We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Atmospheric microplastics in Handan, China: characteristics, seasonal variations, and human exposure risk
Summary
Researchers conducted a year-long monitoring campaign of deposited and suspended atmospheric microplastics in Handan, an industrial city in northern China. They found strong seasonal variations linked to wind patterns and industrial emissions, with human inhalation exposure posing a measurable health risk.
Atmospheric microplastics (AMPs), as emerging pollutants, have attracted widespread attention due to their potential ecological and health risks. This study conducted a 1-year monitoring campaign of deposited microplastics (DAMPs) and suspended microplastics (SAMPs) in the urban area of Handan, an industrial city in northern China. The research systematically evaluated their temporal distribution patterns, correlations with meteorological variables and conventional air pollutants, and quantified both their ecological deposition flux and respiratory exposure risks. Results showed that the annual average abundances of DAMPs and SAMPs were 246.5 ± 91.4 items/m/day and 5.2 ± 3.0 items/m, respectively, with significant seasonal variations-highest in winter and lowest in autumn. The dry deposition flux in December reached a maximum of 1.25 × 10 items. AMPs were significantly positively correlated with PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, and CO, suggesting that their primary sources are industrial and vehicular emissions. The estimated annual total dry deposition was approximately 9.82 × 10 items, with about 2.3 × 10 entering aquatic systems and 5.46 × 10 deposited onto farmland. Exposure assessment revealed that infants and toddlers had the highest estimated daily intake (EDI), and males generally experienced higher exposure than females, with the highest annual exposure (~ 55,220 items) observed among males aged 30-40. This study highlights the environmental behavior and health risks of AMPs in Handan, an industrial city in northern China, and provides scientific support for pollution control and public health policymaking.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic atmospheric dustfall pollution in urban environment: Evidence from the types, distribution, and probable sources in Beijing, China
Researchers collected atmospheric dustfall samples across urban Beijing and analyzed the types, distribution, and likely sources of airborne microplastics. They found that synthetic fibers from textiles and fragments from various plastic products were the dominant forms, with concentrations varying by location and proximity to pollution sources. The study provides evidence that urban atmospheric microplastic pollution is widespread and likely linked to daily human activities and industrial processes.
Seasonal patterns and environmental drivers of atmospheric microplastics in a coastal megacity
Researchers conducted a year-long monitoring campaign of atmospheric microplastics in Shanghai to understand seasonal patterns and environmental drivers. The study identified distinct temporal dynamics in airborne microplastic concentrations in this coastal megacity, revealing how weather patterns, wind, and human activities influence atmospheric microplastic levels throughout the year.
Assessment of suspended atmospheric microplastics in Tianjin Binhai New Area: characterization, human health risks, and correlation with weather conditions and Air Quality Index
Researchers measured airborne microplastics in an urban area of Tianjin, China, and found them in every sample collected during autumn and winter. The particles were mostly fibers, with polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene among the most common types, and concentrations varied with weather conditions like humidity and barometric pressure. A health risk assessment suggested that residents face measurable exposure to airborne microplastics, raising concerns about long-term inhalation risks.
Atmospheric microplastics at a southern China metropolis: Occurrence, deposition flux, exposure risk and washout effect of rainfall
Researchers measured airborne microplastics in Guangzhou, a major city in southern China, finding them throughout the year with higher levels during the rainy season. They estimated that adults in the city inhale tens of thousands of microplastic particles annually through normal breathing. Rainfall helped wash microplastics out of the air, but it also deposited them onto surfaces where they can enter water and soil, creating another pathway for human exposure.
Spatial and seasonal variations of airborne microplastics in the emerging megacity of Hangzhou, China
Researchers conducted a year-long sampling campaign across four urban zones in Hangzhou, China, to characterize airborne microplastics at human breathing height. The study found an average of 4.43 particles per cubic meter, with about 89% of particles smaller than 100 micrometers, predominantly fragments composed of polyamide and rubber, showing strong seasonal variation with lowest levels in summer.