A solution for controling microplastics in drinking water

Human beings are exposed to microplastics (MPs) through different ways being drinking water consumption the main route of ingestion (1). These particles are leached from bottled drinking water and tap water (2). Researchers have found a relationship between exposure to MPs and health problems such as inflammatory bowel disease (3). For these reasons the European Commission shall adopt a methodology to measure MPs in drinking water (4). The purpose of this study is to analyze MPs in tap water of a Spanish city using a concentration-based technology developed by Captoplastic. These analyses allow us to determine both the concentration and type of MPs. Captoplastic aims to contribute by adding value to the search of a method to control MPs in drinking water. Current technologies are designed to filter large volumes of water and collect MPs on a series of stainless-steel filters. The system designed by Captoplastic allows to concentrate MPs by passing through it a huge volume of water. The technology is an agglomeration process where a captor material is added to the water flow. This captor forms an agglomerate with target particles. This agglomerate is extracted and oxidized. Afterwards, it is separated, leaving MPs free and clean for analysis. The sampling campaign was performed in August 2023. A total of 3477l of tap water passed though Captoplastic MPs concentrator. The concentration of MPs was 0,49μg/l. The identification analysis was conducted using FTIR and its primary pollutant was PE. The analysis shows other polymers as PDMS (silicone), PP, Teflon and PS. Common membranes employed in drinking water treatment plants are made by different polymers which may break down and release MPs. Additionally, household systems typically contain PVC, PE, PA and PP pipes or fittings which may be important sources of MPs in tap water (5). Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/558533/document