Related references
Note: Only part of the references are listed.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Chunzhao Chen et al.
Summary: This study explores the degradation behavior of disposable face masks in simulated seawater through accelerated aging experiments. The release rates of microplastics (MPs) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from the masks are influenced by temperature and time. The time-temperature superposition principle is used to estimate the degradation time and predict the release of MPs and DOC into the ocean in the future.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Shumin Huang et al.
Summary: Microplastic pollution is a emerging environmental problem that has little research on its impact on human health. This study investigated the presence of microplastics in human sputum and found that they are ubiquitous in the respiratory tract, indicating inhalation as a potential pathway for plastics to enter the human body. The types and quantities of microplastics were found to be related to factors such as smoking and invasive examination.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zehua Yan et al.
Summary: The study found that the concentration of fecal microplastics in patients with inflammatory bowel disease was significantly higher than in healthy individuals, with poly(ethylene terephthalate) and polyamide being the main components in the feces. A positive correlation between fecal microplastics concentration and the severity of IBD was also observed. Plastic packaging of drinking water and food, as well as dust exposure, were identified as important sources of human exposure to microplastics.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xianyu Wang et al.
Summary: This study evaluated the composition of single-use face mask materials, quantified the concentration of phthalate esters in masks, and found that the inhalation exposure risk of phthalate esters from wearing masks is minimal. The study showed that the intake of individual compounds from masks was significantly lower than tolerable daily intake values, and urine samples collected before and after mask wearing did not show a significant increase in phthalate metabolites, indicating minimal contribution to overall exposure.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Huaijun Xie et al.
Summary: Face masks are necessary for fighting against the coronavirus disease 2019 worldwide. However, face masks could be a potential source of phthalate exposure to humans, with higher risks for toddlers. Non-carcinogenic risks related to phthalates in masks were found to be within safe levels, but a large percentage of mask samples exhibited potential carcinogenic effects. This study highlights the importance of managing types and levels of additives in face masks.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Polymer Science
Xiaoyu Gong et al.
Summary: It is increasingly important to replace petroleum-based chemicals with biomass-based alternatives for the development of a low-carbon economy. The use of biobased lignin as a partial replacement for phenol in phenolic resin adhesives used in the wood panels industry can significantly reduce carbon emissions and negative environmental impact. However, the limitations of lignin's structure and activity hinder its application as an adhesive, and researchers have developed various modification methods to overcome these issues.
MACROMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Yu Su et al.
Summary: Steam disinfection of silicone-rubber baby teats can lead to steam etching and chemical modification of the teat surface, releasing micro- and nanoplastics that may be ingested. Research findings suggest that by the age of one year, a baby could ingest more than 600,000 microplastics.
NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Heather A. Leslie et al.
Summary: Plastic particles are widespread pollutants in the environment and food chain, and this study successfully developed a method to measure the presence of plastic particles in human blood. The study found four high production volume polymers in blood samples and demonstrated that plastic particles can be taken up by the human bloodstream.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ze Liu et al.
Summary: A large amount of microplastics and toxic substances were found in the leachates of disposable plastic face masks (DPFs). These DPFs leachates were confirmed to cause cytotoxicity and oxidative stress, and environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) were generated. Surgical masks were shown to have higher risk than N95 respirators after exposure to water, releasing more microplastics, metals, and organic compounds, and generating more EPFRs.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Shu-Yi-Dan Zhou et al.
Summary: Research found that discarded masks may serve as a refuge for contaminants in the environment, leading to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. The abundance of ARGs in masks stabilized after 30 days of incubation, while the assembly of bacterial and protistan communities in masks was determined by both stochastic and deterministic processes.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Hao Liang et al.
Summary: Disposable face masks are widely used as primary personal protective equipment to control the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but improper handling has made them a source of microplastics and a threat to the environment. Different types of masks were found to release polypropylene microplastic fibers at rapid rates, indicating an urgent need to implement measures to limit their entry into the environment.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Oluwadamilola Pikuda et al.
Summary: The study found that single-use face masks can release microfibres under environmental conditions, with UV exposure and mechanical friction increasing the release. A simulated wastewater treatment process can effectively remove the released microfibres.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yunlong Luo et al.
