We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Factors Influencing the Spatial Variation of Microplastics on High-Tidal Coastal Beaches in Korea
AI summary Read the abstract
This study analyzed how tide level, beach zone (upper, middle, lower), and sediment grain size influence the spatial distribution of microplastics on sandy beaches in a high-tidal coastal area. The results showed that microplastics accumulate unevenly across a beach cross-section and that tidal dynamics are a key factor controlling where they deposit.
The presence and distribution characteristics of microplastics become a big issue due to the adverse effects on marine organisms caused by not only microplastics but any incorporated and/or adsorbed pollutants. Distribution of microplastics (50- to 5000-μm size) was determined for three sandy beaches on an isolated island in a high-tidal costal region to elucidate spatial distributions in relation to beach locations. The abundances of microplastics (n = 21) measured were 56-285,673 (46,334 ± 71,291) particles/m(2) corresponding to the highest level globally. Out of observed polymer types, expanded polystyrene was overwhelmingly dominant. Although lying toward the estuary of the largest river in the country, the north-side beach contained a 100-fold lower abundance than two south-side beaches that faced southerly wind and currents that were prevalent throughout the study season. In addition, distinct differences between the beaches on either side were also present in terms of size distribution and spatial homogeneity of microplastics on the same beach. Winds and currents are therefore considered to be the driving forces in the distribution of microplastics.
More Papers Like This
Distribution, compositional characteristics, and historical pollution records of microplastics in tidal flats of South Korea
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated spatial and vertical distributions of microplastics in tidal flat sediments along the west coast of South Korea, finding distinct patterns in abundance and polymer composition linked to proximity to urban centers and tidal hydrodynamics.
Comparison of the Frequency, Type and Shape of Microplastics in the Low and High Tidal of the Coastline of Bandar Abbas
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers compared the frequency, type, and shape of microplastics collected from low and high tidal zones along the coastline of Bandar Abbas, Iran. The study found differences in microplastic characteristics between tidal zones, suggesting that tide height influences both accumulation levels and the types of plastic that strand on beaches.
Abundance, composition, and distribution of microplastics larger than 20 μm in sand beaches of South Korea
AI summary Read the abstract
A national survey of 20 sandy beaches along the South Korean coast found microplastics at all locations, with fragments as the dominant type and concentrations varying by beach exposure and proximity to population centers. The study establishes a national baseline for beach microplastic contamination to support monitoring and management policy in South Korea.
Consequences of anthropogenic activities and beach dynamics on vertical distribution of microplastics in the mid-intertidal sediments of Donghai Island, China
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers studied the vertical distribution of microplastics in intertidal sediments on Donghai Island, China, finding that depth profiles were strongly influenced by beach dynamics and human activity patterns. Microplastics were concentrated in the upper sediment layers, with anthropogenic disturbance intensifying accumulation. The study establishes baseline data for coastal microplastic monitoring and management.
The relation of sediment texture to macro- and microplastic abundance in intertidal zone
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers analyzed the relationship between sediment grain size and microplastic accumulation in an intertidal zone, finding that finer-grained sediments tend to accumulate more plastic particles. Understanding this relationship helps identify which coastal areas are at greatest risk from microplastic contamination.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.