We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Material Flow Analysis-Based Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Polypropylene-Fiber-Containing Microplastics Released from Disposable Masks
No summary available — this paper's abstract is not included in the open metadata provided by the publisher. Learn why →
More Papers Like This
Face Masks: New Source of Microplastic Release in the Environment
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found that the massive global surge in disposable face mask use during COVID-19 introduced a significant new source of microplastic pollution, as masks made from polypropylene and polyurethane degrade and shed tiny plastic particles into the environment.
The Unseen Threat: Microplastic Emissions from Face Masks and Limited Public Awareness
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers surveyed public awareness of microplastic emissions from face masks, finding that while awareness of microplastic risks was broadly high, most respondents lacked knowledge of whether their masks contained plastic materials or the environmental consequences of improper mask disposal.
Material flow analysis-based assessment of polypropylene-fiber-containing microplastics released from disposable masks: Characterizing distribution in the environmental media
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers used material flow analysis to track where polypropylene microplastics from discarded disposable face masks end up in the environment. They found that the vast majority of mask-derived microplastics accumulate in landfills and soil, with smaller amounts reaching water systems. The study quantifies how the pandemic-driven surge in mask use has created a new and measurable source of microplastic pollution.
Characterization, toxicity evaluation, and mitigation strategy of micro/nanoplastics released from face masks
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers characterized microplastic and nanoplastic particles released from face mask fabrics under mechanical stress, demonstrated developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos, and developed an iron chloride coagulation method to remove these particles from water. The study reveals that disposable face masks — widely used during COVID-19 — are an underrecognized source of micro- and nanoplastics that enter aquatic environments and pose early-life developmental risks.
The Adverse Impact of Synthetic Microplastics Released from Disposable Face Masks Pollutants on Aquatic Microbiota, Aquatic Species and Humans: A Review
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed the microplastic pollution generated by disposable face masks, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding that synthetic fibers and particles released from masks contaminate aquatic environments and pose toxicological risks to microbiota, aquatic species, and humans.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.