Search

We are living in a time of rapid biodiversity loss. Numerous studies have shown that modern extinction rates are higher than pre-human background rates. However, these studies of biodiversity decline almost exclusively focus on large vertebrates. The scientific community lacks the sufficient long-term records necessary to track biodiversity loss for many invertebrate taxa. However, aquatic, benthic, and skeletonized invertebrates have the advantage of leaving a long-term record that can readily be sampled in conjunction with living communities because the mineralized skeletons accumulate in the very same sediments in which the animals that produced them once lived. These not-quite-fossil "death assemblages" contain an underutilized record for long-term monitoring. Here, we leverage three case studies of calcareous micro- and macro-faunal remains from three aquatic environments spanning two gradients: freshwater to fully marine and polluted to pristine and remediated. We compared the death assemblages to living assemblages in these case studies using Spearman's rho and the Jaccard–Chao agreement to determine the degree of fidelity. Death assemblages of lacustrine, calcareous microcrustaceans (Ostracoda), collected from lakes in The Bahamas and Wisconsin, USA, faithfully record human impacts, both for degradation and remediation, as determined by a mismatch in the live–dead comparisons. Likewise, the live–dead comparisons of calcareous marine macrofauna (Bivalvia) from the southern California shelf also indicate human impact, including pollution and remediation. These case studies demonstrate how death assemblages can be used to gauge the changes in community assembly and population structures at local and regional scales, even in the absence of a systemic monitoring program. Conservation, restoration, and biomonitoring efforts would benefit from the inclusion of live–dead comparisons of taxa with easily fossilized, identifiable parts. Live–dead studies, such as those presented in these case studies, can be used as tools for recognizing targets and establishing baselines for conservation, tracking community responses to remediation efforts, and identifying local species extinctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel composite DUT-5/Bi2MoO6 (DUT-5/BMO) photocatalytic material was prepared by two-step hydrothermal method for the first time. The materials were characterized by SEM, XPS, etc. Studies have shown that material with a new n–n heterojunction structure can quickly degrade tetracycline. DUT-5 was embedded between the Bi2MoO6 nanosheets, which promotes the photogenerated electrons from DUT-5 flows to Bi2MoO6, thereby reducing the recombination rate of photo-generated electron–hole pairs. The BET results show that the composite material has a larger specific surface area than the monomer Bi2MoO6. It can provide more active sites. After 60 min of visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of TC with 15% DUT-5/BMO reached 84.22%, which is 5.37 and 2.12 times higher than that of pure DUT-5 and Bi2MoO6, ·O2− and h+ were the main active substances in the photocatalysis process. In addition, DUT-5/BMO composites show excellent stability and recyclability in 5 times cyclic experiments. In conclusion, DUT-5/BMO has good stability in the environment, and can be used for environmental remediation without pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidation–reduction (redox) ladders are a fundamental biogeochemical concept that explain basic and applied phenomena including microbial metabolic evolution and chemical pollution remediation. However, it is difficult to measure and predict which redox couples dominate an environment. This discrepancy manifests a redox paradox: while redox ladders are a fundamental biogeochemical concept, it is difficult to use existing measurements to predict which redox couples dominate in an environment or use redox to predict biogeochemical state changes. Additionally, there is often confusion around the concept due to the differential emphasis in biological vs. geochemical sub-disciplines in explanations of the: (1) roles of actual vs. standard free energy calculations, (2) thermodynamics vs. enzymatic kinetics in reactions, (3) ubiquity of alternative electron donors as opposed to assuming processes are solely driven by organic carbon, and (4) difference between redox intensity and redox buffering capacity. Redox buffering capacity is a particularly underdeveloped concept within biogeochemical studies, which have largely used redox potential, a measurement with myriad analytical concerns. We review the small number of studies that have quantified redox buffering capacity. We highlight four challenges to overcome before redox buffering capacity can be a useful concept. Measuring redox buffering capacity may be key to understanding the ability of the ecosystems to resist change in redox conditions. Biogeochemists are often most interested in predicting these state changes to understand hot spot/hot moment phenomena such as greenhouse gas fluxes; thus, incorporating redox buffering capacity into our predictive frameworks and methodological toolbox may be key to unlocking the redox paradox. We postulate that the well-known ecological resilience and resistance framework constitutes the needed theoretical foundation on which measurements of redox buffering capacity can be incorporated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis has been oft proposed as a green solution for pollution remediation, however, majority of the existing literature only studies the degradation of solitary analytes. The degradation of mixtures of organic contaminants is inherently more complicated due to a variety of photochemical processes that occur in parallel. Here, we describe a model system comprised of methylene blue and methyl orange dyes whose degradation carried out by two common photocatalysts, P25 TiO2 and g-C3N4. With P25 TiO2 as the catalyst, the degradation rate of methyl orange slowed by 50% when degraded in a mixture compared to when alone. Control experiments with radical scavengers showed this to occur due to competition between the dyes for oxidative photogenerated species. In the presence of g-C3N4, methyl orange's degradation rate in the mixture increased by 2300% due to two homogeneous photocatalysis processes sensitized by methylene blue. Homogenous photocatalysis was found to be fast relative to heterogeneous photocatalysis by g-C3N4 but slow relative to photocatalysis by P25 TiO2 and explains the change observed between the two catalysts. Changes in dye adsorption to the catalyst when in a mixture were also explored but not found to coincide with changes in degradation rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It's crucial to make inexpensive, effective palladium catalysts employing α-alumina in the realms of pollution remediation and drug synthesis. The α-alumina foam ceramics prepared by the template approach were modified by adding a thin coating of γ-alumina containing Ce and P elements to further prepare the palladium catalyst. γ-Alumina significantly raised the foam's specific surface area, multiplied the number of acidic sites, decreased the Pd–O bond strength in palladium oxide, and brought the active phase content closer to the ideal value. Phosphate radicals were adsorbed onto the alumina surface, reducing the proportion of strongly acidic sites on the surface, and facilitating the desorption of oxygen species adsorbed by surface defects. As P and Ce elements interacted, the Ce4+/Ce3+ ratio decreased, increasing the number of oxygen vacancies in cerium oxide to improve the oxygen storage capacity of cerium oxide. In addition to acting as an oxygen storage material, the Ce elements increased the electron density of Pd and weakened the binding strength of the oxygen species bound to the individual metal Pd. There was a strong interaction between cerium and palladium, resulting in a mixed state of Pd0, PdO, and Pd2+ after the reaction. On the other hand, the surface of the foam was rough enough to facilitate the adhesion of the thin coating, while the thin coating, with a thickness of less than 8 μm, improved its mechanical properties. The CO full conversion temperature was reduced by 135 °C in the Pd/CeP(γ/α-A) compared to the uncoated foam catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and development of visible light photocatalysts for wastewater remediation applications have received considerable attention due to their ability to operate under low energy, renewable and clean. The application of ZnO nanostructures as a photocatalyst in various photodegradation applications has shown to be of continued interest. However, ZnO possessed several setbacks, including their large bandgap, which require high energy for the excitation of the electrons. To overcome these limitations, doping ZnO photocatalysts has been confirmed to enhance their photocatalytic performance by narrowing their large bandgap, thus opening up numerous possibilities. Doped ZnO nanostructures have found