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Abstract

Research in Medical & Engineering Sciences

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Historical Risks, Current Challenges and Emerging Solutions

  • Open or CloseVolkan Pelitli1* and Uğur Kurt2

    1Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency Research Group, VPCCS, TUBITAK MAM, Kocaeli, Türkiye

    2Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, İstanbul, Türkiye

    *Corresponding author:Volkan Pelitli, Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency Research Group, VPCCS, TUBITAK MAM, Kocaeli, Türkiye

Submission: September 05, 2024;Published: December 10, 2024

DOI: 10.31031/RMES.2024.10.000760

ISSN: 2576-8816
Volume11 Issue 2

Abstract

Following World War II, the surge in economic activity and scientific advancements led to the global production and widespread use of synthetic organic chemicals. Although many of these chemicals have been beneficial, some have posed significant environmental and health risks. Landmark studies, including Rachel Carson’s 1962 research on dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane, and the Yusho and Yucheng poisonings, have highlighted the severe impacts of persistent organic pollutants. In response to these issues, the Stockholm Convention, effective from May 2004, was established to regulate and phase out persistent organic pollutants. Despite these international efforts, improper storage and historical contamination continue to pose health risks, such as endocrine disruption, immune system disorders, reproductive issues, and increased obesity rates. Current disposal methods, primarily incineration, face limitations due to inefficiencies and the potential formation of new pollutants (e.g., dioxin-like substances). Biotechnological solutions have been explored but struggle with challenges related to environmental conditions and the high toxicity of persistent organic pollutants. Thus, there is a growing need for new technologies in managing POPs worldwide. Novel technologies, such as mechanochemical degradation, present a promising alternative by breaking down persistent organic pollutants into less harmful or inorganic materials. Mechanochemical degradation operates in the solid state, eliminating the need for solvent regeneration or disposal and offering a simpler and more efficient approach compared to conventional methods. Thus, mechanochemical degradation holds significant potential as a reliable technology for environmental applications, particularly for addressing contaminated sites. This mini review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical impact, health effects, regulatory responses, and the role of mechanochemical degradation technology in managing persistent organic pollutants. By exploring these facets, the review sheds light on the ongoing challenges and advancements in POPs management, offering valuable insights into how emerging technologies like MCD can contribute to more effective environmental solutions.

Keywords:Persistent organic pollutants; Environmental and health risks; Disposal methods; Mechanochemical degradation

Abbreviations:SOCs: Synthetic Organic Chemicals; POPs: Persistent Organic Pollutants; DDT: Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane; MCD: Mechanochemical Degradation; PCBs: Polychlorinated Biphenyls; PCDFs: Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans; α-HCH: Alpha-Hexachlorocyclohexane; β-HCH: Beta-Hexachlorocyclohexane; γ-HCH: Lindane (≥90%); PFOS: Perfluorooctane Sulfonic acid

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