Effects of single and combined microplastic and copper ion contamination on sequencing batch reactor performance and microbial community

Key Points

• The research investigates how microplastics interact with copper ions and their collective effects on the performance of sequencing batch reactors.
• Evaluated the effects of copper ions and microplastics on sequencing batch reactor performance.
• Analyzed the operational performance and microbial community changes in the reactor under different contamination scenarios.
• Copper ions significantly impair sequencing batch reactor performance.
• The presence of microplastics reduces the toxic effects of copper ions on the reactor.
• Microbial community structures were influenced by both contaminants, suggesting complex interactions.