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Evaluation of the performance of Tehran drinking water treatment plants in removing nanoplastics and microplastics
Fatemeh Tabatabaei, Roya Mafigholami, Hamid Moghimi, Sanaz Khoramipour,
Volume 15, Issue 1 (4-2022)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Microplastics can have harmful effects on living things, including humans. These particles have been identified in all water, soil, and food sources. Among these, freshwater resources are more important, because they are considered a water source for humans through drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). Therefore, this study investigates the performance of Tehran DWTPs in removing these particles.
Materials and Methods: In this study, the performance of three DWTPs in Tehran in removing these particles was investigated. In most studies worldwide, particles larger than 1 µm were examined, but in this study, nanoplastic particles smaller than 1 µm, as well as the effect of the warm and cold seasons of the year on the concentration of these particles were also examined.
Results: According to the results of the study, the amount of micro and nanoplastic particles at the inlet of treatment plants in the warm season of the year was 2569 ± 309 to 3918 ± 425 MP/L, and the output was 1492 ± 32 to 2279 ± 146 MP/L, which indicates an increase in these particles in the warm season. As a result, the studied treatment plants were only able to remove 32.1 to 59.9% of these particles. In addition, using electron microscopy, MPs were classified into three categories in terms of appearance: fiber, fragment, and film. This study completes the knowledge of MPs in this area.
Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, Tehran DWTPs have poor performance in removing these particles.
 

The effects of microplastics on human health and the environment (a review study)
Akbar Eskandari, Mohammad Mosaferi, Alieh Tabasi,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Microplastics are emerging and persistent environmental pollutants. The most common types include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyformaldehyde, polystyrene, and polyamide. Due to their chemical and toxic properties, ability to absorb and release persistent organic pollutants, and association with heavy metals, microplastics pose a serious threat to both the environment and human health. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of microplastics on human health and the environment.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive review was conducted in 2024 to document the process of searching, screening, and reporting based on the PRISMA checklist for systematic reviews. Articles published between 2019 and April 2024 were searched using keywords such as "Microplastics," "Health Risk," "Emerging Contaminants," and their Persian equivalents in electronic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Magiran, and SID.
Results: The effects of microplastics on human health include the absorption of aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, and other pollutants, leading to neurological and respiratory disorders such as asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, dizziness, gastrointestinal disorders, and genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, microplastics have detrimental effects on plants, microbial populations, soil structure, and the health of animals and humans.
Conclusion: Microplastics represent a significant environmental challenge, threatening human health and biodiversity. These particles enter the food chain and can cause hormonal imbalances and chronic diseases. Raising public awareness and reforming policies on plastic production and consumption are essential steps to mitigate this pollution.
 

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