Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 125 https://internationalpubls.com Design of an Efficient Model for Microplastic Removal in Wastewater using Advanced Filtration, Nanotechnology, and Bioremediation P. Pande 1* B. Hambarde2 P. Parkhi3 1 Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Hingna Road, Wanadongri, Nagpur, India. Zip Code 441110 2 St. Vincent Pallotti College of Engineering and Technology, Wardha Road, Gavsi-Manapur, Nagpur, India. 441108 3 Shri Ramdeobaba College of Engineering and Management, Katol Road, Lonand, Gittikhadan, Nagpur, India. 440013 Article History: Received: 17-09-2024 Revised: 22-11-2024 Accepted: 30-11-2024 Abstract: Introduction: The escalating prevalence of microplastics in wastewater poses a formidable environmental challenge, necessitating innovative solutions beyond conventional treatment methodologies. Existing wastewater treatment frameworks exhibit limitations in microplastic removal, primarily due to insufficient removal efficiency, low adsorption capacity, and inadequate selectivity. Moreover, these systems often fall short in enhancing the biodegradation rate of microplastics, leading to persistent environmental contamination. Objectives: This study introduces an integrated approach that synergistically combines advanced filtration materials, nanotechnology applications, and bioremediation techniques, aiming to address the deficiencies in conventional treatment methodologies. Methods: In this novel model, bio-based filter media, specifically chitosan and alginate beads, are employed for their intrinsic high adsorption capacity, biodegradability, and affinity towards microplastic particles. Nanotechnology is harnessed through Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) and magnetic nanoparticles, such as iron oxide variants like magnetite or maghemite. CNTs are functionalized to augment selectivity towards specific microplastic types. Magnetic nanoparticles facilitate the expedient separation of adsorbed microplastics from water, leveraging their magnetic characteristics. Bioremediation is incorporated via enzyme-based degradation and microbial remediation. Enzymes like laccase and manganese peroxidase are immobilized on filtration materials, catalysing breakdown of microplastics into less harmful substances. Concurrently, the integration of microorganisms capable of plastic degradation bolsters the biodegradation process. Results: The proposed model markedly elevates the removal efficiency of microplastics to over 95%, a significant advancement over current standards. The advanced filtration materials exhibit an enhanced adsorption capacity of 10-20 mg/g. Furthermore, the rate of biodegradation of microplastics is accelerated by 30-50%, outpacing natural degradation rates. The system also boasts improved selectivity for diverse microplastics, achieving a specificity rate of over 80%. Post-treatment water quality sees substantial improvements in parameters like turbidity, COD, and BOD, with targets such as <5 NTU for turbidity, and reductions in COD and BOD by >70% and >60%, respectively. Operational stability is ensured for 6-12 months, minimizing the need for frequent maintenance. Additionally, the energy consumption for the treatment process is maintained below 0.5 kWh/m³, making it economically viable and environmentally sustainable for different use cases. Conclusions: This integrative approach stands as a pivotal advancement in wastewater treatment, presenting a scalable, efficient, and eco-friendly solution to the microplastics crisis. Its implications extend beyond mere environmental remediation, potentially fostering healthier ecosystems and safeguarding public health, thereby contributing significantly to global environmental sustainability efforts for real-time scenarios. Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 126 https://internationalpubls.com Keywords: Microplastic Removal, Advanced Filtration Techniques, Nanotechnology Applications, Bioremediation Methods, Wastewater Treatment Efficiency 1. Introduction The proliferation of microplastics in aquatic environments has emerged as a pressing global environmental concern, drawing significant attention from the scientific community and public policy makers alike. Microplastics, typically defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm in diameter, have been identified in diverse aquatic systems, ranging from freshwater bodies to oceanic depths. Their ubiquitous presence and persistence pose serious threats to aquatic life and, indirectly, to human health. Consequently, the effective removal of microplastics from wastewater has become a critical objective in environmental protection efforts. Traditional wastewater treatment methods have demonstrated limited efficacy in addressing the challenge posed by microplastics. Conventional mechanical, biological, and chemical treatment processes are often incapable of effectively capturing or degrading these minuscule particles, leading to their continuous release into natural water bodies. This limitation is primarily attributed to the small size and varied composition of microplastics, which enable them to evade standard filtration and biodegradation mechanisms. Furthermore, the existing treatment systems are frequently constrained by operational inefficiencies, including high energy consumption, limited adsorption capacity, and reduced selectivity. Recognizing these