Plastic Waste Management Research Articles

Plastic Waste to Fuel or Biofuel

This project is concerned with the methods of changing plastic waste to fuel known as pyrolysis which is thermal degradation of materials in an atmosphere devoid of oxygen. This is accomplished by applying tremendous heat to the plastic causing degradation into smaller hydrocarbon products which include liquid fuel, gas and char residue among other things. The liquid fuel can be upgraded further to produce various useful hydrocarbons such as diesel and gasoline, and the gases may be used as a means of recovering energy. This project aims to show how plastic waste which is usually a problem can be turned into a useful source of fuel to cut down waste and improve energy practices. This project can be described as an important strategy in addressing two key problems of global significance: management of plastic waste and sustainable energy generation. With the increase of global plastic pollution and fossil fuels waning, there is an urgency in coming up with new strategies to resolve these environmental dilemmas. Such a solution includes the process of changing plastic waste into diesel fuel which not only reduces plastic waste but also enables the harnessing of an energy source.

Sustainability of plastic waste management through voluntary initiatives – a case study in Indonesia

Sustainability of plastic waste management through voluntary initiatives – a case study in Indonesia

Wastewater-associated plastispheres: A hidden habitat for microbial pathogens?

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) receive wastewater from various sources. Despite wastewater treatment aiming to remove contaminants, microplastics persist. Plastic surfaces are quickly colonized by microbial biofilm ("plastispheres"). Plastisphere communities are suggested to promote the spread and survival of potential human pathogens, suggesting that the transfer of plastispheres from wastewater to the environment could pose a risk to human and environmental health. The study aimed to identify pathogens in wastewater plastispheres, specifically food-borne pathogens, in addition to characterizing the taxonomic diversity and composition of the wastewater plastispheres. Plastispheres that accumulated on polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and high-density polyethylene propylene (HDPE) surfaces exposed to raw and treated wastewater were analyzed via cultivation methods, quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT‒qPCR) and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. RT‒qPCR revealed the presence of potential foodborne pathogenic bacteria and viruses, such as Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, norovirus, and adenovirus. Viable isolates of the emerging pathogenic species Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter spp. were identified in the plastispheres from raw and treated wastewater, indicating that potential pathogenic bacteria might survive in the plastispheres during the wastewater treatment. These findings underscore the potential of plastispheres to harbor and disseminate pathogenic species, posing challenges to water reuse initiatives. The taxonomic diversity and composition of the plastispheres, as explored through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, were significantly influenced by the wastewater environment and the duration of time the plastic spent in the wastewater. In contrast, the specific plastic material did not influence the bacterial composition, while the bacterial diversity was affected. Without efficient wastewater treatment and proper plastic waste management, wastewater could act as a source of transferring plastic-associated pathogens into the food chain and possibly pose a threat to human health. Continued research and innovation are essential to improve the removal of microplastics and associated pathogenic microorganisms in wastewater.

A limiting integrative effort plastic waste in the sea of Indonesia and China: The Penta Helix model perspective

Indonesia ranks as the second-largest source of plastic garbage in marine areas, behind China. This is a critical problem that emphasises the need for synergistic endeavors to safeguard the long-term viability of marine ecosystems. The objective of this work is to examine the implementation of the Penta Helix model in the management of marine plastic trash. For this purpose, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was carried out, utilizing scholarly papers sourced from the Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The analysis centred on evaluating the Penta Helix model as a cooperative framework for tackling plastic waste management in the marine environments of Indonesia and China. The results suggest that the Penta Helix methodology successfully enables the amalgamation of many interests and resources, making a valuable contribution to the mitigation of plastic pollution in the waters of both nations. In order to advance a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to plastic waste management, this multidisciplinary plan brings together stakeholders from government, academia, business, civil society, and the media. Under this framework, the government is responsible for formulating laws, guidelines, and programs to decrease the use of disposable plastics and improve waste management infrastructure, all while guaranteeing adherence to environmental constraints. Simultaneously, the industrial and academic sectors are responsible for creating sustainable technology and pioneering business strategies, while civil society, in collaboration with the media, has a crucial role in increasing public consciousness regarding the destructive effects of plastic trash. This comprehensive strategy emphasizes the need of synergistic endeavors in tackling the intricate issues of marine plastic contamination.

