Adsorção dos Metais Pb2+, Cu2+, Cd2+ e Ni2+ em Microplástico Polietileno Tratado com Peróxido de Hidrogênio

Resumo

Microplastics, particularly polyethylene particles, have garnered increasing attention due to their prevalence
in aquatic environments and potential to interact with various contaminants. This study investigates the
adsorption behavior of metal cations (Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cd²⁺, and Ni²⁺) onto polyethylene microplastics. The
primary objective is to evaluate the capacity of microplastics to adsorb metal ions in aquatic ecosystems,
consequently exacerbating their polluting potential. Adsorption kinetics and isotherms were examined
using a batch system, shedding light on the interaction dynamics between metal cations and hydrogen
peroxide treated microplastics. Furthermore, characterization analyses including Scanning Electron
Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were conducted to elucidate
the adsorption mechanisms. Results revealed that while microplastics adsorption capacity was limited,
significant interactions occurred between the metal cations, indicating the potential for these materials
to act as carriers of chemical contamination. The primary observed adsorption mechanism involved
electrostatic interactions between the metal cations and the hydroxyl functional groups formed through
peroxide oxidation. This research advances the understanding of the intricate interplay between hydrogen
peroxide-treated polyethylene microplastics and metal cations, highlighting their potential as conduits for
chemical contamination in aquatic ecosystems. By shedding light on the specific mechanisms underpinning
adsorption, this study underscores the importance of considering microplastics‘ interactions with pollutants
when assessing environmental risks.