on soil microplastic (MP) sources, ecological impacts, and separation technologies. Agricultural practices (e.g., residual plastic mulch and wastewater irrigation) and atmospheric deposition serve as primary drivers of contamination accumulation, with pronounced spatial heterogeneity observed across regions. Predominant MP types such as polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene disrupt soil structure and biogeochemical processes through three core mechanisms: physical interference, chemical toxicity, and biological accumulation. These particles further form carrier–pollutant complexes, exacerbating ecotoxicological impacts across trophic levels. While emerging separation techniques like magnetic separation and solvent extraction demonstrate enhanced efficiency, their implementation faces challenges stemming from soil matrix complexity and high operational costs. This article underscores the need for global collaborative efforts to accelerate innovation in biodegradable polymers, offering practical pathways for sustainable soil management.
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Open AccessReview
The Individual and Combined Effects of Microplastics and Heavy Metals on Marine Organisms
by
Arti Devi, Y. Sanath K. De Silva, Lavista Tyagi and Aaryashree
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030038 - 1 Jul 2025
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Microplastics (MP) have recently become an emerging problem with the advent of bountiful and widespread pollutants in the aquatic environment. Owing to their large surface areas, microplastics act as an effective carrier of heavy metals and tend to form complex contamination. This combined
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Microplastics (MP) have recently become an emerging problem with the advent of bountiful and widespread pollutants in the aquatic environment. Owing to their large surface areas, microplastics act as an effective carrier of heavy metals and tend to form complex contamination. This combined pollution created by them poses a new threat to the world. This review summarizes the effects of microplastics and heavy metals on the aquatic fauna, along with their combined adverse effects and potential threats to human health. Furthermore, the adsorption kinetics adopted by microplastics to adsorb the heavy metal is also explained and some future research directions in this field are suggested.
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Open AccessArticle
Cross-Shore Microplastic Accumulation on Sri Lanka’s West Coast One Year After the Catastrophic X-Press Pearl Pollution Event
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Paula Masiá Lillo, Susantha Udagedara, Ross Williamson and Daniel Gorman
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030037 - 1 Jul 2025
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Understanding how marine debris accumulates within coastal ecosystems is a crucial aspect of predicting its long-term environmental and biological consequences. The release and subsequent dispersion of 50 billion microplastic pellets from the fire and subsequent sinking of the container ship X-Press Pearl along
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Understanding how marine debris accumulates within coastal ecosystems is a crucial aspect of predicting its long-term environmental and biological consequences. The release and subsequent dispersion of 50 billion microplastic pellets from the fire and subsequent sinking of the container ship X-Press Pearl along the western coast of Sri Lanka in 2021 provides an important case study. Here, we present a three-dimensional assessment of pellet accumulation (number density) along affected beaches and compare this with other common microplastic particles one year following the incident. Surveys confirmed that pellets were still widely present in the surface sediments of ocean beaches, with some locations returning average densities of 588 pellets m2 (very high according to the global Pellet Pollution Index [PPI]). Profiling deeper into beach sediments showed pellets were present to depths of 30 cm; however, most were restricted to the top 10 cm. Our observations of persistent pellet contamination of beaches along Sri Lanka’s west coast emphasize the need for continued monitoring of these types of events to assess the magnitude and persistence of risks to the environment, wildlife, and human well-being.
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Open AccessArticle
Efficient Filtration Systems for Microplastic Elimination in Wastewater
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Jamal Sarsour, Benjamin Ewert, Bernd Janisch, Thomas Stegmaier and Götz T. Gresser
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030036 - 30 Jun 2025
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This study presents the development of a textile-based cascade filter for the removal of microplastics from an industrial laundry effluent. The cascade microfilter consists of three stages of 3D textile sandwich composite filter media, which have successively finer pores and are aimed at
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This study presents the development of a textile-based cascade filter for the removal of microplastics from an industrial laundry effluent. The cascade microfilter consists of three stages of 3D textile sandwich composite filter media, which have successively finer pores and are aimed at filtering microplastic particles down to 1.5 µm. Polypropylene fabrics with pore sizes of 100, 50 and 20 µm and 3D warp-knitted fabrics with high porosity (96%) were used. Filtration tests were carried out with polyethylene model microplastic particles at a concentration of 167 mg/L. To regenerate the filter and restore its filtration performance, backwashing with filtered water and compressed air was applied. Field trials at an industrial laundry facility and a municipal wastewater treatment plant confirmed high removal efficiencies. The 3D textile sandwich structure promotes filter cake formation, allowing extended backwash intervals and the effective recovery of filtration capacity between 89.7% and 98.5%. The innovative use of 3D textile composites enables a high level of microplastic removal while extending the filter media lifetime. This makes a significant contribution to the reduction in microplastic emissions in the aquatic environment. The system is scalable, space and cost efficient and adaptable to various industrial applications and is thus a promising solution for advanced wastewater treatment.
