An Overview of the Analysis, Distribution, and Treatment of Microplastics in Industrial Wastewater

Microplastics (MPs) as a predominant pollutant is a huge trouble to the environment. MPs pose an immense challenge, with the ability to bioaccumulate and ultimately disturb human health, biodiversity, aquatic animals, etc. MPs comprising various toxic organic chemicals, antibiotics, and heavy metals have adverse environmental consequences. MPs in industrial wastewater must be treated with different methods depending on its characteristics. Conventional treatment systems have high operating costs, low biodegradability, and toxicity for industrial wastewater. Advanced techniques encompass various phase-changing processes, such as coagulation–flocculation, flotation, and membrane operations. Among membrane technologies, ultra- (UF), nano- (NF), and microfiltration (MF) are widely used, while dynamic membranes have recently gained attention due to their effectiveness in removing MPs. Additionally, hybrid membrane approaches, like advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), electrochemical processes, and adsorption techniques, can be combined to enhance MPs removal efficiency and mitigate membrane fouling. Some researchers emphasize the utilization of chemical or biological digestion and engineered methods like biodegradation and wet oxidation. This review paper primarily focuses on reactor design and the functionality of various membrane-based filters and bioreactors to develop practical, sustainable membrane technologies that address the challenging issue of MPs pollution in industrial wastewater. The primary objective is to outline the daunting problem of MPs pollution and explore key strategies for addressing it effectively.