Search

Microplastics (MPs) have recently attracted much attention due to their widespread distribution in the aquatic environment. Microplastics can act as a vector of heavy metals in the aquatic environment, causing a potential threat to aquatic organisms and human health. This review mainly summarized the occurrence of microplastics in the aquatic environment and their interaction with heavy metals. Then, we considered the adsorption mechanisms of MPs and heavy metals, and further critically discussed the effects of microplastics properties and environmental factors (e.g., pH, DOM, and salinity) on the adsorption of heavy metals. Finally, the potential risks of combined exposure of MPs and heavy metals to aquatic biota were briefly evaluated. This work aims to provide a theoretical summary of the interaction between MPs and heavy metals, and is expected to serve as a reference for the accurate assessment of their potential risks in future studies. • Microplastics serve as vectors of heavy metals in the aquatic environment. • The possible mechanisms of heavy metal adsorption by microplastics are complex. • Microplastics properties and environmental factors affect heavy metal adsorption. • Co-exposure of microplastics and heavy metals may have different effects on aquatic biota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]