Sources and Ubiquity of Microfibers

Microfibers are normally observed as the major constituent of microplastics, and their existence is realized at every part of the globe, particularly in freshwater and marine habitats. It has been estimated that about 35% of primary microplastics found in marine and freshwater ecosystems are plastic microfibers. Hence, the impact of microfibers to our environment has gained considerable attention for researchers. However, no proper consensus regarding the definition of microfiber has been suggested, which can include all essential properties for explaining microfibers as emerging contaminants of nature. Since the proper definition of microfiber is a debate, the textile fibers and microplastics are somewhat considered as microfibers. Microplastics less than 5 mm and that are a fibrous-like material are commonly termed plastic microfibers. The major sources of microfibers are plastic threading, fishing gear, synthetic ropes, plastic tarps, and vehicle tyres. Textile industries release fiber materials to the globe at the time of manufacturing, use, and disposal at the end of the life cycle. About two-thirds of textile materials are normally polyamide, polyester, and acrylic polymers. The microfibers produced from fabrics are a risk to ecological systems and human health. Further study is needed to close the gap between present knowledge and microfiber contamination reduction.