Microplastics (MP), particles <5 mm, are a global environmental threat.
Their presence is ubiquitous: oceans, air, and the food chain. The problem is their persistence (they do not biodegrade) and their toxicity. They act as sponges for pollutants (metals, pesticides) and release additives (BPA) when ingested, causing bioaccumulation and harm to wildlife and human health.Photocatalytic degradation is an advanced solution. It uses a semiconductor (catalyst), such as titanium dioxide (TiO2), and light (solar or UV). When illuminated, the catalyst generates highly reactive species, primarily hydroxyl radicals (•OH). These radicals are such powerful oxidizers that they “attack” the polymer structure. They break the long chains of the MP, degrading it into simpler molecules. The ultimate goal is mineralization: the complete conversion of the plastic into harmless compounds (CO2 and H2O), thus removing the contaminant from the water.
Advanced Lab Techniques: Expertise in synthesizing nanomaterials
(catalysts) and using analytical instruments (like spectroscopy) to identify plastics and measure their degradation.
Scientific Analysis: Deep knowledge of photochemistry, materials science, and environmental chemistry.
Complex Problem-Solving: Ability to integrate chemistry and engineering to develop, test, and scale innovative solutions for a critical global pollution issue.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
