Investigation of the interaction between polyethylene and the herbicide Tebuthiuron in aqueous matrices: sorption, density influence, and ecotoxicological effects

• Grant number: 23/16350-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Cassiana Carolina Montagner
• Grantee: Luan de Souza Leite
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/12104-4 - Fate and impacts of microplastics and pesticides in aquatic and terrestrial matrices in agricultural contexts, AP.TEM

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are one of the main pollutants in water and represent a potential risk to aquatic organisms and human health. MPs can act as a vector and absorb other compounds on their surface, affecting the accumulation and transport of these pollutants. Brazil is one of the largest consumers of herbicides in the world, which are frequently detected in high concentrations in water bodies. Therefore, MP particles will eventually interact with herbicides in aquatic matrices, generating complex pollutants and altering their environmental behaviors. Despite the relevance of the topic, the interaction between MPs and herbicides is still little studied. In this context, the present project aims to investigate the interaction between polyethylene (PE) and the herbicide Tebuthiuron in aqueous matrices. Batch experiments will be carried out to verify the influence of density and PE degradation on the sorption/desorption of Tebuthiuron under different experimental conditions. The sorption mechanisms will be determined by analytical methods of the MP surface. Furthermore, the isolated and combined effects of PE and Tebuthiuron will be verified using zebrafish model tests and multiple endpoints (growth, mortality and oxidative stress). The results of this project will provide comprehensive theoretical support for the assessment and management of risks of the coexistence of MPs and herbicides in regions with intensive agrosystems.