Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Separation and Identification of Conventional Microplastics from Farmland Soils
Published on: March 21, 2025
Characterization and potential risks of microplastics in marine mollusks using the laser direct infrared (LDIR)
Jia Teng1, Shuang Zhao2, Jianmin Zhao1
1Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) pollution in marine environments is a growing concern, especially where mollusks for human consumption are harvested. This study investigated the contamination and potential risks of MPs in mollusks collected from the Yantai coastal waters using Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) imaging. The average MPs abundance was 7.55 ± 4.87 items/g (w.w.) in mollusks soft tissues. The carnivorous Buccinum undatum exhibited the highest MP load, likely due to biomagnification. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between MPs abundance and mollusk biological traits, suggesting that larger individuals have lower concentrations. Fibers (52.63 %) and small particles <50 μm (76.19 %) dominated the composition and polyethylene was the most common polymer. The Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) value of 2115 indicated a high risk level (V). The estimated average annual MP intake from mollusk consumption was 24,680 particles/person/year, highlighting potential health concerns. This study provides crucial data for understanding MP pollution in mollusks and its potential risks.
Related Concept Videos
Relative Risk
Standard Electrode Potentials
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Potential Energy
Chemical bonds that form attractive forces between atoms also contain potential energy, called chemical energy. When a chemical reaction...
Cell Potential and Free Energy
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics dealing with the relationship between heat and other forms of energy. In an electrochemical cell, chemical energy is converted into electrical energy.
Thus, a link can be predicted between cell potential, free energy change, and the equilibrium constant for the reaction. Cell potential can also be measured as the oxidant or the reducing strength, and similar acid-base strength measures are reflected in equilibrium...
Directing Effect of Substituents: meta-Directing Groups