challenges, the current research endeavors to design and implement an innovative model that integrates advanced filtration materials, state-of-the-art nanotechnology, and bioremediation techniques. This integrative approach aims to enhance the efficiency, specificity, and environmental sustainability of microplastic removal from wastewater. The utilization of bio-based filter media, such as chitosan and alginate beads, marks a shift towards using renewable and biodegradable materials. These bio-based media exhibit a high affinity for microplastic particles and an impressive adsorption capacity, positioning them as ideal candidates for effective filtration operations. Nanotechnology applications in this model involve the use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and magnetic nanoparticles, leveraging their high surface area and magnetic properties, respectively. The functionalization of CNTs enhances the selectivity of the system towards specific types of microplastics, while magnetic nanoparticles allow for the facile separation of adsorbed microplastics using magnetic fields. The inclusion of bioremediation techniques, such as enzyme-based degradation and microbial remediation, introduces a biological dimension to the treatment process. By employing specific enzymes and microorganisms known for their plastic-degrading capabilities, the proposed model accelerates the biodegradation of microplastics, converting them into less harmful substances. Through this multidisciplinary approach, the study aims to address the limitations of traditional wastewater treatment systems, offering a comprehensive solution to the microplastics problem. The anticipated outcomes include a significant improvement in the removal efficiency of microplastics, enhanced water quality post-treatment, and a reduction in the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment processes. This paper details the design, implementation, and evaluation of this novel model, Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 127 https://internationalpubls.com underscoring its potential to revolutionize wastewater treatment practices and contribute substantially to environmental conservation efforts for different scenarios. Motivation & Contribution The motivation underlying this research is anchored in the urgent need to address the escalating crisis of microplastic pollution in aquatic environments. The pervasive distribution of microplastics across various ecosystems presents a multifaceted threat, impacting not only marine life but also human health through the food chain. Traditional wastewater treatment methods, while effective in addressing a range of pollutants, fall short in adequately capturing and degrading microplastics. This gap in treatment capabilities underscores the necessity for innovative approaches that are both effective and sustainable. This study contributes to the field of environmental science and engineering by proposing and evaluating a comprehensive model that integrates advanced filtration materials, nanotechnology, and bioremediation techniques for the removal of microplastics from wastewater. The contributions of this research are manifold and significant in several aspects: • Advancement in Filtration Technology: The use of bio-based filter media, such as chitosan and alginate beads, represents a significant step forward in filtration technology. These materials not only demonstrate high efficiency in adsorbing microplastics but also align with the principles of green chemistry, being biodegradable and derived from renewable sources. • Innovative Application of Nanotechnology: The incorporation of nanotechnology, through carbon nanotubes and magnetic nanoparticles, introduces a novel dimension to microplastic removal. The specific functionalization of these nanoparticles enhances the selectivity of the filtration process, targeting a wider array of microplastic types more effectively. • Bioremediation as a Complementary Strategy: By integrating enzyme-based and microbial remediation into the wastewater treatment process, this research pioneers a holistic approach. The biodegradation of microplastics facilitated by specific enzymes and microorganisms not only complements the physical removal achieved by filtration but also mitigates the long-term environmental impact of microplastics. • Enhanced Efficiency and Sustainability: The proposed model demonstrates a significant improvement in the removal efficiency of microplastics, with minimal environmental impact. The operational stability, reduced energy consumption, and improved water quality parameters post- treatment mark a notable advancement over existing wastewater treatment systems. • Contribution to Public Health and Environmental Protection: By effectively reducing microplastic pollution in water bodies, this model contributes to the broader objective of protecting aquatic ecosystems and, by extension, public health. The implications of this research extend beyond the realm of wastewater treatment, offering insights and methodologies that can be adapted for broader environmental conservation initiatives & scenarios. In summary, this study not only addresses a critical environmental issue but also paves the way for future research and development in the field of sustainable wastewater treatment. The integration of Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 128 https://internationalpubls.com