Abstract

Microplastics are widespread in the environment, which generates high concern worldwide. Microplastics have been found in superficial and ocean waters and soils, and consequently can occur in drinking water, urban wastewaters, and living organisms. Here we review microplastics with emphasis on sources, types, toxicity, analysis and removal techniques. For removal, we focus on advanced oxidation processes for plastic degradation. Thes processes involve highly reactive oxygen species such as hydroxyl, •OH, superoxide radical, •O2−, sulfate radical, SO4•-, and hydrogen peroxide H2O2