Divergent Forms of Pyroplastic: Lessons Learned from the M/V X-Press Pearl Ship Fire

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• The M/V X-Press Pearl container ship fire released vast quantities of plastic nurdles into Sri Lanka's marine environment.
• Plastic nurdles exposed to fire and heat undergo physical and chemical alterations, forming pyroplastics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physical and surface properties of plastic nurdles affected by the X-Press Pearl incident.
• To characterize different types of altered nurdles, including a potential new subtype of pyroplastic.

Main Methods:

• Collection and analysis of discolored nurdles from a Sri Lankan beach.
• Detailed investigation of physical and surface properties, including color analysis and cross-section examination.

Main Results:

• Nurdles exhibited distinct color changes (white, orange, gray) indicating different alteration levels, not a continuum.
• Gray nurdles were identified as partially combusted, a new subtype of pyroplastic, with superficial heat and fire damage.
• Surface changes increased hydrophilicity, while the interior remained largely unaffected.

Conclusions:

• The plastic pollution from the spill is not uniform but consists of distinct categories of altered nurdles.
• Partially combusted plastic (pyroplastic) is a significant, understudied form of plastic pollution.
• Findings provide actionable information for spill response, ecosystem impact assessment, and long-term management.