extensive use in pollution control applications as visible light photocatalysts. The doping with metal or non-metal elements, metal oxides, and inclusion with other semiconductors to form a hybrid heterojunction photocatalyst are among the strategies employed. This mini review summarizes recent progress in the strategies employed in the preparation of doped ZnO photocatalysts for the degradation of various organic pollutants, including synthetic dye molecules and emerging contaminants. Their application in antibacterial performance is also briefly explained. Additionally, the degradation mechanism of selected pollutants is also discussed. Finally, the advantages of using doped ZnO photocatalyst for pollution remediation are discussed. Considering the issue of water security, this review is timely to address the impending problem that the world is facing. Hopefully, this article can assist readers in gaining a better understanding of doped ZnO photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term mining activities have caused serious heavy metals contamination of farmland soils. In this study, we investigated the concentrations, distributions, accumulations, potential ecological risk, and sources of eight heavy metals in farmland soils of Pb–Zn mining areas. According to the soil standard GB15618-2018, Cd was the most contaminated, followed by Pb and Zn. The geo-accumulation index showed that Pb, Zn, Cd, and Hg accumulated seriously. The potential risk index indicated that Cd, Hg, and Pb were the main environmental risk elements. An integrated approach combining multivariate statistical analysis, PMF, and GIS mapping was used to analyze the sources of heavy metals. Four main sources were identified and quantified: (1) mining activities source, the main source of Cd (71.09%) and Zn (61.88%); (2) agricultural activities source, dominated by Hg (73.01%); (3) atmospheric deposition sources, with Pb (85.11%) as the main contributor; (4) natural source, characterized by Cr (72.96%), Ni (66.04%), As (55.98%) and Cu (37.70%). This study would help us understand the pollution characteristics and sources of farmland soils in mining areas and provide basic information for the next step of pollution control and remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, environmental pollution has become a critical issue for both developed and developing countries. Because of excessive industrialization, burning of fossil fuels, mining and exploration, extensive agricultural activities, and plastics, the environment is being contaminated rapidly through soil, air, and water. There are a variety of approaches for treating environmental toxins, but each has its own set of restrictions. As a result, various therapies are accessible, and approaches that are effective, long-lasting, less harmful, and have a superior outcome are extensively demanded. Modern research advances focus more on polymer-based nanoparticles, which are frequently used in drug design, drug delivery systems, environmental remediation, power storage, transformations, and other fields. Bioinorganic nanomaterials could be a better candidate to control contaminants in the environment. In this article, we focused on their synthesis, characterization, photocatalytic process, and contributions to environmental remediation against numerous ecological hazards. In this review article, we also tried to explore their recent advancements and futuristic contributions to control and prevent various pollutants in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper briefly describes the mechanism of phytoremediation, the advantages and the application of ornamental woody plants. Based on the article analysis, it is found that the concept of hyper accumulation has been emphasized too much in the study of phytoremediation, the usage of herbal hyper-accumulator plants can not last for a long period in field level as the economic benefits is fairly low. Thus, the outstand advantages of ornamental woody plants are outlined, such as more biomass, casier management, pollution remediation and improvement of cultural environments. Relevant studies of remediation by ornamental woody plants are focused on variety, absorption characteristics and resistance assessment. Conclusion: ornamental woody plants show strong resistance and significant ability of metal adsorption. Ornamental woody plants have great potential in remediation of heavy metal comminuted soil. In the future, the theory of resistance and absorption should be strengthened. Other studies are also important, such as expanding the types of ornamental woody remediation plants and screening out more economic and effective plants. As a result, more and more ornamental plants will be put into practice in remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have screened out a copper-cadmium tolerant strain K1 from the farmland soil of Laoyaling tailings in Tongling City, Anhui Province, China. The strain was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa by 16S rDNA sequencing. To reveal its influence on pollution remediation, the growth characteristics of strain K1 and its effects on soil properties were analyzed. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of strain K1 toward copper and cadmium was 996.70 mg·L−1 and 313.81 mg·L−1, respectively. The optimal growth pH of K1 strain was 7.0 and the optimal temperature was 30℃. Interestingly, we found that the growth of strain K1 increased the environmental pH. The removal rates of copper and cadmium in solution by the stain were 32.44% and 34.05%, respectively. By application of strain K1, the soil electrical conductivity (EC) reduced from 0.46 ms·cm−1 to 0.40 ms·cm−1; the contents of available copper and cadmium in the soil decreased by 34.89% and 17.88%; the activities of soil catalase and invertase were also significantly improved. In conclusion, the indigenous strain K1 showed significant resistance to heavy metals and could be expected to be used as a potential remediation agent or phytoremediation enhancer toward the heavy metal contaminated soil in tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stable existence of heavy metals in soil under natural conditions is the core issue in heavy metal pollution solidification and remediation technology. However, the existing research is limited to soil passivation tests of different materials or biochar adsorption tests and cannot reveal the internal mechanism of functional groups of different compounds in soil passivation. This paper takes the common heavy metal ion Cd2+ as an example to analyze the stability of the combination of heavy metal ions and common ion groups in soil. The stability and existing form of Cd are analyzed by using first-principle calculations, and the free energy, band structure, and partial density of states of CdCO3, CdSO4, CdCl2, and CdSiO3 are computed. The stability of Cd binding to common anions in soil is determined. Results show the descending order of structural stability of cadmium compounds is CdSiO3, CdSO4, CdCO3, and CdCl2. SO42− and SiO32− can be used as preferred functional groups for cadmium pollution passivation. Anhydrous sodium sulfate and sodium silicate are promising passivators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The current status of heavy metal pollution in soil in typical Pb/Zn smelting regions in China was reviewed. • The main sources of soil heavy metal pollution in smelting regions and the application of source identification methods were analysed. • The potential of biomineralization for heavy metal contaminated soils was introduced. Smelting activities pose serious environmental problems due to the local and regional heavy metal pollution in soils they cause. It is therefore important to understand the pollution situation and its source in the contaminated soils. In this paper, data on heavy metal pollution in soils resulting from Pb/Zn smelting (published in the last 10 years) in China was summarized. The heavy metal pollution was analyzed from a macroscopic point of view. The results indicated that Pb, Zn, As and Cd were common contaminants that were present in soils with extremely high concentrations. Because of the extreme carcinogenicity, genotoxicity and neurotoxicity that heavy metals pose, remediation of the soils contaminated by smelting is urgently required. The primary anthropogenic activities contributing to soil pollution in smelting areas and the progressive development of accurate source identification were performed. Due to the advantages of biominerals, the potential of biomineralization for heavy metal contaminated soils was introduced. Furthermore, the prospects of geochemical fraction analysis, combined source identification methods as well as several optimization methods for biomineralization are presented, to provide a reference for pollution investigation and remediation in smelting contaminated soils in the future. Graphical Abstract [Display omitted]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, inadequate possessions, and land degradation all pose obstacles to