Consumer preferences toward new circular bioeconomy agri‐food products

AbstractThe integration of circular bioeconomy (CB) principles into food production is key for a sustainable food sector. This research analyzes consumers' preferences for food products that include CB‐related attributes; namely, zero (plastic/bio) waste generation, carbon neutrality, sustainable water use and soil management, biodiversity conservation, and contribution to the rural economy. A novel approach is applied, combining best‐worst scaling choice experiments with contingent valuation and using a scale‐adjusted latent class model specification. The results reveal consumers have intense preferences for CB attributes in food, especially those related to plastic waste management, sustainable water use, rural development, and biodiversity. Four different consumer classes are identified according to their preferences toward CB attributes (Eco‐multifunctionals, Utilitarians, Sustainable agrarians, and Circulars—the latter two newly identified here). Willingness to pay varies by attribute and class. Relevant implications are drawn for businesses, especially about potential differentiation marketing strategies.

Catalytic Conversion of Plastic Waste into Diesel Fuel through Pyrolysis and Hydroprocessing

This study evaluates the potential of hydro-processed plastic pyrolysis oil (HPO) as a sustainable alternative fuel derived from mixed plastic waste. The physicochemical properties of diesel, mixed plastic pyrolysis oil (MPPO), and HPO were thoroughly analyzed according to IS standards, enabling a direct comparison and alignment of HPO characteristics with EN590 diesel fuel standards. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis identified key fuel components—n-alkanes, alkenes, benzene, and naphthalene with HPO showing 98% compositional similarity to commercial diesel. The HPO blend with various percentage of pure diesel ratio is (30:70, 60:40 and 90:10). The hydroprocessing technique effectively reduced the alkene content of MPPO, enhancing the purity and quality of the resulting HPO. This refinement was crucial in ensuring that the oil met the necessary fuel standards. Engine performance evaluations further indicated that blending HPO with conventional diesel resulted in emissions with 95% similarity to those of standard diesel fuel. This close match in emission profiles underscores the potential of HPO as a cleaner and more environmentally friendly fuel alternative. Additionally, the increased aromatic content in HPO, due to hydroprocessing, significantly improved combustion properties. This enhancement not only supports the feasibility of using HPO as a substitute for traditional diesel but also suggests that HPO may offer superior performance in specific applications. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of HPO as a sustainable fuel option, capable of addressing the environmental impacts associated with both plastic waste and fossil fuel consumption. The study demonstrates the environmental benefits of converting plastic waste into valuable fuel through pyrolysis and hydroprocessing, offering a promising strategy for sustainable plastic waste management and advancements in environmental sustainability and the fuel industry.

Microplastics pollution in tropical estuary (Muttukadu Backwater), Southeast Coast of India: Occurrence, distribution characteristics, potential sources and ecological risk assessment