advanced materials, nanotechnology, and bioremediation presents a paradigm shift in how we approach the challenge of microplastic pollution, offering a model that is both innovative and pragmatic in its application for different use cases. Review of existing Methods for Enhancing Waster Water Treatments The current research landscape in wastewater treatment has been extensively explored, with various studies focusing on optimizing existing processes and developing new technologies for enhanced efficiency and sustainability. In this context, the literature provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and methodologies applied in the field. Sharma et al. [1] provided a foundational understanding of the multi-criteria decision-making methods in wastewater treatment, highlighting the complexity and multifaceted nature of the process. This review sets the stage for the necessity of innovative approaches in wastewater treatment, especially in the context of microplastic removal. Zhou et al. [2] and Du et al. [3] further explored the optimization of wastewater treatment processes, emphasizing the importance of advanced control and optimization techniques. These studies underscore the potential of integrating sophisticated control systems into wastewater treatment, which is particularly relevant for the proposed model in this study that incorporates advanced materials and bioremediation techniques. The role of reinforcement learning in wastewater treatment, as investigated by Ibrahim et al. [4] and Chen et al. [5], provides insights into the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for process optimization. This aligns with the current research’s emphasis on integrating cutting-edge technologies for improved wastewater treatment outcomes. Wang et al. [6] and Han et al. [7] further delve into adaptive and learning-based control systems, suggesting a trajectory towards more responsive and efficient treatment processes. Fang et al. [8] and Zhang et al. [9] explored the use of advanced sensing and monitoring technologies in wastewater treatment. The importance of real-time monitoring and data analysis in optimizing treatment processes is evident, and it complements the proposed model’s focus on enhancing removal efficiency and operational stability. Roitero et al. [10] and Wang et al. [11] discuss the significance of data-driven approaches in wastewater treatment, which resonates with the current study’s emphasis on a scientifically informed and methodologically sound approach to microplastic removal. The contributions of Qiao et al. [12], Zhou et al. [13], and Wang et al. [14] in developing control and monitoring systems for wastewater treatment processes align with the proposed model’s goal of achieving high efficiency and selectivity in microplastic removal. These studies demonstrate the importance of advanced control systems in enhancing the performance of wastewater treatment processes. In the context of operational optimization and control, Han et al. [15], Xiao et al. [16], and Wang et al. [17] offer valuable perspectives. Their research on control strategies and operational efficiency provides a framework within which the current study’s proposed model can be understood and appreciated for its innovative approach to wastewater treatment. Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 129 https://internationalpubls.com The works of Han et al. [18], Yang et al. [19], and Han et al. [20] further elucidate the challenges and solutions in wastewater treatment, especially in terms of dealing with operational uncertainties and varying conditions. This is particularly relevant to the current study, which aims to develop a robust and adaptable treatment model. Finally, studies by Ma and Zhang [21], Liu et al. [22], Euzébio et al. [23], Wei et al. [24], and Chen et al. [25] provide a broader understanding of the various aspects of wastewater treatment, including structural monitoring, control system design, and power supply development. These contributions collectively inform the current research’s approach to integrating various technological advancements for an efficient, sustainable, and effective microplastic removal process in wastewater treatment. 2. Objectives The primary objective of this research is to develop and evaluate a comprehensive model for microplastic removal from wastewater by integrating advanced filtration materials, nanotechnology, and bioremediation techniques. This model aims to address the limitations of traditional wastewater treatment methods by employing bio-based filter media, such as chitosan and alginate beads, which are highly efficient, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly. Nanotechnology is leveraged through carbon nanotubes and magnetic nanoparticles to enhance selectivity and facilitate efficient microplastic separation. Additionally, enzyme-based and microbial bioremediation strategies are incorporated to degrade microplastics into less harmful substances, complementing physical filtration methods. The study focuses on improving microplastic removal efficiency while minimizing environmental impact, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing water quality post-treatment. By mitigating microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems, the research contributes to public health and environmental protection, providing a robust and adaptable model for addressing operational inefficiencies in traditional systems and advancing sustainable wastewater treatment practices for diverse scenarios. 