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Characterization of Mesoplastic on Albanian Beach
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Researchers characterized mesoplastics (5-25 mm) on Albanian beaches, an understudied size category between microplastics and macroplastics. The study found substantial mesoplastic contamination, identifying dominant polymer types, shapes, and likely sources, and highlighting the need for dedicated monitoring of this overlooked size class.
Plastic waste poses substantial risks to marine species and human health. While considerable research has been conducted on microplastics (< 5 mm) and macroplastics (> 25 mm), a significant knowledge gap regarding mesoplastics (5 – 25 mm) remains. This research aims to enhance the understanding of mesoplastics and their potential environmental impact through comprehensive characterization. Sampling campaign was conducted on beach in Albania, where meso-sized plastics were collected and analyzed following Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) sample collection method for mesolitter fragments and plastic pellets along the European coastline. Using the Saturna Imaging System, mesoplastics were characterized based on morphology, size, and color. Their composition was determined using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and a multi-element analysis with micro-X-ray fluorescence (µXRF) was employed to identify metals and other elements incorporated during plastic production.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.