Micro/nano glass pollution as an emerging pollutant in near future

Global increasing application of nanomaterials and their natural formation from complex materials is considered a major concern. Glass contamination didn't get attention until now regarding its micro and nano size. Presently, like all commodities, glass is overused and produces waste in amounts of millions of tons per year. However, the major concern is that the recycling of glass is way less as compared to the glass manufactured; that is just1 4 of total glass produced worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need for research on possible glass particles breakage into nano and micro-sized glass materials and their accumulation in the environment. Present review intends to cover a wide-range summary of the existing state of information in field of possible degradation, recycling, formation and possible fate of micro/nano glass in environment. It also covers the possible theoretical problems related with glass contamination in the aquatic surroundings with discussion of current research gaps. Other than this, the probable effects of micro/nano glass on the soil ecosystem and its interaction with plant and its possible movement in food chain. Our mechanistic outline serves to channel current and future research on this urgent theme.

Automated summary

The impact of glass contamination at the micro and nano scale has not received enough attention, and the recycling rate of glass is much lower than its production. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current research on the degradation, recycling, formation, and potential fate of micro/nano glass in the environment. It also discusses the potential effects of glass contamination on aquatic environments and soil ecosystems, as well as the gaps in current research.