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Dataset supporting mass-based microplastic method development and validation
Summary
Scientists developed and tested a new method for measuring how much plastic (by weight, not just particle count) ends up in wastewater as it moves through treatment plants. Having a reliable way to measure microplastic mass matters because it helps researchers track how much plastic pollution enters our water systems and environment, which is a key step toward understanding potential risks to human health and figuring out how to reduce exposure. This dataset itself doesn't test health effects directly, but it lays the groundwork for better, more consistent microplastic monitoring going forward.
This dataset supports the development and validation of the Digestion/Ignition Mass (DIM) method, a mass-based approach for quantifying microplastics (MP) in wastewater. The DIM method combines enzymatic, oxidative, and alkaline digestion with density separation and a novel ignition step to isolate and quantify microplastic mass. Data include wastewater microplastic measurements from multiple treatment process streams, including matrices ranging from low-solids effluent to high-solids sludge. Included in these data are quality assurance and method performance data. These data support evaluation of microplastic mass loads in wastewater treatment processes and development of mass-based microplastic monitoring approaches.