modern agriculture. In the current scenario, the agriculture industry is mainly dependent on the use of chemical-based pesticides and fertilizers that impact soil health and crop productivity. Moreover, water scarcity leads farmers in drastically affected regions to use heavy metal-enriched water sources mainly originating from industrial sources for field crops irrigation. Soil pollutants can be carried into the human body via dust and water, creating negative health effects varying from simple symptoms, e.g., nausea and diarrhea and reaching death in critical cases. Thus, to clean soil contaminants, and improve soil fertility and agricultural production, alternatives to chemical fertilizers must be developed. Therefore, using beneficial microbes found in plant-associated soil microorganisms offers an effective strategy to alleviate some of these challenges, improving soil fertility, and crop yield, and protecting plants from stress conditions. Through the use of synergistic interactions, the synthetic consortium strategy seeks to improve the stability of microbial communities. In this review, synthetic consortia and their potential use in agriculture were discussed. Further, engineering new effective synthetic consortia was suggested as an effective approach in the concept of environmental bioremediation of soil pollutants and contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the strong tolerance of bacteria to Hg pollution, aquatic Rheinheimera tangshanensis (RTS-4) was separated from industrial sewage, with a maximum Hg(II) tolerant concentration of 120 mg/L and a maximum Hg(II) removal rate of 86.72 ± 2.11%, in 48 h under optimum culture conditions. The Hg(II) bioremediation mechanisms of RTS-4 bacteria are as follows: (1) the reduction of Hg(II) through Hg reductase encoded by the mer operon; (2) the adsorption of Hg(II) through the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs); and (3) the adsorption of Hg(II) using dead bacterial biomass (DBB). At low concentrations [Hg(II) ≤ 10 mg/L], RTS-4 bacteria employed Hg(II) reduction and DBB adsorption to remove Hg(II), and the removal percentages were 54.57 ± 0.36% and 45.43 ± 0.19% of the total removal efficiency, respectively. At moderate concentrations [10 mg/L < Hg(II) ≤ 50 mg/L], all three mechanisms listed above coexisted, with the percentages being 0.26 ± 0.01%, 81.70 ± 2.31%, and 18.04 ± 0.62% of the total removal rate, respectively. At high concentrations [Hg(II) > 50 mg/L], the bacteria primary employed EPS and DBB adsorption to remove Hg(II), where the percentages were 19.09 ± 0.04% and 80.91 ± 2.41% of the total removal rate, respectively. When all three mechanisms coexisted, the reduction of Hg(II) occurred within 8 h, the adsorption of Hg(II) by EPSs and DBB occurred within 8–20 h and after 20 h, respectively. This study provides an efficient and unused bacterium for the biological treatment of Hg pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental Science & Technology (10036504) is the property of Editorial Board of Environmental Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article advances a theory that brings real-world outcomes into our current understanding of the dynamic relationship between public opinion and policy. It examines a vital public good – air pollution remediation in 319 American localities – and estimates a dynamic model of relationships among three key variables: public opinion, policy, and air pollution outcomes. The analysis focuses on both public opinion and air pollution outcomes as dependent variables. I find that public opinion reacts to changes in statewide policy and local air pollution, which suggests the public forms its opinions with whatever reliable information is most readily available. I also find that local public opinion's impact on local air pollution is substantively meaningful on timescales smaller than 5 years, indicating that the additional policy effort prompted by public opinion change is sufficient to yield tangible real-world outcomes even in the short term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury is a well-known heavy metal pollutant of global importance, typically found in effluents (lakes, oceans, and sewage) and released into the atmosphere. It is highly toxic to humans, animals and plants. Therefore, the current challenge is to develop efficient materials and techniques that can be used to remediate mercury pollution in water and the atmosphere, even in low concentrations. The paper aims to review the chitosan-based polymer nanocomposite materials that have been used for the environmental remediation of mercury pollution since they possess multifunctional properties, beneficial for the adsorption of various kinds of pollutants from wastewater and the atmosphere. In addition, these chitosan-based polymer nanocomposites are made of non-toxic materials that are environmentally friendly, highly porous, biocompatible, biodegradable, and recyclable; they have a high number of surface active sites, are earth-abundant, have minimal surface defects, and are metal-free. Advances in the modification of the chitosan, mainly with nanomaterials such as multi-walled carbon nanotube and nanoparticles (Ag, TiO2, S, and ZnO), and its use for mercury uptake by batch adsorption and passive sampler methods are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Landscape Architecture Frontiers is the property of Higher Education Press Limited Company and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The industrial sector of China is critical to the country's economic growth. On the other side, industrialisation has resulted in a high rate of emissions, pushing China to spend extensively on industrial pollution remediation. As a result, this study looks at the relationship between investment completed in the treatment of industrial pollution and economic development. Initially, the study used the global Moran's I test (Queen's contiguity matrix) to find spatial autocorrelation for the 'investment completed in the treatment of industrial pollution' factor, where the study found a positive association across Chinese provinces, and suggest the existence of spatial autocorrelation. Thereafter, a time-fixed effect spatial error model was used due to the lowest Akaike information criterion and Bayesian information criterion to analyse regional data of China from 1999 to 2018. The data reveal a positive association between investment completed in the treatment of industrial pollution and regional economic growth, both in the short and long term. Furthermore, the negative consequences of urban wages and foreign investment on investment completed in the treatment of industrial pollution are having the reverse effect on regional green development, necessitating ecologically friendly actions to mitigate the negative environmental effects of both. The results highlight the need for policymakers in other countries to review their plans for economic expansion and create environmentally friendly legislation. By implementing the Chinese green economic growth model, policymakers in industrially polluting nations can reduce industrial pollution and foster green growth in their nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Evidence collected to date by our group has demonstrated that tin(II)-functionalized hydroxyapatites (Sn/HAP) are a newly discovered class of ecofriendly reductive adsorbents for Cr(VI) removal from wastewaters. In this work an upgraded series of Sn/HAP materials assured a maximum removal capacity of ≈ 20 mg Cr /g, doubling the previously reported value for Sn/HAP materials, thanks to higher Sn-dispersion as proved by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron microscopy. Insights on kinetics and thermodynamics of the reductive adsorption process are provided and the influence of pH, dosage, and nature of Cr(VI) precursors on chromium removal performances have been investigated. Pseudo-second-order kinetics described the interfacial reductive adsorption process on Sn/HAP, characterized by low activation energy (21 kJ mol−1), when measured in the 278–318 K range. Tests performed in the 2–6 pH interval showed similar efficiency in terms of Cr(VI) removal. Conventional procedures of recycling and regeneration resulted ineffective in restoring the pristine performances of the samples due to surface presence of both Sn(IV) and Cr(III). To overcome these weaknesses, the used samples (Sn + Cr/HAP) were upcycled into catalysts in a circular economy perspective. Used samples were tested as catalysts in gas-phase catalytic processes for air pollution remediation: selective catalytic reduction of NO x (NH 3 -SCR), NH 3 selective catalytic Oxidation (NH 3 -SCO), and selective catalytic oxidation of methane to CO 2. Catalytic tests enlightened the interesting activity of the upcycled Sn + Cr/HAP samples in catalytic oxidation processes, being able to selectively oxidize methane to CO 2 at relatively low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Five psychrotolerant Alcanivorax spp. strains were isolated from