Ultrafiltration as a Barrier Method for Microplastic Removal from Surface Waters

Abstract

The article addresses the problem of surface water contamination by microplastics caused by the intensive use of polymeric materials and their accumulation in the natural environment. It is shown that microplastic particles can persist in water bodies for long periods, adsorb and transport toxic impurities, and negatively affect aquatic ecosystems and drinking water quality. Modern approaches to the purification of surface waters from fine-dispersed polymer particles are analyzed, and the feasibility of applying ultrafiltration as an effective barrier purification method is substantiated. A multistage treatment scheme including mechanical pretreatment, reagent conditioning, an ultrafiltration membrane unit, sorption polishing, and ultraviolet disinfection is proposed. Ultrafiltration provides removal of more than 95% of microplastics, reduces treated water turbidity to below 0.1 NTU, and requires specific energy consumption of 0.10–0.22 kWh/m³ of permeate. The proposed technology can be used to modernize existing water treatment plants and create modular local water purification units.