This study investigates the accumulation of microcapsules, derived from coated fertiliser, that were detected in 19 paddy fields, with concentrations ranging from 6-369 mg/kg (mean 144 mg/kg). The findings revealed that there was no difference in mean microcapsule concentration between rice cultivation sites and crop rotation sites, but the concentration in fields without coated fertiliser was found to be significantly lower. A hot spot with high concentration near the drainage outlet was identified, likely due to the influence of irrigation water. The amount of microcapsules accumulated in Japanese paddy fields and those applied to the fields was almost equivalent, suggesting that most of the microcapsules applied may continue to accumulate. The findings revealed that the impact of these high concentrations on the soil environment needs regular assessment
This study investigates halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) in vegetables grown near an e-waste-contaminated site. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were the dominant HFRs, followed by novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) and dechlorane plus (DPs), with concentrations varying across vegetable species. The highest levels were found in Brassica oleracea var. capitata. Root concentration factors decreased with increasing[…]
This study examines the uptake and health risks of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in soil-vegetable systems. Seven NBFRs were analysed in greenhouse and conventional tomatoes and cucumbers. Greenhouse vegetables showed higher concentrations of Σ7 NBFRs (2.8–3.8 ng g⁻¹ dw) compared to conventional ones (1.1–1.7 ng g⁻¹ dw). Root and fruit bioaccumulation factors (RBCFs: 0.6–6.3,[…]
This study assessed the root uptake and root-shoot translocation of seven organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) and four novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in hydroponic maize plants. The initial liquid concentrations of each compound were examined, with 30 μg L−1 treatments being phytotoxic due to a significant decrease in shoot dry weight. Plant-driven removal of the[…]
The study aimed to investigate the uptake pathways of phthalates (PAEs) in Chinese flowering cabbage and the effects of spraying PAE-degrading strains on PAE accumulation in vegetables. Results showed that leaves of cabbage grown in plastic greenhouses absorbed more PAEs from the air than those of outside greenhouses. PAEs were mainly stored in leaf surfaces,[…]
The study investigated the effects of polystyrene nanoparticles (MNPs) on the uptake of eight organic pollutants (OPEs) by rice seedlings. Results showed that OPEs accumulated in a concentration-dependent manner in both roots and shoots of rice seedlings. The impacts of MNPs were concentration- and size-dependent, influencing transpiration rate and antioxidant enzyme activities. Significant effects were[…]