Antarctic coastal waters. Strains were screened for molecular and physiological properties and analyzed regarding their growth capacity. Partial 16S rDNA, alk-B1, and P450 gene sequencing was performed. Biolog EcoPlates and the API 20E test were used to evaluate metabolic and biochemical profiles. Bacterial growth in sodium acetate was determined at 4, 15, 20, and 25 °C to evaluate the optimal temperature. Furthermore, the ability of each strain to grow in a hydrocarbon mixture at 4 and 25 °C was assayed. Biosurfactant production tests (drop-collapse and oil spreading) and emulsification activity tests (E24) were also performed. Concerning results of partial gene sequencing (16S rDNA, alk-B1, and P450), a high similarity of the isolates with the same genes isolated from other Alcanivorax spp. strains was observed. The metabolic profiles obtained by Biolog assays showed no significant differences in the isolates compared to the Alcanivorax borkumensis wild type. The results of biodegradative tests showed their capability to grow at different temperatures. All strains showed biosurfactant production and emulsification activity. Our findings underline the importance to proceed in the isolation and characterization of Antarctic hydrocarbon-degrading bacterial strains since their biotechnological and environmental applications could be useful even for pollution remediation in polar areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Interaction between EPS and biochar inhibited Pb(II) adsorption on their composite. • Complexation of C-OH and amide groups masked the Pb(II) binding sites on EPS-BC. • Pb-O (40.8%) and Pb-OOC (31.5%) mainly contributed to Pb(II) molecule on EPS-BC. • Monodentate inner sphere structure dominated Pb speciation on the EPS-BC composite. Pb(II) sequestration in extracellular polymers-biochar composites (EPS-BC) was explored using macroscopic models and microscopic technology. The results showed that the actual adsorption capacity of EPS-BC was 52.2% lower than the calculated capacity based on adsorption onto pure components due to the interaction of polysaccharide and amide group in extracellular polymers with biochar, which masked the reactive sites related to Pb(II) in EPS-BC. The bond of Pb–O (40.8%) and Pb–OOC (31.5%) mainly contributed to Pb(II) speciation on the EPS-BC surfaces. Furthermore, each Pb atom coordinated with 6O atoms in the first shell and with 0.5C atoms in the second shell, indicating that the carboxyl group in composite was complexed with Pb(II) as a monodentate inner-sphere structure. The findings provide an in-depth understanding of the adsorption mechanism of heavy metals by extracellular polymers coupled with biochar at molecular scale, guiding bioremediation with respect to heavy metal contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the use of waste from the textile industry (silkworm byproducts) as a promising raw feedstock for the production of carbon-based adsorbents (biochar). The silk excreta biochar generated at 600 and 700 °C (referred to as SEB-600 and SEB-700, respectively) were evaluated in terms of their efficacy in adsorbing cationic (methylene blue) and anionic (Congo red) textile dyes. Although the functional groups on the surfaces of SEB-600 and SEB-700 were not significantly different, the specific surface area of SEB-700 was greater than that of SEB-600. The dye adsorption capacity of SEB-700 was higher than that of SEB-600. The adsorption of methylene blue and Congo red on SEB-700 followed Freundlich isotherms (R2 ≥ 0.963) and pseudo-second-order kinetics (R2 = 0.999), indicating chemisorption with multilayer characteristics. The mechanism for the adsorption of methylene blue on SEB-700 may involve interactions with the negatively charged functional groups on the surface and the mesopores of SEB-700. For the adsorption of Congo red, the mesopores in the biochar and the electrostatic interaction between biochar (positively charged because of the dye solution pH < pH zpc) and the anionic dye could affect adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacities of SEB-700 for methylene blue and Congo red were determined to be 168.23 and 185.32 mg g−1, respectively. Utilising the waste generated from the textile industry to remove pollutants will build a sustainable loop in the industry by minimising waste generation and pollutant emissions. [Display omitted] • Silkworm excreta was converted into biochar at 700 °C (SEB-700) to remove dyes. • SEB-700 showed a high removal rate for methylene blue (92.8%) and Congo red (99.9%). • The mesopores in SEB-700 played an important role in dye adsorption. • Maximum adsorption capacity of SEB-700 for methylene blue was 168.23 mg g−1. • Maximum adsorption capacity of SEB-700 for Congo red was 185.32 mg g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution harms all levels of ecosystems and organisms; therefore, global plastic pollution must be addressed at all plastic life cycle stages. One solution involves the clean-up and remediation of plastic pollution using technologies. To further our understanding of these technologies, we collated 102 clean-up technologies invented to prevent or collect plastic in aquatic environments and analyzed the non-peer-reviewed and peer-reviewed literature for effectiveness and ecological impact data. Across all available literature, effectiveness data were under-reported, lacked standardization, and were rarely tested by a neutral third party. This makes it difficult to make informed decisions when choosing which clean-up technology to deploy and evaluate the environmental impact of these technologies. Regulation and standardized reporting guidelines for clean-up technologies are an important next step for decision-makers interested in plastic pollution clean-up. As global interest in addressing plastic pollution grows, this research paves the path for the effective use of plastic clean-up technologies. • The number of plastic pollution clean-up technologies developed is increasing. • The effectiveness of clean-up technologies is understudied and inconsistent. • Five technologies reported any unintended ecological impacts. • Inconsistencies in effectiveness reports hinder the implementation of technologies. • Standardized effectiveness data is crucial to compare clean-up technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn isotope can help to clarify the migration, transformation and source contribution of Zn in farmland soil. However, the research on Zn isotope value of different end members in farmland soil is incomprehensive, and the variation of Zn isotope in farmland soil caused by different factors in different polluted areas is unclear, which hinders the usage of Zn isotope tracing method in farmland soil. Thus, a Pb-Zn mine polluted farmland in southwest China was selected as the research object and the end elements and farmland soil samples with different Zn contamination were systematically collected to analyse Zn content, fraction and isotopic composition. The effects of different end members and processes of eluviation, organic adsorption and inorganic adsorption on Zn isotopic composition in soil were analysed, and the relationship between these three processes and environmental variables was analysed to clarify the change mechanism. The results can enrich the fractionation mechanism of Zn isotopes, expand the application of Zn isotope in tracing the sources, and provide geochemical evidence for remediation of Zn pollution in farmland soil. [Display omitted] • Source analysis of contaminated farmland was carried out with Pb and Zn isotope. • Zn redistribution from mining wastes to farmland soil was investigated. • Variation of Zn isotope in migration and transformation process was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution caused by various cationic dyes is becoming more and more serious. A combination of magnetic materials, conductive polymers, and some strong adsorption groups is expected to solve this challenge. Herein, magnetite (Fe 3 O 4)@polypyrrole@2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (Fe 3 O 4 @PPy@AMPS) is fabricated as adsorbent for removing methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RhB), malachite green (MG), and crystalline violet (CV) from aqueous solution. The investigation of the factors including adsorbent type, adsorbent concentration, time, and temperature demonstrates that Fe 3 O 4 @PPy@AMPS has superior properties to adsorb the four cationic dyes. The maximum adsorption capacity of these dyes is separately 183.486, 215.054, 144.718 and 194.175 mg/g. Notably, although it goes through five cycles, the composite maintains a remarkable dye removal efficiency exceeding 95 %. Kinetic analysis reveals that the adsorption process conforms more closely to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The adsorption isotherm conforms to the Langmuir model, signifying monolayer adsorption of the dyes. Thermodynamic parameters also indicate that the adsorption process is endothermic and spontaneous. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) simulations affirm the molecular interactions between Fe 3 O 4 @PPy@AMPS and four dyes, elucidating the adsorption mechanism. The high efficiency and recyclable nature of the Fe 3 O 4 @PPy@AMPS composite underscores its significance in addressing dye wastewater pollution remediation. [Display omitted] • Magnetic core-shell Fe 3 O 4 @PPy@AMPS composite adsorbent is successfully synthesized. • The maximum adsorption capacity Qm for MB, RhB, MG and CV is 183.486, 215.054, 144.718 and 194.175 mg/g. • The adsorption for MB, RhB, MG and CV remains more than 95 % after five cycles. • The adsorption follows Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. • The adsorption for MB, RhB, MG and CV is a spontaneous heat-absorption reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution is an extreme environmental threat, necessitating novel restoration solutions. The present investigation investigates the integration of machine learning (ML) techniques with catalytic degradation processes to improve plastic waste management. Catalytic degradation is emphasized for its efficiency and selectivity, while several machine learning techniques are assessed for their capacity to enhance these processes. The review goes into ML applications for forecasting catalyst performance, determining appropriate reaction conditions, and refining catalyst design to improve overall process performance. Briefing about the reinforcement, supervised, and unsupervised learning algorithms that handle all complex data and parameters is explained. A techno-economic study is provided, evaluating these ML-driven system's performance, affordability, and environmental sustainability. The paper reviews how the novel method integrating ML with catalytic degradation for plastic cleanup might alter the process, providing new insights into scalable and sustainable solutions. This review emphasizes the usefulness of these modern strategies in tackling the urgent problem of plastic pollution by offering a comprehensive examination. [Display omitted] • Catalytic degradation and machine learning techniques in plastic remediation. • Different catalytic processes for the plastic waste degradation was reviewed. • Steps involved in machine learning based plastic remediation has been elaborated. • Techno-economic analysis in the review helps is cost cut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel approach is proposed that utilizes LBC to achieve a strategy of Remediation-by-Production (RBP). • LBC achieved 90.89 % Cd passivation before rice uptake peaked and reduced Cd in rice grains by 31.3 %–54.6 %. • LBC suppressed the abundance of plant pathogenic bacteria to 4.03% while raising nutritional bacteria to 28.82%. • LBC lowered the health risk coefficients of Cd across various age groups by Monte Carlo simulations. The scarcity of arable land and the problem of food security urgently called for a strategy of Remediation-by-Production (RBP). Biochar is a promising method for addressing Cd-contaminated soils, but the time required for remediation and the variability of long-term performance have a direct impact on the realization of the RBP strategy. We have developed a novel approach for remediating cadmium-contaminated flooded soil by utilizing lignin biochar (LBC) in combination with safe rice cultivation. The addition of 1 % LBC achieves efficient Cd passivation (CP: 90.89 %) before rice Cd uptake peaks. Meanwhile, LBC can increase soil organic matter and alter microbial community structure, decreasing the relative abundance of soil pathogenic bacteria from 5.12 % to 4.03 % while raising nutritional bacteria from 15.18 % to 28.82 %. Furthermore, LBC successfully reduced the accumulation of Cd in rice grains by 31.3 % ∼ 54.6 %, making rice dwarf, sturdy, and greener, and lowering the health risk coefficients of Cd across various age groups by Monte Carlo simulations. This study elucidated the critical role of humic substances of LBC in remediation time and performance and laid a solid theoretical foundation for promoting the application of biochar in soil contamination remediation and simultaneously realizing the safe production of crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable urban development faces challenges in efficiently using spaces, reducing pollutants, and greening cities. We examined how cadmium accumulation in soils from polluted irrigation water affects marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) safe and healthy products and how plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) can remediate cadmium on marigold for multifunctional urban vertical system development. The study was a factorial arrangement with a randomized complete block design. The first factor was cadmium (0, 1, 2 and, 3 mg/kg soil through irrigation with Cadmium-polluted water), and the second factor was PGPR treatments (P.flu, P.putida, T.SP , Mix1 (P.flu + A.lipo), Mix2 (T.SP+ A.choro), Mix 3 (P.flu + A.lipo + T.SP+ A.choro)), and the control. In all the PGPR treatments, total chlorophyll, flowers' fresh and dry weight and antioxidant enzymes' activity significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05). There was no obvious risk to human health for oral and dermal use of marigold products in bacterial inoculated treatments (1 > Health Risk Index). Using flower of the plants treated with Thiobacillus thioparus strain 300 , Mix1 (P.flu + A.lipo), Mix2 (T.SP+ A.choro), Mix3 (P.flu + A.lipo + T.SP + A.choro), if irrigated with up to 2 mg/kg soil Cd were safe and healthy (Estimated Daily Intake < 0.001 , Carcinogenetic Risk <1E-6, Target Hazard Quotient <1). Therefore, this research, for the first time, showed that using nature-based combined soil bacteria strains, we can create vertical green systems with double functionality: pollution remediation and healthy marigold flower production in cadmium-contaminated soils of up to 2 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intrinsic issue associated with the application of microbes for practical pollution remediation involves maintaining the expected activity of engaged strains or consortiums as effectively as that noted under laboratory conditions. Faced with various stress factors, degraders with dormancy ability are more likely to survive and exhibit degradation activity. In this study, a hydrocarbonoclastic and halotolerant strain, Gordonia polyisoprenivorans ZM27, was isolated via stimulation with resuscitation-promoting factor (Rpf). Long-term exposure to dual stresses of 10% NaCl and starvation induced ZM27 to enter a viable but nonculturable (VBNC)-like state, and ZM27 cells could be resuscitated upon Rpf stimulation. Notable changes in both morphological and physiological characteristics between VBNC-like ZM27 cells and resuscitated cells confirmed the response to Rpf and their robust resistance against harsh environments. Whole-genome sequencing and analysis indicated ZM27 could be a generalist degrader with dormancy ability. Subsequently, VBNC-like ZM27 was applied in a soil microcosm experiment to investigate the practical application potential under harsh conditions. VBNC-like ZM27 combined with Rpf stimulation exhibited the most effective biodegradation performance, and the initial n -hexadecane content (1000 mg kg−1) decreased by 63.29% after 14-day incubation. Based on 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and analysis, Gordonia exhibited a positive response to Rpf stimulation. The relative abundance of genus Gordonia was negatively correlated with that of Alcanivorax , a genus of obligate hydrocarbon degrader with the greatest abundance during soil incubation. Based on the degradation profile and community analysis, generalist Gordonia may be more efficient in hydrocarbon degradation than specialist Alcanivorax under harsh conditions. The characteristics of ZM27, including its sustainable culturability under long-term stress, response to Rpf and robust performance in soil microcosms, are valuable for the remediation of petroleum pollution under stressful conditions. Our work validated the importance of dormancy and highlighted the underestimated role of low-activity degraders in petroleum remediation. [Display omitted] • Gordonia polyisoprenivorans ZM27 can respond to resuscitation-promoting factor (Rpf). • Dormancy is a strategy for ZM27 to keep activity in hypersaline environments. • Rpf combined with low-activity ZM27 enhanced n -hexadecane degradation in soil. • Outcompeting of Gordonia may be attributed to dormancy ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A green and simple method for preparing antibiotic adsorption aerogel was proposed. • Abundant amino, carboxyl and hydroxyl groups provided multiple adsorption sites. • Adsorption processes were described based on quasi-second-order and Langmuir models. • The adsorption mechanism of antibiotics OFL, TC, and SDZ was proposed. • KGM's network framework enhanced strength by compensating for brittleness. The abuse of antibiotics led to significant environmental pollution through persistent residues in water bodies, posing severe