Hybrid systems for microplastic removal: linking biological and physico-chemical processes

Microplastics (MPs) pollution represents a pervasive global environmental crisis, necessitating the development of robust and scalable remediation technologies. This review comprehensively analyzes two primary approaches involving biological and physico-chemical strategies for MPs removal and degradation, emphasizing their potential for synergistic application. Biological methods, including microbial degradation and enzymatic hydrolysis, offer sustainable pathways for depolymerization but often suffer from slow reaction kinetics. Conversely, physico-chemical processes, such as advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), membrane filtration, and coagulation, provide high-efficiency removal, especially for concentrated sources, but can be energy-intensive or produce secondary waste streams. This paper explores how integrating these two fields for instance, using chemical pre-treatment (such as AOPs) to enhance the bioavailability of polymers for subsequent enzymatic breakdown, or by employing bioflocculants to improve membrane separation which offers superior efficiency, reduced environmental footprint, and cost-effectiveness. Future research should focus on optimizing these hybrid systems for diverse microplastic types and environmental matrices (water, soil, air). • Integrated biotechnology and chemical methods enhance microplastic remediation. • Microbial and enzymatic degradation enable sustainable plastic breakdown. • AOPs and membrane systems deliver efficient microplastic removal. • Chemical pre-treatment improves polymer bioavailability for biodegradation. • Hybrid systems reduce energy use and environmental footprint.