Summary: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a large amount of personal protective equipment (PPE), including plastic face masks, has been used. When these masks are burned naturally or artificially, microplastics and nanoplastics are released from the plastic fibers. A Raman imaging test confirms the presence of nanoplastics and microplastics on the surface of the masks, as well as deviations in surface groups. This research provides valuable information about the fate and transportation of PPE masks in the environment, especially in the event of a fire.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tenzin Tsering et al.
Summary: This study focuses on improving the identification process of microplastics and implementing different data handling methods. The results demonstrate the impact of blank correction on the recovery rates of microplastics. Additionally, this study explores the use of automatic particle selection of Raman imaging microscope in microplastics analysis for the first time and explicitly discusses its potential drawbacks and advantages.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Review
Respiratory System
Neil F. Johnson
Summary: There is controversy regarding the link between RTP and asbestos contamination; occupational studies suggest an association between RTP and nonmalignant respiratory diseases; experimental studies indicate that talc particles and fibers are durable and could induce diseases.
JOURNAL OF AEROSOL MEDICINE AND PULMONARY DRUG DELIVERY
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jie Han et al.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jie Ma et al.
Summary: The study found that billions of disposable face masks are consumed daily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and may serve as a source of nanoplastics and microplastics in the environment. More than one billion nanoparticles and microplastics were released from each surgical or N95 face mask, with most particles sized in the nano range. The middle layers of masks released more particles than the outer and inner layers.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Silvia Morgana et al.
Summary: The study reveals that single-use face masks can release a significant amount of microplastics and nanoparticles into aquatic environments, potentially posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Qiuhui Hu et al.
Summary: In this study, a stable oil-in-water emulsion was structured to effectively deliver beta-carotene through the Maillard reaction to prepare the SPI-PEP conjugate. Encapsulation of beta-carotene in the SPI-PEP conjugate-stabilized emulsion improved its bioavailability and antioxidant activity. Changes in the spatial structure of the conjugate led to increased water solubility and emulsibility, promoting lipid digestion and the formation of mixed micelles for improved bioavailability of beta-carotene.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ioannis Anastopoulos et al.
Summary: Millions of people are using face coverings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a large number of discarded masks entering the environment, potentially becoming a source of microplastic pollution that threatens marine life. Experimental results show that single-use surgical face masks can act as carriers of dye molecules in water environments. Thermal treatment of masks and using resulting carbonaceous materials as efficient adsorbents may offer a possibility for disinfection and recycling of used masks.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR LIQUIDS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Maocai Shen et al.
Summary: With the outbreak and spread of COVID-19 globally, disposable surgical masks have become widely used, but irresponsible disposal of masks can lead to significant microplastic pollution. Masks can release a large amount of microplastic fibers, and the addition of organic solvents as well as weathering can increase the release of microplastics.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
G. L. Sullivan et al.
Summary: The study found that disposable plastic face masks emit micro and nano scale polymeric fibers, particles, chemicals, and heavy metals when submerged in water to simulate environmental conditions. The presence of toxic chemicals and potential risks from certain residues raise concerns about the safety of daily use and disposal of these masks.
Article
Environmental Sciences
J. Fernandez-Arribas et al.
Summary: The study found that different types of masks contain OPE, with KN95 masks having the highest OPE content and surgical masks the lowest; the risks of inhaling OPE are lower than threshold levels, indicating that mask use is safe; reusable masks are less contaminated with OPE and help reduce environmental pollution.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ceyhun Akarsu et al.
Summary: The widespread use of single-use face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about microplastic pollution. A study estimated the amount of face masks produced and used in three cities in Turkey, calling for government action in developing effective waste management policies.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jiaji Sun et al.
Summary: Surgical masks are widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, but improper disposal may lead to serious microplastic pollution in coastal marine environments. Research shows that discarded masks could release over 1370 trillion microplastics globally in 2020, with a daily release rate of 396 billion, impacting marine ecosystems through ingestion by marine organisms.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS
(2021)
Editorial Material
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Huaijun Xie et al.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xianchuan Chen et al.
