We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastic in the Air
AI summary Read the abstract
This review provides a comprehensive overview of methods for collecting, extracting, and identifying airborne microplastics, examining their sources, transport mechanisms, and persistence in urban and atmospheric environments, and establishing a methodological foundation for future research on microplastic air pollution.
Rapid urbanisation significantly contributes to the discharge of microplastics into the environment. The expansion and thriving of cities lead to enhanced consumption and disposal of plastic products in the surroundings, resulting in elevated levels of microplastic (MP) pollution. These microparticles are cosmopolitan, exhibiting a prolonged residence period, with a slow degradation process, high stability, and high fragmentation potential. Moreover, their notable adsorption capability plays a crucial role in their dispersion across the environment. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the methodology for collection, extraction procedures, and identification techniques of airborne microplastics (aMPs) establishing a foundation for prospective research. The chapter also explores the origin, distribution, and transmission of microplastics (MPs), investigating their impact on the ecological environment through physical, chemical, and biological variations. Additionally, the chapter addresses various strategies for abatement and management to minimise the impact of MPs. Insights are also provided to guide future studies aimed at a thorough understanding of environmental risks associated with MPs, emphasising the need to raise awareness and future endeavours.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics and nanoplastics in the air: a review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the occurrence, sources, physicochemical characteristics, and sampling and analytical methods for microplastics and nanoplastics in atmospheric air across urban, industrial, coastal, and remote environments. The authors find that fibers and fragments are the dominant atmospheric microplastic forms, that no standardized sampling methods currently exist, and that both passive and active collection approaches are used across the literature with limited comparability.
A systematic review of biomonitoring microplastics in environmental matrices: Emphasis on airborne particles, dry deposits, and comparative analysis with traditional methods
AI summary Read the abstract
This systematic review examines methods for monitoring microplastics in the air, including airborne particles and deposits. Researchers have found microplastics everywhere from city streets to clouds, underscoring the extent of airborne plastic pollution that people breathe in every day.
Status and prospects of atmospheric microplastics: A review of methods, occurrence, composition, source and health risks
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarized the sampling methods, occurrence, composition, sources, and health risks of atmospheric microplastics. Researchers found that airborne microplastics are detected both indoors and outdoors, with fibers being the most common shape, and that inhalation represents an important but understudied exposure pathway. The study suggests that atmospheric transport plays a significant role in the global distribution of microplastic pollution.
A review of atmospheric microplastics pollution: In-depth sighting of sources, analytical methods, physiognomies, transport and risks
AI summary Read the abstract
This review provides an in-depth analysis of atmospheric microplastic pollution, examining sources, detection methods, physical characteristics, transport mechanisms, and health risks. Researchers found that indoor environments tend to contain higher concentrations of airborne microplastics than outdoor settings, and that current detection methods are limited in their ability to capture the smallest particles. The study emphasizes the need for standardized sampling procedures and more research into the health effects of inhaling microplastic particles.
Various Perspectives on Occurrence, Sources, Measurement Techniques, Transport, and Insights Into Future Scope for Research of Atmospheric Microplastics
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesized current knowledge on atmospheric microplastics, covering their sources, occurrence across global regions, measurement techniques, and transport mechanisms, while identifying key research gaps for future investigation.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.