New method breaks down microplastics right at the source of pollution

Wastewater can transport high concentrations of microplastics into the environment. These little particles

smaller than 5 mm can be hit even fromclothing, usually in the form of microfibers. Professor Patrick Droghi, who led the study, notes that there are currently no effective methods for decomposing microplastics that would eliminate this dangerous pollutant during wastewater treatment. Existing methods often use physical separation as a means of filtering. These technologies do not degrade plastics, requiring additional work to eliminate them.

So the research team decided to break down the microplastic particles through electrolytic oxidation, a process that does not require the addition of chemicals.

“Using electrodes, we generate hydroxylradicals (*OH) that attack microplastics. This process is environmentally friendly: it breaks down particles into CO₂ and water molecules, which are not toxic to the ecosystem,” explains the researcher. 

Professor Drogi envisions using this technology directly at the effluents of commercial laundries, which are a source of microplastic emissions into the environment. 

Laboratory tests of water artificially contaminated with polystyrene showed a decomposition efficiency of 89%. The team plans to move on to experiments in real conditions. 

If technology demonstrates itsefficiency, scientists will conduct research to determine the cost of treatment and adapt technology to treat large volumes of wastewater. In a few years, this technology can be implemented in laundries.

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