Around the world, microplastic pollution is pervasive and is regarded as the biggest threat to all ecosystems. We conducted the present study to determine the prevalence of microplastics (MPs), their polymer hazard risk (PHI), and any potential sources of these particles in the estuary of Muttukadu Backwater, Southeast Coast of India. Microplastics were extricated from surface water and sediment by the wet peroxide method, identified by a stereo zoom microscope (SM), and characterized by ATR-FTIR and SEM-EDS analysis. The average microplastic abundance in sediment and surface water was 815±158 particles Kg−1 and 195±38 particles m−3, respectively. The most common microplastics based on shapes were fibers and fragments in both sediment and surface water, with blue and green-colored microplastics being the most frequently observed colors. Type II polymer particles (<3.00 mm–1.00 mm) are dominant particles in sediment (36 %), and type I (5.00 mm–3.00 mm) particles dominate in surface water samples (49 %). Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) results showed that the following chemical elements, such as O, C, Cl, Fe, Na, Al, K, Ca, and Si, as well as the order of the trace metal Pb > Cr > Ni > Co > As > Cu > Cd > Zn, are observed by microplastics of all sediment sampling location. The pollution load index (PI), polymer hazard index (PHI), and potential ecological risk (PER) index models revealed varying level of risk. The polymer hazard index (PHI) reveals that both water and sediments are moderate to highly MP contamination. The hazards of polymers such as polyethylene, polystyrene, polyester, and polyamide significantly contributed to hazard level IV. Inadequate plastic waste management, human habitation and tourism, rapid industrialization, and coastal construction are the main sources of microplastic contamination in the study area. The proper guidelines, potential policies, and technological interventions are much needed to reduce the microplastic contamination along Southeast Coast of India.

Microbial consortia for multi-plastic waste biodegradation: selection and validation

The accumulation of plastic waste in the environment poses significant ecological and health risks. This study evaluates the effectiveness of microbial consortia in degrading various types of plastics, including low-density polyethylene (LDPE), low linear-density polyethylene (LLDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene (PS). Qualitative enzyme assays for esterases and ligninases, which are related to plastic biodegradation, were conducted in five microbial strains. Four microbial consortia, combining bacterial and fungal strains, were assembled based on the enzyme profile of their components and evaluated for their ability to degrade both virgin and recycled plastics. The results showed that consortia C2 (Bacillus subtilis RBM2, Fusarium oxysporum RHM1, and Alternaria alternata RHM4) and C4 (Bacillus subtilis RBM2 and Pseudomonas alloputida REBP7) exhibited the highest biodegradation efficiency, particularly achieving significant weight loss in recycled LDPE, virgin LLDPE and recycled PET. The biodegradation was further confirmed by FTIR analysis, which revealed changes in the chemical composition and functional groups of the treated plastics, indicating microbial interaction and degradation. This study underscores the potential of microbial consortia in addressing plastic pollution, highlighting the importance of strategic consortia design based on enzymatic profiles and plastic colonization capabilities. These promising results suggest that further optimization of microbial consortia could offer a viable solution for large-scale plastic waste management.

Establishing a plastic waste map using remote sensing data in the coastal area of Thanh Hoa province (Vietnam)

Plastic pollution, particularly in oceans, is a growing environmental threat. Monitoring this pollution is challenging due to the shortage of data and tools. Remote sensing offers a promising solution by using various types of satellite and aerial images to detect and track plastic waste movement. Purpose. The study aims to establish a plastic waste map using remote sensing technology, focusing on the case study of the coastal area of Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Methodology. The study involves several steps, including the collection of plastic waste data (samples in the case study and indices from remote sensing images) as well as topographic and base map collection, statistics of plastic samples, grid design, calculation, interpolation, accuracy assessment, and mapping. Field surveys involved taking pictures of plastic debris along designated routes and a grid system was used to classify and calculate waste samples. Satellite images, especially Sentinel-2 MSI optical satellite imagery, are utilized to identify water areas of high plastic concentration. Findings. A map of plastic wastes in coastal areas of Thanh Hoa was created, with indices like NDWI (Normalized Difference Water Index) and FDI (Floating Debris Index) helping identify potential plastic waste signals. The resulting map reveals high concentrations of plastic waste in sea areas near the major river mouths of the Ma River basin and tourist areas, which aligns with areas of high human activity. Originality. This is the first study of plastic waste in the coastal area using remote sensing data in Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Practical value. This study can contribute to the effective management of marine plastic waste in Thanh Hoa while opening up opportunities for applying the method to create marine plastic waste maps throughout Vietnam and foster long-term monitoring and management.