risks to both ecological systems and human health. Addressing this issue, recent studies highlighted the potential of carbonaceous materials as effective adsorbents for removing antibiotics from water. Despite the proven potential of various carbonaceous materials in water purification, the application of three-dimensional porous microspherical aerogels as adsorbents presented a promising yet comparatively less discussed avenue in the quest for efficient antibiotic removal from aquatic environments.This work introduced a novel KGM-GO/CS/SA composite aerogel sphere, developed via a simple sol–gel and dripping method, using konjac glucomannan (KGM) as a cross-linking agent. We extensively analyzed its adsorption efficiency against common antibiotics such as tetracycline (TC), ofloxacin (OFL), and sulfadiazine (SDZ), revealing its rapid adsorption kinetics and high capacity. The aerogel's micro-morphology, characterized by a graded porous structure with abundant microporous channels and a low bulk density of 21.2 mg/cm3, along with its enhanced mechanical properties and thermal stability due to KGM cross-linking, signified its potential as a robust adsorbent. The surface functional groups facilitated diverse interaction mechanisms, including electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions, contributing to the adsorbent's high performance. Furthermore, the surface charge of the aerogel varied with pH, enhancing its electrostatic adsorption capabilities. The adsorption behavior was best described by the quasi-second-order and Langmuir models, with maximum capacities of 427.63 mg/g for OFL, 374.35 mg/g for TC, and 231.09 mg/g for SDZ, thereby offering a promising solution for antibiotic pollution remediation and illustrating the utility of carbon-based aerogel microspheres in environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Triple S-scheme is designed through band structure modulation for NPX degradation. • Four-component semiconductor heterojunctions charge transfer was confirmed. • Triple and quadruple S-scheme were described as novel heterojunctions. • Two reductive and oxidative sites improved OH• >•O 2 − > h+ generation for NPX mineralization. • High catalyst stability despite leaching of Cu 3 (PO 4) 2 due to multiple active sites. The limited charge carrier separation and transportation in single semiconductor photocatalysts has lobbied research and development in rational design and fabrication of heterojunction photocatalysts which has become a hot topic in the last decade. In-depth investigation of a four-component semiconductors interfacial charge transfer analysis considering the contribution of all components was done for the first time to deduce triple S-scheme heterojunction. This work investigated four-component semiconductors (Cu 3 (PO 4) 2 , BaWO 4 , C-MgO and LDH) heterojunction photocatalyst formation by the solvothermal method for visible light degradation of NPX. The degradation rate of CBLM-B (0.0429 min−1) with high BaWO 4 content was two times the degradation rate of CBLM-A (0.0203 min−1) with high LDH/C-MgO content. XPS, electrochemistry, and band structure analysis were used to propose a triple S-scheme heterojunction with high electron mobility and charge separation that enhanced the formation of OH• >•O 2 − > h+ species as supported by radical trapping experiments due to presence of two oxidative and two reductive sites for stable generation of ROSs. Internal electric field (IEF) and band bending modulated an S-S interfacial strategy at the three junctions. Cu leaching affected the catalyst stability, and NPX degradation pathways were investigated with QTOF-HPLC-MS. This work demonstrated band structure adjustment for design of highly efficient triple S-Scheme heterojunctions application in environmental pollution remediation as a new development to advance scientific knowledge on four-component heterojunctions which may also be described using the Z-scheme charge transfer model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shaping of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) from non-processible powder forms into applicable architectures with additional functionality remains a challenge. Using pre-electrospun polymer fibers as a sacrificial template, herein, we report a green synthesis of an architecture in the form of COF hollow fibers with an inner layer of peroxidase-like iron oxide nanoparticles as a catalytic material. When compared to peroxidase-like pristine iron oxide nanoparticles, these COF hollow fibers demonstrate higher catalytic breakdown of crystal violet due to their peroxidase-like activity via advanced oxidation process. Furthermore, as a potential adsorbent, hollow COF fibers exhibit significantly effective adsorption capacity and removal efficiency of organic solvent and oil from water. Because of their magnetic nature, COF hollow fibers can be easily recovered and have exhibited high recycling stability for both catalytic dye degradation and organic solvent removal from water. • Developed a method for synthesis of multifunctional magnetic hollow COF/NP-fibers. • Enhanced dye removal by catalytic oxidation and adsorption by hollow COF/NP-fibers. • Enhanced adsorption of organic solvents by hollow COF/NP-fibers. • Hollow COF/NP-fibers maintained MNP stability with minimal iron leaching. • Hollow COF/NP-fibers were repetitively used for dye, solvent, and oil removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the performance of a novel magnetic hybrid MIL-53(Fe)/Fe 3 O 4 @TiO 2 composite for removing reactive red 195 (RR195) dye from water using UVc light. Various analytical techniques were used to characterize the nanocomposite materials. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the presence of MIL-53(Fe) and TiO 2 in the composite. FT-IR analysis identified carboxyl and Ti-O-Ti groups in the photocatalyst structure. The study evaluated the effects of pH, dye concentration, photocatalyst dosage, and temperature on RR195 photodegradation. The Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic model provided the best fit for the reaction rate. Optimal conditions for an 84 % dye degradation were found at a photocatalyst dose of 15 mg/100 mL, pH 3, dye concentration of 100 mg/L, and 35 °C after 120 minutes of UVc light exposure. Thermodynamic analysis indicated an endothermic reaction with positive values for Δ#H and negative values for Δ#S. The MIL-53(Fe)/Fe 3 O 4 @TiO 2 composite demonstrated excellent stability and achieved over 90 % dye degradation after five cycles. Overall, the composite shows promise for treating wastewater with dyes. [Display omitted] • A novel metal-organic framework photocatalyst, MIL-53(Fe)/Fe 3 O 4 @TiO 2 , was made using a solvothermal synthesis process. • Under optimal conditions, 84 % of Reactive Red 195 dye (RR195) was degraded within 2 h. • Our hybrid nanocomposite has great potential for pollution remediation, enhanced efficiency, and improved recyclability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored Ag-guided strain formation in ZnO that can manipulate defects in related properties, which are helpful in enhancing the photocatalytic performance of ZnO. Ag@ZnO nanosheets were synthesized with varying Ag concentrations (0–5 at%) through a cost-effective hydrothermal method and employed for the efficient removal of environmentally concerning dyes, namely methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), and rhodamine B (RhB), under natural sunlight radiation. Microscopic images (SEM and TEM) revealed the nanoplates regardless of the Ag concentrations. The XRD pattern confirmed the pure phase of the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO, while the crystallite size decreased from 25 to 20 nm, augmented with the bright field-TEM images. The energy bandgap, E g , decreased from 3.24 to 3.18 eV, as Ag concentration increased from 0 to 5 at%. The highest photocatalytic efficiency of Ag@ZnO:5 at% was achieved to be ∼93 %, ∼97.5 %, and ∼98 % for MO, MB, and RhB, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag@ZnO:5 at% was attributed to the high charge separation efficiency and many active sites due to the surface integration of Ag atoms and defects states. Ag@ZnO:5 at% nanoplates showed significant inactivation against environmentally transmitted pathogenic bacteria within 30 min. These findings underscore the significant potential of Ag@ZnO photocatalysts for sunlight-driven removal of organic pollutants, aligning with the sustainability goals advocated by the United Nations. The outcomes of this research contribute valuable insights into the development of efficient photocatalytic materials for environmental pollution remediation. