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Assessment of Groundwater Contamination by Microplastic Particles: A Case Study in Selected Areas of Mosul District, Iraq
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A study of twelve groundwater wells across urban and rural areas of Mosul, Iraq, found microplastic contamination in all samples, ranging from 18 to 103 particles per liter. Most particles were small (under 1 mm), with fibers and fragments both present, and polymer types including polyethylene and polypropylene identified by infrared spectroscopy. Groundwater is a primary drinking water source for millions of people in arid regions, and finding widespread microplastic contamination at these levels underscores the need for water treatment systems capable of removing plastic particles before consumption.
Microplastic contamination of water resources is an emerging environmental concern with increasing impact, particularly when it affects groundwater, a primary source of freshwater. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of microplastic particles and characterize their physical and chemical properties in groundwater wells located in selected areas of Mosul District, northern Iraq. Samples were collected from twelve wells distributed across various urban and rural locations within the district. All samples underwent advanced laboratory analysis using high-precision instruments. The study employed Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and a Stereomicroscope to accurately analyze particle characteristics. The results revealed a wide variation in microplastic contamination levels, ranging from 18 to 103 particles per liter of water. Size distribution analysis indicated that the majority of particles were small, with 37% having diameters less than 10 micrometers, which increases their mobility through geological layers and poses a significant environmental risk. In terms of polymer composition, polyethylene was the most frequently identified polymer (38%), followed by polyvinyl chloride (33%), known for its toxic nature and high environmental risk. Visually, black-colored microplastics dominated (41%), followed by transparent particles (32%). These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen environmental monitoring programs and implement sustainable groundwater protection strategies.
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Distribution and transport of microplastics in groundwater (Shiraz aquifer, southwest Iran)
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Researchers investigated microplastic contamination in groundwater from an alluvial aquifer in a semi-arid region of Iran. They identified microplastics in all sampled wells, with fibers and fragments being the most common shapes and polyethylene the dominant polymer type. The study demonstrates that groundwater, an important source of drinking water, is not immune to microplastic contamination and calls for more research on transport mechanisms in subsurface environments.
Measuring the levels of plastic particulates pollution in the city of Mosul
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This study measured microplastic concentrations in tap water from 18 sites across Mosul city, Iraq, finding levels ranging from 54.5 to 156.5 particles per liter. Fibers were the most common particle shape, with contamination detected at all sampling locations.
Assessment of Microplastic Particles in Tap Water on The Right Side of Mosul City, Iraq
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This study assessed microplastic contamination in tap water distributed to homes in Mosul City, Iraq, finding plastic particles in drinking water. The presence of microplastics in tap water raises concerns about daily human exposure through drinking water consumption.
Microplastics Evaluation in Tap Water in Left Side Districts of Mosul City, Iraq
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Researchers examined microplastic abundance, polymer type, and morphology in tap water from 16 districts in the left side of Mosul city, Iraq, sourced from two different drinking water treatment plants. Using FTIR spectroscopy and stereomicroscopy, the study characterized microplastic contamination levels and features to assess drinking water quality and treatment plant effectiveness in removing plastic particles.
Study the Effectiveness of Household Water Filtration Systems in Eliminating Plastic Particles in Mosul City, Iraq
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Researchers examined microplastic presence and characteristics in household water filtration systems across 12 areas in Mosul, Iraq, using FTIR spectroscopy, stereomicroscopy, and SEM to identify polymer types and evaluate removal efficiency across filter types.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.