A systematic review: Biodegradation, mechanism, remediation strategies, and environmental impacts of microplastics

Abstract

In the natural environment, plastics and microplastics (MPs) are difficult to break down due to their hydrophobicity, the presence of persistent covalent bonds, and their functional groups' resistance to attack. The destiny of both organic and inorganic pollutants at contaminated areas can be influenced by MPs ability to absorb them. Because of their enormous surface to volume ratio and chemical surface characteristics, MPs are able to absorb dangerous substances from their surroundings. Accordingly, the study's main objectives were to provide a concise review of characterization techniques of MP biodegradation techniques, including the nano-enabled methods, and the gaps in current research were outlined. This review paper summarizes the degradation mechanism and efficiency of MPs in different circumstances. For the purpose of eliminating plastic pollution, this work will help for the further studies.