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of ZnO@Ag (0–5 at%) nanoplates by cost-effective hydrothermal method. • Lattice distortion increases with Ag concentration, causing reduced crystallite size. • High removal efficiency up to ∼98 % for RhB in 100 min achieved concerning high porosity. • MO and MB are degraded up to ∼93 % in 140 min and ∼97.5 % in 100 min, respectively. • ZnO@Ag nanoplates inactivated environmentally transmitted pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high concentration of pharmaceuticals in water systems can harm the ecosystem and human health. Tetracycline (TC) is a human and veterinary antibiotic widely used for bacterial infections. The excessive use of TC has resulted in a risk to health and the environment since TC has been found in various water ecosystems. Then, this study focuses on effectively removing tetracycline from water solutions using an Al(III)-based MOF CYCU-3. The material showed high adsorption in the pH range of 4–9 with an equilibrium time of 120 min and outstanding cyclability. The maximum adsorption capacity was 428.1 mg g−1. The experimental data were fitted into Pseudo-Second Order (PSO) and Temkin models, suggesting physicochemical interactions. The thermodynamic study proved the exothermic nature of the process. The adsorption mechanism was proposed based on the experimental analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and theoretical calculations. It was proposed that cation-π, π-π interactions, and hydrogen bonding played the main role in adsorption. CYCU-3 displays higher adsorption capacity compared with some representative porous materials. Therefore, CYCU-3 can be considered a suitable adsorbent for the treatment of water contaminated with pharmaceuticals. This study focuses on effectively removing tetracycline from water solutions using an Al(III)-based MOF CYCU-3. [Display omitted] • CYCU-3 was applied for water remediation focused on tetracycline (TC) adsorption. • CYCU-3 shows high performance at different pH with outstanding reusability. • CYCU-3 exhibits a high adsorption capacity of 428.14 mg g−1 with fast kinetic. • Cation- π, π-π interactions, and hydrogen bonding are implicated in the adsorption mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From an environmental protection, the highly effective photodegradation of organic dyes and antibiotics in wastewater needs to be solved expeditiously. Fortunately, the construction of Z-scheme heterojunction for photocatalytic degradation is considered to be an effective method. In this paper, after the fabrication of V 2 O 5 by calcination and loading of PANI on its surface by aniline polymerization, a novel PANI@V 2 O 5 -ZnIn 2 S 4 composite photocatalysts prepared by one-pot synthesis method and used for the degradation of industrial dyes (crystalline violet, Congo red) and antibiotics (tetracycline-TC). Under the optimal photodegradation conditions, the 30 wt% PANI@V 2 O 5 -ZnIn 2 S 4 heterojunction photocatalysts resulted in more than 95 % degradation of CR, CV and TC solutions after 32 min of irradiation. The optimal photodegradation conditions of the simulated pollutants in real aqueous environments catalyzed by the as-synthesized photocatalysts were explored via response surface methodology (RSM). Multiple material characterization techniques, such as FESEM, HRTEM, XPS valence band spectrum, photoelectrochemistry, radical trapping experiments and EPR tests verified the existence of Z-scheme heterojunction. Especially, the coating of conductive PANI on the V 2 O 5 surface can further improve the separation and transfer efficiency of photogenerated charge carriers, thereby enhancing the photocatalytic activity of the semiconductor photocatalyst. This study will provide a robust option for the design and construction of Z-scheme heterojunctions photocatalysts for environmental pollution remediation. [Display omitted] • Polyaniline acts as an electron-moving channel, further facilitating the efficient separation and transfer of carriers. • Z-scheme PANI@V 2 O 5 -ZnIn 2 S 4 heterojunction was successfully fabricated. • The 30 wt% PANI@V 2 O 5 -ZnIn 2 S 4 composite showed 99 % degradation of antibiotics and Industrial dyes in 32 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the rising worldwide concern about environmental contamination, there has been a substantial focus on researching sustainable and ecologically friendly materials created from waste. Despite the efforts delving into potentials of recycling or upcycling various waste sources for diverse applications, the sustainable waste reuse and the potential contributions of these wastes in addressing contemporary environmental issues have not been comprehensively analysed and discussed. To close the knowledge gap, this review intends to offer a comprehensive analysis and perspective on the use of three major categories of wastes, namely polymers derived, biomass and non-agricultural waste as renewable sources for pollution remediation specifically in the context of wastewater treatment. Thorough analysis is critical for understanding the potential of waste materials to be reintroduced into profitable usage cycles to decrease the environmental burdens and resource exhaustion. This review covers the sources and properties of the waste materials, as well as the development and performance of the recycled or upcycled materials obtained from these wastes in various applications. The obstacles and future research direction in the field of pollution remediation with waste materials are also presented. The research findings emphasize the significance of sustainable waste recycling and highlight the potential of reuse important resources extracted from waste products derived from polymers, biomass and non-agricultural solid waste. Waste reutilization provides an environmentally beneficial and sustainable strategy to eliminating different contaminants from wastewater. This review is anticipated to provide insights into recyclable materials and their potential for contributing to a greener environment. This review intends to serve as a guiding resource for inspiring further advancements in environmental solutions tailored to wastewater treatment needs. [Display omitted] • Waste derived from polymer, biomass and non-agricultural solid and their reutilization strategies are discussed. • The innovation in waste materials synthesis, characterization and modifications are discussed. • The performances of recycling of waste materials in wastewater treatment are analysed. • The challenges and future direction in enhancing the efficiency of recycled waste material are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stannous chloride and thiourea are used as source materials to prepare SnO2 quantum dots in the aqueous solution by a facile hydrolysis-oxidation process. The quantum dots have an average size of 1.9 nm with good dispersibility as well as long-term stability, and are validated to be an effective photocatalyst for the degradation of organic oil pollutants in contaminated water. The pollutant is removed by the quantum dots exposed to ultraviolet-visible irradiation at room temperature. The optimized condition is concluded to be a solution with quantum dot concentration of 10-3 mol/L and the degradation speed reaches the maximum at the 12 th hour after irradiation. After 48 hours, 91.9 % of octane is removed, concluding a high degradation efficiency. The prepared SnO2 quantum dots are potentially applicable in the remediation of marine environment as they hold the advantages of high efficiency, low cost and being environmental-friendly. The promotion and inhibition mechanisms of the photocatalytic SnO2 QDs at low and high concentrations are discussed.

As widespread wetland plants, Phragmites play a vital role in water purification and are widely utilized in constructed wetlands (accounting for 15.5% of applied wetland plants) as a natural alternative to wastewater treatment. However, despite such common applications, current understanding of the basic composition of the Phragmites root-inhabiting microbiome and the complex functions of each member of this microbiome remains incomplete, especially regarding pollution remediation. This review summarizes the advances that have been made in ecological and biochemical research on the Phragmites root microbiome, including bacteria, archaea, and fungi. Based on next-generation sequencing, microbial community compositions have been profiled under various environmental conditions. Furthermore, culture-based methods have helped to clarify the functions of the microbiome, such as metal iron stabilization, organic matter degradation, and nutrient element transformation. The unique community structure and functions are highly impacted by Phragmites lineages and environmental factors such as salinity. Based on the current understanding of the Phragmites root microbiome, we propose that synthetic microbial communities and iron–manganese plaque could be applied and intensified in constructed wetlands to help promote their water purification performance.

