A Complete Guide to Extraction Methods of Microplastics from Complex Environmental Matrices

Abstract

Sustainable development is a big global challenge for the 21st century. In recent years, a class of emerging contaminants known as microplastics (MPs) has been identified as a significant pollutant with the potential to harm ecosystems. These small plastic particles have been found in every compartment of the planet, with aquatic habitats serving as the ultimate sink. The challenge to extract MPs from different environmental matrices is a tangible and imperative issue. One of the primary specialties of research in environmental chemistry is the development of simple, rapid, low-cost, sensitive, and selective analytical methods for the extraction and identification of MPs in the environment. The present review describes the developments in MP extraction methods from complex environmental matrices. All existing methodologies (new, old, and proof-of-concept) are discussed and evaluated for their potential usefulness to extract MPs from various biotic and abiotic matrices for the sake of progress and innovation. This study concludes by addressing the current challenges and outlining future research objectives aimed at combating MP pollution. Additionally, a set of recommendations is provided to assist researchers in selecting appropriate analytical techniques for obtaining accurate results. To facilitate this process, a proposed roadmap for MP extraction is presented, considering the specific environmental compartments under investigation. By following this roadmap, researchers can enhance their understanding of MP pollution and contribute to effective mitigation strategies.

Comparison of Methodologies for Microplastic Isolation through Multicriteria Analysis (AHP)

“…It poses no significant threats to the environment or the user and the processing is relatively straightforward [66,73,74,96]. However, the necessity for recycling, reusing, and reclaiming hazardous waste applies to both costly and environmentally harmful density separation solutions [124]. Various salts have been investigated regarding their recyclability including NaI, NaBr, and others.…”

Dietary Phenolic Compounds—Wellbeing and Perspective Applications

“…Nowadays, there is a trending lifestyle change in terms of the natural. Many drugs contain plant extracts with proven antiviral and antimicrobial activities [145,146]. The existing resistance to antibiotics has led to the seek for old herbal remedies that can manage various diseases [147].…”

Microplastics pollution in genetically connected populations of Holothuria forskali from south Bay of Biscay

“…Digestion was performed adding 20 mL of H 2 O 2 (30% v/v) per gram of tissue. This solvent is not expected to degrade or destroy MPs (Liebezeit and Dubaish, 2012;Riani et al, 2023). The digestion mixture was stored in a 400 mL glass jar (covered with aluminium foil to avoid plastic contamination) at 65°C for 7 days to ensure that all organic material was digested (modified from Renzi et al, 2018).…”