Adsorption of PAHs and PCDD/Fs in Microplastics: A Review

Abstract

The presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment, and the effects that the ingestion of these materials can have on organisms, can be aggravated by the adsorption of harmful substances on the surface or inside the MPs. Of special relevance are the studies that have been carried out on the adsorption and transport of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as well as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs). This review will delve into the research carried out to date regarding the adsorption by conventional and biodegradable MPs of dangerous organic compounds such as those mentioned. In general, the presence of MPs is considered a vector for the entry of these contaminants into living beings, since their capacity to adsorb contaminants is very high and they are ingested by different organisms that introduce these contaminants into the trophic chain.

Contaminants of emerging concern in the fetal environment

“…Consequently, in addition to particle toxicity, MNPs may leach plastic additives, such as bisphenol A and phthalates, as well as brominated flame retardants, antioxidants, UV stabilizers and synthetic dyes 194,200 . Moreover, hazardous environmental compounds e.g., dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) 201 , polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) 202 , heavy metals 203,204 and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) 205,206 have been shown to adsorb to MNPs and form an eco-corona surrounding the MNPs 207 . Many of these compounds are suspected endocrine disruptors, carcinogens and developmental toxicants.…”