Microfiber Sources, Characteristics, Environmental Impact, and Sustainable Remediation Process

Microfiber is a synthetic fiber that is finer than one denier or decitex and has a diameter fewer than ten micrometers. The most common types of microfibers are made from a variety of polyesters, polyamides, and mixtures of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene. Microfiber was initially created as a mass-produced, low-cost substitute for natural fibers. They are used to create a variety of items that are essential to daily living, including fabrics, ropes, household plastic bottles, and many more. Synthetic microfibers have been found in all environmental matrices, including the air, soil, rivers, lakes, and oceans. One of the main factors stressing world ecosystems is the astonishing accumulation of these synthetic fabrics. Modern urbanized populations who frequently use synthetic clothing produce more synthetic microfibers in the environment. Several scientific investigations have now shown the harmful effects of these pollutants on the aquatic food chain and human health. Because of their high rate of emission and pervasive presence in nature, the management of these synthetic fabric contaminants is crucial. For effective remediation strategies development of technology for effective removal and cleanup, social awareness campaigns, and strict government restrictions should be the main areas of concentration. This chapter provides a general idea of the microfiber sources, characteristics, impact on the environment, and remediation strategies.