> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://goodoil.news/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # New Filters to Fight Plastic Soup - URL: https://goodoil.news/new-filters-to-fight-plastic-soup/ - Published: 2023-06-04T00:30:00.000Z - Updated: 2023-06-03T00:32:19.000Z - Author: Guest Post - Tags: Environment, Health, Science, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2024-07-16 22:22 **Kerri Duncan** *Kerri is an Adelaide-based freelance writer with a background in animal science and molecular biology. Always up for an investigative adventure, Kerri is addicted to exploring Earth’s wonders and finding as many waterfalls as possible. Her work in life sciences has deepened her appreciation of the natural world and she feels compelled to write about it.* [particle.scitech.org.au](https://particle.scitech.org.au/tech/new-filters-to-fight-plastic-soup/?ref=goodoil.news) --- WA scientists have developed a revolutionary way to filter harmful microplastics from our water supplies. Microplastics may be tiny, but they’re a huge problem. There’s so much plastic in our oceans, it’s often called ‘[plastic soup](https://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=si2GDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=plastic+soup&ots=eMH9grmsDY&sig=gs4lydiHFqHd8sw-EEIS7kyC6Q4&ref=goodoil.news#v=onepage&q=plastic%20soup&f=false)‘. Dr Masoumeh Zargar is an Engineering Lecturer at Edith Cowan University. According to her, 25% of microplastics released into oceans come from [wastewater effluent](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0043135418310686?ref=goodoil.news). To tackle this problem, Masoumeh’s team developed a new [membrane filtering technique](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376738823004222?ref=goodoil.news). And it could change how wastewater is treated worldwide. ## POLLUTING PARTICLES One way that plastic enters waterways is through our sewer systems. Products like toothpaste, cosmetics and synthetic textiles shed microplastic fibres. These all end up in wastewater treatment plants. Although they are designed to remove pollutants, many treatment plants are ill-equipped to deal with microplastics. ![](https://particle.azureedge.net/app/uploads/2023/06/giphy-49.gif) GIPHY ## A MACROPROBLEM Microplastics are an ‘[emerging contaminant](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/emerging-contaminant?ref=goodoil.news#:~:text=Emerging%20contaminants%20are%20synthetic%20or,and%2For%20human%20health%20effects.)‘, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This means they have the potential to cause lethal effects on wildlife and people. A recent [WHO report](https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240054608?ref=goodoil.news) suggests tap and bottled water could contain up to 10,000 particles per litre. ![](https://particle.azureedge.net/app/uploads/2023/06/giphy-50.gif) GIPHY Microplastics also carry pollutants and bacteria. “They accumulate pollutants in the environment by [adsorbing](https://www.britannica.com/science/adsorption?ref=goodoil.news) toxic chemicals,” says Masoumeh. This leads to higher maintenance costs and lower rates of pollution removal – allowing more harmful contaminants to enter our water. ## FUTURISTIC FILTERS Conventional wastewater treatment processes include physical filtration, sedimentation and biological treatments. Unfortunately, microplastics are often too small to be removed in these ways. “Some microplastics can bind with other organic and inorganic materials in the wastewater,” says Masoumeh. “This makes it difficult for them to be separated and removed.” “Some can damage or form cake layers – known as ‘fouling’ – on membranes, reducing their lifespan and efficiency.” ![](https://particle.azureedge.net/app/uploads/2023/06/giphy-51.gif) GIPHY Masoumeh’s new filters use advanced material layers with altered structures. The surface properties help prevent plastic fibres from clogging. “Our novel membranes are … highly efficient in removing microplastics,” says Masoumeh. “They also address the issue of fouling.” The engineered membranes are more effective at separating pollutants – and more ecofriendly. “We use green synthesis approaches and materials,” says Masoumeh. “Their increased durability and efficiency results in less waste and reduced energy consumption.” ![](https://particle.azureedge.net/app/uploads/2023/06/Dr-Masoumeh-Zargar-ECU-lab-2.jpg) Dr Masoumeh Zargar with her prototype (right) **| ECU** ## WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER Developing specialised treatments to target microplastic removal from water is important. However, Masoumeh says a multifaceted approach is crucial to address the global plastic problem. “Individuals, industries, and governments \[need to\] work together to reduce plastic consumption.” she says. Masoumeh and her team will continue to optimise their product so it can be used commercially. In the meantime, she advocates for everyone to play their part in reducing plastic waste. “Choose to purchase products made from natural materials instead of synthetic ones.” she says. This article was originally published on [Particle](https://particle.scitech.org.au/?ref=goodoil.news). Read the [original article](https://particle.scitech.org.au/tech/new-filters-to-fight-plastic-soup/?ref=goodoil.news). ![](https://particle.scitech.org.au/republish-pixel/19701) [If you enjoyed this article please share it using the share buttons at the top or bottom of the article.](#) [If you would like to access exclusive Member content or just remove the ads to make your reading experience more enjoyable click here to browse our Membership options.](https://thebfd.co.nz/subscription-plans/?ref=2)