Microplastics in indoor deposition samples in university classrooms

• DOI: 10.1007/s44274-024-00054-0
• Publication Date: 2024-03-18T15:02:40Z
• Authors: Mansoor Ahmad Bhat
• Keywords: Polypropylene; Deposition; Textile

Abstract The pollution caused by microplastics (MPs) is a growing concern on global scale, especially considering the significant proportion of time that individuals spend indoors. contamination in question has potential to directly impact human population through exposure indoor dust and air. This research undertook comprehensive analysis deposition MPs university classrooms, employing various investigative tools. present study aimed comprehensively analyze physical chemical properties found classrooms. Analyzing samples under stereomicroscope, predominant were identified as fibers varied colors, mainly attributed clothing. Sizes these significantly across different with general average size range 120–2222 µm. observed morphological changes MPs, including cracks grooves, hint at degradation into nanosized plastics over time. observation raises concerns about increased concentrations nanoplastics environments. Using µRaman analysis, eleven types identified, potentially originating from clothing, shoes, stationery. majority polyamide 6, polypropylene, 12. scanning electron microscope energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) technique unveiled elemental composition carbon, fluorine, oxygen being dominant. findings align past studies but highlight need understand MPs' structural components any possible contaminants. Compared existing literature, this adopts methodological approach combining optical microscopy, µRaman, SEM–EDX, enriching knowledge MP aiding future directions.