Probing Atmospheric Nanoplastics: An Unrecognized Urban Source of Airborne Particles
EMSL Project ID
60305
Abstract
fragments of microplastic or larger plastic debris discharged into terrestrial and aquatic environments, while atmospheric occurrence of EnvNP is solely attributed to aerosolization by wind and other mechanical forces. However, sources and emissions of unintended environmental nanoplastics (EnvNP) are poorly understood and are therefore largely unaccounted for in various risk assessments. Our recent work shows that large quantities of EnvNP may be directly emitted into the atmosphere as steam laden waste components discharged from a commonly used technology to repair sewer pipes in urban areas. Comprehensive chemical analysis of the discharged waste condensate is needed to characterize composition and mass loadings of insoluble colloids, which after drying form solid EnvNP particles. We suggest that airborne emissions of EnvNP from these globally used sewer repair practices may be prevalent in highly populated urban areas. Airborne emissions of these EnvNP particles may have important implications on air quality and toxicological levels in large urban areas that need to be mitigated.
Project Details
Project type
Large-Scale EMSL Research
Start Date
2022-10-01
End Date
N/A
Status
Active
Released Data Link
Team
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