FTIR- and GIS-Based Investigation of Microplastic Pollution in Coastal Sediments of Tripoli Port, Libya

Microplastic pollution in marine environments represents a significant contamination threat, particularly to coastal sediments in western Libya. These long lasting and persistent pollutants, typically smaller than 5 mm, originate from different sources such as degraded plastics, fishing gear, and urban runoff, accumulating in sediments where they adsorb toxicants and disrupt benthic ecosystems. In the Mediterranean region, including Libyan coasts, microplastic levels often exceed global averages, impairing biodiversity loss and inflowing food webs. This study evaluated the extent of microplastic contamination and characterized the polymeric types in beach sediments along Tripoli Port. Sediment samples were collected from three coastal sites (designated A, B, and C) and analyzed for microplastic polymers using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results revealed that polyethylene was the most prevalent polymer among all samples, accounting for approximately 40%, 35.71%, and 33.33% in regions A, B, and C, respectively. Meanwhile, polypropylene categorised as a second contaminant polymer across all studied sites and recorded 26.66%, 20%, and 28.57% for sites A, B and C, respectively. However, polystyrene was least abundant, at 13.33% (A), 21.43% (B), and 13.33% (C). These findings highlight potential microplastic sources and inform remediation strategies and coastal management practices for Tripoli Port and similar areas.