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Low numbers of microplastics detected in drinking water from ground water sources
Summary
Researchers analyzed groundwater and drinking water samples in Germany for microplastics using advanced infrared imaging and found very low concentrations, averaging less than one particle per cubic meter. The particles detected were common polymer types like polyethylene and polyamide, likely from the water supply infrastructure itself. The study provides reassuring evidence that ground-sourced drinking water contains far fewer microplastics than surface water or bottled water.
Microplastic particles have been detected in various natural habitats and the digestive tracts of several species. These particles have also been reported in commercially available seafood, salt or bottled water starting discussions on potential implications for human health. To be able to assess the related risks, exposure concentrations and pathways need to be known. Here, we analysed ground water and drinking water for the presence of microplastics (>20 μm) using FTIR imaging. Samples were taken at different positions within the drinking water supply chain. Determined concentrations ranged from 0 to 7 microplastics m raw water or drinking water with an overall mean of 0.7 microplastics m. These particles were identified as polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinylchloride or epoxy resin and between 50 and 150 μm in size. Plastic is a resistant and durable material, still, the abrasion of plastic equipment used during water purification or transport is a likely explanation for the plastic particles detected in water samples.