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Open AccessReview
Global Research Trends in Photocatalytic Degradation of Microplastics: A Bibliometric Perspective
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Robert O. Gembo, Zebron Phiri, Lawrence M. Madikizela, Ilunga Kamika, Lueta-Ann de Kock and Titus A. M. Msagati
Microplastics 2025, 4(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4030035 - 21 Jun 2025
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Microplastics have emerged as pervasive contaminants in various ecosystems, raising considerable concerns regarding their impact on environmental health and public safety. The degradation of microplastics is thus recognized as a pressing global challenge. Photocatalytic degradation has emerged as a promising approach due to
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Microplastics have emerged as pervasive contaminants in various ecosystems, raising considerable concerns regarding their impact on environmental health and public safety. The degradation of microplastics is thus recognized as a pressing global challenge. Photocatalytic degradation has emerged as a promising approach due to its potential for efficiency and environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, there remains a need to investigate emerging trends and advancements to understand and fully optimize this technique. Consequently, PRISMA guidelines were employed to define the search parameters, enable the identification of pertinent scholarly articles, and systematically gather bibliographic data from the published literature from 2005 to October 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 204 research articles derived from merged Scopus and Web of Science datasets was conducted to map the field’s research landscape. The analysis showed a robust annual publication growth rate of 17.94%, with leading contributions from China, India, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Keyword analysis revealed that the commonly applied photocatalysts are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in the photocatalytic degradation of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, high-density polyethylene, and low-density polyethylene. Advances in collaboration across Asia and Europe have bolstered the research landscape. However, challenges persist in achieving cost-effective scalability, ensuring the safety of degradation byproducts, and translating laboratory findings into real-world applications. Emerging trends include the development of visible-light-responsive catalysts, advanced nanocomposites, and sustainable photocatalytic technologies. This study underscores the utility of bibliometric tools in identifying knowledge gaps and guiding the development of innovative approaches for microplastic degradation as part of environmental remediation efforts.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Airborne Particle Concentrations in Textile Industry Environments Throughout the Workday
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Emilia Visileanu, Korinna Altmann, Raluca Stepa, Maria Haiducu, Paul Tiberiu Miclea, Alina Vladu, Felicia Dondea, Marian Catalin Grosu and Razvan Scarlat
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020034 - 18 Jun 2025
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This paper addresses the growing concern surrounding microplastic pollution, particularly within the textile industry, and the associated potential health risks linked to the inhalation and ingestion of microplastic particles. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, are increasingly found not only
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This paper addresses the growing concern surrounding microplastic pollution, particularly within the textile industry, and the associated potential health risks linked to the inhalation and ingestion of microplastic particles. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, are increasingly found not only in aquatic environments, but also in soils, air, and food. Although research on the health impacts of microplastics is still emerging, early studies indicate that these particles could contribute to health issues, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. Notably, individuals with higher concentrations of plastics in arterial plaques are more susceptible to heart attacks and strokes. In the textile industry, synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic release microplastics into the air during production. The paper discusses a study conducted in a textile company that processes polyester yarns, where airborne microplastic concentrations were measured at various locations throughout the day. Particle sizes ranging from 0.3 nm to 10 nm were analyzed, revealing the presence of polyester polymers in the particulate matter. These findings underscore the widespread nature of microplastic pollution, particularly in industrial settings, and raise concerns about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to airborne microplastics. While further research is necessary to fully understand the extent of these health impacts, preliminary data suggest a troubling link between microplastic inhalation and cardiovascular conditions.
