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Microplastic release from gabion mattresses: A risk evaluation
Summary
Researchers evaluated the risk of microplastic release from gabion mattresses used in civil engineering applications, assessing the potential for these polymer-coated structures to contribute plastic particles to surrounding aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Gabion Mattresses offer a durable, cost-effective solution for erosion control with a high-abrasion-resistance polymer coating that improves durability and corrosion protection. However, their potential to release microplastics (MP) requires environmental assessment, especially in aquatic environments. This study evaluates MP release from Gabion Mattresses throughout their life cycle—installation, operation, and removal—under erosion conditions from mild (E1) to extreme (E7). Combining laboratory tests, literature review, and field data from over 40 years of use along the Baltic Sea coast, the results show minimal MP release. Even under extreme conditions, polymer loss was limited to about 1% over 40 years, indicating negligible MP formation. Additionally, Gabion Mattresses reduce construction volume compared to traditional riprap, lowering MP emissions from vehicles and installation. Therefore, Gabion Mattresses with high-abrasion-resistant coatings are an environmentally suitable alternative for most erosion control applications.