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Microplastics in atmospheric dust samples of Sistan: sources and distribution
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Researchers collected atmospheric dust samples from residential and non-residential stations in Sistan, eastern Iran, selected according to wind direction and population density, and analyzed airborne microplastic characteristics using optical microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. They found that microplastic concentrations ranged from 6 to 11 particles per cubic meter, with distribution patterns reflecting both local sources and long-range wind-driven transport in this dust-prone region.
UNLABELLED: In this work, the amount and physical and chemical characteristics of airborne microplastics (MPs) pollution in dust samples in Sistan, located in the eastern part of Iran, is reported. Sampling stations were selected according to the wind direction and population density. MPs were collected by a static dust sampler and analyzed by optical microscopy and FT-IR spectroscopy. Results showed that the distribution frequency of MPs in residential and non-residential areas was 6 to 11 pieces per 100 g (pcs/100 g) with an average abundance of 9.8 pcs/100 g. Fragmented MPs were approximately consisted 64% of total MPs and their sizes were in the range of 0.9-3.8 mm. Polyethylene (49%), polystyrene (21%) and polyester (18%) were the main MPs presented in the dust samples. It was observed that population density and wind direction were the most important parameters affecting MPs pollution in dust. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40201-022-00833-y.
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