We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics in indoor deposition samples in university classrooms
Summary
Researchers analyzed microplastic contamination in dust collected from university classrooms and found particles from clothing fibers, shoes, and school supplies. Most particles were polyamide and polypropylene fibers ranging from 120 to over 2,000 micrometers in size, and surface damage on the particles suggests they may be breaking down into even smaller nanoplastics over time. Since people spend most of their time indoors, this indoor microplastic exposure is an important and underappreciated route of human contact with these particles.
Abstract The pollution caused by microplastics (MPs) is a growing concern on a global scale, especially considering the significant proportion of time that individuals spend indoors. The contamination in question has the potential to directly impact the human population through exposure to indoor dust and air. This research undertook a comprehensive analysis of the indoor deposition of MPs in university classrooms, employing various investigative tools. The present study aimed to comprehensively analyze the physical and chemical properties of MPs found in university classrooms. Analyzing samples under a stereomicroscope, the predominant MPs were identified as fibers of varied colors, mainly attributed to clothing. Sizes of these MPs varied significantly across different classrooms, with a general average size range of 120–2222 µm. The observed morphological changes in MPs, including cracks and grooves, hint at potential degradation into nanosized plastics over time. This observation raises concerns about increased concentrations of nanoplastics in indoor environments. Using µRaman analysis, eleven types of MPs were identified, potentially originating from clothing, shoes, and stationery. The majority of MPs were polyamide 6, polypropylene, and polyamide 12. The scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) technique unveiled the elemental composition of the MPs, with carbon, fluorine, and oxygen being dominant. The findings align with past studies but highlight the need to understand MPs' structural components and any possible contaminants. Compared to existing literature, this study adopts a comprehensive methodological approach combining optical microscopy, µRaman, and SEM–EDX, enriching the knowledge on indoor MP deposition and aiding future research directions.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Airborne microplastic contamination across diverse university indoor environments: A comprehensive ambient analysis
Researchers measured airborne microplastics across different indoor spaces at a university and found that people in those buildings inhale an estimated 180 to 240 microplastic particles daily. The most common types found were nylon, PTFE, polypropylene, and polyethylene, with fragments showing rough edges from wear and tear. This study highlights that indoor air is a significant and often overlooked source of microplastic exposure for people who spend most of their time indoors.
Determination of microplastics in university interior environments
This study measured airborne microplastic concentrations in indoor environments at a university, finding particles in air samples from multiple indoor settings. Results contribute to evidence that indoor air represents a significant daily source of microplastic inhalation exposure, particularly given the time people spend in closed indoor environments.
Determination of microplastics in university interior environments
This study measured microplastic concentrations in indoor air at university facilities, building on evidence that indoor environments are significant sites of microplastic exposure through inhalation. Particles were detected in multiple indoor settings, contributing to growing evidence that daily indoor air exposure is a notable route of human microplastic intake.
Long-term assessment of microplastics in indoor high school air: Abundance, sources, and polymeric analysis
Researchers monitored airborne microplastic concentrations in indoor high school environments over an extended period, identifying sources and seasonal patterns. Indoor air contained substantial microplastic levels, with textile fibers and outdoor infiltration contributing to persistent classroom air contamination.
Microplastic occurrence in settled indoor dust in schools
Researchers measured microplastic contamination in settled indoor dust collected from 28 schools and found an average of 195 particles per gram of dust. The most common particles were white polyester and polypropylene fibers likely shed from textiles and furnishings. The study highlights that children in school settings face meaningful microplastic exposure through dust inhalation and incidental ingestion.