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Assessing the concentration, distribution and characteristics of suspended microplastics in the Malaysian indoor
M Dewika1, Kalaimani Markandan2, Shalini Nagaratnam3
1School of American Education, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
Abstract:
This study examines the concentration, distribution, and characteristics of suspended microplastics (MPs) across various indoor environments in Malaysia, including offices, classrooms, landed homes, and apartments. Over a six-week period, MPs were collected using a vacuum pump and analyzed through gravimetric analysis, stereomicroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The results revealed significant variability in MPs concentrations among different locations, with fibers identified as the predominant morphological type. The average counts of MPs in the respective environments were found to be 599 ± 182 in offices, 399 ± 52 in classrooms, 505.17 ± 203.78 in apartments, and 515 ± 134 in landed homes. Statistical analysis indicated no significant differences in MPs counts across the sampled locations. Fibers were consistently the most prevalent shape, followed by films and foams. The MPs were predominantly transparent, with sizes ranging from 101 to 500 μm. Notably, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of MPs was significantly higher in residential settings compared to offices and classrooms, raising potential health concerns regarding prolonged exposure. These findings underscore the pervasive presence of MPs in the Malaysian indoor environment and emphasize the urgent need for further research to identify their sources, assess health impacts, and develop effective mitigation strategies.
Insights
Indoor microplastics (MPs) are prevalent in Malaysian homes and public spaces. Residential areas show higher estimated daily intake, highlighting potential health risks from these pervasive plastic particles.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are a growing environmental concern, with increasing evidence of their presence in indoor environments.
- Understanding the concentration and characteristics of indoor MPs is crucial for assessing human exposure and potential health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and characterize suspended microplastics in diverse Malaysian indoor settings.
- To compare microplastic levels and types across offices, classrooms, apartments, and landed homes.
- To estimate the daily intake of microplastics in different indoor environments.
Main Methods:
- Suspended microplastics were collected over six weeks using a vacuum pump across various Malaysian indoor locations.
- Analysis involved gravimetric methods, stereomicroscopy for morphology, and Raman spectroscopy for material identification.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare microplastic concentrations and distributions.
Main Results:
- Microplastic concentrations varied across locations, with fibers being the predominant type (599±182 in offices, 399±52 in classrooms, 505±204 in apartments, 515±134 in landed homes).
- No significant differences in microplastic counts were found between the sampled locations.
- Transparent fibers, films, and foams ranging from 101 to 500 μm were the most common microplastic types.
Conclusions:
- Microplastics are ubiquitous in Malaysian indoor environments, with fibers being the most common form.
- Estimated daily intake of microplastics is higher in residential settings, warranting further investigation into health implications.
- Urgent research is needed to identify sources, assess health impacts, and develop mitigation strategies for indoor microplastic pollution.
