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Searching for SMART(er) solutions: A laboratory-assessment of microplastic release from aquaculture nets and ropes
Summary
Researchers tested aquaculture and fishing gear under simulated in-water abrasion to measure microplastic release rates under realistic operational conditions. The study found that net and rope materials shed substantial quantities of microplastics through routine mechanical wear.
The fisheries and aquaculture industries have become increasingly dependent upon large amounts of plastic infrastructure and equipment, which can contribute to microplastic (MP) emissions to the marine environment. A laboratory experiment simulating in situ mechanical abrasion damage was performed to quantify and compare MP release from a range of different nets and ropes. The tested net types included new and used versions of Nylon, HDPE, Dyneema, and Entex net materials, as well as two coating types used to extend the life of the nets (standard and premium). For the ropes, different materials included polyolefins, HDPE and Dyneema, both new and used. Abrasion tests were conducted using a Buraschi abrasion simulator system. Triplicate samples of each net and ropes were subjected to abrasion followed by washing and filtration on 500 and 10 µm filters. The collected material was then quantified and physicochemically characterised using a combination of gravimetric measurements, microscope imaging and chemical fingerprinting by pyrolysis GC-MS. The results indicate that nylon nets release higher quantities of MP compared to HDPE, Dyneema and Entex. Coatings were found to interact differently with the various net materials. There was no change in MP release from the coated Dyneema nets, but an increased particle release from the coated nylon nets. For both nets and ropes, used materials released more MP than new ones, with different layers of used nylon net samples particularly exhibiting very different particle release masses, suggesting UV exposure and depth-dependent environmental weathering playing a key role in affecting the potential for MP release. The next step will be to conduct measurements in the field to validate the laboratory data, however the outcomes of this study indicate that the aquaculture industry can select specific combinations of net/ropes materials/polymers and coatings that can minimise MP release to the marine environment. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/559169/document