This article explores the interactions between nanoplastics (NPs) and natural organic matter (NOMs) in aquatic environments, emphasizing the ecological risks posed by these persistent pollutants. Researchers from Northwest A&F University and South China Agricultural University used molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory (DFT) to study how pristine and aged nanoplastics like polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polystyrene aggregate with NOMs. The study found that pristine nanoplastics primarily cluster through hydrophobic interactions, while aged nanoplastics, altered by oxidation, form more complex structures involving calcium ion (Ca²⁺) bridging, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic forces. These findings reveal that aging increases nanoplastics’ reactivity, influencing their environmental behavior and potential impact on ecosystem stability. The research highlights the importance of understanding these molecular processes to predict the long-term effects of nanoplastics and informs strategies for pollution control and water purification technologies.
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