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Open AccessArticle
Regulation of Oxidative Stress-Related Signaling Pathways in Tetrahymena pyriformis Exposed to Micro- and Nanoplastics
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Thavamani Rajapandi, Adewale Adeleke and Mintesinot Jiru
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020033 - 12 Jun 2025
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Micro and nanoplastics, pervasive environmental pollutants, pose significant threats to ecosystems and human health, necessitating urgent research and innovative solutions. Several research groups have investigated the uptake of synthetic microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) using various model organisms. We investigated the uptake and
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Micro and nanoplastics, pervasive environmental pollutants, pose significant threats to ecosystems and human health, necessitating urgent research and innovative solutions. Several research groups have investigated the uptake of synthetic microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) using various model organisms. We investigated the uptake and the growth inhibitory effect of polystyrene (PS) and polymethacrylate (PMA)-based MPs and NPs in Tetrahymena pyriformis. Carboxyl-modified PS-MPs showed a greater growth inhibitory effect than amine-modified PS-MPs and PMA-based MPs. We also studied the impact of these particles on the transcriptomics of T. pyriformis and observed that PS-MPs directly impact various signaling pathways related to oxidative stress. PMA-based MPs showed differential expressions of signaling pathways related to cancer and some related to oxidative stress. Using a fluorescent probe, we measured the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by carboxyl-modified PS-MPs and PMA-MPs and observed that PS-MPs generated greater ROS than PMA-MPs. This study suggests that it is important to understand the type and the nature of chemical modification of various MPs and the specific signaling pathways in particular oxidative-related pathways they target on diverse groups of organisms, as this will provide key information related to the effect of various modified MPs and NPs on human health.
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Contaminants of Emerging Concern on Microplastics Found in the Chrysaora chesapeakei of the Patuxent River, Chesapeake Bay, MD
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Carol A. Smith, Natalie Drichko, Miranda Lorenzo and Saroj Pramanik
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020032 - 11 Jun 2025
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Previously, we reported that microplastic volatile organic compounds are present within the Chrysaora chesapeakei of Chesapeake Bay, MD. In this study, we report the presence of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) on the hydrophobic surface of microplastic (MP) particles extracted from the C.
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Previously, we reported that microplastic volatile organic compounds are present within the Chrysaora chesapeakei of Chesapeake Bay, MD. In this study, we report the presence of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) on the hydrophobic surface of microplastic (MP) particles extracted from the C. chesapeakei, detected by Raman spectroscopy and identified by Wiley’s KnowItAll Software with IR & Raman Spectral Libraries. C. chesapeakei encounters various microplastics and emerging contaminants as it floats through the depths of the Patuxent River water column. This study identifies subsuming CECs found directly on microplastics from within C. chesapeakei in the wild using Raman spectroscopy. Among the extracted microplastics, some of the emerging contaminants found on the different microplastics were pesticides, pharmaceuticals, minerals, food derivatives, wastewater treatment chemicals, hormones, and recreational drugs. Our results represent the first of such findings in C. chesapeakei, obtained directly from the field, and indicate C. chesapeakei’s relationship with microplastics, with this species serving as a vector of emerging contaminants through the marine food web. This paper further illustrates a relationship between different types of plastics that attract dissimilar types of emerging pollutants in the same surrounding environmental conditions, underscoring the urgent need for further research to fully understand and mitigate the risks that MPs coexist with contaminants.