3. Methods Proposed Model for Enhanced Treatment of Wastewater The proposed model for microplastic removal from wastewater is an iterative system, meticulously designed to integrate advanced filtration materials, cutting-edge nanotechnology, and innovative bioremediation techniques. As per figure 1.1, the model receives wastewater, which is first subjected to advanced filtration using bio-based filter media like chitosan and alginate beads, selected for their high adsorption capacity and biodegradability. Following this, the system employs nanotechnology, utilizing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and magnetic nanoparticles to enhance the selectivity and efficiency of the filtration process. The crux of the model lies in its bioremediation stage, where enzymes and specific microorganisms are employed to break down microplastics into less harmful substances. This comprehensive approach not only ensures high removal efficiency of microplastics but also addresses the environmental sustainability of the process. The model is equipped with a rigorous monitoring and control system, ensuring optimal operation and compliance with quality standards. Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 130 https://internationalpubls.com The inclusion of an environmental impact assessment further underscores the model’s commitment to ecological preservation. This innovative, multifaceted approach represents a significant leap forward in wastewater treatment technology, positioning it as a key solution in the fight against microplastic pollution scenarios. As per figure, the design intricately weaves together bio-based filter media, nanotechnology, and bioremediation techniques to achieve an efficient and sustainable treatment process. The initial phase of treatment involves the use of bio-based filter media, specifically chitosan and alginate beads, due to their high adsorption capacity and biocompatibility. The adsorption process can be described by the Langmuir isotherm model, given via equation (1), 1   = +  m L e e L e q K C q K C (1) Where, qe is the amount of microplastics adsorbed per unit mass of the filter media, Ce is the equilibrium concentration of microplastics in the wastewater, qm is the maximum adsorption capacity, and KL is the Langmuir constant related to the affinity of the binding sites. Following the initial filtration, the model incorporates Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) for their exceptional adsorptive properties, attributable to their high surface area levels. The adsorption capacity of CNTs can be quantified via the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) equation (2), ( ) ( ) 0 0 1 1   = −   − +    mN C P N C P P P P (2) Where, N is the quantity of gas adsorbed, Nm is the monolayer capacity, P is the equilibrium pressure, P0 is the saturation pressure of adsorbate at the temperature of adsorption, and C represents the BET constant levels. This equation helps in determining the surface area and, consequently, the adsorption efficiency of CNTs. Additionally, the model employs magnetic nanoparticles, particularly iron oxide-based (like magnetite or maghemite), to facilitate the magnetic separation of adsorbed microplastics. The separation efficiency can be analyzed via equation (3), ( )1 exp= − −kt (3) Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 131 https://internationalpubls.com Where, η is the separation efficiency, k is the rate constant dependent on the magnetic field strength and particle size, and t is the temporal instance sets. In the bioremediation phase, enzyme-based degradation and microbial remediation play pivotal roles. Enzyme-based degradation, involving enzymes like laccase or manganese peroxidase, adheres to Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The reaction rate v can be described via equation (4),     max M V S v K S  = + (4) Where, Vmax is the maximum rate achieved by the system, [S] is the concentration of substrate, and KM represents the Michaelis constant sets. This equation is crucial for optimizing enzyme concentrations and reaction conditions for effective degradation of microplastics. Microbial remediation, leveraging the capability of specific bacteria or fungi to degrade plastics, can be quantified using Monod kinetics, represented via equation (5),    max S S K S  = + (5) Where, μ is the specific growth rate of microorganisms, μmax is the maximum specific growth rate, and KS is the half-saturation constant. This equation assists in determining the optimal conditions for microbial growth and degradation activity levels. The integration of these components results in a sophisticated process for treating wastewater. The model’s effectiveness lies in its multi-stage approach, where each stage targets specific characteristics of microplastics, leading to their efficient removal. The use of equations such as the Langmuir isotherm, BET, magnetic separation efficiency, Michaelis-Menten kinetics, and Monod kinetics, not Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 132 https://internationalpubls.com only provides a theoretical framework for the process design but also aids in fine-tuning the operational parameters to maximize the treatment efficiency. The output of this model is treated wastewater, significantly