Mitigating airborne contamination in microplastic research of biota: Red clothing as a visual distinction tool

Airborne microplastics are known to be in indoor environments, including laboratory settings. Therefore, many studies report their results by subtracting similar particles in shape, color, and chemical identification found in blanks from environmental samples. Although blank use is a well-established measure, it may be time-consuming to analyze each of the particles. This study aimed to assess airborne contamination during microplastic research in the laboratory environment using biota samples in four levels of mitigation measures (null, minimum, medium, and maximum). A comprehensive set of measures was implemented including personnel attire, lab management, standard procedures, and storage of materials. For example, null measures included using any lab coat and clothing of any color for the researchers. In contrast, maximum measures included red attire only (cotton lab coat, t-shirt, and headwear). We used filter blanks and sample blanks. The filter blanks were moistened in five lab zones and bi-filtrated distilled water served as a blank sample that accompanied the microplastic extraction procedure. Microparticles were counted and visually characterized using a stereoscope. Fibers (≥80 Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/559670/document