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Microplastic fiber fragment release from dry-state textiles: A novel peeling-based evaluation
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Turns out clothes shed tiny plastic fibers not just in the wash, but also while they're being cut, sewn, and worn, everyday actions we don't usually think about. Researchers found that treatments like softening or antibacterial coatings can reduce fiber shedding in some situations (like handling fabric) but increase it in others (like rubbing during wear), meaning there's no simple fix yet. This matters because these microplastic fibers can end up in the air we breathe and the environment around us, so understanding all the ways clothing sheds them, not just during laundering, is key to reducing our overall exposure.
While standardized methods exist for evaluating microplastic fiber fragment (MPFF) release during textile washing, dry-state release during garment manufacturing and use remains poorly understood. In this study, MPFF release from raw and finished knitted fabrics, including dyed and hydrophilic-softened (S), and dyed, softened, and antibacterial-finished (SP) samples, was investigated using novel peeling, cutting, and Martindale abrasion tests. The results demonstrate that fabric finishing alters MPFF release behavior: it reduces MPFF release during peeling but increases release under abrasion. In addition, cutting generates substantial emissions, particularly for raw fabrics and in the course direction. These findings highlight the importance of considering multiple mechanical actions when assessing MPFF release and indicate that considerable emissions occur during both manufacturing and use. The proposed approaches contribute to the development of more comprehensive testing methods and support the development of improved mitigation strategies in the textile industry.
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