Micropollutant

Micropollutant

Chemical compounds detected in European streams

Micropollutants are a diverse group of contaminants that are present in the environment at very low concentrations, typically in the range of micrograms per liter (µg/L) or lower. These substances can include a wide variety of chemical compounds such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, industrial chemicals, and pesticides. Despite their low concentrations, micropollutants can have significant ecological and health impacts due to their persistence and bioaccumulative properties.

Sources of Micropollutants

Micropollutants originate from various sources, both point and non-point. Point sources include wastewater treatment plants, industrial discharges, and agricultural runoff. Non-point sources are more diffuse and include urban stormwater runoff and atmospheric deposition.

Wastewater Treatment Plants

Wastewater treatment plants are a major source of micropollutants. These facilities are designed to remove conventional pollutants such as organic matter and nutrients, but they are often not equipped to effectively remove micropollutants. As a result, many of these substances are discharged into aquatic environments.

Industrial Discharges

Industries can release micropollutants through their waste streams. These can include a variety of chemicals used in manufacturing processes, such as solvents, plasticizers, and flame retardants.

Agricultural Runoff

Agricultural activities contribute to micropollutant contamination through the use of pesticides and veterinary pharmaceuticals. These substances can leach into water bodies through runoff and soil infiltration.

Environmental Impact

Micropollutants can have a range of effects on aquatic ecosystems. They can disrupt endocrine systems in wildlife, leading to reproductive and developmental issues. Some micropollutants are also toxic to aquatic organisms, affecting their survival and growth.

Human Health Concerns

The presence of micropollutants in drinking water sources is a growing concern for human health. Although the concentrations are typically low, the chronic exposure to mixtures of these substances can pose risks. Some micropollutants are known to be carcinogenic or have other adverse health effects.

Removal Technologies

Process diagram for the Ulmer Verfahren, a method for removing micropollutants

Advanced treatment technologies are being developed to remove micropollutants from wastewater and drinking water. These include activated carbon adsorption, advanced oxidation processes, and membrane filtration.

Activated Carbon

Activated carbon is effective at adsorbing a wide range of micropollutants. It can be used in both powdered and granular forms in water treatment processes.

Advanced Oxidation Processes

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) involve the generation of highly reactive species, such as hydroxyl radicals, which can degrade micropollutants. Common AOPs include ozonation and UV/H2O2 treatment.

Membrane Filtration

Membrane filtration techniques, such as reverse osmosis and nanofiltration, can physically remove micropollutants from water. These methods are effective but can be costly and energy-intensive.

Related Pages

• Water pollution
• Endocrine disruptor
• Wastewater treatment
• Environmental toxicology