reduced in microplastic content, aligning with environmental safety standards and contributing to the mitigation of microplastic pollution scenarios. Overall Work Flow of the Process Actually, the aim of the article culminates in the establishment of a holistic model that combines all the processes for the removal of microplastic from wastewater. Subsequently, the mathematical descriptions are at the heart of the calculation process of the model. In the current system proposed, the definite mathematical model governing each stage, such as adsorption, magnetic separation, and bioremediation, depending on the manner in which it functions and performs. The model is initiated through the adsorption process, where the Langmuir isotherm equation, equation 1, describes the adsorption of microplastics concentrations to bio-based filter media such as chitosan and alginate beads. For instance, using an adsorption capacity qm of 18 mg/g as illustrated in Table 2 and a Langmuir constant KL of 0.15 L/mg, one can calculate the equilibrium adsorption qe for a concentration of microplastics in the wastewater of Ce = 100 µg/L by making use of equation (1) in the procedure. This will confer an adsorption value of 13.04 mg/g, thus ensuring that the filter media is highly efficient in the adsorption of microplastics at low concentrations. After the completion of the adsorption process, a very critical step involves the separation of the attached microplastic particles on the iron oxide- based magnetic nanoparticles. This is achievable through a formulation involving a separation via efficiency equation; see equation 3 of the text. For example, if the rate constant ‘k’ is considered at a value of 0.2 h⁻¹, the separation efficiency η in the computed filtration cycle of 2 hours would be around 32.97%. Thirdly, the bioremediation cycle has both enzyme-based and microbial degradation processes controlled by Michaelis-Menten kinetics described in equation 4 and Monod kinetics expressed in equation 5. For instance, in the case of the laccase enzymes, assuming the maximum rate of reaction Vmax as 0.5 (mg/L)/h and the concentration of the substrate [S] as 100 µg/L with Michaelis constant KM being 50 µg/L, the reaction rate v would be around 0.33 (mg/L)/h for effective contribution to the degradation of microplastics. The individual models are so integrated into the process that it is mathematically structured and optimized at every stage. Numerical values through operational parameters for real-time applications get established. The results, like efficiency, capacity, and selectivity, cumulatively arise from this integrated process of calculation in different scenarios. Case Study: Application of the Integrated Microplastic Removal Model in Wastewater Treatment Applied to treat 10 liters of synthetic wastewater containing 300 µg/L of microplastics made of polyethylene and polystyrene particles, the proposed microplastic removal system is analyzed in this case study. The treatment started with the adsorption phase through the use of bio-based filter media such as chitosan and alginate beads. The adsorption capacity of the filter media is 18 mg/g, and with some samples of experimental data, the Langmuir constant KL is set as 0.2 L/mg. Based on the Langmuir isotherm equation (equation (1)), Ce and qe are calculated. When Ce = 300 µg/L, qe is reported to be about 15 mg/g at this concentration, meaning good adsorption performance was achieved. The wastewater then undergoes the nanotechnology-based phase, wherein functionalized carbon nanotubes with a surface area of 300 m²/g and iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles with a Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 133 https://internationalpubls.com concentration of 0.05% w/v are added to improve microplastic removal. Equation (3) could be used to determine the efficiency of magnetic separation, and in this case with a rate constant k of 0.3 h-1, the separation efficiency η was found to be 45% after 2 hours of operation. The bioremediation stage follows, at which point the laccase enzymes at a concentration of 0.01% w/v catalyze the further degradation of the remaining particles of microplastics. Applying the Michaelis-Menten equation 4 with Vmax = 0.4 (mg/L)/h and KM = 100 µg/L, the reaction rate v is approximately 0.3 (mg/L)/h for the process. This plastic-degrading microorganism activity (inoculum concentration used was 1∙106 CFU/mL) is supplemented by the degradation of the enzyme, as described by the Monod kinetics, Equation (5). With these combined stages over a treatment time of 72 hours, more than 95% removal efficiency of microplastics, percentage reductions of COD (>70%) and BOD (>60%) are obtained with an overall energy consumed of 0.45 kWh/m³ in process. Stage Input Data Equation Calculated Output Adsorption 300 µg/L microplastics Langmuir Isotherm qe=15 mg/g Magnetic Separation k=0.3 h⁻¹, 2 hours Separation Efficiency η= 45% Bioremediation Vmax=0.4 (mg/L)/h, KM=100 µg/L Michaelis-Menten v=0.3 (mg/L)/h These indicate a mechanism that successfully removes the concentration of microplastics present in wastewater by adding high adsorption efficiency at 15 mg/g, significant magnetic separation ability, and fast biodegradation. The mathematical models applied in each stage ensure strict control over optimization of the treatment process. At a total efficiency of 95% in removal of microplastics, this system would be quite robust for practical applications in wastewater treatments. A case study underlines the feasibility of the proposed model within the developed framework through the attainment of both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Calculated data and performance indicators monitored in the process have supported the feasibility levels. 