Establishing an in situ reactive zone (IRZ) is an effective groundwater pollution remediation method that has been utilized extensively in actual contaminated sites. However, some controversial factors and technical bottlenecks hinder the establishment of an IRZ. For instance, we need to decide whether, under high pressure and high flow velocity, the colloidal remediation agent should be injected into the aquifer to increase or reduce its migration ability. Additionally, methods need to be developed to monitor the diffusion range of colloidal remediation agents in the process of IRZ construction in real time and optimize the layout of injection wells. To clarify these uncertainties and resolve bottlenecks, this review first summarizes the development and design of IRZ technology to remedy contaminated groundwaters. Then, the types of colloidal remediation agents commonly used in IRZ technology are outlined, and the main mechanism of degrading pollutants is thoroughly analyzed. Additionally, the main mechanism of transport of colloidal remediation agents in aquifers is generalized. Finally, current knowledge gaps and future research prospects are identified and proposed. This review significantly improves our understanding of IRZ technology and provides valuable insights to researchers in this field. [Display omitted] • The development and application method of in situ reactive zone (IRZ) were summarized. • Primary reagents and remediation mechanisms used in IRZ were analyzed. • Migration mechanisms and influencing factors of agents in aquifers were summarized. • Bottlenecks faced by IRZ and the technical means to solve them are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of pollutant remediation using solar energy is increasingly acknowledged as a viable method to solve the current environmental problems. To date, three-dimensional (3D) graphene architectures have demonstrated excellent photocatalytic performance due to their salient characteristics. The hydrothermal treatment is the commonly reported synthetic protocol in preparing various novel hybrid 3D graphene architectures. This chapter focuses on the recent progress in developing and applying hybrid 3D graphene for the photocatalytic remediation of organic pollutants such as dye molecules, emerging contaminants, and heavy metals. Various novel design based on semiconductor/3D graphene has led to the creation of highly efficient heterojunction photocatalyst. The transformation to a 3D architecture does not only improve the accessible surface area but also enhanced light harvesting capability and charge transport. In addition, we have also made an effort to discuss some photocatalytic antibacterial disinfection innovations. Finally, prospects in the construction of hybrid 3D graphene possessing enhanced photocatalytic materials are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar had been widely used to improve the activity of photocatalysts, the biochar-based photocatalysts had more potential for environmental pollution remediation, but their effect on the sediment remained unknown. To understand these, the typical photocatalyst g-C3N4 was modified by biochar to develop g-C3N4/biochar with enhanced photocatalytic ability. Riverbed sediment was exposed to g-C3N4 and g-C3N4/biochar respectively for 30 days, and Illumina sequencing was utilized to examine the changes in the bacterial community in the sediment. The results showed that in riverbed sediment, g-C3N4 exposure had a concentration-dependent effect on the diversity of bacteria, while g-C3N4/biochar exposure had a slight influence on the bacterial diversity and the diversity almost maintained stable with different g-C3N4/biochar concentration. The application of g-C3N4 exhibited an inhibition influence on the growth of Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, and Rokubacteria in sediment, whose relative abundance increased when g-C3N4 was 25 mg/kg, and then decreased when g-C3N4 beyond this concentration. The presence of g-C3N4/biochar increased the relative abundance of Cyanobacteria in sediment and showed no obvious impact on other dominant phyla. Both g-C3N4 and g-C3N4/biochar could alter the levels of TP, NN, and AN in the sediment, but the magnitude of the changes of these physicochemical factors caused by g-C3N4/biochar was much smaller than those caused by g-C3N4. In addition, the complexity of the bacterial community network was reduced in a high concentration of g-C3N4, while it remained stable with different concentrations of g-C3N4/biochar treatments. Totally, this study demonstrated that, compared to g-C3N4, g-C3N4/biochar was able to maintain the relative stability of the bacterial community in riverbed sediment and mitigate the negative effects of photocatalysts to some extent, making biochar an ecological remediation agent with great potential for application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Manganese (Mn), as a cofactor of multiple enzymes, exhibits great significance to the human body, plants and animals. It is also a critical raw material and alloying element. However, extensive employment for industrial purposes leads to its excessive emission into the environment and turns into a significant threat to the ecosystem and public health. This review firstly introduces the essentiality, toxicity and regulation of Mn. Several traditional physicochemical methods and their problems are briefly discussed as well. Biological remediation, especially microorganism-mediated strategies, is a potential alternative for remediating Mn-polluted environments in a cost-efficient and eco-friendly manner. Among them, microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP), biosorption, bioaccumulation, bio-oxidation are discussed in detail, including their mechanisms, pivotal influencing factors along with strengths and limitations. In order to promote bioremediation efficiency, the combination of different techniques is preferable, and their research progress is also summarized. Finally, we propose the future directions of Mn bioremediation by microbes. Conclusively, this review provides a scientific basis for the microbial remediation performance for Mn pollution and guides the development of a comprehensive competent strategy towards practical Mn remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of using nano-titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalytic treatment of organic polluted liquid, the easy aggregation and recycling difficulty of nano-TiO2 particles are important problems that cannot be avoided. Anchoring nano-TiO2 to the substrate not only limits the aggregation of nano-TiO2, but also facilitates the easy removal and reuse of nano-TiO2 after processing. Herein, coaxial electrospun nanofibrous (NFs) made of L-polylactic acid (PLLA) and chitosan (CS) are coated with graphene oxide (GO) and TiO2 for the enhanced oxidation of organic pollutants. The adsorption and photocatalysis experiment results show that, for methyl orange (MO) dye solution, the saturated removal of MO by PLLA/CS, PLLA/CS-GO and PLLA/CS-GO/TiO2 nanofibers are 60.09 mg/g, 78.25 mg/g and 153.22 mg/g, respectively; for the Congo red (CR) dye solution, the saturated removal of CR by PLLA/CS, PLLA/CS-GO and PLLA/CS-GO/TiO2 nanofiber materials were 138.01 mg/g, 150.22 mg/g and 795.44 mg/g, respectively. These three composite nanofiber membrane materials can maintain more than 80% of their adsorption capacity after four repeated cycles. They are environmentally friendly and efficient organic pollution remediation materials with promising application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Multipurpose Utilization of Mineral Resources / Kuangchan Zonghe Liyong is the property of Multipurpose Utilization of Mineral Resources Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: Organic pollution poses a huge threat to the environment and human health. It is necessary to evaluate the degree of the physical and chemical reactions of organic pollutants and to clarify the time and space laws of their degradation, so as to guide the pollution remediation work. This study aimed to evaluate the biodegradation process of typical pollutant components (benzene (BZ) and dichloroethylene (DCE)) in groundwater in a study area using the 13C compound specific isotope analysis, and to evaluate the differences in calculated degradation rates by using theoretical results. RESULTS: The field‐measured spatio‐temporal concentrations of BZ and DCE and the isotope data of 13C and 14C in groundwater proved the leading role of microorganisms in the degradation process. The BZ degradation extent (92.11%) was higher than that of DCE (83.67%) within 1 year, and indoor experiments verified this result. Microbial degradation extents calculated by 13C isotope were 85% and 79%, respectively. The first‐order degradation kinetic model verified the reasonability of the degradation results calculated by 13C isotope; the deviations of the degradation extents calculated by field‐measured data and 13C isotope are both <10%. In addition, BZ was more likely to degrade upstream of the groundwater flow path. CONCLUSION: Biodegradation was the most important attenuation method of BZ and DCE, but there were differences in the degradation abilities of BZ and DCE by biological action, and BZ was preferentially degraded over DCE in the groundwater flow path. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]