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Open AccessArticle
Risk Assessment and Spatiotemporal Variation of Microplastic Concentration, Size, and Polymer Type in Mayotte Lagoon’s Surface Water (Comoros Archipelagos)
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Emilie Strady, Johnny Gaspéri, Damien Devault, Marc Pagano, Ngoc Nam Phuong, Sophie Ricordel, Clément Lelabousse, Mathieu Leborgne and Cristèle Chevalier
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020031 - 6 Jun 2025
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The concentration of microplastics [300–5000 µm] in the surface water of the Mayotte lagoon, Western Indian Ocean, was measured over two snapshot campaigns conducted during the dry and rainy seasons. The concentration in the surface water varied from 0.01 MP m−3 to
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The concentration of microplastics [300–5000 µm] in the surface water of the Mayotte lagoon, Western Indian Ocean, was measured over two snapshot campaigns conducted during the dry and rainy seasons. The concentration in the surface water varied from 0.01 MP m−3 to 1.23 MP m−3 and was higher during the rainy season. All particles were analyzed via µFTIR, enabling systematic polymer and surface area determination. Polypropylene dominated over polyethylene and polystyrene, representing 70% of the microplastic particles observed. The microplastics, which were predominantly in the [0.3–1000 µm] fraction, presented a similar seasonal trend of distribution with respect to their occurrence, suggesting that turbulence and the subsequent settling of microplastics in the lagoon’s surface water were identical during the two campaigns. PCA was performed to deconvolute the effects of season and hydrodynamic features on the observed surface water concentrations and median size distribution. It evidenced a high degree of disparity in concentration and median area in surface water during the rainy season, while a lower concentration of smaller particles was observed during the end of the dry season. A microplastic risk assessment was performed for the surface water of the lagoon and evidenced a low pollution load index and low to high polymer risk assessment and potential ecological risk indexes.
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Open AccessArticle
Vibratory Sorting for Pumice Removal in Microplastic Analysis of Coastal Sediment
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Yusuke Yonaha, Kei Nakagawa, Ken-ichi Shimizu, Mitsuharu Yagi, Achara Ussawarujikulchai and Hiroshi Asakura
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020030 - 6 Jun 2025
Abstract
Density separation using a wet method is the standard technique for extracting microplastics (MPs) from coastal sediments. However, the 2021 Japanese submarine volcanic eruption introduced substantial pumice into these sediments, complicating the process. Pumice contamination in the floating matter from density separation significantly
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Density separation using a wet method is the standard technique for extracting microplastics (MPs) from coastal sediments. However, the 2021 Japanese submarine volcanic eruption introduced substantial pumice into these sediments, complicating the process. Pumice contamination in the floating matter from density separation significantly increases the workload of visual sorting. Pumice, distinguished by its spherical shape and hardness, exhibits distinct rolling and bouncing behaviors compared to plastic. In this study, we evaluated the sorting efficiency of a vibratory sorter in separating pumice from floating matter, comparing its performance with the existing methods. We analyzed the progressive behavior and the virtual sorting efficiency of single large- and medium-diameter particles using a vibrating plate and the actual sorting efficiency of mixed large-diameter particles. The maximum Newton’s efficiencies (ηmax) for the virtual sorting of single large-diameter pumice and plastic ranged from 0.74 to 1.00, and for medium-diameter particles, from 0.74 to 0.97. Sorting efficiency decreased with finer particles. The ηmax for the actual sorting of mixed large-diameter pumice and plastic was between 0.68 and 1.00, lower than the virtual sorting efficiency. While vibratory sorting, based on Newton’s efficiency, does not replace visual sorting, the time required for vibratory sorting is 21% of that required for visual sorting, making it valuable for estimating approximate MP quantities in coastal sediments. Additionally, this study provides a practical method for beach cleanups.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Paper in Microplastics)
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The Presence of Microplastics in the Genus Oreochromis: A Review
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Dalia G. Mendoza-López, María del Refugio Castañeda-Chávez, Leonardo Martinez-Cardenas, Edna F. Castillo-Marquez and Fabiola Lango-Reynoso
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020029 - 3 Jun 2025
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The increase in the human population has created pressure, due to the high consumption of natural resources, to meet basic needs. Poor waste management resulting from human activities has caused plastics to become pollutants that are present around the planet, including aquatic environments.
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The increase in the human population has created pressure, due to the high consumption of natural resources, to meet basic needs. Poor waste management resulting from human activities has caused plastics to become pollutants that are present around the planet, including aquatic environments. The degradation of plastics through physicochemical processes has resulted in the presence of microplastics (particles < 5 mm), which have been found in species for human consumption and economic importance, including tilapia. In the last decade, research has shown the presence of microplastics in tilapia collected from different water bodies and aquaculture ponds, as well as in fish markets. In addition to this, there are studies that demonstrate that exposure to microplastics can have negative effects on the health of tilapia. The aim of this review is to compile and analyze the available information on microplastic contamination in Oreochromis spp., as well as in their environment, due to their importance as a species for human consumption.
