98% Efficiency in Nanoplastic Removal by New Tech

Lilu Anderson
Photo: Finoracle.net

A Breakthrough in Water Purification

Scientists at the University of Missouri have unveiled a revolutionary technology that can remove over 98% of nanoplastics from both fresh and saltwater, offering a promising solution to a growing environmental threat. This method, developed under the guidance of Gary Baker, uses eco-friendly solvents to absorb plastic particles from a large volume of water, making it a sustainable option for cleaner water.

Understanding Nanoplastics

Nanoplastics are tiny particles, much smaller than the diameter of a human hair, and are invisible to the naked eye. They pose significant health risks, being linked to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. These particles often end up in water bodies, accumulating over time and entering the food chain, which can harm both aquatic life and humans.

Innovative Purification Methods

The team at Mizzou has engineered a liquid-based solution using natural, water-repelling ingredients. This novel solvent, when mixed with water, absorbs nanoplastics, and then re-separates, bringing the plastics to the surface where they can be removed. This practical approach not only addresses nanoplastic pollution but also opens new avenues for advanced water purification research and development.

Scaling and Future Applications

In laboratory settings, researchers have successfully used a simple pipette to extract the solvent along with the absorbed nanoplastics. The next challenge is to scale this process for larger water bodies like lakes and oceans. Future research will focus on maximizing the solvent's capacity and exploring possibilities for recycling it, thereby enabling multiple uses.

Implications for Environmental Policy

Piyuni Ishtaweera, a lead researcher now working at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, emphasizes the method's safety and effectiveness in both fresh and saltwater. The solvents, made from non-toxic components, prevent further contamination, making the method highly sustainable. The study provides insights into nanomaterial behavior and supports the development of informed environmental policies.

Conclusion

This breakthrough, detailed in a recent study titled “Nanoplastics Extraction from Water by Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvents”, represents a significant step forward in tackling plastic pollution. By outperforming previous methods and offering a scalable solution, this technology could play a crucial role in global water purification efforts.

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Lilu Anderson is a technology writer and analyst with over 12 years of experience in the tech industry. A graduate of Stanford University with a degree in Computer Science, Lilu specializes in emerging technologies, software development, and cybersecurity. Her work has been published in renowned tech publications such as Wired, TechCrunch, and Ars Technica. Lilu’s articles are known for their detailed research, clear articulation, and insightful analysis, making them valuable to readers seeking reliable and up-to-date information on technology trends. She actively stays abreast of the latest advancements and regularly participates in industry conferences and tech meetups. With a strong reputation for expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, Lilu Anderson continues to deliver high-quality content that helps readers understand and navigate the fast-paced world of technology.