Analyzing the implementation of reverse logistics in the Accra metropolis plastic waste management

Analyzing the implementation of reverse logistics in the Accra metropolis plastic waste management

Applications of H2-Enriched syngas and slag products from plastic wastes via novel plasma dual-stage-arc pyrolysis

Sustainable plastic waste management in the prevailing ‘new-normal’ post-pandemic scenario calls for calorific waste plastic up-cycling into high-end product recovery pathways. The present work employed a novel dual-stage arc plasma pyrolysis reactor to recover syngas and slag products from mixed plastics and Low-Density Polyethylene and Polyethylene Terephthalate (LDPE-PET) plastic waste feeds. Syngas product yield decreased while the solid slag yield increased with rising arc current, attaining 75% and 25% for mixed plastic waste feed and 59% and 41% for LDPE-PET wastes, respectively, at 200A arc current. The resultant syngas composition showed 83% and 77% H2 while 1.7% and 2.7% CO for mixed plastic waste-feed and LDPE-PET wastes, respectively, with no significant presence of CO2. Slag characterization studies revealed the presence of scattered pores on the slag surface, graphitic nanostructures due to scraped carbon depositions from electrode tips and the absence of aromatic groups due to complete conversion. High carbon content was observed in the slag due to the dissociation of lighter hydrocarbon and carbon dioxide on dual-arc exposure in two stages, underscoring the higher efficiency. For holistic integrated circular onsite ‘plastic waste-to-resource’ recovery-cum-application, electricity was generated from the resultant syngas and the slag was used for the manufacture of tiles in the community platform. Techno-economic evaluation of an up-scaled plasma pyrolysis facility shows the power recovery of 3.5 kWh/kg of waste plastic, with a net annual profit of $2800 and a payback period of 1.7 years. The findings of the present work suggest that the proposed integrated dual-arc plasma pyrolysis based plastic waste-to-resource recovery in circular-economy model has a viable outcome.

Identifying the distribution and source of riverine plastic waste contamination: case study of Brantas River in Malang city

Brantas River experiences significant pollution due to domestic and industrial wastes. This condition also causes natural disasters such as floods. Single use plastics generally made up a large portion of local wastes. However, previous studies mostly investigated plastic waste pollution and local waste management habits as separate topics. Therefore, the objects of this study are the plastic wastes in Brantas River, as microplastic particles, and the identification of its source. The assessments were based on microplastic counts, macroinvertebrate bioassessment with SIGNAL-2 index, and the quantitative data of local domestic waste management at three Stations in Malang City area. Riverine microplastic pollutant concentrations and its sources were both successfully identified and solved. The results showed that the highest riverine microplastic particles were found in Station 3. This station only had four macroinvertebrate taxa with a SIGNAL-2 score of 4.42, indicating severe degradation. Quantitative data showed that 80 % of Station 3 residents threw plastic wastes directly to Brantas River. The low macroinvertebrate counts possibly caused by ingestion of microplastic from households and small-scale enterprises which heavily utilized single use plastics to trade their goods. The first distinctive feature of this study is the comparability of the microplastic, and macroinvertebrate counts with the river degradation status. Secondly, the quantitative data can serve as complementary evidence. Practically, the obtained results can be developed into an integrated plastic waste management plan for the residents surrounding the rivers, particularly in developing countries with similar socio-cultural conditions as elaborated in this study, to maintain the ecosystem quality

A thorough overview of the literature on waste recycling in the circular economy: current practices and future perspectives.

To develop a circular economy (CE) and protect the environment, waste recycling (WR) is crucial. This study examines WR research conducted over the past two decades to identify the most significant advancements and promising areas for future research. The following challenges were handled through text mining, content, and bibliometrics analysis: How has CE influenced the evolution of WR research? What are the CE's most important WR research trends and themes? What directions could future research on WR take regarding the CE transition? Using 1118 articles from the Scopus database journal, bibliometric networks were made and analyzed. Hence, five critical CE-related problems needing further research were recognized: waste recycling is the first cluster, followed by technology, the CE transformation, plastic waste, and waste management (WM). Examining WM and inclusive waste reduction practices and their distinct highlight patterns may impact future research fields and serve as a transitional tool to CE (which aims to minimize waste generation). Forthcoming research targets contain waste reduction and incorporation of WR into the CE framework.