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Open AccessArticle
Microplastic Pollution and Its Physiological Effects on the Top Fish Predator Dentex dentex from the Western Mediterranean
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Amanda Cohen-Sánchez, Antònia Solomando, Montserrat Compa, Antonio Box, Inmaculada Montero, Silvia Tejada, Samuel Pinya, Maria Magdalena Quetglas-Llabrés and Antoni Sureda
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020028 - 22 May 2025
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Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing environmental concern, particularly in marine ecosystems. This study investigated the presence and effects of MPs in the common dentex (Dentex dentex), a commercially and ecologically important species in the Mediterranean Sea. Fish (n = 22)
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Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing environmental concern, particularly in marine ecosystems. This study investigated the presence and effects of MPs in the common dentex (Dentex dentex), a commercially and ecologically important species in the Mediterranean Sea. Fish (n = 22) were collected from Ibiza’s coastal waters (western Mediterranean, Spain), and their gastrointestinal tracts were analysed to determine MP ingestion rates and potential physiological impacts. MPs were detected in 90.9% of the specimens, with an average of 6.6 ± 1.2 MPs per individual. Fibres accounted for 78.9% and fragments for 21.1%. Stress and detoxification biomarkers were assessed by categorizing fish into two groups based on MP load: low (<6 MPs) and high (≥6 MPs). Fish with higher MP loads showed significantly increased detoxification and antioxidant enzyme activities in the digestive tract, while malondialdehyde levels remained similar between groups. No significant differences were observed in liver biomarkers. These findings indicate that MP ingestion triggers physiological responses in D. dentex, activating antioxidant and detoxification defences in the digestive tract. However, the lack of response in the liver suggests that the MP load is not sufficient to induce systemic changes. Further research is needed to assess long-term consequences on fish health and ecosystem sustainability.
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Open AccessArticle
Cross-Sectional Distribution of Microplastics in the Rhine River, Germany—A Mass-Based Approach
by
David Range, Jan Kamp, Georg Dierkes, Thomas Ternes and Thomas Hoffmann
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020027 - 11 May 2025
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The focus in microplastic research has shifted from marine ecosystems towards freshwater ecosystems. Still, most studies are based on small sample numbers, both spatially and temporally. Little is known about the spatiotemporal variability of microplastics (MPs) in large river systems such as the
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The focus in microplastic research has shifted from marine ecosystems towards freshwater ecosystems. Still, most studies are based on small sample numbers, both spatially and temporally. Little is known about the spatiotemporal variability of microplastics (MPs) in large river systems such as the Rhine River, Germany. Within our study, we performed four cross-sectional sampling campaigns at two sites in the Rhine River, at Koblenz and Emmerich, involving depth-distributed sampling over a particle size range from 10 µm to 25 mm. For plastic particle analysis, we used both optical and thermoanalytical approaches to determine mass-based polymer concentrations. Our results show that MP variability within the water column is complex, but mostly follows the particles density: the ratio between superficial MPs concentration and mean concentration of the verticals was >1 for lighter polymers with a density below 1.04 g/cm3 and <1 for polymers with a density above 1.04 g/cm3 among all size classes with only a few exceptions, even though the Rouse theory would indicate a more homogeneous distribution for small particle sizes. Large sampling volumes are essential, particularly for larger MP particles, as the coefficient of variation rises with particle size. At our study sites, no significant lateral variation was apparent, while during a flood event, MP concentrations were significantly higher than during low and mean water stages. This study is the first to (i) gain insights into cross-sectional MPs distribution in the Rhine River and (ii) account for particle mass concentrations, and thus lays the foundation for potential future MPs flux monitoring.
