Dynamic release of microplastics and nanoparticles from functional medical dressings: Implications for wound exposure risks

The potential release of microplastics (MPs) and nanoparticles from medical dressings and their associated health risks remain poorly understood. Here, accelerated clinical application scenarios—simulating severe wound exudation—were established in body fluid and sweat to systematically assess the time-dependent release kinetics of MPs and nanoparticles from seven commonly used medical dressings. Size distribution, polymer composition, morphology, and color were characterized to support kinetic modeling and health risk assessment. In body fluid, MPs abundances ranged from 0 to 17.36 items cm −2 , with a mean of 10.52 ± 5.55 items cm −2 . Silicone foam dressings exhibited the highest MPs release, presumably due to structural swelling. Conversely, simulated sweat acted as a catalyst for nanoparticles release, with concentrations reaching of 7.1 × 10 7 to 4.01 × 10 8 items mL −1 , significantly exceeding levels observed in body fluid. Polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, and polypropylene were the dominant MPs polymers. Most particles were 35–75 μm in size, with fragment- and fiber-shaped morphologies. Color analysis revealed white, transparent, and gray as the most common particle colors. The release kinetics were best described by Elovich model, suggesting a rapid initial burst followed by a diffusion-controlled deceleration. Although the health risk assessment for dermal exposure indicated that both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks are currently below international safety thresholds, indicating short-term safety, conditions of high humidity, prolonged application, or extensive wound surface area warrant particular vigilance as they may amplify cumulative exposure. These findings would provide critical quantitative evidence to guide the selection of safer wound management materials and optimize dressing replacement strategies.