Capturing colloidal nano- and microplastics with plant-based nanocellulose networks

Microplastics pose a significant threat to aquatic organisms and human health. Current recovery techniques for colloidal nano- and microplastics are limited. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of hygroscopic nanocellulose networks in capturing even the smallest nanoplastic particles. The high surface area and hygroscopic nature of nanocellulose facilitate particle entrapment. The influence of pH and ionic strength on adsorption is investigated, and binding mechanisms are determined using surface-sensitive methods and the random sequential adsorption (RSA) model. The findings offer potential for quantifying colloidal nano- and microplastics in various aqueous environments and for on-site collection.

Ilona Leppänen, Timo Lappalainen, Tia Lohtander, Christopher Jonkergouw, Suvi Arola, Tekla Tammelin