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Open AccessArticle
Fate of Microplastics in Deep Gravel Riverbeds: Evidence for Direct Transfer from River Water to Groundwater
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Marco Pittroff, Matthias Munz, Bernhard Valenti, Constantin Loui and Hermann-Josef Lensing
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020026 - 8 May 2025
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Riverbed sediments act as potential retention reservoirs or transport corridors for microplastic particles (MPs) from river water to groundwater. Vertical concentration profiles of MPs, together with river water and groundwater analysis, provide insight into their fate and transport behavior in freshwater systems. However,
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Riverbed sediments act as potential retention reservoirs or transport corridors for microplastic particles (MPs) from river water to groundwater. Vertical concentration profiles of MPs, together with river water and groundwater analysis, provide insight into their fate and transport behavior in freshwater systems. However, such data remain scarce. This study provides a depth-specific analysis of MPs ≥ 100 µm (abundance, type, and size) in gravelly riverbed sediments down to 200 cm, along with river water and groundwater analysis. Three sediment freeze cores were collected from the Alpine Rhine, a channelized mountain stream with high flow velocities and permanent losing stream conditions. The average MP abundance in the riverbed was 3.1 ± 2.3 MP/kg (100–929 µm); in the river, 92 ± 5 MP/m3 (112–822 µm); and in the groundwater, 111 ± 6 MP/m3 (112–676 µm). The dominant polymer types in the riverbed were polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (>70%), while polyamide (PA) dominated in the river water (56%) and the groundwater (76%). The comparable MP concentration, particle sizes, and polymer types between river water and groundwater, as well as the vertical MP concentration profiles, indicate that even large MPs up to 676 µm are transported from river water to groundwater without significant retention in the gravel sediment.
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Open AccessArticle
Remote Alpine Lakes and Microplastic Accumulation: Insights from Sediment Analysis of Lake Cadagno
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Serena M. Abel, Colin Courtney-Mustaphi, Maja Damber and Patricia Burkhardt-Holm
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020025 - 7 May 2025
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) occurrence is a growing concern in environmental research, with significant attention focused on its presence in various ecosystems worldwide. While much research has centered on large lakes and water bodies, remote alpine lakes remain relatively unexplored in terms of microplastic occurrence.
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Microplastic (MP) occurrence is a growing concern in environmental research, with significant attention focused on its presence in various ecosystems worldwide. While much research has centered on large lakes and water bodies, remote alpine lakes remain relatively unexplored in terms of microplastic occurrence. Studying microplastic occurrence in remote alpine lakes is important to understand the global spread of pollution, assess its impact on pristine ecosystems, and inform conservation efforts in these vulnerable environments. This study investigates microplastic presence in the sediment of Lake Cadagno, a remote alpine lake situated in the Piora Valley of southern central Switzerland. The lake has no effluents, and its meromictic nature means that the water on the bottom is not mixed with the water above, which can potentially lead to an enhanced accumulation of microplastics in the sediments that perpetuate in the lake system. Through sediment core sampling and analysis, we aim to identify the sources and deposition trends of microplastics in this pristine alpine environment. Our findings reveal the presence of microplastic within Lake Cadagno: in total, 186 MP particles were extracted from 756 cm3 of processed sediment (0.24 MP/cm3) with an average of 19.5 MP/sample (SD ± 11.8 MP/sample). Our results suggest that microplastics are predominantly attributable to localized sources associated with nearby human activities. The absence of synthetic fibers and the limited polymer types detected suggest a minimal contribution from atmospheric deposition, reinforcing the significance of local anthropogenic influences. Spatial clustering of microplastic particles near potential sources underscores the impact of surrounding land use activities on microplastic distribution. Overall, this study highlights the importance of addressing microplastic contamination even in remote and relatively unmodified ecosystems like Lake Cadagno, to elucidate the need for strict adherence to waste management and correct disposal actions to reduce the impacts of microplastic contamination.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Plastic Contamination (Plastamination): An Environmental and Public Health-Related Concern)
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Open AccessReview
Microplastics in Our Waters: Insights from a Configurative Systematic Review of Water Bodies and Drinking Water Sources
by
Awnon Bhowmik and Goutam Saha
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020024 - 7 May 2025
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Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are an emerging global environmental and health concern due to their pervasive presence in aquatic ecosystems. This systematic review synthesizes data on the distribution, shapes, materials, and sizes of MPs in various water
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Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are an emerging global environmental and health concern due to their pervasive presence in aquatic ecosystems. This systematic review synthesizes data on the distribution, shapes, materials, and sizes of MPs in various water sources, including lakes, rivers, seas, tap water, and bottled water, between 2014 and 2024. Results reveal that river water constitutes the largest share of studies on MP pollution (30%), followed by lake water (24%), sea water (19%), bottled water (17%), and tap water (11%), reflecting their critical roles in MP transport and accumulation. Seasonal analysis indicates that MP concentrations peak in the wet season (38%), followed by the dry (32%) and transitional (30%) seasons. Spatially, China leads MP research globally (19%), followed by the USA (7.8%) and India (5.9%). MPs are predominantly composed of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), with fibers and fragments being the most common shapes. Sub-millimeter MPs (<1 mm) dominate globally, with significant variations driven by anthropogenic activities, industrial discharge, and environmental factors such as rainfall and temperature. The study highlights critical gaps in understanding the long-term ecological and health impacts of MPs, emphasizing the need for standardized methodologies, improved waste management, and innovative mitigation strategies. This review underscores the urgency of addressing microplastic pollution through global collaboration and stricter regulatory measures.
