Initial data on adsorption of Cs and Sr to the surfaces of microplastics with biofilm

Publication date: October 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volumes 190–191
Author(s): Mathew P. Johansen, Emily Prentice, Tom Cresswell, Nick Howell
The adsorption of radiocesium and radiostrontium onto a range of natural materials has been well quantified, but not for the new media of environmental plastics, which may have enhanced adsorption due to surface-weathering and development of biofilms. Microplastic samples were deployed in freshwater, estuarine and marine conditions, then characterised using infrared spectroscopy to document changes to the plastic surface (vs interior). Synchrotron elemental mapping data revealed surfaces that were well-covered by accumulation of reactive water solutes and sulphur, but, in contrast, had highly discrete coverage of elements such as Fe and Ti, indicating adhered mineral/clay-associated agglomerates that may increase overall adsorption capacity. Plastics that had been deployed for nearly five months adsorbed radionuclides in both freshwater and estuarine conditions with the highest Kd for cesium (Cs) in freshwater (80 ml g⁻¹) and lowest for strontium (Sr) in estuarine conditions (5 ml g⁻¹). The degree of Cs and Sr adsorption onto plastics appears to be approximately 2–3 orders of magnitude lower than for sediment reference values. While lower than for sediments, adsorption occurred on all samples and may indicate a significant radionuclide reservoir, given that plastics are relatively buoyant and mobile in water regimes, and are increasing in global aquatic systems.

Graphical abstract

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