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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Marine & Wildlife Sign in to save

Effects of Biofouling on the Sinking Behavior of Microplastics in Aquatic Environments

2022 3 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Claudia Halsband

Summary

Biofouling—the colonization of microplastics by microorganisms and algae—significantly alters the sinking behavior of plastic particles in aquatic environments, causing them to transport deeper into water columns and sediments. This process affects where microplastics ultimately accumulate, influencing their bioavailability to marine organisms and potential entry into food chains.

Microplastics (MPs) feature a range of characteristics such as size, shape, polymer type and associated density, and additive composition, which shape their sinking behavior. In addition, a number of processes affect MPs when they enter aquatic environments, causing...

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