Phthalate esters: occurrence, toxicity, bioremediation, and advanced oxidation processes

Abstract

Phthalic acid esters are emerging pollutants, commonly used as plasticizers that are categorized as hazardous endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). A rise in anthropogenic activities leads to an increase in phthalate concentration in the environment which leads to various adverse environmental effects and health issues in humans and other aquatic organisms. This paper gives an overview of the research related to phthalate ester contamination and degradation methods by conducting a bibliometric analysis with VOS Viewer. Ecotoxicity analysis requires an understanding of the current status of phthalate pollution, health impacts, exposure routes, and their sources. This review covers five toxic phthalates, occurrences in the aquatic environment, toxicity studies, biodegradation studies, and degradation pathways. It highlights the various advanced oxidation processes like photocatalysis, Fenton processes, ozonation, sonolysis, and modified AOPs used for phthalate removal from the environment. HIGHLIGHTS Plastic waste from urban/industrial sources is the major cause of phthalate ester occurrence in water systems.; DEHP is the major toxic phthalate found extensively in water bodies.; AOPs are an emerging area of treatment for the CECs.; Bibliometric analysis of PAE degradation indicates major research focus on UV-based, ozone, and Fenton processes.; Synergistic methods have shown better results for PAE degradation.;

Keywords

• advanced oxidation processes
• bibliometric analysis
• contaminants of emerging concern (cecs)
• degradation
• endocrine-disrupting chemicals (edcs)
• phthalates