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The Emergence, Chemical Nature, Classification, and Properties of Microplastics
Summary
This book chapter examines the origins, chemical nature, classification, and physical and chemical properties of microplastics, covering their formation from larger plastic breakdown and their categorization into primary and secondary types. The authors link microplastic properties such as hydrophobicity, high surface area, and adsorption capacity to their role as vectors for chemical pollutants in ecosystems.
Ubiquitous microplastic pollution has become a global concern due to its significant contribution to air, soil and water pollution. This book chapter delves into the emergence, chemical nature, classification and properties of microplastics and their impact on the environment. The origins of microplastics result from the breakdown of large plastics through different processes. Classification of microplastics divides them into primary and secondary microplastics based on their intention of origin. Properties like shape, size, density, surface area, adsorption capacity, hydrophobicity and colour provide an understanding of microplastic’s characteristics which emphasizes the potential risk that microplastics pose to the ecosystem including their ability to adsorb and transport the chemical pollutants. Considering the relevant factors associated with microplastics, we can make strategies for the eradication of microplastics from the environment by understanding their properties, fate and transport.