Efficiency of a microplastic removal system from synthetic wastewater using a chemical process combined with simple filtration (opens in new tab)

Microplastic contamination in freshwater ecosystems poses a critical environmental challenge, necessitating effective removal technologies in wastewater treatment. This research aims to evaluate the efficiency of a hybrid removal system for polyethylene microplastics (particle sizes 0.15–1 mm) by integrating chemical coagulation with simple sand filtration. The performance of three coagulants—alum, polyaluminium chloride (PAC), and ferric chloride—supplemented with chitosan as a coagulant aid...