Adsorption of Metals Pb2+, Cu2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+ onto Hydrogen PeroxideTreated Polyethylene Microplastics

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.