Publication Date:
2022-11-07
Description:
Microplastics (MP) were shown to be present in various environments around the world. In order to better understand distribution patterns and to provide a solid basis for risk assessments of this organic pollutant, comprehensive datasets on MP concentrations and chemical compositions are needed. This study focussed on the effluents of two German wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) and investigated the temporal input of MP into the receiving river systems by performing a year-long sampling campaign with monthly sampling events. MP item data (minimum size: 11 μm) were generated using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, under the application of an improved polymer database. The database adaptation allowed for an improved data quality, as it counteracted matrix interferences due to residual plant material on measurement filters. Beside item data, complementary MP mass data were gained by the application of pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) (for one WWTP). Both item and mass data showed homogeneous polymer compositions over the sampling year, generally dominated by polyolefins. Elevated MP item and mass concentrations occurred during winter months, and were accompanied by either heavy rainfall (resulting in increased discharge), total organic carbon or elevated turbidity values. These findings underline the necessity for the integration of background parameters in MP monitoring studies. Finally, by providing monthly data over one year on MP masses and items, this work contributes to the current knowledge on temporal MP dynamics in WWTP effluents, and can therefore be a useful baseline for future monitoring studies.
Repository Name:
EPIC Alfred Wegener Institut
Type:
Conference
,
NonPeerReviewed
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