We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Accumulation and distribution of microplastics in the sediment and coastal water samples of Chabahar Bay in the Oman Sea, Iran
Summary
Researchers investigated microplastic distribution in water and sediment at 10 stations in Chabahar Bay, Iran, finding average water concentrations of 218 particles/L and documenting variation in frequency, color, and polymer type across the Oman Sea coastal environment.
Frequency, distribution, color, and types of microplastics (<5 mm) in water and sediment of Chabahar Bay in southeastern Iran was investigated in 10 stations. Density of microplastics in water samples was between 86 and 362 particles/L (average density 218 ± 17 particle/L). In the sediment, microplastic density was between 112 and 468 particles/L (average density of 262 ± 17 particle/kg). The highest concentrations of microplastics were in stations adjacent to urban, commercial, recreational, and fishing sites. The most abundant forms in surface water and sediment were fragments (42.34%) and fibers (32.22%). Highest frequency colors were black, transparent, and white, respectively. A fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer was used to determine micro plastic composition. Polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate and nylon were detected. Polyethylene, a common packaging material made up 38% of the total polymers. Polyethylene terephthalate, used in clothing, liquid and food containers was found at 29% of the total microplastics.