Summary: The consumption of disposable face masks has increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to environmental pollution due to improper disposal. Used face masks have shown a substantial increase in releasing microplastics, which could pose a threat to the environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Alison Bain et al.
Summary: Research shows the presence and long-range transport of microplastics in the atmosphere, but the interactions between these microplastics and atmospheric aerosol are not fully understood. Environmental microplastics, with variations in color, morphology, and chemical composition, can become oxidized over time. It is found that UV-aged plastics exhibit higher water sorption than pristine plastics, indicating a potential impact on atmospheric water uptake.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Lakshmana Rao Bhagavathi et al.
Summary: In this study, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and sawdust (SD) were used as green fillers to enhance the curing rate and adhesion strength of one-component moisture-curing polyurethane (PU) adhesives. The addition of MCC or SD led to accelerated curing and improved lap-shear strength of the adhesive joints, with a curing time of 5 hours for reinforced joints compared to 12 hours for unreinforced joints. An autocatalytic growth model was used to analyze the lap-shear strength variation with curing time.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zheng Wang et al.
Summary: The study found that disposable masks exposed to shoreline environments are susceptible to UV weathering and physical abrasion from sand, leading to the release of microplastic particles and increasing the risk to marine ecosystems.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lu Li et al.
Summary: Wearing face masks has become the new normal worldwide due to the global spread of COVID-19. This study found that wearing masks significantly reduces the inhalation risk of particles, including microplastics, even after prolonged use. Different types of masks pose varying risks of microplastic inhalation, with N95 masks posing the least risk. Reusing masks after disinfection processes can increase the risk of inhaling microplastics.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jin Il Kwak et al.
Summary: The increase in used face masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about environmental pollution, particularly the generation of nanofibers from mask filters impacting soil species. Research findings suggest adverse effects on soil organisms and emphasize the importance of proper disposal of face masks to preserve human health and the ecosystem amidst the ongoing pandemic.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qindong Chen et al.
Summary: The study found that understanding the aging mechanism of plastics in different environments is crucial for controlling microplastic formation. Various techniques can be used to analyze the physical and chemical structures of polyethylene and polypropylene in different environments. In water systems, thin-film plastics disintegrated into microplastics more easily, and ultraviolet radiation and water flow significantly impacted the production of micro-scale particles.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Janith Dissanayake et al.
Summary: Single-use disposable facemasks are being dumped into water bodies, potentially releasing microplastic fibers into the environment and affecting various ecosystems. A preliminary study in South Korea found that surgical and KF94 standard facemasks released the highest number of microplastic fibers, with one mask capable of releasing up to 47 microplastic fibers per day. Moreover, prolonged agitation time led to a significant increase in the number of released microplastic fibers.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Garthika Navaranjan et al.
Summary: This study investigated the association between exposure to 29 organophosphate esters (OPEs) and the onset of childhood asthma and recurrent wheeze. Findings showed that exposure to TBOEP was associated with an increased risk of asthma, while several other OPEs were negatively correlated with asthma and recurrent wheeze.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Runzeng Liu et al.
Summary: Single-use face masks are a powerful tool for reducing the spread of COVID-19, but the pollution from discarded masks may become an environmental issue. Synthetic antioxidants were detected in single-use face masks, with the highest concentrations found in the middle layers. Both medical and nonmedical face masks showed similar concentrations of antioxidants. This study estimates that 1084 tons of antioxidants are used in face masks annually.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Jasmine Almond et al.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Joana C. Prata et al.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2020)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ruofan Mao et al.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2020)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Jacky Bhagat et al.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2020)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tadele Assefa Aragaw
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2020)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Fatima Tuj Johra et al.
Letter
Environmental Sciences
V. C. Shruti et al.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2020)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Chunqing Bai et al.
JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY
(2019)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Longkun Wu et al.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
K. Czamara et al.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2017)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Chengfang Pang et al.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Ludovic Hermabessiere et al.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Djalal Trache et al.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2016)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Ines Schreiver et al.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2015)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Celso Luis de Carvalho et al.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Wirasak Smitthipong et al.
VIBRATIONAL SPECTROSCOPY
(2008)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
CL Wu et al.
COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2005)
