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Characterization and quantification of microplastics in indoor environments.
Xiaoyu Zhai1, Han Zheng1, Yihao Xu1
1Department of Environmental Engineering, Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen 361024, China.
Heliyon
|May 11, 2023
Summary
Airborne microplastics are prevalent indoors, with dormitories showing the highest concentrations. Human activity and airflow significantly impact microplastic levels, posing potential health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Materials Science
Background:
- Limited attention has been given to airborne microplastics (MPs) in indoor environments.
- Microplastics are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with potential health implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify microplastic deposition in various indoor settings (offices, labs, dining halls, dormitories).
- To investigate factors influencing indoor airborne microplastic concentrations and characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Microplastic deposition was tracked across four distinct indoor environments.
- Airflow tests were conducted using air conditioners to assess microplastic resuspension.
- Particle size and morphology of deposited microplastics were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Dormitories exhibited the highest microplastic abundance (14088.05 pcs/m³), followed by offices, laboratories, and dining halls.
- Deposited microplastics were predominantly dark, elongated, and solid.
- Smaller microplastics found in laboratories suggest potentially greater harm; turbulence from airflow and human activity significantly increased microplastic levels.
Conclusions:
- Indoor environments can accumulate high concentrations of airborne microplastics.
- Factors such as airflow turbulence and human activity influence indoor microplastic levels.
- The presence of microplastics indoors may pose potential risks to human health.
