0
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. Sign in to save

Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy Analysis of Cubic Microplastics Extracted from Skin Exfoliating Cosmetics

Original title: 피부 각질 제거 화장품에서 추출한 입방형 미세플라스틱의 에너지 분산 분광분석

대한미용학회지 2019
진현숙, 김경숙, 장병수

Summary

This Korean study used energy dispersive spectroscopy to analyze cubic microplastic particles extracted from exfoliating cosmetic products, characterizing their elemental composition and morphology. Cosmetic microbeads were among the first category of primary microplastics targeted for regulatory bans, and characterizing their physical properties supports environmental monitoring efforts.

Polymers

In the current research, we have investigated the components of cubic microplastics added to scrubbing cosmetics using energy dispersive X-ray (EDS). In order to confirm the precise element composition and ratio of the microplastics, different parts of the surface of the cubic microplastic particles were analyzed at both low and high magnifications. From the analysis, cubic microplastics were detected to contain elements, viz. C, O, Na and Cl. The average ratios of these components were 53.48% C, 45.89% O, 0.32% Na, and 0.25% Cl. An infinitesimal small amounts of Na and Cl were detected because sodium chloride (NaCl), which is basically added in the manufacture of scrub cosmetics, remained between the irregular gaps of the microplastics. Consequently, the cubic microplastic used in this study can be considered to be polyethylene.

Share this paper