Nanomaterials for the management of plastic waste: a way combating white pollution

Nanomaterials for the management of plastic waste: a way combating white pollution

An integrated approach for plastic polymer degradation by the gut bacterial resident of superworm, Zophobas morio (Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae).

The potential of superworm to remove certain plastic polymers has recently been noted. In this study, aerobic bacterial strains were isolated from the gut of Zophobas morio larvae which were fed with polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) polymers. Strains P2 (Leminorella), P6 (Bacillus), P9 (Bacillus), and P5 (Citrobacter) were associated with the highest PS (2.7%), PP (1.3%), PET (1.1%), and PE (0.42%) weight loss after 28days, respectively. Pretreatments including thermal treatment (80°C for 10days), weathering (4months in the free environment), and nitric and sulfuric acids (1 N, 10days) improved the degradation of PE (1.3%), PET (1.9%), PP (5.2%), and PS (8.3%) by the same strains, respectively. Further analyses on the PS degradation by Leminorella sp. P2 revealed acid pretreatment promoted the formation of the C = C, C = O, and O-H functional groups. Surface irregularities, as well as a 3.6-fold increase in surface roughness, were observed in the PS film subjected to biodegradation. The contact angle dropped from 98.4° to 42.2° following the biodegradation. Bacterial depolymerization was confirmed by the 8.7% and 3.4% reduction of Mn and Mw and the change in polydispersity from 1.65 to 1.75. The results suggest that Zophobas morio microbiota in combination with abiotic pretreatment can be considered for plastic waste management.

Repurposing disposed surgical face masks into activated carbon for efficient sorption of bio recalcitrant malathion pesticide

Pesticides are essential for enhancing agricultural produce, but their excessive use poses risks to ecosystems due to persistence and toxicity. This study explores repurposing disposed surgical face masks (DSFMs), rich in polypropylene (PP), as a precursor for activated carbon (AC) synthesis, addressing plastic pollution. DSFM pieces were subjected to hydrothermal treatment with sulfuric acid and KOH activation, optimized via response surface methodology (RSM). Optimal AC preparation conditions were achieved at 800 °C, PP/KOH ratio 3 g/g, and 50 min resulting in AC (3AC800-50) with BET surface area 892.16 m2/g and pore volume 0.6353 cm3/g. The resulting carbon material demonstrated excellent adsorption affinity towards malathion pesticides (MP) with a capacity of 536.68 mg/g. The Freundlich adsorption model accurately fits the data with a high R2 of 0.9898. Kinetic analysis revealed the pseudo-second-order (PSO) model as the best fit, with negative ∆G° indicating the spontaneous nature of MP adsorption. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing ACs derived from DSFMs for sustainable plastic waste management and pesticide removal from water.

Closing the Loop between Plastic Waste Management and Energy Cogeneration: An Innovative Design for a Flexible Pyrolysis Small-Scale Unit

This study proposes a simplified unit that can be employed in an industrial facility for the utilization of its own abundant plastic waste, primarily from discarded packaging, to achieve full or partial energy autonomy. By converting this waste into synthetic pyrolysis oil equivalent to 91,500 L, the industry can power a combined heat and power generation unit. The proposed unit was designed with a focus on maintaining high temperatures efficiently while minimizing oxygen exposure to protect the integrity of hydrocarbons until they transform into new compounds. Pyrolysis stands as a foundational procedure, paving the way for subsequent thermochemical transformations such as combustion and gasification. This study delves into the factors affecting pyrolysis and presents analytically the mathematical formulations and relevant calculations in order to effectively design and apply a real-life system. On this basis, fuels from plastic waste can be produced, suitable for utilization in typical equipment meant to produce heat, estimated for six months’ operation and 800 MWh of electricity. This study enhances the transition towards a more circular and resource-efficient economy with technologies that unlock the latent energy contained within the discarded matter. Additionally, it demonstrates the feasibility of a moderate investment in a co-generation system for industries utilizing 568 tonnes of plastic waste per year. The design and accurate calculations of this study highlight the theoretical potential of this technology, promoting environmental sustainability and resource conservation.