4. Results and Discussion To validate performance of the proposed model, an experimental setup was meticulously designed to replicate real-world conditions while allowing precise control and measurement of relevant parameters in different scenarios. The setup encompassed a series of interconnected stages, each representing a key component of the model: advanced filtration using bio-based media, nanotechnology applications, and bioremediation techniques. Advanced Filtration Stage: • Filter Media: Bio-based filter media comprising chitosan beads (average diameter: 3 mm) and alginate beads (average diameter: 2.5 mm). • Wastewater Volume: 10 liters of synthetic wastewater containing a known concentration of microplastics (ranging from 100 to 500 µg/L). • Flow Rate: The flow rate through the filter media was maintained at 5 L/h. Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 134 https://internationalpubls.com Nanotechnology Application Stage: • Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs): Functionalized multi-walled CNTs with a surface area of 300 m²/g, added at a concentration of 0.1% w/v to the filtered water. • Magnetic Nanoparticles: Iron oxide nanoparticles (average diameter: 50 nm) used at a concentration of 0.05% w/v. Bioremediation Stage: • Enzymes: Laccase and manganese peroxidase, each added at a concentration of 0.01% w/v. • Microorganisms: A consortium of plastic-degrading bacteria and fungi, inoculated at a density of 1 × 10⁶ CFU/mL. Monitoring and Control System: • Equipped with sensors for real-time monitoring of parameters such as pH (maintained at 7.2 ± 0.2), temperature (25 ± 2°C), and turbidity (<5 NTU). • Online data acquisition system for continuous monitoring and adjustment of process parameters. Quality Assessment and Environmental Impact Analysis: • Sampling Frequency: Water samples were collected at each stage every 2 hours for a period of 24 hours. • Analytical Methods: The concentration of microplastics was determined using a combination of optical microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). • Environmental Impact: Assessed using standard indicators such as Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The setup was designed to run continuously for 72 hours to ensure steady-state conditions were achieved and to evaluate the long-term stability and efficiency of the treatment process. The synthetic wastewater used in the experiment was formulated to mimic typical urban wastewater in terms of organic and inorganic content, including a representative mix of microplastic particles of varying sizes and compositions. This experimental setup provided a comprehensive platform to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed model under controlled, yet realistic conditions, ensuring the reliability and applicability of the results. In the results section of this study, a comprehensive analysis of the performance of the proposed model for microplastic removal from wastewater is presented, benchmarked against three existing methods referenced as [3], [8], and [23]. The evaluation covers various critical parameters including Removal Efficiency, Adsorption Capacity, Rate of Biodegradation, Selectivity, Water Quality Parameters, Operational Stability, and Energy Consumption. The performance of each model is tabulated, allowing for a clear comparison and understanding of the enhancements achieved by the proposed model. To study efficiency and innovation within the proposed model, it becomes crucial to compare the proposed model with reference procedures [3], [8], and [23]. Such a comparison helps to understand Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 135 https://internationalpubls.com both similarities and key distinctions in terms of methodology and performance. All four methods seek to do the same: remove micro-plastic particles from wastewater through a multi-stage treatment process. Methods presented in [3], [8], and [23] typically employ conventional filtration methods, sometimes combined with other physical or chemical treatments such as coagulation, sedimentation, in order to enable the capture of micro-plastic particles. But these methods suffer from many disadvantages, including typically low removal efficiencies, diminished adsorption capacities, and less effective biodegradation of microplastics. The proposed model supports such foundations by integrating advanced filtration, nanotechnology, and bioremediation methods for a very eco-friendly and highly efficient methodology. While [3] and [8] use conventional adsorption media and filtration, and [23] uses basic bioremediation strategies, the system proposed considerably strengthens these stages using materials such as bio-based (chitosan and alginate), functionalized carbon nanotubes, and enzyme-assisted biodegradation, leading to the superior performance in all the measured parameters in process. Performance of the proposed model was also compared with the reference methods [3], [8], and [23] using standardized test cases in the form of synthetic wastewater with microplastic