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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.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) have gradually attracted attention; however, people have paid limited attention to the existence of airborne microplastics, especially in indoor environments. In this study, we tracked microplastic deposition in offices, laboratories, dining halls, and dormitories. Results showed that the average microplastic abundance in the dormitory was the highest (14088.05 pcs/m3), followed by in the office (13097.13 pcs/m3), laboratory (7512.55 pcs/m3) and dining hall (4308.26 pcs/m3). The microplastics deposited at indoor environment were mostly dark, elongated and solid. The average particle size of the microplastics sampled at the four sampling points was 66.15 , but the size of the microplastics in the laboratory environment was smaller and more harmful. Airflow tests using air conditioners showed that turbulence increases the resuspension of microplastics. Our results also show that the frequency of human activities is one of the main factors leading to changes in the content of microplastics in indoor air, and turbulence caused by airflow will lead to the migration of microplastics in the indoor environment. In conclusion, indoor environments are prone to high microplastic concentration, which may pose certain potential risks to human health.
Insights
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.