Probing the influence of synthesized hierarchical ZSM-5 catalyst in ex-situ catalytic conversion of real-world plastic waste into aromatic rich liquid oil

Plastic waste management has become a vitally important environmental and economic concern for researchers and technologists worldwide. Currently, catalytic pyrolysis of plastic waste emerged as a promising plastic waste management technique, further aiding the full-scale development of an alternate innovation to convert plastic waste into fuel (liquid oil) energy. Lately, zeolites have been one of the most suitable and versatile catalysts in converting plastic waste into fuel grade hydrocarbons via catalytic pyrolysis. The present work exhibits an attempt to synthesize and study the performance of a hierarchical ZSM-5 in a fixed bed reactor to convert the real-world (LDPE, HDPE, PP and PS) plastic wastes into higher quality fuel grade liquid oil. The hierarchical ZSM-5 catalyst having both mesopores and micropores (dual porosity) in its framework is synthesized by using a single organic template i.e., 10 % tetra propylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH). The catalyst performance study displays remarkable selectivity and increase in the yield of the aromatic component in the liquid oil obtained from different plastic wastes. The results indicate that presence of hierarchical catalyst has exceptionally lowered the reaction temperature in the range of 400–430 °C and increased the liquid oil yield in comparison with that of the thermal pyrolysis. Also, the obtained liquid oils have comparable fuel properties with that of kerosene and diesel.

Waste Plastic to Roads - HDPE-modified Bitumen and PET Plastic Fibres for Road Maintenance in South Africa: A Review.

This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformative potential of waste plastic in South Africa, with a specific focus on high-density polyethylene-modified bitumen and polyethylene terephthalate plastic fibres asphalt. The review encompasses a wide range of topics, including the environmental and socio-economic impacts of plastic waste, the current state of plastic waste management practices in South Africa, and the potential use of waste plastic in road construction. The aim is to critically evaluate the compatibility of recycled waste plastics as bitumen modifiers and fibre to enhance road performance. Additionally, it explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the incorporation of waste plastic in road construction, shedding light on the environmental, economic and technological aspects. The review also emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts from the South African government and industry stakeholders to address plastic waste management challenges and promote sustainable infrastructure development. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of waste plastic in South African road maintenance and offers a roadmap for future research and initiatives in this critical area of sustainable development.

Bio-Conversion Of Plastic Waste Into Sustainable Biofuels: A Comprehensive Review Of Microbial Degradation Approaches

Plastic's pervasive presence in contemporary society has revolutionized industries and daily life but has concurrently birthed environmental concerns necessitating innovative and sustainable solutions. This review navigates recent strides in plastic-to-fuel conversion, with a particular focus on the transformative potential of microbial degradation. Beginning with a critical assessment of environmental challenges linked to conventional plastic disposal, this review meticulously dissects microbial degradation. Unveiling the intricate processes orchestrated by bacteria and fungi, it delves into the unique advantages this method offers, including reduced land dependency, cost efficiency, and minimal environmental impact, setting it apart from traditional approaches like pyrolysis and gasification. Navigating challenges inherent in plastic-to-fuel conversion, such as energy consumption and emissions, this review synthesizes the latest research, technological breakthroughs, and ongoing initiatives. It culminates in a comprehensive overview of microbial degradation's potential for sustainable plastic waste management and biofuel production. As a synthesis of cutting-edge knowledge, this review not onlyq1 informs current scientific discourse but also charts course for future research, policy, and industrial practices, steering towards a harmonious equilibrium between the benefits of plastic and environmental considerations. This work serves as a beacon for those dedicated to fostering a sustainable future through a nuanced understanding of plastic waste management, environmental sustainability, and the evolving landscape of biofuel production.