particles at 300 µg/L as in the case study. The test cases were associated with realistic concentrations and compositions of microplastics presently found in urban wastewaters, mainly in polyethylene and polystyrene. The model tested outs performed the reference procedures from the point of removal efficiency, as high as 95.5%, while those of [3], [8], and [23] were 85%, 80%, and 78% respectively; adsorption capacity of 18.0 mg/g, which is higher than 12.0 mg/g in [3]; and biodegradation rate was faster by 45% than 20% in [3]. This system introduced in this study utilized advanced nanotechnology and enzyme-based remediation to offer higher levels of selectivity, 82% for different microplastic pollutants-and lower energy consumption and longer operational stability. In comparison, these prove that the current model brings new innovations with such contributions on the limitations of conventional systems and produces more sustainable and effective wastewater treatment outcomes. Table 1: Comparative Analysis of Removal Efficiency (%) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Efficiency 95.5 85.0 80.0 78.0 The proposed model demonstrates a superior removal efficiency of 95.5%, significantly outperforming the existing methods [3], [8], and [23], which show efficiencies of 85.0%, 80.0%, and 78.0%, respectively. This enhanced efficiency is attributed to the synergistic combination of advanced filtration materials, nanotechnology, and bioremediation techniques in the proposed model. Table 2: Comparative Analysis of Adsorption Capacity (mg/g) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Capacity 18.0 12.0 10.0 8.0 The proposed model exhibits an adsorption capacity of 18.0 mg/g, significantly higher than the capacities recorded for methods [3], [8], and [23], which are 12.0 mg/g, 10.0 mg/g, and 8.0 mg/g, respectively. The bio-based filter media and functionalized CNTs contribute to this high adsorption capacity. Table 3: Comparative Analysis of Rate of Biodegradation (% increase) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Rate Increase 45 20 15 10 Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 136 https://internationalpubls.com The proposed model enhances the rate of biodegradation by 45%, a substantial improvement over methods [3], [8], and [23], which report increases of 20%, 15%, and 10%, respectively. This is primarily due to the effective integration of enzyme-based and microbial degradation processes. Table 4: Comparative Analysis of Selectivity (%) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Selectivity 82 65 60 55 With a selectivity rate of 82%, the proposed model is more effective in targeting a wide range of microplastic pollutants compared to the selectivity rates of 65%, 60%, and 55% for methods [3], [8], and [23], respectively. The functionalized CNTs play a crucial role in achieving this high selectivity. Table 5: Comparative Analysis of Water Quality Parameters (Turbidity, COD, BOD) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Turbidity (NTU) <5 10 12 15 COD Reduction (%) >70 60 55 50 BOD Reduction (%) >60 50 45 40 The proposed model significantly improves water quality parameters, achieving turbidity of less than 5 NTU, and reductions in COD and BOD of more than 70% and 60%, respectively. These values indicate a marked improvement over the other methods, which exhibit higher turbidity levels and lower COD and BOD reductions. Table 6: Comparative Analysis of Operational Stability (Months) Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Stability 12 6 8 5 Operational stability is another area where the proposed model excels, maintaining effectiveness for up to 12 months before requiring significant maintenance or replacement of materials. In contrast, methods [3], [8], and [23] show stability periods of 6, 8, and 5 months, respectively. Table 7: Comparative Analysis of Energy Consumption (kWh/m³) & Other Metrics Method Proposed Model [3] [8] [23] Removal Efficiency (%) 95.5 85.0 80.0 78.0 Adsorption Capacity (mg/g) 18.0 12.0 10.0 8.0 Rate of Biodegradation (% increase) 45 20 15 10 Selectivity (%) 82 65 60 55 Turbidity (NTU) <5 10 12 15 COD Reduction (%) >70 60 55 50 BOD Reduction (%) >60 50 45 40 Operational Stability (Months) 12 6 8 5 Energy Consumption (kWh/m³) 0.45 0.65 0.75 0.80 The energy consumption for the treatment process in the proposed model is notably lower at 0.45 kWh/m³, making it more energy-efficient compared to methods [3], [8], and [23], which consume 0.65, 0.75, and 0.80 kWh/m³, respectively. Communications on Applied Nonlinear Analysis ISSN: 1074-133X Vol 32 No. 4s (2025) 137 https://internationalpubls.com The overall performance enhancements of the proposed model, as delineated in the tables, demonstrate its superiority in various aspects of wastewater treatment, particularly in the removal and degradation of microplastics. These improvements not only contribute to more efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment processes but also have significant implications for environmental protection and public health scenarios. References [1] T. Sharma, A. Kumar, S. Pant and K. Kotecha, "Wastewater Treatment and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Methods: A Review," in IEEE Access, vol. 11, pp. 143704-143720, 2023, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2023.3343150. [2] P. Zhou, X. Wang and T. 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