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Characterization of Microplastics in the Atmosphere
Summary
This study measured microplastic concentrations in the atmosphere using active and passive sampling to understand airborne transport pathways. Given that inhaling airborne microplastics is an underappreciated human exposure route, characterizing atmospheric plastic levels and transport is important for estimating total human exposure.
For the purposes of this research, microplastics (MPs) can be defined as small fragments of plastic or synthetic polymer material that are less than 5mm in size. The goal of this study is to investigate MPs in the atmosphere. Previous research has primarily focused on MPs in marine and coastal environments; however, we are directing our attention to the atmospheric presence of MPs. This is due to the uncertainties associated with the impacts of MPs on human health upon inhalation. By the means of active and passive sampling, we aim to determine the atmospheric transport of MPs operating from the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at the Daytona Beach Campus. Active sampling entails using the Tisch High Volume Air Sampler, which will be collected daily. On the other hand, passive sampling utilizes a setup devised to hold the filter to collect MPs, this will be collected weekly. From this point, the MPs will be isolated and analyzed under a ZEISS Axioscope 7 compound microscope to determine the size of the microplastic particles. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy will be utilized to investigate chemical properties of MPs. Utilizing these methods, we will obtain a thorough understanding of the composition and origin of these atmospheric particles. To further assess the effect of weather conditions on the transportation of MPs in the atmosphere, this work will be conducted seasonally. This study has implications for the effects of MPs on human health via inhalation, as well as their effects on water bodies and soil upon deposition.
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