BLUEPOD: Multi-layer fiber biosorbent innovation for microplastics based on Aspergillus oryzae laccase enzyme combined with activated carbon

Background: Microplastic pollution in coastal waters poses a serious threat to marine ecosystem sustainability and human health due to its persistence and widespread distribution. Since microplastics degrade very slowly under natural conditions, innovative and environmentally friendly mitigation strategies are urgently required. This study introduces BLUEPOD (Buoyant Layered Underwater Ecofilter Pod), an active biosorbent system designed as a floating module composed of a multilayer fibrous matrix integrated with laccase enzyme derived from Aspergillus oryzae and activated carbon. Methods: The activated carbon functions as a high-surface-area adsorbent for capturing microplastic particles, while the immobilized laccase promotes oxidative modification of polymer surfaces, enhancing degradation and reducing persistence. The performance of BLUEPOD was evaluated under controlled laboratory-scale experimental conditions, including static batch tests and continuous-flow tank experiments, using defined concentrations of synthetic microplastics (