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Open AccessReview
Impact of Microplastics on Human Health: Risks, Diseases, and Affected Body Systems
by
Ghulam Abbas, Usama Ahmed and Muhammad Arsalan Ahmad
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020023 - 7 May 2025
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This review article aims to highlight the potential harm caused by microplastics (MPs) in different organs and systems and underscore the need for further investigation into their action mechanisms. MPs, such as polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene, significantly impact human health, causing inflammation in
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This review article aims to highlight the potential harm caused by microplastics (MPs) in different organs and systems and underscore the need for further investigation into their action mechanisms. MPs, such as polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene, significantly impact human health, causing inflammation in the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, compromising immune function, and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and neurotoxicity. These effects are largely attributed to the role of MPs in disrupting hormonal regulation, which can lead to reproductive disorders and an elevated risk of cancer. These microscopic particles (less than 5 mm in size) are now ubiquitous in air, water, and food. However, much of the existing research on MPs focuses on their mechanisms of action and their association with health and disease, with limited emphasis on their direct impact on humans or long-term consequences. To effectively address plastic toxicity, it is crucial to understand the policy implications of MPs and their relevance to disease development. Recent research has highlighted the need for more stringent regulatory oversight of these materials to better understand and mitigate their impact on human health.
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Open AccessArticle
Developmental Transfer of Microplastic Particles from Larval to Adult Stages of the Drone Fly Eristalis tenax
by
Malik Abdulla, Jaimie C. Barnes, Oliver M. Poole, Karl R. Wotton and Eva Jimenez-Guri
Microplastics 2025, 4(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics4020022 - 2 May 2025
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Plastic pollution has become a critical environmental issue, with vast amounts of plastic waste accumulating in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Plastic pollution poses significant risks to biodiversity by introducing toxic chemicals and disrupting biological functions. The drone fly, Eristalis tenax, is perhaps
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Plastic pollution has become a critical environmental issue, with vast amounts of plastic waste accumulating in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Plastic pollution poses significant risks to biodiversity by introducing toxic chemicals and disrupting biological functions. The drone fly, Eristalis tenax, is perhaps the most globally widespread hoverfly. This success is aided by its development as a rat-tailed maggot in a wide array of aquatic environments where it feeds on decaying organic matter. As an adult, E. tenax is a vital pollinator, visiting a wide range of crops and wild plants, and has been shown to vector pollen over hundreds of kilometres during seasonal migrations. Exposure to microplastics during larval stages has the potential to alter the provision of these ecosystem services and to provide a route for the long-distance vectoring of microplastics. To investigate this, we rear E. tenax in water contaminated with different concentrations of microplastic particles. We show that these plastics are retained in the gut from larval through to pupal to adult developmental stages. This contamination resulted in reductions of 33% and 60% in pupal and adult weight when exposed to the highest concentrations of microplastic particles but resulted in no detectable effects on mortality or developmental length. Our results demonstrate the potential for the vectoring of microplastics by this highly mobile species. However, the associated reductions in body size likely have profound consequences for movement capability in terms of foraging and migration and should be further investigated for their impact on ecosystem service provision.
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