We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics and anthropogenic debris in rainwater from Bahia Blanca, Argentina
Summary
Researchers collected monthly rainwater samples in Bahia Blanca, Argentina over ten months and detected microplastics and other anthropogenic particles in all samples, documenting atmospheric microplastic deposition in a South American city distant from major industrial centers.
Concern about atmospheric microplastic (MP) contamination has increased in recent years. This study assessed the abundance of airborne anthropogenic particles, including MPs, deposited in rainfall in Bahia Blanca, southwest Buenos Aires, Argentina. Rainwater samples were collected monthly from March to December 2021 using an active wet-only collector consisting of a glass funnel and a PVC pipe that is only open during rain events. Results obtained show that all rain samples contained anthropogenic debris. The term "anthropogenic debris" is used to refer to the total number of particles as not all the particles found could be determined as plastic. Among all the samples, an average deposition of 77 ± 29 items (anthropogenic debris) md was found. The highest deposition was observed in November (148 items md) while the lowest was found in March (46 items md). Anthropogenic debris ranged in size from 0.1 mm to 3.87 mm with the most abundant particles being smaller than 1 mm (77.8%). The dominant form of particles found were fibers (95%), followed by fragments (3.1%). Blue color predominated (37.2%) in the total number of samples, followed by light blue (23.3%) and black (21.7%). Further, small particles (<2 mm), apparently composed of mineral material and plastic fibers, were recognized. The chemical composition of suspected MPs was examined by Raman microscopy. The analysis of μ-Raman spectra confirmed the presence of polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene vinyl acetate fibers and provided evidence of fibers containing industrial additives such as indigo dye. This is the first assessment of MP pollution in rain in Argentina.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Quantification and characterization of atmospheric microplastics in a coastal urban area of the city of Lima, Peru
This study quantified and characterized atmospheric microplastic deposition in a coastal urban area of Lima, Peru, finding that microplastics in the air are an emerging but understudied pollution problem in the region. The research addressed a gap in South American data on airborne microplastic behavior and distribution.
Evaluación De La Presencia De Microplásticos En Playas Del Río Del La Plata: Ciudad De Buenos Aires Y Alrededores
Microplastics were found in beach sediments along the Río de la Plata near Buenos Aires in both winter and spring surveys, confirming urban plastic pollution has reached coastal environments close to one of South America's largest cities.
Microplastics and suspended particles in a strongly impacted coastal environment: Composition, abundance, surface texture, and interaction with metal ions
Researchers analyzed suspended particulate matter composition and microplastic characteristics in the inner zone of Bahia Blanca Estuary, Argentina during winter, finding that microplastics interact with metal ions in this heavily impacted coastal environment and documenting for the first time the combined contamination profile of this industrial waterway.
Evaluation of Atmospheric Microplastic Presence at the UPC Villa Campus, Chorrillos District, Lima – Peru
Researchers evaluated atmospheric microplastic deposition at the UPC Villa Campus in Lima, Peru, finding measurable microplastic concentrations in air samples from this urban environment. The study contributes early regional data on airborne microplastic transport and deposition dynamics in South American urban settings.
Quantification and composition analysis of plastic pollution in riverine beaches of the lower Paraná River, Argentina
Researchers found macro-, meso-, and microplastics along riverbanks near Rosario city on the lower Paraná River in Argentina, with single-use items being dominant. The study highlights that South American freshwater rivers are important conduits for plastic pollution entering the ocean.